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Wickson District Library posts

additional millage proposal

  Frankenmuth Wickson District Library has announced that voters in the library district will consider an additional 0.85 mill levy on the August 4, 2026, ballot. If approved, the millage would be levied for 20 years and would provide additional operational and capital funding for the library.  For the average taxpayer in the library district, the estimated cost is between $11 and $14 per month.

  According to Library Director Michelle Duclos, the request follows several years of financial review, facility planning, and strategic assessment. Rising operational expenses, including labor, materials, utilities, and maintenance costs, have significantly increased since 2022. Michigan’s scheduled minimum wage increases have also impacted on staffing costs.

  The library building, now approximately 50 years old, completed a professional reserve study in 2022 to assess long-term facility needs. Identified future capital improvements include roof replacement, HVAC replacement, elevator replacement, and carpeting updates.

  In addition to facility planning, the library completed a strategic planning process to evaluate current services and future community needs.

  Library usage has continued to grow in recent years. According to the library’s 2025 Annual Report, the library reported:

- 11% increase in new cardholders

- 39% increase in program attendance

- 48% increase in home delivery of materials

- 400 Community Room reservations

- More than 500 registered Study Room sessions

- Average daily visits exceeding 500 people

  The library currently offers more than 40 programs each month for children, teens, adults, and seniors. Services include literacy programming, technology assistance, book clubs, inclusive programming for individuals with disabilities, caregiver support opportunities, and meeting space for community organizations.

  The library has also publicly shared information regarding its current fund balance. .....

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