PPL: Library Board Reinstates Four Positions

PLATTSBURGH CITY – Tues. 12/27/11 5 PM


The Plattsburgh Public Library Board of Trustees has reinstated the four PPL positions that were on the chopping block, going with city councilor Tim Carpenter’s alternative budget proposal.

Back on Dec. 5th, the board had voted to eliminate the four positions in dealing with a budget shortfall. Local AFSCME union representatives and Carpenter each presented alternative budgets to the board which after consideration favored the city councilor’s plan.

Yesterday library union members voted unanimously to accept Carpenter’s plan.

At this evening’s board meeting local AFSCME union president Denise Nephew was present. According to her, the decision to reinstate the four positions wasn’t official until she reminded the trustees that a motion had to be made and carried. The board promptly did this.

Following the meeting Tim Carpenter said that 58 people were involved in trying to save the four jobs. He added that everything was contingent on the Common Council accepting his plan and providing an additional $60,000 to the PPL 2012 budget.

Due to the holiday season, the Common Council meets tomorrow evening, one day earlier than its usual schedule. The council’s regular meeting begins at 5:30 PM, Wednesday, Dec. 28th in the City Hall second floor chambers. Library supporters are urged to attend this meeting.