Bethlehem voters strike down $37M project to renovate library

BETHLEHEM, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- A proposal to renovate and expand the Bethlehem Town Library was defeated on Thursday. The unofficial numbers from the library's board of trustees said there were 3,213 votes against and 1,636 votes in favor. There are still 529 absentee ballots to be counted.

Supporters said the current building does not have enough space to meet the community's needs. The library has not had any significant upgrades in almost 50 years.

The $37 million project would have called for tax increases.

In a statement, the board said, "On behalf of the library’s Board of Trustees, we’d like to thank everyone who voted in the bond referendum today. Although the referendum did not pass, the library remains committed to providing excellent service to our community. We have been so grateful for everyone who has taken the time to share their thoughts – in favor and against – and learn more about the building and renovation. We will continue to gather feedback to guide us as we move forward."