Seneca council backs placing Special Library District proposal before voters

The Seneca City Council voted unanimously Jan. 13 to support a resolution to place a proposed Special Library District before the city’s voters. Mayor Andrea Officer opened the public hearing and attendees, including Stephanie Thompson of the Save Our Library Committee, urged the council to allow a public vote on the district.

Councilor Melvin Herburger said he had initial concerns but concluded the measure should be decided by voters. Councilor Barbara Northington described support for the resolution as "a move toward the future of the community," and Councilor Matt Wenick said he had changed his position after hearing public input; the motion to support the resolution was made by Northington and seconded by Herburger and carried unanimously. The council did not adopt the district itself but supported referral of the measure to the ballot for voter consideration.