Neighborhood Notebook

Proposal for new library brought to alliance

TOWN 'N COUNTRY -- The nearly 30-year-old Westgate Library, slated for renovation within the next few years, is nearing the end of its useful life. So instead of a renovation, how about a new library on the site?

That was the question Mike Callahan, project manager for the county's Northwest Plan, presented to members of the Town 'N Country Alliance last week. "I'm not recommending we tear it down, but a new library would be a better way to go if we could afford it," Callahan said.

Therein lies the problem. The county cannot afford to build a new 25,000-square-foot, two-story library, Callahan said.

But if private developers, as part of the Town 'N Country Community Plan, contributed to the project it would be possible, he said.

Westgate Library currently has 15,000 square feet. Plans call for a 4,000-square-foot expansion.

In order for a new library to be built, the community plan, with the town center at Paula and Ambassador drives, would have to have the consensus of residents.

Callahan asked the alliance to support the plan saying it would go a long way in assuring construction of a new library. "Now is the time to let your commissioners know what you want," he said.

Board opposes curb cut at shopping center

TAMPA PALMS -- Tampa Palms Community Development District supervisors have talked about their opposition to a "right in and right out" curb cut on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard for a planned shopping center in Area 3.

Now they will officially be on the record against it.

The CDD board plans to send a letter to the Tampa City Council saying a curb cut is contrary to the original development plans for Tampa Palms.

Developer Warren Kinsler, who owns the land, is arguing for a curb cut as a way to entice the bookstore chain Borders to move into New Tampa.

The Tampa City Council will vote on the issue at its March 27 meeting.

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