County board adopts formula to stabilize Weiss and Winter library funding

Supervisor Markman proposed and the board adopted a resolution establishing a formula to set annual county support for the Weiss and Winter libraries.

"What I am proposing is a resolution that would limit or actually set the funding formula calculation for those two libraries," Markman said, describing a formula that uses the greater of 150% of the previous year's circulation-based amount or 102% of the previous county contribution. He said he had discussed the approach with library representatives and that they supported having a predictable amount to count on.

Supervisor Graham and others noted that sudden changes in circulation during events such as the COVID pandemic could produce large year-to-year swings under a circulation-based formula; Graham asked whether the board was comfortable accepting that potential volatility. Markman and other supporters said the proposed floor-and-growth formula was intended to smooth funding and provide more predictability for library planning.

The motion to approve the Weiss and Winter Library support resolution was moved, seconded and carried by voice vote; the transcript records committee review and unanimous committee approval before the board vote.