7/22/13 - The Howell Carnegie District Library is asking voters to approve a millage that will appear on the August 6th primary ballot. A point-4 mill proposal is being sought to help fund some major repairs and continue operations. Officials say despite sound stewardship by the library board, the perfect storm of declining revenues and a significant need for library maintenance has occurred. Director Kathleen Zaenger says the need became evident a few years ago with critical infrastructure failing and continued revenue declines due to a drop in property values. The taxable value of property in the library service area is the same this year as it was eight years ago. Zaenger tells WHMI the library's roof and heating and cooling systems are well beyond their usable life span and on the brink of complete failure. She says they want to continue to function in the way people have come to expect and repair the building, which was originally completed in 1906. Zaenger says theyâve implemented cuts and furloughs but are now facing closing two days per week on Sunday and Monday to try and operate and maintain the building at a minimum. The millage that supports the library was passed 25 years ago at 1 mill, but it has been reduced by 31% due to Michiganâs Headlee amendment. Based on average home values if the millage passes, it would cost an additional 58 cents per week. Complete details about the proposal can be found through the link below. (JM)
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