Library Board of Trustees Finance Sub-Committee Meeting

The Finance Sub-Committee reviewed the Library Director's proposed FY25 budget, presented as $902,856 based on the Municipal Appropriation Requirement (MAR). That figure represents a 1.2% increase ($11,010) over FY24; the director recommended budgeting at the MAR level despite the mayor's request for level funding to avoid applying for a waiver. Discussion covered the state-required materials spending (15% of the budget = $135,428) and a $1,778 shortfall between that requirement and the director's materials line ($133,650). Committee members also raised concerns about staffing levels, noting they are the lowest since FY18 and that the director's administrative support position had been cut to two hours per week, which affects coverage during sick time or vacation and can force overtime or temporary closures.

Committee members examined the library capital plan and found the Department of Public Works lacks staff to manage the projected repairs, meaning outside engineering/project management will likely be needed and will drive up costs. Updated estimates discussed included raising the copper/gutter repair cost to roughly $175,000 (previously $67,550) and the accessible ramp to over $30,000 (previously $24,000). The committee voted unanimously to recommend the MAR-level FY25 budget as presented, and members agreed to set the accessible ramp and copper/gutter repairs as priorities in the capital plan. No public comments were recorded in the minutes.