Jasper says no to library question

As results came in last night it was apparent that the tax payers in Bainbridge and the incorporated portions of Boone and Madison townships were not willing to pay the price for the proposed library. The absentee ballots began with a 78% “NO” and 22% “YES” and at the end of the night the resounding answer was almost 73% against the referendum question.

The quest for a new library c0ntinues and now the board faces a split that must be mended before they once again begin to search for a solution to this ten year old problem.

Reading from a statement today Board President Bill Hewitt thanked the citizens for voting and acknowledged the overall tone of the voters in these areas as they spoke against the referendum.

Hewitt feels that the addition of the Dubois and Ferdinand Libraries has relieved some of the pressure on the Jasper Public Library and this immediate relief allows the board to look at other outlets for a solution.

Hewitt stated he wants the board to come together in the December meeting and focus on the mission of the Jasper Public Library and the Dubois County Contractual Library “to provide expansive and up-to-date resources that educate and enrich the lives of those we serve.”

From the Vote Yes Facebook page: “Thank you to all of the JPL PAC supporters & tireless volunteers. Your efforts were so appreciated and did not go unnoticed. Thank you to all of the YES voters yesterday for demonstrating your belief in the Jasper Public Library and to this good city. Please continue to take advantage of every resource available through our current library and to keep this issue moving toward some resolution. Demand answers and action of the JPL Board of Trustees. Jasper needs a new library. Jasper deserves a great library.”