The 415
San Rafael library turning the page
San Rafael residents are looking forward to a new public library and community center, thanks to the recent passage of Measure P, a parcel tax whose revenue will go toward construction of the projects. “Measure P secures dedicated funding through parcel tax revenue to build a new, state-of-the-art public library and community center at Albert Park in San Rafael,” the nonprofit San Rafael Public Library Foundation said in an announcement. The current San Rafael Community Center is at 618 B St., adjacent to Albert Park, which is known for its well-used bocce courts and the baseball field home to the San Rafael Pacifics. The San Rafael Public Library’s main branch is currently at 1100 E St. in San Rafael. Built in 1909 through a grant from 20th-century philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, that building is currently closed with plans for a $3 million renovation. Once renovations are complete, the Carnegie library will remain home to the city’s library services, while Measure P funds are raised and the multi-year construction of the new library and community center at Albert Park are underway. When library services are eventually relocated, city officials say the older building will continue to be used for community purposes.
The annual parcel tax of 14.5 cents per square foot of “improved building area” and $75 per vacant lot is estimated to bring in $6.37 million in revenue annually for 30 years. “The new library and community center will offer cutting-edge technology, dynamic learning spaces and a welcoming environment for residents of all ages,” the foundation’s statement said. “It will also address seismic, fire and environmental safety standards that the current library and community centers do not meet.” Joe O’Hehir, SRPLF board member and chair of the foundation’s Revitalize San Rafael campaign committee, highlighted the long-term impact of the project. “This project is a multigenerational game changer, providing a safe and vibrant gathering place for young and old alike,” he said. “It’s an investment in San Rafael’s future.”— JW
In an effort to promote careers in conservation and the environment, the Marin County Fish and Wildlife Commission is offering a scholarship of up to $3,500 for a student aiming for a career in fish and wildlife conservation, habitat preservation or natural resource management. The scholarship, intended to be annual, is in honor of Ed Schulze, a longtime Novato resident and chair of the Marin County Fish and Wildlife Commission. “The commission is seeking applications from those with diverse backgrounds who may need assistance overcoming potential barriers to education and training in the fish and wildlife sciences,” Marin County officials said in an announcement of the new scholarship. Information about eligibility and an application form are at cemarin.ucanr.edu. Additionally, the commission is offering local nonprofits grants worth up to $5,000, earmarked for promotions of educational and habitat restoration projects in Marin. About a dozen nonprofits are awarded grants annually through the program. In 2024, 13 grants were awarded worth a cumulative $36,263. Awardees included River Otter Ecology Project, WildCare, Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed and California White Shark Project. The grant application deadline is March 3. Visit the commission website or call 415-473-4204.— NBb staff Scholarship available for conservation-minded students
Marin Transit is getting on the bus—technology-wise, that is. Marin’s public-transit agency in January contracted with Ineo Systrans, which will provide a new dispatch system that offers up-to-the-moment tracking and communication with local buses. The system, known as computer aided dispatch and automatic vehicle location (CAD/AVL), allows operators to track bus location, speed, route information, on-time performance and onboard video footage, according to agency officials. The system also equips buses with a silent alarm system, which alerts dispatchers in the event of an emergency and changes the digital exterior displays on the bus, without alarming passengers. The five-year, $1.3 million contract with Ineo begins July 1. For more information, visit marintransit.org .— NBb staff New dispatch system for Marin Transit
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 13
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