Schenker said he is simply carrying out a plan approved by the previous council in December 2003 that would convert the system’s six branches to three regional branches, the Erie Times-News reported May 18. The closing of the Liberty and Southeast branches—scheduled under the plan for June 30—had to be moved up so the facilities can be emptied and cleaned, Schenker said.
Earlier this year, however, a newly elected county council passed a resolution calling for all six county branches to remain open until the end of the year. Schenker then vetoed that resolution, calling it a “wish” because it allocated no funds to back it. The council countered by overriding the veto 5–2 and suggesting the money could come from a restricted account.
Councilman Kyle Foust said the resolution carries as much legal weight as an ordinance. “I think that council realizes their legislative authority is on the line,” he said. “It’s not a small thing.”
Posted May 21, 2004.