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Davenport library includes social-worker post in draft FY2027 budget as city pledges interim ARPA support
Summary
Library director told trustees a proposed library social-worker position is included in the draft FY2027 budget, with the city using remaining ARPA funds for an interim period and proposing general-fund support in FY27; trustees pressed staff on hiring and permanence amid state property-tax uncertainty.
The Davenport City Library included a proposed library social-worker position in its draft fiscal year 2027 budget and told trustees the city will use remaining ARPA funds to cover part of the position while the general fund is proposed to absorb the role in FY27.
"Board games and puzzles increased by 38.8%" after moving materials in the building, Director Jeff said in his report, then described the staffing proposal: "we are on track to be able to fill that position," but said final permanence depends on council approval and state-level property-tax changes. The social-worker role appears in the draft budget packet the board reviewed this month.
Trustees raised concerns about recruiting and retention. Multiple trustees recalled prior difficulty filling the same role and worried advertising the job as a one-year position could discourage applicants. Jeff and staff said they are widening recruitment and vetting practices, and that internships or practicum placements were investigated but rejected because the library could not provide required direct supervision for inexperienced social-work candidates.
Jeff told the board the city will cover part of the position with ARPA money through the current calendar year and plans to include the role in the FY27 general-fund and trust-and-agency allocations pending final council action. He cautioned that statewide property-tax reform discussions could change municipal revenue projections and affect long-term funding decisions.
The board did not take a formal vote on hiring but discussed next steps: continue outreach, finalize job advertising and monitor council budget hearings in late March when the city is expected to adopt the FY27 budget.
