The $5.8-million proposition to build a new Woodstock Library has been defeated by just 11 votes. A recount is unlikely after a tabulation included contested ballots narrowed the margin of the defeat. The final tally was 2123 in favor and 2134 against.
It seems unlikely a recount is possible. A recently adopted county law facilitated recounts for municipal races, but did not consider local referenda. A description of the law references “smooth transition of power” as the legislative intent.
Taking the matter to state court may not be an option either because the library has no standing. The Town of Woodstock placed the matter on the ballot at the request of the library, so the town would have to be the entity to argue for a recount.
“We thank everyone who voted. We wanted everyone in Woodstock to have a say in this important decision for the town,” library officials said in an email to supporters and patrons. “We are gratified there was such a large turnout, and that voters cared to turn over their ballots and make their choice.”
The bond trailed by 78 votes on Election Night, then the defeat was narrowed to 34 votes after a later count of absentee ballots.
At a November 24 discussion via video conference, many of those opposed to the bond said they felt the planned 12,500-square-foot building was too ostentatious for a small-town library. Trustees will explore other options, including other locations.
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