Renton voters. VOTE NO on Proposition No.1 annexation to King County Library District (KCLS). Why?

KCLS is not going to “give” us anything. We would become part of their taxing district and pay at least $0.42 per $1,000 assessed value, maybe even $0.50 if KCLS levy passes. They are not going to “give” us new buildings; we would pay for them. KCLS is looking for money (who isn’t these days?). We can already use KCLS libraries under an existing agreement. No, that is not free, either, but it used to be a lot cheaper and the City of Renton needs to renegotiate that, just like Seattle Public Libraries did. Currently, Renton residents pay $0.26 per $1,000 assessed value for library service.

What will happen to our libraries if KCLS runs them?

The stage is being set for them to not be libraries at some point. Here’s the quote: “Both the main library and the Highlands branch buildings will remain owned by the City of Renton and will be designated for other city and community use. The main building will NOT be sold.” Well, that’s a relief, that beautiful, award-winning design over the river, featured on magazines in the past, will not be sold. However, the Highlands branch does not get that guarantee. And what does “designated for other city and community use” mean? Will there be offices there? Will residents have to rent it to use it?

Too many questions remain; so many options remain if we VOTE NO! The KCLS option will always be there – our libraries may not!

Judy Milligan, Renton, Past Library Board Member, 11 years service