By Robert J. Hansen | OBSERVER Staff Writer
A measure to ensure ongoing funding for Sacramento’s libraries is on the ballot in next week’s election.
Measure E proposes combining two existing parcel taxes into one extended parcel tax dedicated to funding city library services.
In 2004, Sacramento voters approved a parcel tax for library services, followed by another in 2014. Both taxes are set to expire in the next few years.
If approved, Measure E would not raise current tax rates, but would simply renew existing funding levels.
“If Measure E does not pass, our libraries may be forced to cut their hours to just three days a week, significantly reducing the vital services they offer,” Councilmember Karina Talamantes said. “Measure E ensures that Sacramento libraries can stay open without raising taxes.”
Funding from Measure E would cover nearly 25% of the Sacramento Public Library’s budget. Such funding affects libraries in both the city and county, and without it, 12 city libraries could face reductions in their hours and public accessibility.
“Supporting Measure E is essential because our libraries are much more than just buildings with books; they serve as central community hubs offering crucial youth and senior programs, family meals, and more,” Councilmember Mai Vang said in a statement.
Sacramento Public Library, the state’s fourth-largest system, serves one of the nation’s most diverse communities, covering a 1,000-square-mile area that includes urban, suburban, and rural regions.
Ashley Ramsey, supervisor of the Del Paso Heights Library who has worked in Sacramento’s libraries for six years, emphasized their broader role. “Libraries may have books, but they evolve to meet the needs of their communities,” she said.
The 12 libraries at risk of reduced funding if Measure E fails serve more than 240,000 residents from diverse ethnic backgrounds, most of whom are low-income.
Ramsey noted the impact libraries have on younger generations. “It’s wonderful to see children using the resources our libraries provide,” Ramsey said.
Jim Keddy of Youth Forward added that libraries offer thousands of children a safe place to go after school, during summer, and on school breaks. Libraries also provide internet access for students and adults who don’t have it at home. “Libraries are essential infrastructure supporting children and families,” Keddy said in an email.
Measure O
Measure O, a county bond measure, aims to raise $415 million for the Sacramento Fire Metro District by increasing property taxes by approximately $19 per $100,000 of assessed value.
The funds could be used only for the construction, expansion, reconstruction, rehabilitation, replacement, acquisition, lease, furnishing, and equipping of fire facilities, emergency medical vehicles, apparatus, and capital equipment.
Measure O requires a two-thirds vote for approval.
Measure D
If approved, Measure D would provide $543 million for the Sacramento City Unified School District by implementing a property tax of no more than $35 per $100,000 of assessed value.
The funds are intended for expanding science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics classrooms and would be used for infrastructure projects at several schools throughout the county, including a new swimming pool at C.K. McClatchy High School.
The measure requires 55% approval to pass.
Support for this Sacramento OBSERVER article was provided to Word In Black (WIB) by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. WIB is a collaborative of 10 Black-owned media that includes print and digital partners.