Library hits council’s agenda

The Thunder Bay Public Library is a step closer to rebuilding one of its branches on South Edward Street.

The organization is working toward developing a new, 9,000-square foot facility to replace the Mary J.L. Black library on Brock Street. It is a project that senior levels of government have committed $2.7-million to, and the city has provided another $1.4-million.

The Project Manager will update city council with their plans Monday evening. Chief Librarian Gina La Force says their board has made a lot of progress.

City staff is recommending council approve the library board to own and operate the new branch as a municipal capital facility.

This would make it exempt from municipal and education property taxes. Council is also being asked to approve a 30-year lease to the library for the land.

In other business, a zoning bylaw amendment for the commercial property on the corner of Red River Road and Clarkson Street will be presented.

The changes would allow the site to be developed for different uses, including a mini-warehouse and a community clinic.