Troy Seeks Funding for New Library After $137 Million Bond Rejection

Troy City Council Seeks New Funding Strategy for Public Library

In the city of Troy, located just north of Detroit, local officials are exploring new avenues to secure funding for a public library project. A previous proposal, which was part of a broader $137 million bond initiative including roads, parks, and safety improvements, was rejected by the residents in a vote.

Mayor Ethan Baker noted the proposal’s failure, citing that only 45% of the voters supported it, leaving 55% opposed. According to Baker, Troy, the largest city in Oakland County, rarely puts forth bond proposals, having last approved one in 1999. The library itself has not seen expansion since 1984.

One of the challenges identified by Baker was the lack of a compelling case presented to residents about the necessity of a new library. He also pointed to economic uncertainties, including tariff impacts and broader economic concerns from Washington and Lansing, as contributing factors to the proposal’s defeat.

The projected cost for the library has escalated from an initial estimate of $40 to $50 million to a possible $75 million, influenced by inflation and architectural designs for a new building.

Baker emphasized the library’s importance, noting its role as the most frequented gathering place in the community. “We know that our teenagers are using our library for studying all the time. There’s something to do in our library for babies and toddlers all the way up to our oldest residents in the city of Troy,” he stated.

Highlighting the library’s value, Baker remarked, “You recognize that it’s a community asset. So for me, the idea of having a new library is indicative of what our city represents and of what our residents need and expect.” He acknowledged the ongoing challenge of determining funding approaches.

The current library faces space constraints and structural inadequacies. “The bones of the building are not really great for that kind of major rehabilitation process,” Baker explained, underscoring the need for a facility befitting Troy’s status.

As of now, the city council has not finalized the path forward but is contemplating another bond proposal for either a new library or significant renovations to the existing one.

In 2024, the Troy Public Library completed a Strategic Plan, drawing from community feedback to assess current conditions and future ambitions.

Mayor Baker stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue with residents to align on needs and financial commitments. “We provide, you know, A-plus library services in a D-plus building,” he challenged the community, suggesting it might be time for the facilities to match the quality of services offered.