Wake County Library Bond Referendum
County library leaders share a presentation about the library bond before the Holly Springs Town Council
On your ballot this upcoming election will be a bond referendum to pay for library projects across Wake County. The bond totals $142 million. If passed, the money will bring a new library in Rolesville, the Friendship area of Apex, a library with a yet-to-be-named location, replacing two older libraries, expanding the library in Fuquay-Varina and renovation at several other locations.
During a presentation before the Holly Springs Town Council, Wake County library leaders laid out a goal for every Wake County resident to be within a 10-minute drive of a library. Wake County Community Services Deputy Director, Matt Roylance, highlighted the Fuquay library as one of the county’s most visited libraries. It was also designed with future expansion in mind and there is plenty of parking.
Bond increases affect property taxes. If this bond is approved, homeowners would see an increase of $2.50 for each $100,000 in property tax value. If it doesn’t pass, the county states it will have to find the money in other ways.
The last time Wake County residents voted on a library bond was in 2007. The $45 million bond passed by an overwhelming margin.
Just this past November, Holly Springs residents agreed to a $100 million Parks and Recreation bond.
Holly Springs Community Library Renovations
Assistant Library Director Katrina Vernon also shared a presentation about renovation plans for the town library using capital improvement money. The renovations range from improved lighting to shelving replacements. Vernon went over a list of renovations needed including charging stations. The need to keep a device charged wasn’t a need when the library, along with the Cultural Center, opened in December 2006. The renovation design plans will not be ready until next summer. When asked by the council about expanding the Holly Springs library, Roylance explained that it is difficult due to the current location. During final thoughts of the town council meeting, councilwoman Annie Drees suggested the town begin working with the county to try to find ways to expand the library.
Election day is November 5. You can check your registration and ballot here.