In a message dated 10/16/2000 9:08:41 PM Central Daylight Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes in part, and in support of library referendum:
<< Imagine a place where a five year-old can walk in with only a library
card in his pocket, peruse the offerings and walk out an hour later with
enough adventures to last until the middle of the week when he trots
back there again a fills up again on excitement. Libraries offer this to
every patron for no charge! >>
Yes, libraries are great places for young and old alike, but the facilities
and staff sure aren't available at no charge! The library referendum
finances part of the capital cost associated with the overall project, and
property tax payers will be paying for the bond issue over the next thirty
years. In addition, promoters are seeking state funds; and, city parking
revenues will be diverted away from the general fund, and TIF is once again
being sought, with more revenue diverted from the general fund. This
excludes all the operational and maintenance costs needed to keep the
facilities open to the public-- another annual taxpayer expense. And keeping
information-technology current and in repair, with knowledgeable staff and
maintenance technicians/contractors is no low-budget effort these days.
Support or oppose the library referendum, but understand the costs involved
and the numerous city departments and agencies competing for the property tax
dollar in Minneapolis... on top of the MPS, MPRB, Hennepin Co., the state and
a few other entities with a staked claim. It's true what they say; there's
no free lunch!
M. Hohmann
13th Ward
