After dealing with a week of nasty emails and phone calls from irate citizens spouting rumors of the closing of Lyon County libraries, commissioners took the opportunity at today’s (2/18/10) commission meeting to publicly respond.

Speaking during Public Participation in response to concerns expressed by one of several residents in attendance because of the rumors, Commissioner Phyllis Hunewill said the reports of library closings were lies and Library Director Theresa Kenniston should apologize to the board. 

Hunewill’s comments:

“I want everyone to know the rumor was a lie and I will just call it a lie right out.  We have never had a discussion about closing any of the facilities within this county. That rumor came from the Library Director and I think it is very important that she comes here to this Lyon County Commission meeting and apologize to us, because all of us have been getting phone calls and emails and it has taken a lot of time trying to explain to everyone, because we’re concerned also about the libraries.  We have no idea where this information came from that we have even thought about closing any of our libraries; so, I want you to be reassured it has not even been discussed.  I think we are owed an apology.”

In response to a resident suggesting it might have started with statements the Governor has made regarding budget cuts, Hunewill said, “No, I’m sorry, but we are the ones who set the budget for the libraries in our county.  I want to set the record straight.”

Commission Chairman Joe Mortenson supported Hunewill’s statement, noting “There has been no discussion on part of the commission as far as the any library closures are concerned.  The budget agenda item (later today) may reference it (libraries), but as far as library closures, it is all rumor.  We haven’t discussed closures or anything pertaining to the libraries.”