Plans to place a 0.8-mill renewal levy on the November ballot for library services are continuing.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the Wood County District Public Library Board of Trustees passed a resolution
asking the Wood County Commissioners to put the levy renewal before voters. Ellen Dalton and Will
Harbauer were absent.
Tuesday’s unanimous vote was one step in the process that started in January with discussions about
whether to seek a renewal or replacement levy. There is an Aug. 5 deadline to place issues on the Nov. 4
ballot.
Library Director Michael Penrod said the levy committee had its first meeting to begin marketing the
renewal. He said it will cost around $10,000 for the campaign, and taxpayer dollars cannot be used.
Board president Brian Paskvan said the levy campaign will kick off in earnest during the Wood County
Fair. Board members will be available to speak to groups and yard signs will be available in the early
fall.
"I think we’re in good shape. We’re way ahead of the game," he said of the levy campaign.
The 0.8-mill levy is expected to generate $979,022 annually. It currently collects $1.2 million. It will
cost the owner of a home valued at $100,000 about $24 a year.
"It’s a simple renewal, no additional taxes," Penrod said.
The request will be for six years, instead of the usual five, so the next renewal or replacement request
will be during a presidential election year.
Penrod said this saves the board money because more issues will be on that ballot, divvying up the cost
between more agencies and candidates.