Oak Lawn Residents Advocate for Library Funding Amid Budget Talks

Oak Lawn community members filled the room on Monday to express support for their public library amid discussions about the future budget. A decision not to increase the tax levy, according to staff, might lead to layoffs.

“In this economy, a flat budget is equivalent to a cut,” noted village resident Ola Gronski, aged 29. Over 100 residents attended the board meeting, with some watching through windows due to space limitations on the library’s first floor. During the 60-minute public comment period, every speaker backed a levy increase to preserve the library’s services. This pressure contributed to a 5-1 vote in favor of the highest proposed tax increase.

“Yes, a library tax increase means more from our wallets,” Gronski explained. “But it’s an investment in community services that offer significant returns. Respecting taxpayers involves wise investments in services they already value, not merely cutting costs.”

The library board explored draft budgets proposing levy increases of 2.5%, 3.5%, and 4.5% in an October 20 meeting. However, consensus on the extent of property tax hikes was elusive. Initially, a motion for a 4.5% increase was presented, which would result in minimal cuts. Board member Karrie Mallo queried possible staff reductions to cut expenses, as attendees from the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Council 31 revealed.

Mallo contested the characterization of her statement, asserting, “I was unaware of any layoffs being tabled for discussion.” Ultimately, she advocated for keeping the budget unchanged to avert a tax rise. With board member Raymond Schwarzkop absent, Carrie O’Keefe and Joseph Skibinski sided with Mallo for no levy uptick, while Kate McDermott, Heather McCarthy, and Kim Brightmore opposed.

On Monday, Mallo requested more specifics regarding a 4.5% levy increase’s implications. She sought to revise the budget approach without requesting additional funds. Mallo stated, “Approving proposals without due diligence isn’t fiscally wise. When I sought to delay for more insights, I was told none existed, which was unconvincing.”

The AFSCME Council 31 and draft budget indicated a 4.5% levy increase would cost the typical homeowner about $10 and still entail reductions in library furnishings, staff development, and more. A 3.5% increase would cost around $8.02, while 2.5% would be under $6. Budget constraints at 3.5% or lower would necessitate slashing materials by $50,000 and program funding by $6,300.

Skibinski raised concerns about potential staff layoffs or program cuts to meet union wage requirements amidst budget negotiations. “The union should balance its support for the library and taxpayers,” he stressed before opting for a 4.5% tax hike. “Can they respect our fiscal limitations to avoid back-and-forth negotiations?”

During a meeting on November 9, 2026, board member Joseph Skibinski, along with Director Carol Williams, debated budget issues. Schwarzkop was missing, leaving Mallo as the only opposing vote to the tax increase.

Skibinski proposed a 3.5% hike, which Brightmore amended to 4.5%. “While taxes are unpopular, such increases ensure community benefits,” Brightmore expressed, aligning with many attending residents.

AFSCME local secretary Ella Omi highlighted the library’s mission as a community cornerstone, providing access to vital resources. The success of Oak Lawn Public Library’s youth programs, evidenced by over 2,000 attending story time events annually, underscored the need for funding.

“Our connections with young patrons foster lifelong library engagement,” Omi shared, referencing a preschooler’s eagerness to attend library events over preschool.

Laurie Shelton, accompanied by her sons Owen, 10, and Ethan, 13, advocated for the levy rise, citing her family’s positive experiences. She called the library more than a book repository, noting it’s a communal resource promoting success, connectivity, and unity.