County of St. Paul Council Approves NLLS Levy Increase, Requests Presentation

The County of St. Paul council has approved a 1.5 per cent levy increase for the Northern Lights Library System (NLLS), while also requesting a future presentation from the organization to provide greater insight into its operations and financial needs.

The decision was made during the October 14 regular council meeting, held less than a week before the municipal election.

With the approved increase, the County’s contribution to NLLS will rise by $517, bringing the total to $35,879.40 for the coming year. Based on a population of 6,468 residents, the per capita rate will move from $5.47 in 2025 to $5.55 in 2026, as determined by provincial population data.

While councillors acknowledged the importance of supporting the regional library network, several expressed a desire for more clarity on NLLS’s cost structure and staffing levels, particularly in light of operational changes and efficiencies introduced in recent years.

Council members agreed that a presentation from NLLS would help the incoming council better understand the system’s services, budget pressures, and future plans.

The motion to accept the levy increase and invite NLLS to meet with the new council was carried unanimously.