MRRL to determine ‘next steps’ after Proposition Library fails
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
Missouri River Regional Library said in a Wednesday press release it will be determining its next move after Cole County voters rejected a tax increase on Tuesday.
“While these are not the results we were hoping for, this process has only made the library better,” Library Assistant Director Natalie Newville said in the press release. “As we’ve shared the vision over the last 16 weeks, we have heard over and over again how many people love the library. So many in our community recognize the value of a thriving library, and we will work with them to move forward for Cole County.”
If approved, the increase would have led to a renovation of the library in Jefferson City. Cole County had a 16.66% voter turnout. On the question involving the library, 63.25% (5,653) voted no, while 36.75% (3,285) voted yes.
One of the improvements the library discussed was accessibility of the building, which would have included larger bathrooms and elevators that will allow wheelchairs and strollers room to maneuver.
Renovations would have also included adding small and large indoor meeting spaces, as well as a study room and maker spaces, a technology training lab and business incubator for job skills and development, computer training and business support. The Library also wanted to update its outdoor spaces.
The release states several questions came up when library staff visited with community members and groups. MRRL said it will plan on listening sessions and workgroups with the community.
“The Board of Trustees and library staff have been working on these plans for several years,” Library Board President Stacy Fick said in the press release. “While this is not the outcome the library expected, the Board is ready to work with staff to determine next steps to address the critical improvements needed.”
