More transparency on library plans needed

Just when one thought the Helen Plum Library building planning process has taken more than enough turns, they come out stating they want to build even bigger. What a relief their spokesperson Wilsey asserted, "There's absolutely no way we'd increase taxes" for the additional millions this latest rendition could cost. One has to wonder who is leading this circus that has seen this project get no closer to shovel ready than it was in 2016 when voters narrowly approved their 74 percent tax rate increase.

This news of "let's build bigger" raises many questions for their upcoming community forums:

• How does one utilize underground stormwater management along with a basement on the same parcel?

• Does an increase in the square footage increase the needed variance for parking considering you are already at the mercy of neighboring churches and Elmhurst Hospital for current parking needs?

• How much has been spent on engineering and architects for this "let's add even more square footage" brainstorm?

• How long will this proposed construction take for this two phase project that will see all operations moved into the west pavilion while the new main library next door is built?

• How does one stage construction on such a tight space?

• What impact does this plan have on Lilacia Park and what easements will be needed?

• And most importantly what is your "Plan B" if/when the village deems this ambitious plan not within the realm of acceptable given the conditions of the site ... meaning parking variances, stormwater management, site density, etc.?

We can only hope their transparency is better with this latest rendition than it has been in the past.

Robert Biddle

Lombard