Library board presents modest budget; community urged to vote May 21

Ralph Reesman, vice president of the library board, told the school board and residents the library reduced spending in several categories but still faces unavoidable cost increases tied to staff contract raises, health-care premiums and building maintenance.

Reesman said the library sought to "keep costs down to a minimum while maintaining and even enhancing the highest quality services," citing new children’s-room improvements and successful adult- and senior-programming that attracted wider participation. He also noted the library is negotiating a three-year union contract that will include modest staff increases.

"Please remember to vote on Tuesday, May 21st," Reesman said, urging community turnout for the budget vote that includes school and library funding matters.

The board then moved on to the district’s consolidated budget presentation and later approved several routine docket items. Reesman said the library board welcomes public attendance at its monthly open meetings.