Washington State Libraries Await Impact
from Sweeping Tax-Reform Measure
Libraries are expected to suffer along with all other government agencies as a result of Washington State voters approving what has been called America’s most far-reaching tax-revolt plan in the November 2 election. Initiative 695 requires voter approval before any tax or government fee can be raised, including increases in library overdue fines or copier charges.
The city of Spokane announced it would slash $3.7 million from its budget to prepare for revenue lost from I-695, most likely in the form of across-the-board 3.7% cuts. Spokane Library Director Aubrey George told American Libraries that the library board would discuss the matter at a retreat November 13. George will then present a revised budget to the board at its November 17 meeting. Unless the city council changes its mind about spreading the cuts across all city agencies, he said, “it’s going to means cuts in our budget.”
The Seattle Times reported October 24 that officials there have indicated they would do everything possible to avoid laying off police officers, including cutting back on park and library services.
Posted November 15, 1999.
|
