The Tuscarawas County Library is going to the voters, as libraries are feeling the strains of funding cuts and increased expenses.
The local public library currently has two levies in place: a 0.5 from 2008 and a 1-mill approved in 2014.
Director Michelle McMorrow-Ramsell says the board decided to seek a replacement of the 1-mill levy that would generate $436,000 each year and cost an additional $10.65 per $100,000 of home valuation.
“The reason why the board made the decision to go back on the levy was really three reasons; the reduction in state funding, also the fact that when you have a levy on for so long there’s a role back effect where it’s not collecting at current millage, but then third reason was really to keep up with inflation.”
Levy dollars are used to keep the main location in New Philadelphia running, and locations in Bolivar, Strasburg, Sugarcreek, and Tusky.
“Personnel cost has increased. Computers and technology and Wi-Fi has increased. Operations of the building of lights, electric, and trash has all increased, and then there’s the price of books and materials and those have definitely increased.”
The Tuscarawas County Board of Commissioners approved the measure to appear on November’s general election ballot.
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