Vote ‘yes’ on Peninsula Library budget

The Peninsula Public Library is asking voters to approve a $2.5 million budget proposal that is 2.98 percent larger than its current spending plan. We strongly urge you to support it on May 11.

Library officials say that much of the increase is being driven by state-mandated expenses, such as a $55,000 jump in state retirement plan expenses and an $18,000 rise in health insurance costs. Other increases will fund expand services at the library — $3,000 more for videos and DVDs, $4,295 for audio and electronic media and $2,500 for programming. The library is also planning to stay open an extra hour on Sundays to accommodate increased demand.

Keeping taxpayers in mind, library officials are proposing a budget with no excess spending while also trying to enhance services for patrons. They estimate that if the budget is approved, the average District 15 homeowner will see a $5 difference in their tax bill, which is more than fair to support such an important service for the local community.

Trustees Joan Lepelstat and Stan Nussbaum will also be on the ballot. While they are running unopposed, we encourage residents to show their support for the fine work they do for the community.