Monday, AUGUST 18, 2025 |
Photo – Hanna Library – Bigfoot99 file photo
Hanna officials delayed a request for increased funding from the Carbon County Library System.
Property tax relief legislation has reduced the county’s outside agency budget by approximately $500,000. The tax revenue is used to support organizations such as senior centers, museums, and libraries.
As a result of the reduced property tax revenue, the Carbon County Library System is facing a 53% budget shortfall this fiscal year and is asking every municipality to contribute additional funds toward their local branches. The Town of Saratoga has agreed to donate $1,000 to its branch and is in the process of assuming ownership of the library building.
The Library Board has asked the governing body of Hanna to provide more financial support to the local library. At the August 12th Hanna Town Council meeting, Treasurer Ann Calvert presented a list of the Hanna Library’s annual operating expenses, as provided by the Library Board. Treasurer Calvery said the report erroneously shows that the Library System covers the cost of electricity, which, along with water, is actually provided by the town.
A similar situation occurred in Medicine Bow, where the Library Board presented the governing body with a cost report stating that the town donates $480 in water and sewer fees to its local branch. Medicine Bow Mayor Justin George disputed that figure, saying that when factoring in town-provided snow removal, lawn care, and garbage collection, the total donations equaled $2,108 every year.
Back at the August 12th Hanna Town Council meeting, Treasurer Ann Calvert expressed her desire to support the local library but suggested requesting an accurate financial report from the Board.
Councilman Sam Sikes asked how much money the town was already contributing to the Library System. Treasurer Calvert replied that, under the current memorandum of understanding, the town has agreed to pay $1,500 annually for electricity and cover all water fees. Calvert added that if the governing body wishes to increase its contribution, it may amend the existing agreement or establish a new contract.
Councilwoman Ellen Freeman asked if the Library Board was requesting a specific dollar amount. Treasurer Calvert said no, but the Board had asked the town to cover internet service costs at a previous Council meeting. Calvert added that the governing body will need an accurate financial report before making a decision.
The Hanna Town Council unanimously voted to table the decision to provide additional financial support to the Library System until they receive an accurate breakdown of the cost to operate the local branch.
According to the Carbon County Library System, the Hanna Library is open two days a week for a total of 10 hours.
