On June 24, 2025, residents of Huntington Beach will cast their votes in a special election to decide the fate of Measure A, a proposal that seeks to restructure the city’s public library governance. The measure has sparked significant debate within the community, as it suggests replacing the current 21-member board, which is appointed by the city council, with a smaller, more streamlined library board structure.
The proposal comes at a time when local governments across the U.S. are examining how best to manage public institutions, including libraries, to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability. In Huntington Beach, where residents have long held strong opinions about the role of local government, Measure A is dividing the community. Supporters believe that a smaller board will be more efficient and responsive, while opponents argue that it will reduce public oversight and community representation in library matters.
What Measure A Proposes
Currently, the Huntington Beach Library Board is composed of 21 members who are appointed by the city council. Critics of the current system argue that this large board has led to slow decision-making and a lack of flexibility when it comes to addressing the evolving needs of the community’s libraries.
Measure A proposes to downsize the board to just 7 members, all of whom would be elected by the residents of Huntington Beach. This smaller board would have greater autonomy to make decisions about library funding, programming, and overall direction, without needing to navigate the complex politics of a larger, council-appointed board.
Supporters of Measure A argue that a smaller, elected board would be more accountable to the public and more in tune with the community’s needs. They also believe that it would streamline decision-making, allowing for more nimble responses to budget constraints and shifting priorities in the digital age.
“The current system is outdated,” said Mayor Kimberly Young. “A smaller, more efficient board will allow us to move forward with more dynamic programming and ensure our libraries are equipped to meet the challenges of the future.”
Opposition to Measure A
Opponents of the measure, however, worry that reducing the size of the board will limit public input and potentially lead to a concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals. They argue that the 21-member board currently ensures diverse viewpoints and provides a broader range of expertise in managing library services. Many believe that reducing the number of board members could make it easier for political influence to dictate library decisions.
“This proposal could undermine the democratic process,” said Sarah Lewis, a former library board member. “By having a smaller board, we risk excluding voices that represent the diverse community of Huntington Beach, especially those who rely on library services the most.”
Additionally, critics are concerned that a smaller board could lead to less transparency in decision-making. With fewer members and potentially more centralized authority, there may be fewer opportunities for residents to have a direct say in library policies.
The Impact on Huntington Beach’s Libraries
Huntington Beach has long been proud of its public library system, which serves a diverse population with various educational programs, children’s events, and digital resources. The city’s libraries are an integral part of the community, offering everything from literacy programs to access to digital technology for underserved populations.
The outcome of the election will have a significant impact on the future direction of the library system. If Measure A passes, the new board will have the power to determine funding allocations, library hours, and programming priorities. The shift toward a smaller, elected board could also open the door to new initiatives, such as expanded digital resources and greater community engagement through workshops and events.
However, if the measure fails, the current board structure will remain in place, and the city will continue with the status quo, which many believe is inefficient for managing the growing needs of the community.
What’s at Stake for Voters
For voters, the decision is clear: whether to prioritize efficiency and autonomy with a smaller board, or maintain the current system that is seen by some as more inclusive but perhaps too cumbersome. As election day approaches, the debate is expected to intensify, with local groups on both sides of the issue continuing to rally support.
Voter turnout is expected to be high, as residents of Huntington Beach are passionate about the role of their libraries in the community. Whether or not Measure A passes, it is clear that the debate over library governance will continue to shape public discussions about the future of local institutions and the role of community involvement in decision-making.
