Transparency Once Again Invisible
- JCPL Allies
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
Dear Library Supporters,
This week, in response to a records request for the library consultants’ final report, Jackson County Manager Kevin King stated:
“There was not a final deliverable from the consultants. You already have the document entitled work plan; this is all that was created. If you have specific questions please let me know.”
The “work plan” he refers to is a multi-page checklist (see below) outlining tasks to complete before June 30 to separate JCPL from Fontana Regional Library (FRL).
Like many of you, we are concerned that the county paid $11,000 for this checklist and is moving forward with withdrawal without providing cost estimates or explaining the consequences for taxpayers. The County's withdrawal from the FRL is a consequential, costly, and contentious issue in Jackson County, and we feel the community deserves more information than is being provided. Specific cost estimates are a critical component of planning for the restructuring and management of taxpayer services and facilities. It is now clear that there is no comprehensive estimate of the financial costs or potential changes in staff or services.
The Jackson County Board of Commissioners frequently speak of transparency, yet are unwilling or unable to provide information to support their actions.
What We Know
No comprehensive financial plan exists for restructuring or managing taxpayer-funded services and facilities, despite expenditure of $11,000 on consultants.
Two key staff members have resigned, including Serenity Richards, head librarian in Cashiers (last day January 22). A second resignation will follow this month.
Tracy Fitzmaurice has placed hiring on hold until the county clarifies its plans, leaving libraries short-staffed for the foreseeable future.
Policies and procedures for the new system will be written by a law firm, not by professional library staff.
Future staff may face pressure when selecting materials, fearing repercussions from commissioners and the appointed board.
Why This Matters
The county’s withdrawal from FRL is a consequential, costly, and contentious decision. Without transparency and planning, our libraries and the communities they serve are at risk. We are losing experienced staff and institutional knowledge, and the quality of library services will suffer.
What You Can Do
This situation threatens the stability and quality of our libraries. They are being damaged severely by the complete refusal of our leaders to hear reason. Please contact the commissioners to express your feelings about the situation. Letters to the editors of our local papers would also be beneficial.
Your advocacy can help protect the future of our libraries.
The JCPL Allies
