Seaford Library budget passes; Westermann wins trustee seat

The Seaford Public Library’s 2015-16 budget was overwhelmingly passed by voters on April 15. A new member was also elected to the Board of Trustees in a three-way race.

Of 145 votes cast, 127, or 88 percent, were in favor of the proposed $2.2 million spending plan, which takes effect on July 1. Taxes are expected to increase about $5 for the average home next year.

The budget includes funding for additional programs, the purchase of more electronic books and museum passes, and to renovate four bathrooms.

The budget development process began in December. Peter Ruffner, president of the library’s Board of Trustees, said it is gratifying that the budget passed by such a wide margin. That shows that Seaford residents support the program and services that the library offers, he explained.

“We thank the Seaford community very much in supporting the library in its mission,” added Library Director Frank McKenna.

Mary Westermann was elected to an open seat on the Board of Trustees. She received 78 votes to 47 for Margaret Grub and 38 for William Duggan. She wins a five-year term and will replace Eileen Montalbano, who did not seek re-election after 10 years.

“Westermann will be a terrific addition and will do a superb job representing the residents and businesses of Seaford,” Ruffner said. “The community is fortunate to have her experience and talent on the board.”

Westerman recently retired from LIU Post, where she taught library science for 27 years. She also worked in a medical library for 12 years, and was on the Board of Directors for Library Resources Council and the Nassau County Library Association.

“I was honored and humbled to learn that I had been given the opportunity to serve as a trustee at Seaford Public Library,” Westermann said. “I am excited to work with such a dedicated group of individuals and look forward to working for the Seaford community as a trustee. I promise to help keep Seaford Public Library the treasure it is.”