DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Voters in Chatham in Sangamon County approved a referendum that will provide much-needed financial support for the library.
The referendum passed 55 percent to 45 percent and was separated by 247 votes, 1,327-1,125.
The Chatham Area Public Library posted on its website that the tax increase will cover three areas: much needed infrastructure repairs, provide long-term financial stability, and expanded materials, services, and technology. The library said the increase would add $26.95 a year to a home valued at $200,000.
The library said it has not asked for a tax increase from voters for its operational budget since 2003.
The library said its 30-year-old building needs more than $2 million in repairs and its reserves can only cover regular maintenance.
With the referendum passing on Tuesday, the library said it will immediately begin addressing building projects. Had the referendum not passed, the library said it would have diverted money to address water issues throughout parts of the building which would have likely resulted in reduced hours, a scale back in services, limited technology and materials access, and postponed other renovation projects.
The Chatham Area Public Library said 95 percent of its funding comes from property taxes while 5 percent comes from fines and fees, grants, donations, and interest.
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