Date: 4/27/2017
Tuesday evening representatives from Springfield Library outlined cosmetic changes that are to make the East Springfield Branch Library more accessible for neighbors with limited mobility. Director Molly Fogarty, Branch Manager Reggie Wilson, Branch Supervisor Shadd Jamison, and Commissioner of Springfield Health and Human Services Helen Caulton-Harris attended this meeting.
The fears of our branch closing was all but quelled as Fogarty expressed the city’s commitment to this branch for the foreseeable future. However, the lack of space and resources (and bathroom on the ground level) remain an unresolved problem for the neighborhood. We were sold the concept of a “more accessible” library by way of ordering new, movable furniture to accommodate various programming. That coupled with the elimination of some books and their shelves; we are told that this will be “good” until the future expansion of the branch library is funded to the tune of $800,000.
I would also note that in January of this year the City Council voted to apply for a grant to help fund an over $9 Million library in East Forest Park. The only counselor voted against this, citing the high cost was At-large Counselor Timothy Rooke. Adam Gomez was absent for this vote.
A sticking point for many neighbors in attendance is still the lack of an accessible bathroom on the ground floor. When I asked during the meeting the potential risk for civil litigation because of this it was not directly address; rather poorly sidestepped saying the city could not sue itself, ignoring the point made that an individual with a physical disability could sue the city for not having an accessible restroom facility. This is a priority for me in the coming weeks and months to find other avenues of funding for our branch improvements.
I have been sadden and frustrated to hear that neighbors feel that East Springfield is the “forgotten neighborhood.” This is one of my main motivations to take on this challenge of running for City Council in Ward 2. I believe that our cozy and friendly neighborhood needs a strong voice in City Hall and a representative who will provide ongoing, clear, and timely communication. We need an advocate for all the residents and families of Ward 2, (which includes East Springfield) for the next 2 years. Not to dictate, but to partner with, as I have done with all my patients who come to me for help.
This is what a strong community looks like.
Ken Gilet
Springfield
