Wright Library is committed to providing quality library services that are tailored to the priorities of the community. Wright Library is one of the most-used libraries in America attracting over 150,000 visitors per year. 99% of Oakwood voters surveyed consider Wright Library to be an important asset to the community.

The library continues to offer a variety of materials and services from their well-trained, quality staff with less annual revenue than it received in 2008. The materials available include books, audiobooks, movies, magazines, mobile hot spots, museum passes, Makerboxes, research databases, digital books, music, and movies, and other special collections. The library provides services such as: critical literacy support to Oakwood's children from cradle to college; technology tutoring and tech classes that help adults stay connected in a digital world; educational programs; and special services such as the “Wright to Your Home” homebound delivery service, notary services, and passport services.

The decision to put a levy on the ballot was not made lightly. The levy will protect the library services and maintain Wright Library's historic building with infrastructure repairs and needed updates to make the Library more accessible.

Mrs. Hale then invited Wright Library Board of Trustees President Joe Fulford to speak about the Library finances.

Mr. Fulford explained that Wright Library needs additional revenue to offset a decade of reductions in state funding, combined with rising costs of materials, wages, healthcare, and technology. With no increase in local tax support since 2009, Wright Library operates with less revenue today than it received in 2008.

Additional funding is needed to address infrastructure issues to bring the building up to today's building codes and unexpected issues that inevitably occur when repairing old buildings. The required building maintenance includes replacing HVAC units, replacing a roof and elevator, addressing drainage issues, bathroom remodels, update to efficient lighting and exterior repairs. In addition to the required repairs, modest updates are needed to better meet the needs of today's library users and to address infrastructure needs.

Beginning in 2020, revenues will fall short of operating expenses. Without additional levy funds, operating expenses, and building maintenance and repairs are expected to deplete the Library's reserves by 2024.

Mr. Fulford closed the presentation by encouraging the community to attend upcoming community information meetings about the Wright Library levy. Meeting dates and additional information is available on the Wright Library website.

Mayor Duncan stated that Wright Memorial Public Library is a gem, and he thanked Wright Library staff for their good work.

A copy of the resolution, having been placed on the desks of each member of Council prior to introduction, was read by title.

Vice Mayor Byington explained that the current collective bargaining agreement covering the Public Works employees expired on December 31, 2019. The City entered into negotiations with the DPSU, which is the union representative for the Public Works employees, and has agreed to terms for a new three (3) year agreement. The new agreement includes responsible wage increases of 2.75%, 2.85%, and 2.95% over the next three years. This is consistent with increases being provided to the Public Safety Dispatchers, Officers, and Lieutenants, and all non-bargaining unit employees.

Vice Mayor Byington shared that he and Mayor Duncan reviewed the agreement as members of Council's Finance Committee, and this resolution will authorize the City Manager to implement it. City Council commended Director of Personnel Jennifer Wilder for her efforts on the City's behalf, and also the Public Works employees for their help in coming to a reasonable agreement.