Library Budget Approved
Albany city residents voted May 16 to approve a 1.5 percent increase in the annual tax levy to support the Albany Public Library. The 2018 budget was approved by a final vote of 2,165 (76%) to 691 (24%).
The approved 2018 operating tax levy is $6,981,873. The owner of a $150,000 home in the city of Albany will pay about an extra $3.49 for the library next year. The estimated homestead rate for the 2018 library tax is $1.57 per $1,000 of assessed value.
“We are very pleased that residents voted to continue supporting Albany Public Library branches, services, materials, and programs with their tax dollars,” said APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek.
“The budget approval allows us to continue the current level of library service, as well as meet patron demand for more programming, outreach, and meeting room availability. The Albany Public Library leaders, staff, and trustees truly appreciate the confidence and support our community has in its libraries,” he said.
Tonight, voters also elected three library trustees: Sarah Shearer, Brenda Robinson, and Jenna Pitera. All three will serve five-year terms, which begin in July. Robinson is finishing up a one-year term as trustee, while Shearer and Pitera are new to the board.
The place order, candidates, and vote totals were:
- Sarah Shearer 1,433
- Brenda Robinson 1,215
- Jenna Pitera 1,201
- Arlene Way 1,186
- DTraecelle Carter 939
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.