Ballot Issues Workshop

Description

Is your library considering going on the local ballot with a new levy, renewing an existing levy, or possibly modifying a levy that’s been in place for some time? This program will provide the information you need as you prepare for your ballot initiative, including:

• the latest levy FAQ from the Auditor of State’s Office
• determining the need and public support for your library levy;
• legal process for placing the issue on the ballot;
• developing the campaign message;
• running the mechanics of a library campaign;
• connecting with the media and developing message strategies; and
• coordinating a lawful campaign

The format of this workshop will address each of these six points and allow time to answer questions.

Intended Audience: Directors, trustees, public relations staff, and other staff who will be involved in the library’s levy education effort.

What’s Included: All handouts, provided by presenters, will be available online through the OLC app. Print them prior to the workshop, view them from your personal device during the event or view/download them after the event. The handouts and a recording of the workshop will be available for 30 days following the program. Attendees will also receive a free digital copy of the OLC publication, Ballot Issues Handbook  – Campaigns 101: The Nuts and Bolts.

NOTE: For those participating online, access information will be sent via email one day prior to the workshop. Please check that your correct email address is listed in the Info Hub.

Continuing Education Credits: For those working toward their Ohio Public Librarian or Ohio Public Library Staff re-certification, this workshop counts as four (4) contact hours of credit.

Core Competencies: Fundraising and Strategic Planning

Agenda

9:45 a.m. | Registration

10 a.m. | Levies – The Basics

Presenter: Jay Smith, Director of Government and Legal Services, OLC

11 a.m. | Break

11:15 a.m. | How We Did It!

Presenter: Cheryl Kuonen, Executive Director, Mentor Public Library

12:30 p.m. | Lunch

1:00 p.m. | Nuts & Bolts of a Successful Levy

Presenter: Galen Schuerlein, Of Counsel/Director of Public Affairs, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP