Troy Officials and Residents Divided on Vote to Make Library Independent

The vote to make the Troy Public Library independent from the city government has divided the city's residents and even has the mayor wanting a council member censured for committing what she said is an ethical violation.

Four ballot proposals, initiated by a citizen petition, would shift the library from a department of the city government to an independent operation with separate taxing powers.

Troy Mayor Louise Schilling told FOX 2's Bill Gallagher that a no vote would have significant consequences for the city's library.

"Well, the library would close in June," Schilling told Gallagher. "That's already been decided, which is very unfortunate because people love their library. We go around town and regardless of their political persuasion... they're saying we want to have a public library."

Councilman Martin Howrylak is opposing the independent library.

"I'm opposed to carving out a new beauracracy, if you will, from the existing city government," Howrylak said by phone.

Howrylak sent a letter to Troy residents claiming an independent library would require a new building, books and computers.

Schilling said Howrylak's claim is inaccurate and wants him censured for an ethical violation.

"Everyone, of course, is entitled to their own opinion. We're not saying people can't give their opinion for or against," Schilling said. "What we're saying is that the information provided has to be accurate. Especially if they're going to put their title on it as being a council member."

Howrylak said he's committed no ethical violations and stands by his oppostion to the proposal.

Troy voters are also divided on the issue.

"It'd still be an extra charge for the homeowner, wouldn't it?," asked Troy resident Elizabeth Edwards. "I mean, that's what it seems to me, an additional charge."

Resident Jill McClure supports the proposal.

"This library is my second home," McClure said. "I've done everything I can to endorse the Friends of the Troy Public Library to keep this library open."