Special to the HT
MEEKER | With board president John Moffitt absent, Vice President Keri Grieser presided over the Meeker Regional Library Board’s April meeting, where members addressed staffing, finances and a major facilities project.
The board approved the agenda after removing a planned discussion of the employee handbook. No one spoke during public comment.
Minutes from the March 25 meeting were approved, while approval of the March 10 minutes was tabled pending further discussion about formatting.
School librarian Amber Garcia updated the board on recent student activities, including a book fair, high school Farm Day, an erosion demonstration and the high school art show. The Meeker High School art show remains on display at Streamline Realty.
The board approved its March financial report and adopted a tuition reimbursement policy for the library director and assistant director. The policy allows up to $5,000 annually per person, with a lifetime cap of $20,000, contingent on completing coursework with at least a B average.
As part of its ongoing discussion about meeting records, the board approved having Taylor Law take minutes temporarily while it determines a long-term approach.
Library Director Kristina Selby reported that “I ♥ Library” yard signs will soon be available for patrons.
Selby also chose to have her annual review conducted in open session. Board members gave a positive evaluation and outlined several goals for the coming year, including hiring an assistant library director, shifting more of Selby’s workload toward leadership and management, and completing a board-approved leadership course. Other priorities included maintaining a strong patron experience, expanding community representation through displays and events, and improving in-library technology with a focus on ease of use.
Following the review, the board approved a $12,000 annual salary increase for Selby, effective April 1.
Board members also discussed a potential intergovernmental agreement with the Rio Blanco County commissioners and the Town of Meeker trustees related to board appointments. They opted not to pursue an agreement at this time, instead choosing to clarify the process through updates to the board’s bylaws.
In facilities business, the board selected Ajax Roofing for the library’s roof replacement project, citing a detailed bid. The contract, to be drafted by Taylor Law, will cap the project at $212,000 unless additional approval is granted. Following that action, the board approved a $100 donation request from Colorado River BOCES.
Upcoming dates were also set. Work sessions are scheduled for May 6 to address the employee handbook and June 9 to continue work on bylaws and meeting minutes. Regular meetings are set for May 26 and June 24, both at 5:30 p.m. in the library’s community room.
All actions taken during the meeting were approved unanimously by the four board members in attendance.
