9/19/13 - Voters are being asked to make a make a decision come February about the future of the Salem-South Lyon District Library. Despite diminished funding since 2008, budget cutbacks have allowed the library located at Pontiac Trail and Eight Mile Road to maintain the current level of services offered to the community. However, a continued drop of property tax revenue, falling property values and the Headlee Amendment have all contributed to reduced revenues received and officials say without additional funding, further cuts canât be avoided and an additional millage is being placed on the ballot to maintain current services and facility upkeep. If it passes, officials say it will ensure the library maintains current hours of operation and continues to provide classes, materials and technology for all ages and timely capital improvements. Should the request fail, officials say the library will close at least two days per week, be forced to reduce staff and classes offered, implement deeper cuts to the materials budget and eliminate outreach services. If the millage is approved by voters in Salem Township and South Lyon during a February 25th special election, then a property owner with a home valued at $200,000 would pay about $50 more annually. A link to information about the ballot proposal is posted below. (JM)
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