The village plans to put its former public library to good use by transforming it into at least a temporary arts center, despite concerns from some Village Board members.
Trustees this week approved spending approximately $70,000 to remodel the first floor of the old library to use it as an arts center. The building has been empty since a new library opened at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., last year.
The 25,000-square foot arts center would include a community drop-in center, a dance studio, offices and a studio for the Recording for the Blind, a local television studio, a small screen theater and office, storage and display areas for the Orland Historical Society.
“I am really happy to see this beautiful building get some use,” Trustee Bernie Murphy said.
Village officials also approved costs not to exceed $50,000 per year to operate the arts center.
The arts center should provide adequate space for a variety of community groups and also is expected to help ease the waiting lists for Orland Park Parks and Recreation Department’s dance programs. But there are no plans to hire a staff person to manage the building.
Also this week, the board approved an intergovernmental agreement with Oak Lawn for upgrades to the Southwest Water Transmission Service system that services nine southwest suburbs.
Trustees agreed to spend $4 million but expect to recoup some of the costs from other users, including Tinley Park, Mokena, New Lenox and Matteson.