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Commentary
Bottom of the ballot is top priority
By Mary Jeanne Fenn
Have you ever read or been tempted to peek at the ending of a book first? I recommend you do this with our March ballot. There you will find local Measure N, which, if passed by the required two-thirds vote, will renovate and expand the Saratoga Community Library. Our library is one resource freely accessible to and enjoyed by all generations--seniors, young people and families.
On behalf of all Saratogans who benefit from the Saratoga Community Library, including its Community Room, I urge your yes vote on Measure N.
For the past 10 years, a coalition of library users, Saratoga Library Commissioners, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries, the Saratoga Community Library Foundation and civic leaders has been hard at work to identify library needs and priorities. A poll conducted of a significant number of Saratogans last summer found that 86 percent of those surveyed use our library, and nearly 70 percent of these citizens visit the library at least once a month.
Ideas and perspectives from hundreds of Saratoga residents were incorporated into a fiscally responsible plan which the City Council unanimously voted to place on the March ballot as Measure N.
By law, money raised by Measure N must stay in Saratoga and be earmarked specifically for improvement and renovation of our library. If passed, Measure N will:
* provide space for more reference materials, books and periodicals;
* upgrade wiring for computers and technological advances which improve our library service;
* ensure modern earthquake standards;
* improve safety systems and access to fire exits;
* replace outdated and inadequate lighting systems;
* expand space for children's programs;
* provide space for adequate seating and quiet areas;
* provide space for group study areas;
* maintain the Community Room for public use.
Measure N will cost residents about $1 per month for every $100,000 of assessed valuation. A Citizens Oversight Committee will monitor all funding to ensure improvements are completed on time and within budget. No money can be spent on administrative overhead or salaries.
Last summer's poll found that Saratogans agree the improvement and renovation of our library is a top priority for our community. Please make it yours and vote yes on Measure N.
Mary Jeanne Fenn has been active in public and school libraries during her 22-year residency in Saratoga.
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Saratoga, California Since 1955
