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Mr. Schatz discussed the design alternatives, stating that the process looked at either expanding or replacing the library at either the current site or elsewhere on the civic center site. He detailed the two options preferred by the Library Commission. Option A looks at expansion of the library at its current site with a two -story, 4,200 square foot addition. He noted that substantial parking accommodations would be required of this site, particularly if the San Francisco property should be unavailable and existing buildings remain; he advised that two levels of underground parking would be required in that situation. He also explained that while it is the less costly option (assuming no underground parking is required), a temporary library facility during construction would be required and fitting the new program into the existing building would split the adult collection onto two floors and increase staffing costs. He added that this option does not address inadequate space and staffing at City Hall. Option C looks at a new library facility where Main Street comes into Bernal Avenue, with the existing facility expanded to accommodate the new City Hall offices. He noted that parking would be less troublesome with this option as the razing of 200 Old Bernal could sufficiently meet parking needs with one on grade and one raised layer; an alternate option would place more on grade parking across the street. This option creates a sort of Main Street extension that passes through the library building and offers a true gateway experience, allows for better library planning and efficiency, achieves more goals of the civic center master plan, and allows the library to remain open during construction but requires temporary housing of City Hall and carries a higher cost. Mr. Schatz reviewed the revised cost analyses, noting that both have come down considerably due to the economic climate. Both estimates are inclusive and incorporate the cost of construction, a contingency that anticipates that costs will rise again, professional fees, permits, construction management, inspections, furnishings, equipment, moving costs, temporary facilities, and a hefty general contingency. Mr. Schatz closed, stating that both options meet the programmatical requirements for expansion but both staff and the Library Commission recommend Option C. He also advised that securing the San Francisco site for parking purposes would offer considerable saving in terms of initial expense and long -term security. Mr. Bocian requested that the Council provide feedback on Options A and C and direction regarding the development of a comprehensive master plan. He recommended that the Council direct staff to engage with the City and County of San Francisco again regarding the acquisition of its site and to initiate the development of a financing plan. He added that staff would like to continue work with Mr. Schatz on this and requested that the Council authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the initial agreement. Mayor Hosterman stated a preference for Option C, believing that Option C provides greater flexibility in terms of the Council's later work regarding the Ace Train. She has always been partial to the idea of incorporating a brand new library into a grand entrance to the downtown area and park across the street, provides greater aesthetic opportunity and, while in need of some tweaking, is a marvelous beginning. She appreciated that it provides a new civic center building that is more compact and better utilized and encouraged making use of the existing center if at all possible. She also liked the opportunity to connect the new site with the Bernal property, offering a clear connection to whatever development occurs there. Councilmember Thorne appreciated that Option C provides an opportunity to minimize surface parking. He prefers multiple parking levels and encouraged staff not to cover the entire San City Council Minutes Page 5 of 9 October 6, 2009