Ballot Measure Information
The type and language of the ballot measure is not yet decided. Should it be a sales tax or a parcel tax? Should it be dedicated specifically for libraries, or for parks and recreation as well as libraries? When should the measure go on the ballot?
Here are some facts:
- If a tax is targeted for a specific purpose, say the libraries only, then a two-thirds + 1 of those voting must approve. If the tax is for a general fund, then a simple majority, 50% + 1, is needed.
- The same measure that was in a previous election, say Measure A, cannot appear on the ballot again until the next General Election, which is November 2006. However, if the City declares an emergency, an earlier election is possible. City Staff are looking into this option and will report back on this issue at the February 15th meeting of the City Council.
City staff will present their findings and recommendations to the City Council at the February 15 meeting. The Coalition to Save the Libraries will speak during the public comment period. All interested should attend. The meeting starts at 4:00 p.m. at the Rotunda, 200 Lincoln Ave in Salinas.
RECENT NEWS:
"Save the Libraries" Coalition launches website.
February 8, 2005 - A coalition of over 120 community members, including many Friends, has launched their website: www.savethelibraries.org. This group is focused on the long-term effort to secure funding for the libraries.
Donations of $37,420 received for "Rally Salinas"
February 7, 2005 - According to the story on KSBW news, $37,420 has been received so far for "Rally Salinas".
Mayor announces plan to "Rally Salinas"
February 3, 2005 - In a news conference, Mayor Caballero outlined her plan to "Rally Salinas", calling for residents to raise $500,000 in the next 120 days to keep each of the libraries open at least one day per week from July to December. She will also chair a blue-ribbon committee to explore possible tax measures to bring to the voters. Full text of the speech.
"Salinas libraries to begin closing in March"
January 25, 2005 - Read the story in the Monterey Herald.
American Library Association adopts resolution to oppose library closures.
January 21, 2005 - Read the story in the Salinas Californian.
"Vigil protests library closures"
January 18, 2005 - Read the story in the Monterey Herald.
"Salinas mayor fires back during library vigil"
January 18, 2005 - Read the KION News story.
"Clash erupts at Salinas library vigil"
January 18, 2005 - Read the story in the Salinas Californian.
"Groups meet to discuss ways to keep Salinas libraries open"
January 17, 2005 - View the KION News coverage.
"Librarians get pink slips"
January 12, 2005 - Read the front page article in the Monterey County Herald.
"Is time running out on public libraries -- and literature?
January 6, 2005 - Read the article in the San Francisco Chronicle.
"The rest of the story in Salinas"
December 30, 2004 - Read the Salinas Californian Editorial.
"Libraries to consolidate schedules"
December 28, 2004 - All 3 branches will be on the same schedule beginning January 11. Read the Salinas Californian article.
"More cuts ahead for beleaguered library system"
December 20 - The Mercury News takes a look at the predicament of libraries in the Silicon Valley. Read the article.
"Google is adding major libraries to its database"
Read the article from the New York Times Technology section.
