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4 <br />Hillsborough. The County now funds three (3) limited branch libraries elsewhere and its <br />main branch has moved to a new facility located on Margaret Lane in Hillsborough. <br />There is little information related to how the 48% ($125,000) methodology was set. <br />It is reasonable that a formula be established going forward based upon a percentage of <br />County expenditures at the main branch. It is recommended that a formal inter-local <br />agreement be developed between the Town and County. The County would agree to <br />provide an annual appropriation to the Town of Chapel Hill equating to a % of the <br />annually operational expenses for its main County branch. This allocation would exclude <br />any expenditure associated with capital costs, any appropriation provided by library <br />donors and any grant funding. The exact % is a decision for County Commissioners. <br />Based upon operational projections for the current fiscal year the same 48% would <br />provide roughly $500,000 (rounded). If this approach is used, due to current economic <br />conditions, it is recommended that the increase in financial allocation be phased-in over <br />two to three budget cycles and the annual contribution paid in quarterly installments. <br />The inter-local agreement should detail the financial aspects of this partnership and <br />contain specific information regarding commitments the Town and County bind them to <br />going forward. The agreement should be time limited to ensure periodical review of the <br />relationship and make appropriate changes. This agreement should address only <br />operational funding. No fees or charges to non-town residents shall be imposed at a level <br />greater than that to Chapel Hill residents. Other specific commitments between the Town <br />and County should be addressed accordingly. <br />B. Issues related to the County's participation in the expansion project of the current <br />Chapel Hill library are less clear. As addressed earlier, the County had no formal <br />involvement in the Town's decisions related to the project. The project as now <br />envisioned is a splendid project. However, it does not coincide with County's efforts to <br />expand access to library services county-wide via multiple locations. Therefore, it is <br />suggested that the County not participate in the capital costs of the project. Should the <br />Town now or at some point in the future decide it beneficial to pursue separate branch <br />locations for its library system deemed suitable to offset or meet anticipated County <br />needs, then the County should participate in projects of that nature. <br />Conclusion: <br />Library services are an important element in providing a comprehensive learning <br />environment. Orange County commits roughly 50% of its general fund budget to two <br />school systems, a community college and an improving library system. Limited financial <br />resources dictate difficult choices and limitation of priorities. <br />It is understandable the Town of Chapel Hill is motivated to proceed with its library <br />expansion project. It has already allocated considerable time, staff effort and financial <br />resources to the project. The Town has a very good library and wants it to be better. <br />