Rick Graham, city public services director, said The Leonardo is now proposing upgrades that were not included in the lowest-level option in February, such as renovating the building's third floor and meeting the silver level of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system.

"We need to reconcile this," Graham said.

Becker said city officials will continue to work with The Leonardo in an effort to resolve the city's concerns. At the same time, city staff will look into other uses for the building and prepare to request proposals from developers and other groups.

"It's important that we put this building to good use," the mayor said.

Giles, who replaced Mary Tull last week as the center's executive director, said seeking other proposals for the old library is "contrary to the commitment the city made to The Leonardo."

In addition, he said, it would jeopardize ongoing fundraising efforts and "break faith" with Salt Lake voters and those who have already donated to The Leonardo.

"By going out and looking for other uses, you will basically say to all donors that you are having second thoughts," Giles said. "It's going to be extremely difficult to move forward and attract new donors."

Renovations are under way at the former library to host "Body Worlds 3," the popular, touring human-body exhibit that will open Sept. 19 and run for 4 1/2 months.

About $300,000 in renovations have been made in preparation for the exhibit, including $85,000 in permanent improvements. The Leonardo is leasing the building from the city for the exhibit.

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E-mail: jpage@desnews.com