WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Discussions between Park Township and the Three Rivers Public Library appear to have ended, based on the outcome of a meeting between the two sides last week.
Township officials and members of the library board have reached an impasse over renewal of a contract, which involves the township’s annual contribution to the library in exchange for its residents having in-district status.
During last Wednesday’s meeting, the township turned down the most-recent services contract from library officials. In a follow-up vote, the township board agreed to conclude contract negotiations for the balance of 2021.
Barring any change of heart, township officials will not revisit the issue until next year.
With no contract in place, library cards of Park Township residents will expire April 30. Anyone wishing to renew their card will have to pay $50 for two people per residence, or $75 for a family of three or more.
Township officials said budget restraints prompted the need to limit their annual contribution to the library, which was seeking an average of $17,000 annually over a three-year period, and a fourth-year option of $21,000.
Under the soon-to-expire contract, the township pays about $14,400 a year.
