The construction of long, elaborate skywalks all over town, however, continues unabated.

Again - it is only a Parks Referendum (worthy on it's own merits). The libraries may, or may not, benefit depending on the whim of the City Councilors that are seated at the time (seems they are supportive now of putting the "freed" up money towards the libraries).

I think it only benefits the cause to be clear about what the referendum really is about. Promising more than it can deliver just feeds a belief that politicians say one thing and do another. And, if in a year or two the funding dries up for libraries because there are other important needs in the city, voters who didn't really pay attention to the language will feel betrayed.

The referendum insulates parks funding, but not library funding, from future budget cuts. Passage of the referendum will allow the City Council to redirect money in the 2012 budget to the libraries. I'm not aware that anyone has been stating differently. Are you wildknits? 

Below is a pledge from five Councilors (plus Patrick Boyle who did not attend) to bring about that redirection of funds for 2012.

http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/news/video/Councilors-Re-Affirm-Support-of-Referendum-133337243.html

I miswrote earlier, Mayor Ness will designate moneys from the city fund currently budgeted for parks facilities to keeping the branch libraries open in 2012 and also expand all the libraries's hours, if the Parks Referendum is passed. 

I was astonished yesterday, standing outside the Main Library for from 1-5 pm, how many people of all ages and from all socio-economic classes use the library! And it's common knowledge that library usage skyrockets during tough economic times. Libraries are more essential than ever. Like a young man said to me yesterday, if they close libraries and rec centers, the kids won't have anywhere to go, and they'll just get into trouble. 

Please vote yes on the parks referendum. Please vote.

I believe in fully funding libraries (I'm a heavy user of public libraries myself -- more so when I had small children) and the parks. 

I would love to see the freed up funds dedicated to the library system. I was just pointing out that the referendum was on one issue, not two. And it is important to be clear about what exactly we are voting for in a time when many, many citizens are disenfranchised with the political system. 

On my way to vote in the next hour prior to heading to work - because not only is it my right, it is my responsibility.

Got it wildknits. I agree it is important to be clear about what we are voting for as confusion easily leads to cynicism and disengagement. I saw a surprisingly strong turnout at my polling place this morning.

I just want to be clear:  I voted for libraries, even though the little box I filled it said Parks.  Libraries are my priority here, in the same way that I voted for the Legacy amendment for arts & culture, not state parks and wildlife.

This is a victory for both, and I hope that the library commitment is honored!