$77 million Spokane library bond poised to pass

A bond to improve and expand the Spokane Public Library was on track to pass Tuesday evening.

About 63 percent of votes were in favor of Spokane’s Proposition 1 as of 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

“We’re still anxiously awaiting the final results but extremely grateful for all the support,” said Andrew Chanse, executive director of Spokane Public Library. “We’re hoping these results carry through.”

If passed, the bond would provide funding for library expansions and upgrades, giving $77 million to the Spokane Public Library to renovate four of its locations, build three new ones, upgrade technology, strengthen the ability to collaborate with Spokane Public Schools and more.

The bond requires 60 percent of the vote to pass.

Taxpayers would see a property tax increase of 19 cents for every $1,000 of assessed property value. However, that amount will be offset if a bond for Spokane Public Schools passes on this year’s ballot too – an outcome that seemed increasingly likely as ballots came in Tuesday evening.

Supporters of the bond say it is about fixing negatives, like replacing roofs, HVAC systems and fraying carpets, but would also make additions like more programs, training sessions for teachers and adding library kiosks in local neighborhoods.