Finance committee approves draft budget and plans Christmas production to boost revenue

The Middletown Library Finance Committee approved a motion to forward its draft company budget to the full board for adoption on May 20 after a presentation by Ramona. The proposal shows a projected increase in income for the coming fiscal year driven largely by anticipated gifts and revenue tied to a planned theatrical production of A Christmas Carol.

Ramona told the committee the show, produced by East Hadam Stage Company, is expected to gross about $32,000 with production costs near $9,000; tickets were cited at $50 each. "We're looking forward to bringing people to our historic library," she said, and the budget reflects higher fundraising expenses to cover actor fees and event costs.

The draft budget also increases building maintenance to address gutter, roofing and water infiltration issues at the 234 Court Street building; Dan DePaolo, identified in the meeting as the new head of facilities, is obtaining vendor quotes. Ramona said the organization is budgeting conservatively for grant revenue and noted staff vacancies (four entry-level clerk positions) are reflected in a modest reduction in the municipal appropriation request to the city.

Committee member Robert prefaced his motion to approve forwarding the budget with appreciation for staff work; Laurie seconded and the committee approved the motion by unanimous voice vote. The committee asked staff to place the draft budget on the full board agenda for the May 20 meeting.

Ramona also briefed the committee on small recent grants: $720 from the Community Foundation for large-print materials and just over $3,000 from Giving Day donations.