Due to budget constraints, Mayor Villaraigosa cut two days a week from many Los Angeles libraries last year. Measure L would mandate that a higher percentage of the city's property tax revenue go towards libraries over a four year period. The hope is to restore services at regional libraries to 6 days a week and eventually 7, without raiding taxes. A broad coalition of teachers, librarians, religious and civic leaders supports the measure. Opponents such as the LA Police Protective League are concerned that funding will be taken from public safety programs. They also argue that the city has the power to return funding to the library without a ballot measure. Is Measure L the right way to restore funding to L.A.’s libraries?
Guest:
Tyree Wieder, President of the Board of Library Commissioners
Kristi Sandoval, Director, Los Angeles Police Protective League