On the February 13th election ballot will be the new Library bond and two school levies (more on the levies at the next meeting). Sonia's appearance was the second time for an update on the new proposed library. Right now, all of the children's programs are maxed out. The library has had to revert to first come, first serve registration. The new proposed library would be located on the corner of 99th Avenue NE and Market Place. The new library would allow more space for activities and services popular at the current location.

 

CURRENT Library: 25,000 items on site; 2,500 sq. ft. of space; 16 seating spaces; 11 public computers; 3 study tables.

 

 

The proposed financing through General obligation bonds of not more than $17 million, repaid by property-tax levy rate of 21.1 cents per $1,000 of assessed value of property within the taxing district which was created last year. For example, this would mean $73.85 a year for a $350,000 home.

 

The proposal to build a new library will be on the February 13th ballot as the Lake Stevens Library Capital Facility Area Proposition No. 1. Ballots will be mailed on January 26th. To pass, the measure needs approval by a super majority of voters (60% plus one). For the election to validate, the total number of votes cast must also equal at least 40% of the votes cast in the 2017 general election.

 

The Future:  If voters approve the Lake Stevens bond measure, Sno-Isle Libraries will gather public input on the design of the new library during the spring and summer of 2018. Pre-construction work and permitting would take place next fall and winter. Construction would start in the spring of 2019, and the new library would open in late summer or fall of 2020.

 

Volunteers are needed for the campaign for election day is less than a month away. Exercise your right and obligation to cast your vote when you receive your ballot.