(Milford)– A disrepancy over funding has left residents of Wahpeton without the use of library services. The city contracts with the Milford Memorial Library in exchange for its residents being able to use that facility. However it was recently discovered Wahpeton had been underpaying Milford for a number of years. The fee is based on property valuations, and the yearly amount now due is much higher than what Wahpeton had been paying in the past.
In a split vote recently, the Wahpeton City Council opted not to sign onto a new agreement. As a result, notices were recently sent to library card holders in Wahpeton notifying them they can no longer use the services.
Two members of the Wahpeton City Council were at Monday’s Milford City Council meeting where the issue was discussed. They indicated the Wahpeton City Council will likely re-visit the matter at their meeting in December after hearing concerns from residents.
Wahpeton City Council members were requesting the increase be spread out over a couple of years. Milford officials turned that down, saying it’s important the proper amount be charged, siting fairness. Milford has a similar contract for library services with the city of West Okoboji.
