15 Reasons

Question and Answers

What are the key dates for voting in this election?

• October 5, 2009: Last day for mail in and online voter registration

• October 16, 2009: Absentee ballots mailed

• October 26, 2009: Last day for in person voter registration

• November 3, 2009: Election day

How do I register to vote by mail?

Go to the Register to Vote page on the Washington Secretary of State website. You need to download and print out a PDF form, fill it out completely and mail it to the address on the form. If you do not have access to a printer, you can have the registration form mailed to you. Public printers are available at all Sno-Isle Libraries.

How do I register to vote online?

Go to the Online Voter Registration page on the Washington Secretary of State website. You'll need to fill out all the information and be eligible to vote in the State of Washington.

What are we voting on?

The Sno-Isle Libraries is facing a $2.5 million deficit in 2010. This isn't because the economy has soured, but because since the last library levy increase passed in 2003, the levy rate has fallen. And as we all know from our own lives, day to day costs have gone up since 2003. That's the same for Sno-Isle.

If this passes, what will we get?

You'll guarantee that the level of library service you enjoy today will be around in 2010, and beyond.

This levy increase is not about adding more services, it's about maintaining what we have.

What happens if it fails?

Sno-Isle will have to balance its $2.5 million shortfall, and without a revenue increase, will have to make cuts. There will be fewer open hours next year, fewer new books purchased, less up-to-date technology, and probably not as many library programs like preschool storytime, summer reading events, and presentations by authors.

Can't Sno-Isle just spend less?

Sno-Isle Libraries has been spending less, and has also managed the tax dollars carefully so that we didn't have to vote on a levy increase sooner than necessary. In addition to transferring money from reserves this year to help bridge the revenue gap, the library cut the 2009 books and technology budgets. These are temporary measures which, if continued over time, will significantly reduce the quality of the library collection, reliability of library computers, and availability of the resources that many of us can only get at the library. More information about the current and future budget cuts can be found on the Sno-Isle Libraries website.

If the levy increase passes, how much will it cost me?

If you own a $300,000 home, you would pay about $27 more a year if the levy passes. That's the equivalent of about one hardcover book.

What does Sno-Isle Libraries have to say about the election?

The Q&A directly from Sno-Isle Libraries is available on their website. You can also view the library director blog about the levy.

Is there more detailed information about Sno-Isle Libraries budget plans?

Yes! The Sno-Isle Libraries website has an entire section dedicated to the proposed levy, including preliminary budget drafts.

Didn't find the answers you were looking for?

Please submit all other questions and comments using the "Contact" page.