ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WANE) - Allen County Council has approved a $37 million bond to help fund the Allen County Public Library's master plan. Council approved the funding by a 5-2 vote. This is part of the ACPL's Phase 1 of the master plan. “The approval of this bond is an important step towards ensuring the library remains vibrant for generations to come,” said ACPL Executive Director Susan P. Baier. “Our public libraries are essential resources for education, community engagement, economic development, and access to information. The County Council has voted to protect the taxpayers’ investment and bring this project to reality. We could not do it without them, and they have stepped up in the most impactful way!”  ACPL-Phase-1Download The funding will include renovations, accessibility upgrades, and technology enhancements to all ACPL locations. Part of the plan is to construct a new Aboite branch, heavily renovate the Dupont and Georgetown branches, renovation or build a new library for the Hessen Cassel branch, and the New Haven branch will receive "medium renovations," according to ACPL. The main branch of the library will receive renovations funded partially by the board, and roof/solar/chiller project will be funded by ACPL reserves. While Allen County will provide the $37 million bond, ACPL's reserve funds will contribute $20 million. "The estimated tax impact is $0.0165 per $100 of assessed home value. As an example, a homeowner with an assessed value of $150,000 could anticipate an increase of $10.94 annually. The bonds will also be subject to the existing tax caps," according to the library. The plan will now need approval for Fort Wayne City Council.