Dothan Commits $2.5 Million to Two New Libraries
By: Jamiese Price
Updated: July 17, 2012
The wheels are in motion and Dothan is one step closer to two new libraries. On Tuesday Dothan committed $2.5 million dollars to the construction of the libraries.
Mayor Mike Schmitz said, "We need a new library and this has been going on for many years. It's going to be a great place for everyone. It's great for economic development. It's great for senior citizens it's just a wonderful day."
The money is coming from a reserved fund and will be spread out over a four year time frame. But it's not the amount of money that bothers commissioner Amos Newsome. Newsome said it's the number of libraries.
"When management decide to double the number of major facilities we need then you dilute the quality of the facility you get," said Newsome
The entire project is estimated to cost $7.5 million. The Wiregrass Foundation stepped forward with a $3 million challenge grant to help cover the cost. The foundation will only provide the funding if the library board, Dothan, and Houston County government cover the other $4.5 million.
Construction begins on both libraries in October.
