November 5, 2024 Election
INFORMATION
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Without Tax Levy Increase Means
- More cuts in library hours and staffing
- Drastic cuts in new library books and materials.
- Farmers Market and Fall Festival end after 2024.
- 50% cuts to all programming.
- More cuts to Summer Reading.
- 50% fewer patron computers.
- No new technology or replacement of aging technology.
- 50% fewer Wi-Fi Hotspots
A Tax Levy Increase Means
- More Space! Expansion and renovation of the existing facility to meet current and future needs.
- Library hours increased to previous times.
- New books and materials.
- Adoption of new technology.
- Continuation of Farmers Market and Fall Festival.
- More access to digital media, like Hoopla & Libby.
- More community outreach.
What is it?
On November 5, 2024, the Rochester Public Library District is seeking approval from residents within the Sangamon and Christian County library district to vote on a 0.42% increase in the property tax rate. This increase aims to generate around $8 million for construction costs, as well as an additional $261,000 per year for operational expenses. On average, homeowners would pay an extra $37 per month in property taxes.
How Did We Get Here?
The Rochester Public Library is dealing with a dire budget crisis. The Library’s current tax levy has not kept up with inflation each year since 2013. The chart below illustrates what the Library tax levy would have been if it had kept pace with US inflation rates.
In the last five years, the Library Board has reduced staff, hours, and funding for new materials and programs. Despite the growing usage of the library, budget cuts are made each year. As a result, the library is now experiencing a lack of space and is bracing for significant reductions in hours, programs, technology, and services.
ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 5, 2024