Yarmouth’s push for a modern library facility reached a critical inflection point this week as the Library Building Committee moved to secure finalized construction costs ahead of the high-stakes April 28 town referendum. With state funding opportunities potentially disappearing if the spring vote fails, committee members are prioritizing financial transparency to win over a skeptical public. Project Manager Jen Mullen informed the committee that the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is expected to issue a final confirmation by January 31, triggering a three-to-four-week window to produce formal project estimates by late February.

To ensure the accuracy of these figures, the committee is weighing the use of a $9,900 allowance for a secondary, independent cost estimate. While the funds are already included in the existing project budget, members debated the logistical challenges of reconciling two different sets of numbers. John Grego shared concerns based on past experience, noting that there's going to be disagreements. You need at least a week to resolve those because of the assumptions built in. OPM representative Tim countered that a second look often prevents costly errors, citing a past project where an estimator flipped his siding materials, a mistake only caught through comparison. Tom Pendleton suggested a quick consultation with the Assistant Town Administrator to ensure the extra layer of scrutiny aligns with town hall expectations, noting it shouldn't be an extra expense beyond the already allocated hourly fees.

Financial clarity remains the primary hurdle for neighborhood outreach. Susan Baker, who has been communicating with associations along Lewis Bay, Great Island, and Hyannis Park, reported that residents are hesitant to commit support without a hard number. The only thing people are interested in is how much it's going to cost. Once we get that information... that really is a critical inflection point, Baker said. This sentiment was echoed by Chair Dorcas McGurn, who emphasized the need to clearly explain which portions of the project are eligible for state reimbursement. No one has really grasped that whole reimbursable idea, McGurn noted, calling for a detailed breakout of total construction costs versus the actual impact on local taxpayers.

The committee is also grappling with the complexities of naming rights and private fundraising. While naming a new facility could bridge budget gaps, Tom Pendleton warned of the community sensitivity involved, referencing previous difficulties at the town’s drive-in site. Naming rights is tough because you need a real consensus. Do we name it after an author or a donor? Pendleton asked, suggesting that while a multi-million dollar donor would be welcome, the project remains officially submitted as the Yarmouth Town Library. Sandy noted that while the Board of Selectmen would likely have the final word on naming, it is vital to note it in the budget as potential fundraising to show voters that the town is pursuing all avenues to offset costs.

To reach voters who may not attend traditional meetings, the committee is pivoting toward a heavy multimedia strategy. Assistant Director Mindy announced that the library has been invited to produce podcasts highlighting upcoming programs and building needs. Sandy is coordinating with the Newcomers Club to set up informational tables in March and April, while other members suggested targeting the Chamber of Commerce and local Rotary clubs. John Grego volunteered to lead the production of a narrative video that will contrast the library’s current deficiencies—such as unheated meeting rooms and poor accessibility—with the proposed improvements. We have to stay going now because the time frame is very compressed, McGurn said, highlighting the urgency of the March 17 Select Board presentation where the final estimates will likely be unveiled.

The committee also took steps to ensure the accuracy of its historical record regarding long-term maintenance. Motion Made by S. Baker to accept the minutes of the December 16th building committee meeting as amended. The amendment specifically clarified that while the architect would handle solar energy cost estimates, the library director and Assistant Town Administrator would be responsible for calculating future staffing levels. Motion Passed (5-0). During the public comment portion of the meeting, Jeff Gutsfeld of Colliers Project Leaders identified himself as an interested observer but did not offer formal testimony.