It has been recently revealed that our Tufts Library has been in need of updating. I agree. It was also revealed that in order for improvements to be made, the Town would be required to remove asbestos found in the ceiling, floors and piping. By taking this action alone, the Town would be required to meet all the components of the American with Disabilities Act.

For this work to be done, we are told that Tufts Library could be closed for up to 2 years.

I would seek input from the community to determine what options are available and what inconveniences, the Town is willing to endure during the remediation phase.

However, Tufts Library is not the only library in Town in need of repair. Fogg Library, a registered historic site in Columbian Square, has been closed as it is in need of major repair.

A good beginning is being proposed by the Community Preservation Committee. This citizen committee had proposed and the Town Council has approved, $381, 000 to make the building weather tight. At the end of this phase, Fogg Library will be usable.

I encourage the use of these restricted tax dollars for this type of project. As Mayor, I would continue to explore alternative funding for such projects.