Pound Ridge Library funded with no new taxes

By NEAL RENTZ

The Pound Ridge Library Board on Tuesday unanimously approved an $874,097 operating budget for next year.

The vote at the July 27 meeting came after a few adjustments. The spending plan will mean no tax increase for the town’s property owners.

Trustee Robert Bellhouse, chair of the board’s Finance Committee, said the budget begins Jan. 1. He worked on it with Library Director Jennifer Coulter and library staff.

The budget raised spending by 0.4%, an increase of $3,200 over the current year.

Bellhouse said the biggest changes are an increase of $4,000 in spending for legal fees, an increase of $1,000 in the revenue line for gifts and donations to the library, an increase of $1,000 in spending for publicity, a $1,000 spending decrease on the lawn and snow contract and an increase of $1,000 in passport services revenue. 

Because the budget does not include a tax increase, it does not require voter approval in September. 

Trustee candidates sought

Also at this week’s meeting, Coulter said the library is seeking candidates for this year’s board of trustees election. There are two open seats on the nine-member board. 

As of the meeting, no residents have submitted a nominating petition to be on the September ballot, Coulter noted. 

Petitions are available at poundridgelibrary.org. The deadline for returning petitions to the library is Friday, Aug. 21, at 6 p.m.

Trustee terms are three years.

One trustee’s last meeting

The meeting was the last for six-year trustee Richard Levan, who is stepping aside for personal reasons.

Levan’s efforts on behalf of the library and its board were praised by board President Richard Esman, who read a statement on behalf of the library board, staff and community.

“His dedication and leadership have been complemented by kindness, enthusiasm, and a true love for our mission,” Esman said. “Richard’s thoughtful perspective and willingness to help have made our library a stronger, more welcoming place.”

“He has freely shared his time and wisdom, always prioritizing the library’s best interests,” Esman said.

Esman said Levan provided legal advice during his years as a trustee that had guided the board in their decisions. “His contributions have fostered opportunities for learning and connection that will benefit our community for years to come,” Esman said. 

“Thank you, Richard, for your friendship, outstanding counsel, and dedication. Your legacy will continue to inspire us,” Esman said. 

Levan praised the trustees for their efforts on behalf of the library.

“I commend you for all you do,” he said.