Permanent budget increase for NorthEast-Millerton Library on the ballot Nov. 5

MILLERTON — The NorthEast-Millerton Library Board of Trustees aims to secure a $50,000 tax revenue increase on election day with a new 414 budget vote.

Currently, the library receives $125,000 annually in tax revenue after its last budget vote in 2007. The Town of North East has been donating an additional $50,000 every year since 2019 to the library. However, those yearly donations are not a reliable source of income.

According to the library’s website, the additional funds could cease if other budgetary needs arise or the administration deems in necessary. The budget vote this year will secure the $50,000 for the library every year forward.

“Our operating budget does [rely on the 414 income], you know, we have grants and donations and we do fundraising,” library Board of Trustees President Debbie Ruppel said. “That helps support other things, but programming, our salaries, our day to day expenses of running a building all come from the money that the town pays us.”

The library funds its services through a combination of tax revenue, donations and grants, yet some of these bring complications. Many contributions are earmarked for specific projects and many grants cannot be used for operating expenses, leaving labor costs and materials up to their tax revenue.

“Minimum wage went up so all of our employees had to have raises,” Ruppel said. “We honestly feel like we underpay; they make a decent salary, but we wish we could give them more. We have a wonderful director, and we wish we could support her better. We give no health benefits. Fortunately, the people who work for us have benefits through a spouse.”

This will not cost taxpayers any more money, as the Library Board of Trustees does not have the authority to raise taxes. According to the website, after the additional money is secured, the total tax revenues supplied to the library will remain consistent every year.