Philip Clay says the New Canaan Library can make better use of its current space by using other facilities. I would respectfully suggest that when they do whatever they choose to do, they should give up the concept that (they have) to own the space where they have all their presentations, said Clay, one of several people who spoke to the Town Council during a public hearing Thursday.
The council is deciding on the Long Range Planning Committees special appropriation request for $175,000 to pay for the second phase of a study to develop a plan for the towns future. Clay said the New Canaan Library, which is investigating whether to build a new facility, could use existing spaces such as school auditoriums for meetings, presentations and other larger events.
Tanya Bickley told the council that the library's future is the elephant in the room. She suggested that the town not spend any money until it has a better idea on its future location. She also asked whether the Long Range Planning Committee could have more members skilled in planning, zoning, building and land issues.
Selectman Robert Mallozzi III, who is running for first selectman, reiterated his opposition to more planning because other forward-looking plans are on file in town. I really feel we need to get back to reality. Weve defined our needs in countless studies that line the shelves of Town Hall, he said.
Committee Chairwoman Christine Wagner said it will conduct a traffic study even if an outside developer offers to do so. First Selectman Jeb Walker said last week that a developer was willing to cover the costs of a traffic survey. She added that the committee may add new members.
Town Council Chairman Mark DeWaele said a decision on funding the study will be made at an April 13 meeting.
Do you think the Town Council should approve funding for the second phase of the master plan study? Let us know by leaving a comment below. You can also visit us on Facebook.
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
