December 5 Election Information & Millage Overview

Having trouble reading this email? View it in your browser.

News Header

Ballot Overview:

On December 5, New Orleans voters are being asked to decide on a package of millages (property taxes) that will be placed separately on the ballot as follows: (1) Infrastructure and Maintenance, (2) Early Childhood Education and Libraries (3) Housing and Economic Development. When combined, the millage package will not raise taxes.

 

If passed, the Library & Early Childhood Education millage (Proposition #2) would provide continued funding for the library for the next 20 years (through 2040).

 

What is Proposition #2 ballot language?

In lieu of a separate millage previously approved by voters in the City of New Orleans ("City") in the amount of 4.000 mills for the support of public libraries in the City (“Prior Tax”), shall the City be authorized to levy a special tax of 0.987 mills ("Tax") for twenty years, January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2040 (estimated at $4,000,000 in the first year) with the proceeds of the Tax to be used for the purposes of constructing, improving, maintaining and operating public libraries and early childhood education facilities and related programs in the City, including the purchase of equipment therefor, title to which shall remain in the public, provided that a portion of the monies collected shall be remitted to certain state and statewide retirement systems in the manner required by law?

 

How much will property taxes increase if Proposition #2 passes?

The millage package will not raise taxes. It is a renewal of an existing millage.

 

How will Proposition #2 affect the Library?

  • If Proposition #2 passes, the Library will:
    Continue fulfilling its mission of transforming lives, enriching neighborhoods, and preserving history by offering safe and welcoming spaces and providing free, educational, informational, and recreational resources, programs, and activities for all ages.

  • If Proposition #2 fails, the Library will:
    Face a 50% funding cut resulting in the possibility of reduced locations, operating hours, and significantly decreased collections, programs, and technology budgets.

How does the Library use its funding?

The Library depends largely on property tax revenue for its operations. Among other things, this encompasses the overall operation of 15 locations and their general maintenance, delivery of research and information services, books and other information resources offered in a growing number of formats (eBooks, audioBooks, etc.) the provision and maintenance of over 300 public access computers, as well as programs and activities for all ages.

 

What are the important Election Dates?

Early Voting - November 20-28, 2020
Election Day - Saturday, December 5, 2020