Library Board Discusses Levy Options

Effingham Public Library board members took time this week to consider options as to the fiscal year tax levy.

More consideration than usual might be taken since the city's Tax Increment Financing district #1 ended, putting territory that had been in the TIF district back on the rolls for all taxing bodies. Library Director Amanda McKay said up to $200,000 in additional revenue might be available to the library district, although she said the levy won't seek that much money.

The matter will be revisited next month.

The Board updated the library borrowing privileges for those non-residents who are 75% or more disabled due to their military service. The policy was revised so those individuals would pay an annual fee of $25. It was also agreed to let all non-residents pay their annual fee in installments. 

Board members voted to close the bank's account with Illinois e-pay and to transfer to Midland States Bank, along with transferring all shares from The Illinois Funds to Midland States Bank. Also approved was a residency change in the personnel policy that had required the library director to live within the city limits. That is no longer a requirement.

McKay reported that the Summer Read program was successful with increases seen in registrations, completions, and participation; and that 54 faculty members and others had utilized the Unit 40 intergovernmental agreement this past year that allows Unit 40 employees who live outside the library district to utilize library services at no charge.