West Hartford Council OKs Cash For Library Computers, Furniture And Programs

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The West Hartford Town Council has unanimously approved more than $30,000 for computers, furniture, equipment and other needs at the town's libraries.

The council voted 9-0 on Sept. 8 to appropriate $30,125.63 from the available balance of the West Hartford Library Fund and amend the fund's fiscal year 2026-27 budget.

West Hartford Deputy Mayor Debra Polun made the motion to approve the resolution, which was seconded by Councilor Tiffani McGinnis.

According to a memorandum from West Hartford Town Manager Rick Ledwith, the West Hartford Library Fund is a special revenue fund used to account for grants.

Its available fund balance is appropriated annually based on recommendations from the library administration and in accordance with the fund's purpose.

The fund includes grants received through the "borrowIT CT" program as well as money from other governmental and private foundation sources.

Under the resolution, the $30,125.63 will be divided among several library expenses:

• Library furniture and equipment: $18,125.63
• Miscellaneous administrative expenses: $10,000
• Computer equipment: $1,000
• Other professional services: $1,000

Professional services can include performers for library programs, according to the town.

The money is expected to be spent during the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Any money that remains unspent will return to the West Hartford Library Fund balance.

The resolution was reviewed and approved for form and legality by the town's Corporation Counsel's Office.

Mayor Shari Cantor, Polun, Minority Leader John Lyons and councilors Dr. Gayle Harris, Lisa Lazarus, McGinnis, Barry Walters, Dr. Jason Wang, and Ben Wenograd were present for the vote.

For the minutes of the Sept. 8 West Hartford Town Council meeting, click on this link.