FAQs Issue 20: SPL Renewal Levy No Tax Increase, March 17, 2020
On March 17, 2020, Southwest Public Libraries is seeking the renewal of a historic 10-year, 1-mill levy passed by voters in November 2010. Issue 20 is a straight renewal with no tax increase.
SPL is seeking the renewal to continue operation of public services and programming at Grove City Library and Westland Area Library. Combined, these libraries serve a population of over 130,000 people, offering free access to a multitude of resources including early literacy initiatives, adult learning opportunities, modern meeting spaces, and millions of digital and physical materials.
The levy is a critical source of funding for the library. SPL currently operates through funding from two primary sources, the 1-mill levy and the Public Library Fund (PLF) from the state of Ohio. In 2018 the levy provided approximately 37% of SPL’s budget and the PLF approximately 56%.
The current levy—the first passed in SPL history—is set to expire at the end of 2020 and made up for cuts in state funding, enabling the library to restore full operating hours and services and purchase new materials. Issue 20 will renew the levy for another 10 years.
Southwest Public Libraries looks forward to continuing to serve the community. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding Issue 20.