County authorizes contract for old library building

The final step toward St. Joseph County’s acquisition of the former Three Rivers Public Library was taken this week.

During their monthly meeting Tuesday, county commissioners authorized county administrator Teresa Doehring to sign a contract that will complete the purchase. Three Rivers city officials signed off on their end of the transaction last month.

The property, in the 900 block of West Michigan Avenue, was vacated after the library relocated and opened at its downtown location in September 2020.

St. Joseph County will pay the city $175,000. It is planning to use the building for Family Court and associated services, including matters overseen by the juvenile division. Probate Court and Friend of the Court will relocate to the site, too. The departments oversee matters such as child support and child custody issues, juvenile delinquency, adoptions, guardianship and abuse/neglect situations.

County officials estimate the plan to remodel could cost as much as $4.5 million.