New Jefferson City Library Groundbreaking

Official Groundbreaking on Jefferson City’s New Library
Staff Photo by Tahra Williams

The Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Jefferson City Library was held Monday morning. Jefferson City Mayor Mark Potts welcomed all and thanked them for their attendance and support. He then asked Council Member Mitch Cain to open the ceremony in a prayer of dedication.

Mayor Potts recognized key people in attendance. Doug Refitt, Library Board Chairperson, thanked everyone for their support and introduced then new Library Director, Anjanae Brueland. She thanked all those who have been part of this process and promised she and the staff would be there to support the community. Mayor Potts joked about being ambushed by Donna Phillips and a bunch of kids at the current library. He remembers the library being full and told the kids, “If you can just hold on we will have you a place bigger where you can do more things.”

Also speaking were Tommy Bible, Jefferson County Chamber Chairperson, who recognized the other members in attendance. He also took a moment to introduce the new Interim Chamber Director Daryl Keck. Mayor Potts took a moment to thank Don Cason, Past Chamber Director, for all the support he has provided in making this project possible. Susan Simmons Byrnes, Regional Library Director, was recognized for her efforts in helping get funding for the new library.

Hilda Thomas, member of Friends of the Library, took a moment to recognize Jean and Ernie Hedges who she stated was the beginning of this project, and also introduced other members of the group. She stated how excited they are to continue working on this project and with the new library director.

Mike Word, member of Friends of the Library, presented a check to Mayor Potts in the amount of $43,370. This money was raised by the people of Jefferson City and it is the first installment from fundraising efforts.

Max Fultz, member of the Jefferson County Economic Development Oversight Committee, took a moment to thank Mayor Potts on behalf of the committee and praise the project in development. He stated he and the committee are excited to move forward and help with the continuing development of our county.

Also in attendance were Engineers Qinton Craig and Bill Hunigan. Gary McGill is part of the engineering team but was unable to attend due to personal reasons. Architect Dan Briatain attended in representation of Michael Brady Inc. Those representing Merit Construction were Bruce Bosse, President, Lucas Edmonton, Superintendent, and Aaron Gilreath, Project Manager.

At this point they proceeded with the groundbreaking. Mayor Potts invited the City Council Members and other distinguished guests to come forward to take a shovel and hard hat for their participation in this event.