During a well-attended Oliver Springs Town Council meeting this week, a primary topic of discussion was a space dispute within the historic depot building between the public library and the Oliver Springs Historical Society. While the Historical Society sought additional room to display archives, library officials argued they needed the space to accommodate a growing number of patrons and activities. Newly hired city attorney John Owings clarified the issue by confirming that the Town of Oliver Springs owns the building and that the library is entitled to utilize the space it requires.

In other business, the Town Council approved a budget resolution that features a 19-cent property tax rate increase, passing with four votes in favor and Alderman Robert Miller opting to pass. Additionally, the council voted to move its second June meeting up by one day to Wednesday, June 17, at 6:30 p.m. due to member scheduling conflicts on the regular Thursday date. This rescheduled meeting will begin with a public hearing on the proposed budget. Prior to the main council session, the town’s Water Board—comprising the Board of Aldermen—approved a 3.9 percent rate increase for city water and sewer customers, though rates for customers living outside the city limits will remain unchanged. The entire meeting discussion will be broadcast by B.B. Communications this Saturday morning at 10 a.m.