MEMO - Establishing a Permanent Library/Community Center in District 1

SUBMITTED: March 18, 2025

COUNCIL MEETING:

VOTING RECORD:

For years, I have observed that the northwest portion of Irvine, while a masterfully planned area of the City, lacks a central gathering place. That initial observation has become more pronounced since I stepped into my role as a City Councilmember. As I have engaged in discussions with constituents during the past few months, those conversations made clear to me that the District 1 area of Irvine needs a permanent library and community center facility.

Indeed, there are numerous public amenities in District 1. Residents in the area can access 45 private parks, 11 schools, 10 City parks, and 3 shopping centers. And for the next few years, the Katie Wheeler Library will be available as a public facility for individuals to access and enjoy.

However, the existing Katie Wheeler Library is part of a County park facility, and the County of Orange has shared that they will be shuttering our ability to utilize the Katie Wheeler facility as a library location within the next few years. In addition, there are no other City community centers or library-type facilities located in District 1.

The establishment of a permanent library in District 1 is most requested by residents. The eventual closure of the Katie Wheeler Library would leave no public gathering places in the District other than parks. Libraries are vital community hubs where residents can learn, read, meet, and play at a safe and convenient location, especially for our local students who need to check out books or conduct research. Therefore, it is vital to ensure we put our residents first by advocating for a permanent library in the District.

Additionally, due to the lack of public community centers in District 1, residents are forced to travel to other areas of the City to host or attend events, increasing traffic congestion and pollution. Furthermore, the absence of a community center in District 1 prevents those without transportation from attending community events. Building a library and a community center will bridge this gap in accessibility and ensure that everyone in Irvine easily has access to a place where they can learn, grow, and bond with one another.

To address this situation, I have had multiple discussions with staff regarding the strategies available to the City to facilitate the establishment of a public library and community center facility in District 1. Based on those discussions, it has become clear to me that achievement of such a goal will require the engagement of a formal assessment and review process. Accordingly, I respectfully request that the City Council support my motion to direct that the City Manager engage in a comprehensive analysis to identify available options for establishing a permanent City library and community center facility in District 1 and to return to the City Council with options within the next 120 days.