Algood council amends budget to expand Allgood library hours and fund full‑time position

The Algood City Council voted unanimously to amend the fiscal 2024‑25 budget under ordinance 714‑24 to support moving the Allgood branch of the Putnam County Library toward full‑time hours and to fund a full‑time staff position.

Mr. Morrison outlined the budget changes included in the ordinance: an increase of $55,000 in building‑permit revenue and matching expense, internal reallocations of $19,000 within the police department (net zero), and a proposed $8,000 increase to Parks contributions that would support library staffing. Katherine Wessinger, speaking for the Putnam County Library System, described the Allgood branch as small but heavily used — outpacing circulation at larger branches — and urged expanding hours to improve access to computers, internet and programs. "We are asking you to consider moving hours to full‑time," Wessinger said.

Mayor Fer moved to amend the budget as provided in ordinance 714‑24 to fund a full‑time library position and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting record contains an inconsistency in the dollar amounts referenced: earlier council discussion and the staff summary specify an $8,000 increase to Parks contributions to support the library, while the motion as spoken references a net change of $88,000 in one place; the transcript is unclear which figure the council formally adopted. The council’s vote to approve the ordinance was unanimous.

Why it matters: Expanding hours and funding a full‑time staff member at the Allgood branch will affect local access to library services and digital resources for residents who rely on that branch.

What’s next: The ordinance will return as required for additional readings/public notice per the council’s rules; staff will implement the personnel and budget changes approved by the council.