Denver's Ballot Measure 2I on increasing taxes for the library: A 1-minute voter guide - Axios DenverLog InLog InAxios Denver is an Axios company.

1-minute voter guide Ballot Measure 2I increases taxes for Denver Public Library

The Denver Public Library signage on the Burnham F. Hoyt Rotunda. Photo: Raymond Boyd/Getty Images The average Denver homeowner will pay an extra $4.19 a month starting in 2023 if city voters approve in this November's election. Details: 2I will ask voters to approve a 1.5 increase to the mill levy property tax rate to raise an extra $36 million to support the library system's nearly 30 locations across the city. After 2023, the mill levy may increase without limit to maintain existing services and meet the rising demand for additional services, library officials say. Context: Unlike some other municipalities, which fund their libraries through dedicated property taxes, Denver's library system is funded through the city's discretionary general fund. Zoom in: The property tax increase would support higher pay for librarians and staff — many of whom earn below-market wages.The funding would also improve the library's technology resources, expand and diversify collections and programing, open libraries on nights and weekends, and enhance safety. What they're saying: Proponents argue the property tax increase is necessary because funding for the library has not kept up with growing demand. A properly funded library can level the playing field by providing access to resources and technology needed in Denver's underserved communities, they say. The other side: No organized opposition group has formed, and no written comments against the measure were submitted in the city's printed ballot information booklet. However, some critics have questioned whether it's the right time to raise taxes amid , and others argue the city's general fund could cover library staff's requests.The unrestricted ability to increase taxes in the future also raises eyebrows. Get more local stories in your inbox with .Subscribe Support local journalism by becoming a member.

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