Finance staff warned of a growing structural deficit beginning FY 2026–27 and proposed renewing the library parcel tax (Measure D) in June; polling showed the library renewal tested at about 67% (near the two-thirds threshold). Council received the presentation and directed staff to return with ballot language.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill presented two early concepts for the San Rafael public library and community center — a climate‑responsive 'community porch' centered on a porous courtyard and a 'screen' element to reflect community identity — and emphasized flexibility and maintainability.

City staff told the Measure Piece Subcommittee that, after reviewing eight proposals and interviewing three teams, they recommend negotiating a Phase 1 services contract with Excel Construction and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) to deliver the San Rafael Public Library and Community Center.

Staff reported 524 online survey responses showing residents prioritize comfortable reading/work spaces and a large/diverse library collection; for the community center residents favored arts/creative programs, youth camps and fitness, with parking and program relevance flagged as barriers.

Deputy Public Works Director Jonathan Shelton told the Measure P Subcommittee talks with carpenters and building trades are underway to craft a project labor agreement; staff will adapt Marin County language, discuss local-hire and signatory logistics and meet again June 18.

Staff told the Measure P Subcommittee they will release the RFQ on June 15, hold mandatory and proprietary meetings in July, shortlist firms for interviews in August, and seek a council award in November; evaluation will be best-value (200-point scale) with fee at 20%.

Library staff reported a stakeholder meeting and a community-survey rollout to inform design for a combined library/community-center project funded by Measure P; staff outlined an RFP this summer, selection by November 2026, design work through March 2028 and construction beginning in August 2028 with anticipated completion in January 2031.

Councilors directed staff to pursue a progressive design'build procurement and begin project labor agreement negotiations for a proposed 50,000'sq'ft Measure P library and community center with a program target budget of $105,000,000; labor representatives urged inclusion in PLA talks and staff said local hiring goals can be included.

Subcommittee reviewed a draft program for a 50,000‑square‑foot library and community center funded by Measure P, a program‑level budget of $105 million and options for project delivery; staff said a delivery‑method decision is needed within two months and recommended staged community outreach.

Staff summarized outcomes from the 'Love Your Library' outreach campaign, reported disruption at major vendor Baker & Taylor, and updated the board on a mural, Measure P project roles and personnel changes.