HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 2025 0716 CC REG ITEM 09A SUPPLEMENTAL 1
MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL
SUPPLEMENTAL
AGENDA REPORT
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Jeremy Laurentowski, Parks and Recreation Director
BY: Jessica Sandifer, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director
DATE: 07/16/2025 Regular Meeting
SUBJECT: Consider Bids for Construction of the New Moorpark City Library
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED
Subsequent to the publication of the agenda, the following correspondence was
received from members of the public through 10:30 a.m. on July 16.
Any additional comments received before closed of business will be distributed prior to
the start of the City Council meeting.
Attachments: 13 emails
Item: 9.A.
SUPPLEMENTAL
1
From:Teri
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:New Library Project
Date:Sunday, July 13, 2025 3:35:42 AM
Honorable City Council:
I just received notice of the new Library construction bids coming in 10% or $3million over budget.This is what
happens when a project is rejected, pondered, and delayed for years on end. Does this $3 million dollar overage also
include the 10% contingency with every construction project?
I strongly recommend you take the current lowest budget submitted and move forward with this project. The
community has been disappointed in the City Council’s decisions on this project for so many years, this is the one
decision you can make to keep this project moving forward. Keep a promise to the community to build them a
library we can all be proud of.
I’m currently at Disney World and won’t be able to attend the meeting. Imagine if Walt Disney continued to delay
his dreams of building Disneyland and these other theme parks… Have the foresight of Walt Disney.
Thank you.
Teri Glazier
Moorpark resident and member of the Moorpark Friends of the Library.
Sent from my iPhone
ATTACHMENT
2
From:RUEBEN BOUVET
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Library
Date:Sunday, July 13, 2025 9:10:38 PM
TO: Moorpark City Council
FROM: Karen Bouvet
DATE: July13, 2025
SUBJECT: Recommendation to Accept Low Bid for New Moorpark
City Library
I recommend accepting the low bid from AMG & Associates, Inc.
for the New Moorpark City Library project in the amount of
$27,183,000.
Although the bid is higher than the 2023 estimate, the increase is due
to market-wide construction cost escalations and supply issues. The
City has sufficient funds to cover the difference, and reserves remain
higher than previously projected.
Re-bidding could cause delays and potentially higher costs.
Additionally, the bid protests against AMG were minor
administrative issues that don’t affect their bid’s validity.
Moving forward with AMG allows the City to advance this long-
planned project without unnecessary delays or financial risk.
Karen Bouvet
Sent from my iPhone
3
From:Laura Burnett
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Invest in Moorpark’s Future—Fully Fund the Library Project
Date:Monday, July 14, 2025 7:09:57 AM
Dear Honorable Members of the Moorpark City Council,
As a long-time Moorpark resident and former member of the Moorpark
Library Board, I urge you to move forward with awarding the construction
contract for the new Moorpark City Library, by funding this project in a
way that reflects its long-term value to our community.
Our current library is outdated and inadequate for a city of Moorpark’s
caliber. I have seen firsthand how underinvestment in library
infrastructure limits opportunities for residents of all ages, whether it’s
students needing quiet study space, jobseekers using public computers, or
grandparents like me reading to their grandchildren. In contrast, other
Ventura County cities have made major investments in their public
libraries: the modern Hill Road Library in Ventura, the Fillmore Library
expansion, and the improvements to Simi Valley’s library system all stand
as symbols of civic progress.
Why should Moorpark continue to lag behind?
I strongly support Option 2—awarding the construction contract and
encourage the Council to approach this decision as a legacy opportunity,
not just a budget line item. A 10% cost increase from a 2023 estimate is
hardly surprising given inflation and construction trends. What would be
surprising, and disappointing, is if this Council allowed the project to be
delayed or diminished after years of planning.
This library can be a point of pride, not only for Moorpark residents but for
each of you as stewards of this city. Years from now, you’ll be
remembered not for what you deferred, but for what you built. Please
don’t miss this chance to shape a lasting, positive chapter in Moorpark’s
civic story.
Sincerely,
Laura Burnett
Former Moorpark Library Board Member
Moorpark Resident
4
From:Emily Mitchell
To:Councilmember Chris Barrett; Councilmember Antonio Castro; Councilmember Renee Delgado; Mayor Chris
Enegren; Councilmember Tom Means
Cc:Christine Conwell; City Council & City Manager
Subject:Strong Support for Option 2 - Award Library Construction Contract Now
Date:Monday, July 14, 2025 9:36:23 PM
Dear Mayor and City Council Members,
Unfortunately, I am unable to attend Wednesday’s meeting. I am writing to express my strong
support for Option 2 regarding the Moorpark City Library project—accepting the lowest bid
and moving forward with awarding the construction contract. As a Moorpark resident, I would
like to support you in moving forward with Option 2 at the July 16th board meeting.
The Economic Reality: Delay Equals Higher Costs
While the 10% cost increase over the 2023 estimate is significant, delaying this project will
almost certainly result in even higher costs. The construction industry is facing unprecedented
volatility, and several factors make immediate action the most fiscally responsible choice:
Tariff Uncertainty: Current federal trade policies create unpredictable cost fluctuations
for construction materials, particularly steel, lumber, and other essential building
components. These tariff impacts are already reflected in current bids but could
intensify significantly in the coming months.
Labor Market Pressures: Construction labor costs continue to rise due to skilled
worker shortages. Delaying six months to a year will likely see these costs increase
Material Cost Inflation: Construction materials have experienced sustained price
increases. Waiting for "better" pricing ignores market realities and risks facing even
steeper costs in 2025.
Why Option 2 is the Right Choice
1. Certainty Over Speculation: We have concrete bids from qualified contractors today.
Re-bidding is gambling with taxpayer money—costs could easily increase rather than
decrease.
2. Community Need: Our library serves as an essential community hub for education,
digital access, and civic engagement. Every month of delay denies residents these
critical services. As a member of the Moorpark Friends of the Library, we are in the
early stages of building a partnership program with local businesses to help profile them
and introduce them to the community through relevant books and events.
3. Economic Development: A modern library enhances property values and attracts
businesses and families to Moorpark, generating long-term economic benefits that far
exceed the current cost increase.
The Cost of Inaction
Delaying until August 6th may seem prudent, but it ignores construction industry realities. By
5
the time we complete another CIP evaluation, rebid the project, and award contracts, we could
easily face cost increases turning today’s 10% overage into 20% or more. Plus, do we know
how existing grants are affected by delays? A $3M deficit turns into a $7M deficit if we lose
those grants.
A Investment in Our Future
Libraries are not just buildings—they are investments in our community's intellectual capital,
economic development, and quality of life. The existing building is dark, windowless and
lacks life. While the staff and programming are exceptional, the library should match the
growth potential of the new High Street project. The current cost increase, while substantial,
represents less than 1% of Moorpark's annual budget when amortized over the library's 50+
year lifespan.
I respectfully urge you to choose Option 2 and move forward with this essential project. Our
community has waited long enough for this vital resource. Let's build our library now, while
we can still manage the costs effectively.
Thank you for your consideration of this important matter.
Emily Hickey
6
From:Karen Etcheverry
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Awarding Library Contract
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 11:08:33 AM
Dear Council Members:
I am writing regarding the decision pending about the library project. I would like to
strongly encourage you to accept the lowest bid and move forward with awarding a
construction contract. Any further delays will only cost more money, and the project will
continue to be shelved over and over, robbing our wonderful city of the beautiful library that
we so richly deserve!
I have lived in Moorpark with my family for over 33 years and use our library all the time.
However, I have to tell you that I often go to the Thousand Oaks library and brought my kids
there all the time because it had so much to offer in the way of size, beauty, amenities and
services. Obviously, it is a much bigger city with more resources, but it is also a reflection of
their priorities! I love our city and am so grateful for all the hard work that goes into keeping it
so well run and beautiful. (I'm very excited about the High Street changes!) But the one thing
missing is a library that reflects who we are and what we care about. Our library is very old,
and frankly, depressing! I still use it all the time and I love the staff and programs that are
offered, but I don't relish going the way I do when I go to the T.O. library!
Thank you for allowing me to voice my opinion.
Respectfully,
Karen Etcheverry
7
From:Erin Perlman
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Library Project
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 12:50:31 PM
Hello,
I understand there’s a meeting scheduled regarding the Library Project. While I cannot attend the meeting, I’d like
voice my support for making sure the project moves forward. With the growth and improvements made in
Moorpark, building an improved library should be a priority, as it helps all people in our community. The
improvements needed are long past due and should not be delayed any further. I appreciate your time.
Thank you,
Erin Perlman
Sent from my iPhone
8
From:Missbrittaeve
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Library
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 2:27:35 PM
Hello,
As a Moorpark citizen and someone who relies on the library for myself and my children,
please choose option 2 which is to take the lowest bid and move forward with the project.
Thank you,
Britta H.
9
From:Pam Orren
To:City Council & City Manager
Cc:mfotlpresident@gmail.com; mfotlibrary@gmail.com
Subject:Funding for the Library
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 2:36:28 PM
I was disturbed to find that the estimated cost for building the library was 10% over the
projected cost. I understand that there are four options, and I believe that the 2nd option is
the best. If we do not move ahead and award a contract, it is likely that we will be in a
position where we are totally unable to fund a library in the future. It is my understanding
that the library has more visitors than any other city service, including the Parks and Rec
Department. Many people have put time and effort into rebuilding the library, and it would
be a disservice to our community if we do not proceed.
I am unable to attend the meeting, but I hope you can make the dream of a new library
come true.
Sincerely
Pam B. Orren
10
From:Hillary Wilkinson
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:Support Option 2 for library project!!
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 9:30:40 PM
Mayor and City Council Members,
Unfortunately, I am unable to attend Wednesday’s meeting. I am
writing to express my strong support for Option 2 regarding the
Moorpark City Library project—accepting the lowest bid and moving
forward with awarding the construction contract. As a Moorpark
resident, I would like to support you in moving forward with Option 2
at the July 16th board meeting.
The Economic Reality: Delay Equals Higher Costs
While the 10% cost increase over the 2023 estimate is significant,
delaying this project will almost certainly result in even higher costs.
The construction industry is facing unprecedented volatility, and
several factors make immediate action the most fiscally responsible
choice:
Tariff Uncertainty: Current federal trade policies create
unpredictable cost fluctuations for construction materials,
particularly steel, lumber, and other essential building
components. These tariff impacts are already reflected in
current bids but could intensify significantly in the coming
months.
Labor Market Pressures: Construction labor costs continue
to rise due to skilled worker shortages. Delaying six months
to a year will likely see these costs increase
Material Cost Inflation: Construction materials have
experienced sustained price increases. Waiting for "better"
pricing ignores market realities and risks facing even steeper
costs in 2025.
Why Option 2 is the Right Choice
1. Certainty Over Speculation: We have concrete bids from
qualified contractors today. Re-bidding is gambling with
taxpayer money—costs could easily increase rather than
decrease.
2. Community Need: Our library serves as an essential
community hub for education, digital access, and civic
engagement. Every month of delay denies residents these
critical services. As a member of the Moorpark Friends of the
Library, we are in the early stages of building a partnership
program with local businesses to help profile them and
introduce them to the community through relevant books and
events.
3. Economic Development: A modern library enhances
property values and attracts businesses and families to
Moorpark, generating long-term economic benefits that far
exceed the current cost increase.
The Cost of Inaction
Delaying until August 6th may seem prudent, but it ignores
construction industry realities. By the time we complete another CIP
evaluation, rebid the project, and award contracts, we could easily
11
face cost increases turning today’s 10% overage into 20% or more.
Plus, do we know how existing grants are affected by delays? A
$3M deficit turns into a $7M deficit if we lose those grants.
A Investment in Our Future
Libraries are not just buildings—they are investments in our
community's intellectual capital, economic development, and quality
of life. The existing building is dark, windowless and lacks life. While
the staff and programming are exceptional, the library should match
the growth potential of the new High Street project. The current cost
increase, while substantial, represents less than 1% of Moorpark's
annual budget when amortized over the library's 50+ year lifespan.
I respectfully urge you to choose Option 2 and move forward with this
essential project. Our community has waited long enough for this
vital resource. Let's build our library now, while we can still manage
the costs effectively.
Thank you for your consideration of this important matter.
Hillary Wilkinson
12
From:Chaya Turrow
To:Moorpark
Subject:City Council Meeting 7/16 | Agenda Item 9.A. | Public Comment
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 10:35:36 PM
To the Honorable Mayor Enegren and Esteemed Members of the Moorpark City Council,
As a Member of the Moorpark Library Board, I wanted to send a public comment regarding Agenda Item 9.A.:
Consider Bids for Construction of the New Moorpark City Library.
I believe the City Council should move forward with option 2: Accept the low bid provided by AMG & Associates,
Inc and direct staff to award a contract for the construction of the library.
When the City Council reviewed the preliminary estimated budget in 2023, the increased construction costs were a
concern. But ultimately, after SEVERAL public speakers, including myself, the City Council approved the
preliminary estimated budget. The increased costs, unfortunately, are not surprising and I believe they were
somewhat expected. And, if I am understanding Mr. Laurentowski’s report correctly, there is additional funding
available in the Special Projects Fund, which could help offset the higher bid cost.
As I mentioned when I made a public comment in July 2023, this new presumed library has been “in the works” for
over half my life, since I was a teenager, and now we’re two years past that! The city of Moorpark wants and needs
this library.
As a Board Member, hearing the quarterly reports from the library is AMAZING with all the work the library
does…but they’re running out of room. I can only imagine how many patrons would utilize the new library and how
many more programs and/or participants we can get for each program with expanded space, meeting rooms, and
lounge areas. As a Moorpark Girl Scout Leader, myself, I can see how this space will open up so many opportunities
for local organizations to host events, bringing more people and potentially more funding (based on rental costs) to
the library and the city.
To my knowledge, the City staff has put in tons of hours over the past several years to help create this beautiful
space that truly encapsulates Moorpark’s past and future. I believe that the other options presented would only delay
the project even further.
Additionally, Moorpark Friends of the Library and Moorpark Rotary have already started the brick campaign.
Again, by delaying this project, patrons and city members are going to be less willing to donate their money and
time to a project they can’t be sure is even happening.
To reiterate, please consider voting for option 2: Accept the low bid provided by AMG & Associates, Inc and direct
staff to award a contract for the construction of the library.
Thank you so much!
Chaya Turrow Blum
Sent from my iPhone
13
From:Mary Ellen Cosenza
To:City Council & City Manager
Subject:New Moorpark Library
Date:Wednesday, July 16, 2025 10:09:05 AM
Attachments:PastedGraphic-5.tiff
image005.png
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to express my concern about further delays with the awarding of a bid for the
construction of the new Moorpark City Library.
At this point in the process I assume I don’t need to advocate for the new library in general.
Public libraries are foundational to our society and what makes us a Community.
I am concerned that the process has taken so long the cost of construction has risen over time.
I sincerely doubt that re-bidding will lead to lower bids as construction resources in the area
are only getting more scarce.
I have read the report submitted with the agenda files for this evenings meeting. I am in
agreement with the Friend of the Library leadership that option 2 is the best option to ensure
this important project moves forward in a timely manner.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Ellen
Mary Ellen Cosenza, Ph.D.
14
From:Councilmember Renee Delgado
To:Ky Spangler
Subject:Fw: Moorpark Library
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 7:48:49 PM
Hi Ky, can you send this to everyone else please and/or add it to the other comments.
Renee Delgado
Councilmember | District 1
City of Moorpark | 323 Science Dr.I Moorpark, CA 93021
(805) 978-0303 | rdelgado@moorparkca.gov | www.moorparkca.gov
From: Ellie McGregor
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2025 2:49 PM
To: rdelgado@moorparkca.gov <rdelgado@moorparkca.gov>
Subject: Moorpark Library
Dear City Council Member Delgado,
I have heard the unfortunate news that the new library is yet again in jeopardy. This is very disappointing, especially
considering the decision made by the city council in July 2023, where I spoke in strong support of the new library.
I spent the majority of my childhood in Moorpark and visiting the Moorpark library, but I am currently at Arizona
State University pursuing a master’s degree in genetic counseling. One of the first things that I did when I moved to
Mesa was go to the local library to get a library card. Although the Mesa library was only 5 minutes away, it was
cramped, not well maintained, and did not have many attendees or resources. I researched some more and found the
Gilbert library, which was 20 minutes away. I was instantly impressed. There were large windows overlooking the
local lake, plentiful resources, and a large children’s area. Notably, there were individuals of all ages and
backgrounds and many families. I have never returned to the Mesa library.
I have used the Gilbert library computers to take exams, checked out books with ease, and spent many hours
studying in front of their large windows. I’m willing to drive four times as long, not only because of all the things
the Gilbert library offers, but how it feels. It feels alive, comforting, and beautiful. Because I am at the Gilbert
library so often, I frequently go to local restaurants or join friends at local establishments. The library attracts me,
and thus, attracts my business.
Recently, many citizens, including me, have felt helpless in the political sphere. Despite emails, calls, and even
protests, we feel that our voices are not heard and our representatives vote based not on their constituents’ desires,
but are swayed by external influences. I plead with you not to echo the actions the higher levels of government.
Listen to the people of Moorpark. Use their tax money how they want. This new library as it has been originally laid
out and promised will bring current and future benefits beyond the cost it requires.
With great hope and anticipation,
Ellie McGregor
15
From:Councilmember Renee Delgado
To:Ky Spangler
Subject:Fw: New Moorpark City Library
Date:Tuesday, July 15, 2025 7:57:48 PM
This one too please
Renee Delgado
Councilmember | District 1
City of Moorpark | 323 Science Dr.I Moorpark, CA 93021
(805) 978-0303 | rdelgado@moorparkca.gov | www.moorparkca.gov
From: Sandra Banks
Sent: Monday, July 14, 2025 7:29:48 AM
To: rdelgado@moorparkca.gov <rdelgado@moorparkca.gov>
Subject: New Moorpark City Library
Dear Councilmember Delgado,
I am citizen of Moorpark, a frequent library user and a former member of Library Board.
I am very eager to begin the building of the new library.
I urged you to accept the low bid ,option # 2 so our new library can become a reality as soon as
possible.
Yours truly,
Sandra Banks
Sent from my iPad
16