The silence of the Delaware library branch was replaced with emotion Thursday night as the Albany Public Library Board dealt with the fact its budget failed.
"People love it but it's hard to pay more in such tough times," said Dennis Gaffney, the Board President.
"We stand for economic justice for all and I feel like when we start taking away from these things it will affect the people who need it most," said Holly McKenna, a board member.
The $8.79 million levy would have increased taxes by 25 percent or about $47 on a $150,000 home. Some board members disputed claims they didn't financially plan enough for the branch improvement project.
"Did we miscalculate? I don't think so. Did anyone ever build a house and then realize I need a new couch it doesn't fit. We thought it was going to fit," said Mary Ellen O'Connor, a board member.
Now they look ahead, trying to come up with a new budget for a re-vote. A smaller one, they say, with some decreased services, possibly even decreased hours.
"We're going to look for a budget that's good for the library but will pass with voters," said Gaffney.
Library users FOX23 News spoke with say they understand times are tough but hope a new budget will pass.
"I understand both sides. Homeowners feel the tax is too much for them," said Ron Newton, from Albany. "It's a sad state for everybody."
"We can find money for everything else I think we can find money for the library," said Jerome Garrett, from Albany.
The board has until next week to iron out a new budget. The next meeting will be Wednesday at the Pine Hills branch. But Thursday night they were talking about a tax increase around 18 percent. The re-vote will likely be July 12.
If this second vote fails, the library will have to go to zero percent. The board says that would likely mean large cuts to staff, programs and hours.
