2016/09/27 City Council Resolution 2016-98RESOLUTION NO. 2016-98
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
ENDORSING SONOMA COUNTY LIBRARY TAX MEASURE Y
WHEREAS, the Sonoma County Library services are funded almost entirely through its
share of property taxes using a formula that was set in 1978 with the implementation of
Proposition 13; and
WHEREAS, the Sonoma County Library Commission approved a balanced FY 2016-
2017 annual budget but without additional funds, Library expenses will exceed revenue in two
years; and
WHEREAS, the Library systems' financial constraints are due to a variety of factors
including a small portion of property taxes, loss of state funding during the recession that will
not be reinstated, significant unfunded liabilities, as well as increases in the cost of books,
materials and other library services; and
WHEREAS, the Library needs a dependable, sustainable, and locally controlled revenue
source to meet the community's library service needs; and additional funds would allow the
Library to restore hours and access (cut by 25% since 2011), keep qualified librarians, expand
senior and disabled services, improve access to books and materials, improve technology, and
support children's educational programs; and
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2016, the Sonoma County Board of Library Commissioners
voted to place Measure Y on the November 8, 2016 ballot for voter consideration; and
WHEREAS, if approved, Measure Y will provide locally -controlled funds for our local
libraries, generating approximately $12 million annually by imposing a 1/8 of a percent local
sales tax measure for 10 years beginning April 1, 2017; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Rohnert
Park that the City hereby endorses a "yes" vote on Measure Y on the November 8, 2016 General
Election Ballot.
DULY AND REGULARLY ADOPTED this 271h day of September, 2016.
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK:
1
Tina Belforte, Mayor
ATTEST:
Caitlin Saldanha, Deputy City Clerk
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"�~ AYES: ( 3 ) NOES: ( C) ) ABSENT: ( 2 ) ABSTAIN: ( 0 )