Minutes - 20080603 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I think this funding discrepancy is an anomaly, because 20 years ago, the county's share of funding for the library was 20% of operating costs. That is why I am requesting that the county restore its contribution this year to a level of 20% of the operating budget. This would still leave a gap of almost 20% in the difference between patron service and patron funding; but I believe that the county and the town can come to some kind of equitable arrangement over the next year or so that would address our long-term relationship regarding library funding. Funding library operations will be a key issue for the town, particularly as the library's operating costs and predicted usage increase after the expansion is complete, and there are some options available. For example, the approximately 5% of patrons who are neither residents of Chapel Hill nor of Orange County currently pay an annual fee for a library card that entitles them to full usage. If that fee were sufficient to offset the cost of service, its cost would increase significantly. However, if that high fee were applied to all residents outside of Chapel Hill, including those in Orange County, we believe it could be a disservice to the broader community that might in particular adversely affect school children and their families. But those are the kinds of matters that the county and the town could discuss over the next year. I realize you have many matters to consider; and you need to get on with your meeting. But again, I appreciate your giving me the opportunity to speak. I am confident that we can work together for the benefit of all Orange County citizens, and I hope you will seriously consider my request to restore the funding level for the library to 20% for this fiscal year, an amount of $462,000. b. Matters on the Printed Agenda (These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda below.) 3. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. Receipt of Sustainability Award from Glass Packaging Institute The Board considered recognizing the Solid Waste Department, and specifically Recycling Programs Manager Robert S. Taylor, for receipt of the national Glass Packaging Institute's Annual Sustainable Practices Award for the County's commercial recycling program. Solid Waste Director Gayle Wilson introduced Rob Taylor. He said that this award is for all of the staff— drivers, processors, etc. He introduced Blair Pollock, who is instrumental in operation and planning for programs. He said that the citizens of the County make the program a success. He said that he is proud that Orange County is a leader in recycling in the nation. Chair Jacobs thanked Gayle Wilson and the staff.