Hear from both sides of the issue

IDAHO CITY -- It’s a debate that goes back over 40 years and is coming to a head once again.

The Boise Basin Library in Idaho City and its taxing district hang in the balance as voters decide whether or not to dissolve it come November 4th.

One side wants their library to stick around to provide educational tools to kids and adults.

The other side wants the ability to vote on property taxes, something that they say didn't happen in the past.

Now it's on the ballot and up to the people to decide if the library stays or goes.

"That vote calls for - Do you want to dissolve the Boise Basin Library District? Yes or No," said Beth Wilson, library supporter.

The Boise Basin Library has been bounced around to three different buildings in Idaho City for the last 40 years. Two years ago they moved to a brand new building.

But now, they could have to close its doors and liquidate its assets because a group called "Citizens for Reasonable Taxation" feels the library district is unconstitutional.

"Well, we're trying to make the taxing district follow the rules of the Idaho State Constitution," said Ann Heltsley, spokesperson for Citizens for Reasonable Taxation.

Heltsley says the problem surrounds voting.

"People are being taxed on their property, on something they never had the opportunity to vote on," said Heltsley.

"They just need to understand that the majority appreciates the library and wants the library and let us go on, and let this be done," said Trudy Jackson.

Trudy Jackson grew up in Idaho City using the library regularly, and says it's the impression of everyone who supports the library that this whole issue is surrounding money.Specifically the property tax paid for by everyone in the taxing district.

But Heltsley disagrees.

"Property taxes have not been an issue in this issue. If you're going to pay property taxes, then you should have a right to vote on whether you want to or not," said Heltsley.

Library supporters placed signs throughout the community urging people to vote "no" to save their community asset.

"To think of something that is so basic to what a community is, yes it's emotional. You keep your head, but your heart is certainly involved in it," said Wilson.

"It's one of the most positive, it is one of our most positive aspects of our community. It and getting a high school up here," said Jackson.

Heltsley says they had to get 50 people to sign a petition to be able to put this on the ballot. They did that.

But if they don't get the votes needed to dissolve the library she says her group most likely is not done. She says they'll consider a class action lawsuit through the federal court system.

The library vote takes place on Election Day, November 4th.

Those who want the library to remain open should vote "no," while those who would like to see the library district dissolved should vote "yes."