Hanson Library Faces Staffing Crisis, Potential Grant Loss
Funding cuts and MBTA non-compliance threaten services and expansion plans
HANSON, MA - September 24 - The Hanson Public Library is grappling with a staffing shortage that may lead to reduced services, while also facing the potential loss of millions in grant funding for a construction project due to the town's non-compliance with MBTA community requirements.
Library Director Karen Stolfer reported to the Hanson Select Board on Tuesday that the library will soon be down to only one full-time employee – herself.
"Until I fill the positions, I will be the only full-time staff member of the library," Stolfer said. "Budget cuts and general town financial uncertainty definitely played a role in them leaving."
The library has already had to close unexpectedly on some days due to staff shortages. Stolfer urged patrons to call ahead to ensure the library is open.
In addition to staffing woes, the library received news that it will not be eligible for state construction grant funds if Hanson does not comply with the MBTA communities law by the end of the year.
"It's really devastating news for us," Stolfer said. The library could lose up to $12 million in potential state funding for its expansion project.
The library has already spent about $77,000 on planning and design for the project. The first phase of the grant would have provided up to $100,000 for further planning, with millions more available for construction if approved.
Select Board member Joe Weeks expressed concern about the cumulative financial impact of non-compliance with MBTA requirements.
"I would just like to keep a running list," Weeks said, noting that the town has already lost access to $2.4 million in other grant opportunities.
Despite the challenges, the library reported a successful summer reading program, with 2,500 participants attending 112 events between June 14 and Aug. 16.
The library is moving forward with fall programming, including its ninth annual art show in October and a popular open house event on November 16.
In other business, the Select Board approved increases to various town licensing fees to generate additional revenue.
The board voted to raise fees for several license types, including:
- Class 2 Auto Dealer licenses from $100 to $150
- Live entertainment licenses from $50 to $75
- Lodging licenses from $50 to $75
- One-day liquor licenses for non-Camp Kiwanee events to $50
The board also implemented a new $50 late fee per license to encourage timely renewals.
"We did experience, last licensing season, people who came in weeks after licensing was due, and even somebody that came in the day before, literally the day before the board was gonna meet," said Town Administrator Lisa Green.
Alcohol license fees will see the largest increases, rising by 20%. All-alcohol package store licenses will now cost $1,800, up from $1,500.
The fee increases are the first in at least 10 years, according to Green.
"We need to come up with other revenue sources," Green said. "So increasing the fees, and these are not large increases, basically."
The board also approved a new $25 annual inspection fee for businesses to cover fire and building inspections.
In other news, the town reported completion of a $153,654 heat pump installation project at Town Hall, funded by the State’s Green Communities program. The high-efficiency units are expected to reduce electricity and natural gas costs.
The Select Board meeting concluded with a reminder about upcoming community events, including Hanson Day on September 28 at Indian Head School and the Great Pumpkin Classic Car Show at Whitman Hanson High School on October 13.