NorthEast-Millerton Library on the ballot

MILLERTON — The NorthEast-Millerton Library Board announced further details in the upcoming budget revenue increase vote at a board meeting Wednesday, Aug. 14.

The library was approved to proceed with letting a public vote decide its budget increase on Nov. 5 this year. The vote will not result in any tax increases for residents but will secure the current level of funding they need.

Currently, the library receives $125,000 in tax revenue every year. In 2019, the Town of North East gave them an extra $50,000 that year after seeing the need for more funding.

Now, the library is seeking a permanent annual increase of $50,000 to secure a reliable source of funding and income.

The Library will be hosting two informational meetings on Oct. 22 at 5 p.m. and Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. to answer questions anyone may have about the vote.

Library staff will hold their annual election day bake sale to raise money for the library in the Annex. They are also looking for volunteers to call residents the night before elections to remind them to vote.

The library applied for the State and Municipal (SAM) Facilities Grant, a program in New York State that provides funding for nonprofits. It is currently in the preliminary approval process.

“It is at least another month, three months out, before we officially get the approval,” said Rhiannon Leo-Jameson, the library’s director.