by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Books and magazines may be replaced by spice racks and novice chefs at the Haydon Burns Library. Discussions are in the early stages, but a local group has expressed strong interest in converting the soon-to-be-vacated structure into a downtown cooking school.
Those efforts are being led by Springfield business owner Stephen Dare and Florida Community College at Jacksonville Downtown Campus president Dr. Edythe M. Abdullah.
“We think (the library) is the perfect location for what we have in mind,” said Dare. “This is the kind of major development that can long outlast the Super Bowl and build on the educational economy downtown.”
FCCJ campus presidents met last week to discuss the plans and are reportedly in agreement to acquire the library and redevelop it with an unnamed corporate partner.
“Everyone is on board and agrees that this can be a very exciting opportunity,” said Dare. “On our end, it looks very good.”
Dare said the library’s architecture, which often sparks a debate all its own, would remain largely in tact.
City Council president Elaine Brown said she has been contacted by Dare and Abdullah and will meet with them some time next week to discuss their plans.
“I have not been let in on all of the specific details,” said Brown, “but I do look forward to hearing what they have to say. At first blush, a culinary academy sounds like the perfect fit for our downtown.”
Brown said she was unsure what role the City will be asked to take in the venture, but those details will soon come to light.
Dare said a specific arrangement, which may include either leasing or purchasing the library, remains open.
“Right now we’re just waiting to see what Elaine can bring to the table,” said Dare. “And I’m sure she’s interested in seeing if there is any money in this project.”
However, even if Brown chooses to advocate the culinary school, others on the Council may not be persuaded so easily.
Suzanne Jenkins, who represents much of downtown, said she isn’t sure the City should approve this kind of a deal.
“Not without parking,” she said. “Otherwise, there is no way I can support that kind of development. It would put too much of a strain on the limited parking we have down here. We need to talk about parking before we talk about what we’re going to do with the library.”
Dare said parking needs could be met if an outside entity chose to build a garage close by.