Nottawa Township Library Board Minutes

November 18, 2024

Cara Arver called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

Michelle Brokaw, Kathleen Brandon, Carmita Hunter, Cara Arver, Timi Sloat, and Robert (Bob) Klar were present. Amber Troyer was absent.

Kathleen motioned to approve the agenda, seconded by Carmita. A vote was held. The motion was approved.

Discussion was held on the minutes from the September 24, 2024 meeting. Kathleen motioned to approve the minutes of the previous meeting, seconded by Carmita. A vote was held. The motion was approved.

Financial report was given by Timi. Bob motioned to accept the financial report as presented, seconded by Michelle. A vote was held. The motion was approved.

Old Business:

●     A copy of the The Library Services Agreement between Lockport Township and the Nottawa Township Library was presented to the board.

●     Timi presented highlights from the MLA conference.  Library staff gained valuable information in regards to programming, funding, interloan, and community collaboration.

●     The minimum wage increase and sick pay policy were discussed.  Changes are needed to be in compliance with the law taking effect in February 2025. The board reviewed proposed changes to personnel policies, salary schedule, and budget. Due to uncertainty with the new regulations, clarifications are expected to be announced. 

Votes for changes to personnel policies will occur at the January 2025 meeting.

➢    Bob made a resolution to adopt the updated Salary Schedule which includes the required minimum wage increase on the Library Aide tier. Wages for Library Clerk, Library  Technician, Children’s Librarian, and Director will also increase.  Seconded by Michelle.  A voice vote was held. The resolution passed unanimously.

➢    Carmita made a resolution to increase 2024-2025 budget line item 271-702 Director Pay from 42,210 to 43,155 which brings Total Expenditures to 252,055.  Seconded by Bob. A voice vote was held. The resolution passed unanimously.

New Business:

●     Timi discussed an interaction with the Sturgis Library Director. The board was made aware of a proposal from the Sturgis Director to reimburse Sherman Township patrons.

●     The board discussed Centreville Public Schools school-of-choice students, specifically,  their lack of access to the Nottawa Public Library.  The board urged the Director to pursue funding for patron accounts for these students via grants or donations.

The September and October 2024 Director’s reports were given.

Public Comment: None

The next meeting is scheduled for January 27, 2025 at 4:00pm. Doodle Poll for quorum confirmation will be sent.

Adjourn motion by Kathleen, second by Bob. Meeting adjourned at 5:58pm.

Secretary: Robert L. Klar