ABOUT 200 PEOPLE marched down Main Street in Huntington Beach on Friday evening to protest library “privatization” (Carol Daus photo).
The adoption of an ordinance creating a “community-parent guardian review board for review of procurement of children’s library material” tops the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting of the Huntington Beach City Council.
It was approved for introduction on March 19 on a 4-3 vote. The matter is controversial because of allegations of censorship and also as it comes at a time when the council majority is considering taking proposals for library services from private companies, which critics call privatization or outscourcing.
Supporters of the concept say that at a time when the city is facing a budget deficit, turning to a private operator may save money.
One of those offering to be the provider is Library Systems and Services, represented by former Huntington Beach mayor and council member Mike Posey.
Also on the agenda is a proposed ordinance charging a “police services” fee of $250 when police are called to break up a loud party.
The council will meet at 5 p.m. in closed session and at 6 p.m. in regular meeting at 2000 Main St. (at Yorktown Ave.)