Webster Public Library director outlines Proposition L, seeks 12-cent levy for services and facility repairs

Webster Groves — Madison Morris, director of the Webster Public Library, told the City Council on June 16 that the library needs ongoing operating revenue and capital repairs and that Proposition L — a proposed 12-cent tax levy — is on the Aug. 4 ballot to protect services and the facility.

Morris noted the library’s operating budget (excluding debt service) is a little over $1.5 million, with personnel and e-resources the largest line items. She said the library operates a three-floor facility open seven days a week and provides programs, passport services, meeting-room uses and other community supports. Morris emphasized the library’s recent capital hits: an HVAC replacement this year consumed about $500,000 from reserves and the roof, drainage and concrete repairs remain priorities.

"The library positively impacts the Webster Groves community every single day," Morris said, explaining that Proposition L funds could support collections, staffing and necessary building repairs.

Council members asked whether solar panels or roof-mounted renewables had been considered; Morris said she had started investigating grant opportunities for solar but that earlier proposals did not include solar. Morris also noted the library’s 75th anniversary is this year and invited council to community events.

Why it matters: Proposition L would affect property taxpayers and the library’s ability to maintain service levels and perform urgent capital repairs. Morris framed the levy as a means to preserve daily services and avoid continued reliance on reserves for unexpected capital failures.