The Josephine Community Library District has announced that it will not be attending the Board of Commissioners meeting scheduled for Monday, citing inadequate notice and the unavailability of legal counsel to represent the district.
The proposed meeting is part of ongoing discussions initiated by Commissioner John West during the December 19th administration meeting where he suggested charging market rent for the Grants Pass library building, a matter of significant legal and financial complexity.
The local library district cites inadequate notice, the unavailability of its legal counsel and the need for all stakeholders to be present to ensure a constructive and well-prepared discussion. JCL Director Kate Lasky said it would be irresponsible for the library's leadership to attend this meeting without proper preparation and representation.
The district has communicated these concerns to the Board of Commissioners, requesting that the meeting be rescheduled to mid-January to accommodate the schedules of all involved parties. However, Commissioner West declined to move the meeting and plans to hold the discussion on Monday, despite the absence of key stakeholders.
The district's position is underscored by the fact that the County Charter, specifically Section 14.5, which explicitly requires the Board of Commissioners to "provide for the support and maintenance of the main library and library branches." This provision highlights the county's obligation to sustain library operations as a public resource.
Lasky said they value their partnership with the county and look forward to engaging in a constructive dialogue when all stakeholders can be present. She said their goal is to find a fair and sustainable solution that honors the spirit of the County Charter and ensures continued access to public library services.
