2020/08/19 Council Agenda Packet

Deb Williams From: John <rosemoor@frontier.com> Sent. Sunday, August 16, 2020 5:52 PM To."cfranklin@everettwa.gov"@frontiernet.net; DL-Council Subject. Budget cuts and the Everett Public Library I am writing to all of you today to express my support for continued full funding of the Everett Public Library. A library is a most egalitarian institution. It provides access to knowledge and entertainment in the form of books, music, videos, computers and the internet, as well as free public programs. In a time when there is so much divisiveness and economic hardship in our nation, the library provides a valuable resource for all races and religions, young and old, rich and poor. It is a community gathering place. I understand that our city is facing difficult budget cuts and reductions in services, but I would urge you to prioritize highly those institutions and services that help the most people. Many of us are fortunate in the way our lives have gone. We have (or have had) good jobs and discretionary income. We own homes. We have cars. We can get around and afford things. What we need to do is base our decisions on who will be hurt the most by cuts to critical services. To that end I would argue that the public library is a high priority. I would also say that public spaces and parks need to be maintained and accessible as should public transportation and services for seniors and other groups in need. I know you will say there isn't enough money to do all of these things, but I think you could call on the citizens of our city to volunteer some time or perhaps donate some money. In the same way people come together to do the spring plantings in Forest Park, or volunteer at the arboretum, I think you could establish an Everett volunteer brigade along the lines of what Roosevelt did with the New Deal. We like living in Everett and are proud of the many changes that have occurred in our city. I think people would help if given a chance. Thanks for considering my thoughts, John Hastings 4626 Darlington Lane Everett, WA 98203 P.S. I am NOT a fan of any radical defunding of the Police Department. If in working with the police and other social service professionals, it is felt that some reallocation of funds would benefit all involved, then that is fine. But lets not throw the baby out with the bathwater. (And with a quote like that as well as a mention of the New Deal, you are now all convinced I must be about 100 years old; nope only 71).