Kinmundy Mayor Angie Diss is not happy with how the Kinmundy Library Board is running the library.
She outlined a list of changes she felt needed to be made at a special meeting Wednesday night where she received city council approval to be appointed a library board member. The council also named former Mayor Jane Middleton to another open seat after Crystal Squibb was removed from the board. Diss had no problem with Squibb being on the board, but since they are related she didn’t want that to become an issue. She says Squibb still plans to volunteer at the library. Diss said the library by-laws include a representative from the city council and none of the board members were interested in serving.
Diss explains changes she thinks need to happen.
“I would like to see more community involvement. Evening hours, Saturdays, Story time for kids, helping children and welcoming them into the library making it a community service. And as far as the financials go, not to make a profit but not to lose so much money each year. But to comply with the budget they submit to the City Council each year. Do what they are supposed to do.”
Library Board members defended how they are handling the budget. They noted additional donations would cut the current $5,000 operating deficit for the year in half and noted they had $48,000 in funds available for operations.
Diss also warned the board three or more members should not be together at the library at the same time as it would lead to at least the appearance of a violation of the open meetings law.
Diss says the library board has been talking about seeking a property tax levy to support its operation, but she doesn’t feel that should even be considered until some of the other issues are resolved.
