Subject:
Title
East Lake Community Library Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Services Taxing Unit special projects funding request.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Approval of the Municipal Services Taxing Unit special projects funding request made by the East Lake Community Library (ELCL) for the purchase and installation technology upgrades.
• The project funding request is in an amount not to exceed $20,000.00. Costs exceeding the maximum award will be paid for by the ELCL utilizing capital reserve funds.
• This project will allow the ELCL to upgrade their network infrastructure to Cat 6 wiring and add additional network access points throughout the building to improve connectivity; provide outside access points and expand WiFi availability on library property.
• The funding will also be used to make upgrades to the A/V equipment in the Community Room by replacing the HDMI hard connection with wireless HDMI capability.
• The funding will also be used to update the hardware and software on their nine-year-old digital road sign.
• Funding this request will bring added value and serviceability to this County owned facility.
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Strategic Plan:
Foster Continual Economic Growth and Vitality
4.4 Invest in infrastructure to meet current and future needs
4.6 Support a vibrant community with recreation, arts, and culture to attract residents and visitors
Deliver First Class Services to the Public and Our Customers
5.1 Maximize partner relationships and public outreach
5.2 Be responsible stewards of the public’s resources
5.3 Ensure effective and efficient delivery of county services and support
5.4 Strive to serve the needs of all Pinellas County residents and customers.
Summary:
Summary
Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU) special projects Fiscal Year 2023 funding request for the East Lake Community Library (ELCL); a non-profit organization under the auspice of the Palm Harbor Community Services Agency Inc. East Lake Community Library aspires to be the center of information and discovery in the community through inspiration, enrichment, and education.
As part of last year's Technology Plan for East Lake Community Library, a thorough evaluation of the technology infrastructure reflected a need for improved connectivity and upgrades to hardware and software. As part of the initial phase of the Technology Plan, input was garnered from patron and staff surveys concerning technology issues and concerns. Prior to conducting the Technology Plan, much-needed improvements were put on hold due to rising costs of materials and labor as well as the need to divert funds for COVID-related supplies the past several years.
ELCL views technology as a vehicle to offer more efficient and effective delivery of current services. The path toward accommodating digital upgrades in public libraries has evolved from basic computer literacy to include emerging technologies, device
support, and more online access. Outdated technology costs more in poor user experiences (for both staff and patrons) and a potential lack of security which can result in lower productivity and frustrated patrons who go elsewhere for their needs.
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Background Information:
The MSTU Special Projects Funding opportunity was created by the Board of County Commissioners for the purpose of supporting projects that enhance community and neighborhood opportunities in unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. These MSTU Special Projects Awards are intended to support culture, recreation, and community engagement opportunities for residents in unincorporated areas that are comparable to those opportunities which municipalities typically provide to their residents.
Fiscal Impact:
The request for funding in the amount of $20,000.00 is a one-time expenditure of MSTU Special Projects funds. Funding is appropriated and available in the FY23 Adopted Budget. To date, $1,124,294.16 has been spent or committed of the $1,760,000.00 allocated for MSTU Special Projects leaving an available balance of $635,705.84 for future projects. The cost of the entire project will exceed the maximum MSTU award amount. Costs exceeding the maximum award will be paid for by ELCL, utilizing donations and/or capitalized expenditure funds set aside in their annual budget.
Staff Member Responsible:
Nancy McKibben, Assistant to the County Administrator representing Unincorporated North County
Partners:
Palm Harbor Community Services Agency
Attachments:
East Lake Community Library (ELCL) MSTU Special Projects Funding Request Application
ELCL Proposal Packet