Pulling together pays off for all residents of Basalt
Community teamwork is apparently still alive and well in Basalt.
Despite the nasty election fight that took place last fall over plans to raise taxes and build a new library, the citizens of the district joined forces in recent months to solve a problem resulting from the failure of the tax questions.
One of the tax questions was designed to raise enough money to keep the current library operating at its current level of service. When it failed, the board found itself facing a $30,000 shortfall. That led to a decision to close the library on Mondays throughout 2004.
However, it was announced last week that people in the community had donated $15,000 to the district, which will be used to keep the popular facility open on Mondays through June. If another $15,000 is raised, the library will stay open on Mondays throughout the year.
What’s particularly pleasing about this is the way the money was raised. The Town Council was the first to step up to the plate, offering $5,000 to help build momentum. Individuals, families and businesses accepted the challenge and raised another $5,000. Finally, an unnamed donor pitched in the final $5,000.
This is an example of an entire community working together successfully toward a common goal. We have no doubt the final $15,000 will easily be raised by June.
It also shows Basalt’s commitment to its library, and the ability of its residents to overcome their differences (that were so pronounced during the election) for the betterment of their town.
We hope this spirit of cooperation continues as the district moves forward in developing a new plan for the library’s future. The citizens have shown just how important the library is to them; now we’d like to see them use that energy to build a library the entire community can be proud of.
Support Local Journalism
Support Local Journalism
Readers around Aspen and Snowmass Village make the Aspen Times’ work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.
Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Each donation will be used exclusively for the development and creation of increased news coverage.
Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.
User Legend: Moderator
Trusted User
Aspen Art Museum to host Youth Art Expo
The Youth Art Expo will run Feb. 27 through March 14 at the Aspen Art Museum, showcasing work by young artists from Aspen to Rifle.