Claudine Bennett

The meeting agenda covered several key administrative actions including the approval of personnel actions (appointments, leaves, resignations, retirements), and the approval of gifts. Key discussions included resuming the tabled discussion regarding the possibility of a 2025 Library Staff Survey, exploring the implications of Ohio House Bill 257 regarding virtual meetings, and initiating an ongoing review of existing Board policies, starting with 'Policy AD 100- Calamity Days'. Financial matters involved the approval of the December 2024 Monthly Financial Report and associated investments, and the approval of the annual contribution to the Dayton Society of Natural History. The Board also addressed the Tuition Reimbursement Rate recommendation for 2025. The meeting concluded with a recommendation to enter Executive Session to discuss the employment of a public employee.

The special meeting included the approval of the agenda after no conflicts of interest were announced. The Board held an Executive Session to discuss the employment of a public employee. Following the Executive Session, the President reported that no formal action was taken. The meeting concluded with the adjournment motion.

The Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees addressed several items. The agenda was approved, and during the Public Comment period, the President of the Dayton Metro Library Staff Association requested the results of the 2025 Employee Staff Survey and voiced concerns regarding recent policy implementations, such as a mandatory staff in-service day and a new attendance policy, citing low staff morale. A significant resolution was adopted to accept the tax amounts and rates certified by the Budget Commission and to authorize the necessary tax levies for the General Fund and Bond Fund, certifying these to the County Auditor. Subsequently, the Board entered an Executive Session to discuss the employment of a public employee, concluding without formal action being taken in open session.

The Board of Trustees meeting agenda included several action items under the consent agenda. These actions involved authorizing staff attendance at workshops and conferences, approving personnel actions such as appointments, leave without pay, promotions, resignations, and retirements, and approving various gifts and grants. The Board was also set to approve tuition reimbursement agreements and reimbursements for multiple employees. Other key discussion points included the monthly financial report for December 2025, consideration of the annual contribution to the Dayton Society of Natural History, review of the tuition reimbursement rate for calendar year 2026 (recommending continuation at 65% not to exceed $75,000), policy review, and a presentation on the Culture and Engagement Realignment Strategy. The agenda also scheduled time for general public comments and a recommendation to enter Executive Session to discuss the employment of a public employee.

The Focused for Impact Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines a five-year roadmap for the Dayton Metro Library to inform, inspire, and empower the community. It focuses on key areas such as engaging youth programs, workforce development, outreach for older Americans, increasing equity, and strengthening partnerships. The plan's five core aspirations are to enhance community quality of life, expand youth learning horizons, multiply potential through relationships, strengthen assets, and build equity within the community.