Museum funding

A near-lifelong resident argued parks are essential to community gatherings and festivals, the museum preserves Independence's story for youth and newcomers, and the library is a lifeline for those without internet. He urged voter registration and education efforts so levies can pass instead of relying on fees.

A longtime resident and former board member described surveying shoppers outside grocery stores and finding most don't use Facebook — meaning the city's survey missed much of the community. She said people of all ages want parks, library and museum kept open, even at $20-$40 more.

A museum volunteer and history student, he described the hands-on restoration work and community connections the museum provides, urging its prioritization.

A museum volunteer, he described archival work on 1910 photo albums documenting Monmouth-Independence history and argued the museum preserves the community's diverse heritage.