Oak Lawn Library Faces Budget Debate Amid Community Support

Oak Lawn community members rallied on Monday to back their public library as board members debated maintaining a flat budget, a proposal staff argued would lead to layoffs. Resident Ola Gronski, 29, emphasized that in the current economy, a flat budget equates to cuts. Over 100 attendees filled the boardroom, with some watching from outside. During a 60-minute public comment session, each speaker urged a levy increase to sustain the library’s services. This pressure resulted in a 5-1 vote for the highest proposed tax increase.

Gronski remarked that although a library tax rise would mean more personal expense, the money serves as a crucial community investment that yields significant returns. She highlighted the importance of making responsible investments in taxpayer-funded services.

At the Oct. 20 meeting, board members reviewed draft budgets with levy increases of 2.5%, 3.5%, and 4.5% but couldn’t agree on a specific increase. Upon a motion for a 4.5% increase, newly elected board member Karrie Mallo raised the possibility of staff reductions, according to union representatives present. However, Mallo later refuted claims she suggested layoffs as a budget-cutting measure.

Mallo expressed a desire to retain the prior year’s budget, avoiding a tax increase. With board member Raymond Schwarzkop absent, Mallo’s proposal aligned with Carrie O’Keefe and Joseph Skibinski, while Kate McDermott, Heather McCarthy, and Kim Brightmore opposed it. Mallo defended her vote against the 4.5% increase, requesting more details on the proposal and advocating fiscal responsibility.

Mallo stated, “To just pass things to pass them because, well, that’s what’s on the table, is not fiscally responsible or smart.”

The draft budget proposal indicated a 4.5% levy rise would cost around $10 for the average homeowner and still result in trimming library furnishings, equipment, staff development, security systems, local history, and legal fees. A 3.5% increase would raise costs by $8.02, and a 2.5% increase would be under $6, with the library needing to slash $50,000 in materials and $6,300 in programming for the lower increases.

Joseph Skibinski voiced concerns over potential layoffs or programming cuts in light of upcoming union negotiations. He pressed for the union to consider taxpayers in budgeting.

With Schwarzkop absent, Mallo was the sole ‘no’ vote on the hike. Skibinski initially proposed a 3.5% tax raise, before Brightmore amended for a 4.5% increase. Brightmore argued that small tax increments could yield substantial community benefits at a relatively low cost.

AFSCME local secretary Ella Omi asserted a vote for a reasonable levy increase supports the library’s mission, highlighting successful youth programs. These events drew 2,565 attendees in 2025 and 2,201 so far this year.

Omi recounted, “A preschool mother told me her son eagerly awaits story time, reflecting the connections we build with young patrons that last a lifetime.”

Laurie Shelton, alongside her sons Owen and Ethan, praised the library’s programs, including the youth services scavenger hunt. Shelton underscored that the library offers more than books, providing a communal resource where students find success and families bond.