Josephine County officials discuss future lease agreement for Grants Pass Library

In a pivotal meeting on May 22, 2025, Josephine County officials engaged in crucial discussions regarding the future of the Grants Pass Library building lease, which has been a source of uncertainty for the community. Library Director Kate Lasky expressed optimism about the dialogue with Commissioner Chris Barnett, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current lease agreement of just $1 per year for another five years, with an option to renew.

This meeting marks a significant step forward after the county's controversial decision in January to terminate the library's lease with only 30 days' notice, leaving many residents concerned about the library's future. Lasky highlighted the urgency of renewing the lease by the December 31 deadline, noting that the county has yet to provide a substantive response or new lease terms, citing internal needs and potential property sales as reasons for the delay.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of library funding in Josephine County, revealing that a voter-approved library levy from 1997 has since been merged into the general fund, with none of those funds currently supporting library services. The library, which has served the community since 1959, has invested over $500,000 in improvements since the county closed the library system in 2007 due to funding issues.

Community members, including Nicole Kiefer, voiced their support for the library and urged the county to expedite the lease renewal process. Kiefer pointed out that a timely renewal would help restore faith in the county's commitment to the library and its services.

As the library district continues to seek a collaborative path forward, it remains dedicated to transparent communication with the public, hoping for a resolution that secures the library's future in the community.