Agenda
Video
Presentation
The City of Alburnett has a contract with the Metro Library Network (MLN) – Marion, Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha public libraries – to provide library service for our residents. Our current annual expense with the Metro Library Network is $22,653.38, which will increase to $26,038.37 as the contract term continues.
One of the city’s primary goals is to ensure fiscal responsibility for our residents and to review contracts on a regular basis. We have proposed a contract with Andersen Center Point Public Library for library services at a rate of $0.30/$1,000.00 of assessed taxable value, the minimum required by the Code of Iowa, §256.69, is approximately $0.07/$1,000.00.
Based on current assessments, the annual cost would be approximately $8,180.99. This is an equitable rate to provide residents with excellent library service while maintaining a sustainable and responsible budgetary expense.
To compare the services provided by both libraries, we encourage you to visit their websites:
http://metrolibrarynetwork.org/mln/
https://www.centerpoint.lib.ia.us/
If the city would enter into a contract with the Center Point Library, the Metro Library Network, as part of the Open Access Network in the State of Iowa, may choose to deny services to residents of jurisdictions, including Alburnett, if it thinks the jurisdiction is not paying an equitable amount for library services.
To engage our community in the decision-making process, we are hosting a public forum on Monday, February 22nd at 7:00 PM at City Hall to allow residents an opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns, and express their opinion on this topic. You are invited and encouraged to attend. If you are unable to attend the public forum, you may contact city hall or reach out to any council member. We also invite you to speak with the mayor during office hours, held the fourth Thursday of every month from 4:00-5:30 PM at City Hall.