How Will The Levy Money Be Used?

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Monies raised by this levy are used for maintaining current operating expenses of both libraries.  This includes staff salaries, library print & non-print materials, supplies, building/tech maintenance, & utilities

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When Will This Levy Be Put Into Effect?

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• State law allows the library to ask for a renewal/replacement up to one year prior to the expiration of the levy
• The current levy expires in 2024, with the latest taxes due in 2025
• The renewal levy, if passed, will take effect in 2025 with the first taxes being paid in 2026

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Who Pays For This Levy?

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All property owners in the library district (Harris, Clay, & Allen Townships--Ottawa County, OH) are taxed through this levy.  

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What Will Happen If The Levy Does Not Pass?

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Since 40% of the annual budget comes from this levy, severe cuts will have to be made with fewer library hours, less programming/outreach, reduced purchasing of library materials & a decrease in technology offerings.

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Why Should We Pay For A Levy When We Already Paid To Renovate both Libraries?

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The Library created a strategic plan a few years ago, which allowed them to survey the patrons in its districts. According to the survey results, there was a great need to provide a meeting room, additional technology, and comfortable spaces within the Elmore Library.  

The library used its past levy and State funds frugally to still provide great service, but to also put back money into the building fund to facilitate the building project, thus addressing the needs of the community.  Building costs were higher than expected, so this was offset by donations from the community and finding ways to build/renovate in a more cost effective way.  

The library could have put up a bond issue that would have required tax payers to be taxed to pay for bonds, which are sold to raise funds specifically for capital (building) improvements.  The Board of Trustees did not want to place this burden on the voters and sought to only seek voluntary donations to help recoup the lacking funds needed to complete this renovation and addition project at the Elmore Library. 

What we are asking for is a renewal levy that is for library operating expenses.  It will help the library to maintain and possibly expand its materials, services, and facilities in the manner to which the public has become accustomed.