West Bend library board approves minor 2025 budget adjustments, discusses capital priorities

The West Bend Community Memorial Library Board voted to approve two minor edits to its draft 2025 budget and discussed capital priorities for the coming years, including slate removal, security upgrades and a proposed nursing pod.

Board members approved an increase to projected interest income from $30,000 to $50,000 and removal of a $1,000 contractual line item. The board unanimously approved the budget revisions and agreed to send the amended budget to the city council for final approval.

The change to interest income reflects an upward adjustment in expected revenue; the $1,000 contractual line had been intended for incidental computer-related purchases such as cables and adapters and was removed after board discussion. Joseph (board member) made the motion to approve the changes; the motion was seconded by an attending board member and passed without objection.

Members reviewed a five-year capital plan and discussed prioritizing slate removal, replacement of window blinds and security improvements in 2025. Board members said the county’s capital contribution would cover roughly half of the slate-removal and security work. The slate removal was listed as a top priority for 2025, with security modifications described as a package that would add cameras and an electronic fob system; board members said a $50,000 allocation would not cover all security needs and that final fob costs were pending vendor quotes.

The plan also includes a $30,000 capital request for a nursing pod to provide a private, ventilated space for patrons. The board asked staff to clarify recurring maintenance and cleaning costs associated with a nursing pod before committing to purchase; staff said cleaning frequency would depend on use and that current cleaning routines would likely apply.

Board members also discussed the library parking lot, which several members described as deteriorated and a negative visual reflection on the library. One board member proposed the city perform resurfacing work while the library covers the asphalt cost out of its fund balance. Members asked staff to obtain cost estimates and speak with city public works about timing and feasibility before further action.

Other minor capital items mentioned included continued replacement of blinds, additional camera purchases in future years, and a possible enclosure or cover for exterior garbage and recycling containers to improve appearance and function.

Next regular meeting of the board was set for Nov. 19; the board assigned staff to gather quotes for parking-lot resurfacing and to confirm capital funding details from the city and county.

Votes at a glance: The board unanimously approved the budget changes that will be forwarded to the common council for approval.