From: Sarah Gurney
Date: Tue, Jul 7, 2026 at 12:38 PM
Subject: SEB CC Mtg. Item 12 Public Comment Library Building Remediation Phases 1 and 2 To: Jill McLewis <[email protected]>, Sandi Maurer <[email protected]>, Stephen Zollman
<[email protected]>, [email protected] <pcarter@cityofsebasto pol.gov>, Neysa Hinton <[email protected]>
Cc: Mary Gourley <[email protected]>, Oriana Hart <[email protected]>, Fred Engbarth <[email protected]> Dear City Council:
I appreciate the work by City StaƯ to investigate the status of the Library Building since its closure on June 4, 2026.
Regarding the closure, I urge StaƯ to confirm new temporary spaces for the maximum amount of interim services possible during the remediation. Our community is suƯering without the Library's popular services and its beloved space. The drives to Forestville, Roseland, and Central in Santa Rosa are obstacles unsurmountable for many patrons.
Regarding the remediation, I urge the City Attorney to investigate possible liability of the tenant for the mold situation. Look to the facts. Did the tenant contribute and cause the mold in some way or to some degree? Also, is there insurance coverage? For the tenant if liable?
While we all want to address the situation without protracted delay, the Council needs to do its due diligence for our community, especially given the budget situation.
Additionally, I encourage the Council to think long-term: for what use are you remediating this building? The LIbrary system's Administration, our branch's StaƯ, and patrons, all agree the current space is too small. Its size is limiting our community's potential. Consider the expense in front of you with awareness of the building's future.
Who will occupy this space once the Library relocates?
Respectfully,
Sarah Gurney
Sebastopol, CA