Seaford Library Budget for 2019 passes with 73 votes

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The Seaford library’s $2.3 million budget – an increase of $65,479 over last year’s spending plan — was approved by 73 voters last week. Peter Ruffner, the incumbent trustee, ran unopposed to keep his seat on the 5-member Library board and was re-elected with 69 votes.

The Seaford library is one of only two Nassau libraries whose building is owned by the Board.

The 1.53 percent budget increase translates to an extra $4.93 in taxes for Seaford homeowners, for the year or 41 cents more a month. It’s within the NYS Property tax Cap.

All libraries throughout New York State received an increase in state aid this year. Seaford received about an extra $7,000.

The state construction aide this year will go toward replacing Seaford Library’s 24-year old windows — and a couple of doors — throughout its entire building. In past years, projects have included the purchase of security cameras, repairs to the HVAC system and bathroom renovations.

Library director Frank McKenna said the overall increase in spending for next year is due mainly to expanding the Library’s newsletter from 4 to 6 pages and having it professionally created and printed, instead of being done n-house by staff. He said there’s been an increase in attendance at library programs as well as calls for more programming and the new newsletter would keep residents better informed of the events. It would also free up library staff to concentrate more on the programs, he said.

Currently, Seaford Library programs include an author series, outdoor concert series, outdoor movies and a comedy night.