HOUSE BILL 27

54th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2019

INTRODUCED BY

Willie D. Madrid and Raymundo Lara and Patricia Roybal Caballero and Nathan P. Small

AN ACT

RELATING TO LIBRARIES; REQUIRING THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION TO CONDUCT A FEASIBILITY STUDY ON A LIBRARY IN CHAPARRAL.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

     SECTION 1. TEMPORARY PROVISION--FEASIBILITY STUDY--CHAPARRAL LIBRARY.--

          A. The local government division of the department of finance and administration shall:

                (1) conduct an analysis and feasibility study of the siting, planning, design and construction of a library and multi-use complex to provide for the health and well-being of the residents of Chaparral; and

                (2) recommend an implementation schedule for the siting, planning, design and construction of such facility.

          B. The feasibility study shall assess:

                (1) the needs of the community that can be met by the construction of a library and multi-use complex, including: 

                     (a) library resources, including reading material, audiobooks and access to computer and internet services and multimedia technology;

                     (b) temporary facilities for public agencies to provide services and support to local residents;

                     (c) office and meeting spaces for nonprofit organizations to offer health and well-being services, including physical health and dental services, domestic violence and sexual assault counseling, legal aid clinics, taxpayer assistance, financial literacy classes, fitness and nutritional support, entrepreneurial and small business advising and resume and job skills training; and

                     (d) public space for town halls and other community meetings;

                (2) whether the library and multi-use complex should be constructed separately or as a single facility; and

                (3) options for siting of the facility or facilities, including a cost-benefit analysis of each option. The cost-benefit analysis shall consider:

                     (a) convenience for the residents of Chaparral;

                     (b) safe and secure access and visibility;

                     (c) opportunities to leverage public or private property and resources for cost savings; and

                     (d) availability of appropriate property and any legal or physical siting constraints.

          C. In conducting the feasibility study, the division shall consider input from residents of Chaparral and elected officials representing the community at the local, state and federal levels.

          D. The implementation schedule shall recommend time line and budget phases for all aspects of the project, including siting, planning, design and construction.

          E. The study is contingent on funding received through legislative appropriation.

- 3 -