The Lockport Township Board unanimously voted Monday to approve a library services contract offer from the Three Rivers Public Library. The offer was “win-win” for both parties, Trustee Rick Daniels said.
Lockport and the library’s boards have agreed to a three-year contract in the amount of $20,822.16 for the first year, followed by 2% increases each year. Other terms of the contract include having renegotiations after three years and the allowance that either party can terminate the contract at six months before the fiscal year concludes. An earlier offer by the township had termination being allowed at three months before the fiscal year’s ending.
The 2% annual increase translates to $416 in 2025 and $424.77 in 2026, Daniels said. What was important for the township was being able to watch its money and how it is spent, especially regarding budgets, he added.
Interim Three Rivers Public Library Director Erin Zabonick said Tuesday that while the process had its challenges, the library is glad an agreement has been reached.
“(We) appreciate the township’s commitment to supporting our library. We look forward to moving forward for the benefit of our community,” Zabonick said.
Nearly 30 people attended Monday’s meeting, which was commented on by Lockport Township Treasurer Mike Friesner.
“I’d hate to have this kind of controversy all the time, but it’s sure nice to have a crowd here,” Friesner said.
Lockport Township Supervisor Mark Major said the board appreciates having everybody’s input.
“We had quite a few people speak to this,” Major said. “We’ve gotten emails, I’ve gotten texts. It’s something that’s very important to our community and something we want to be a part of.”
Zabonick said Tuesday that she is “incredibly thankful” for library patrons.
“(Their) continued support and love for our library make everything we do possible. Their dedication to learning, community, and growth inspires us to continually improve and provide the best resources and services,” she said.
Frank Stanko is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.
