Mahwah Voters Approve Library Funding Increase

MAHWAH, NJ – Mahwah voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot question on Election Day asking whether or not the public library should receive additional funding.

Altogether, 3,129 voters – almost 73% of Tuesday’s turnout – were in favor of the increase, while 1,202 were opposed, according to the unofficial results.

Under state law, libraries must receive a minimum of a third of a mill – a tenth of a cent for each tax dollar – in local funding. The library currently raises $2,014,953 through taxes.

Now, it’ll receive an additional $251,892 to help sustain current services and expand its offerings for residents. The higher tax rate – which will be in effect for 10 years – translates into a $20 increase on tax bills for the average assessed township home.

According to Mahwah library, Tuesday’s referendum was the first time in its 117-year history it has asked voters to authorize an increase in the dedicated property tax that funds the library.

The library said it receives the minimum in tax funding under the state law, but in the past decade tax support has fallen from $2,350,000 to $2,000,000 while inflation has grown, making it a challenge to provide the current level of service.

If the referendum failed, the library said it would be facing cuts to programs, online services, staff and hours.

Last year, the library offered more than 2,000 programs, welcomed 200,000 visitors and loaned out nearly 300,000 items.