The City of Lebanon is inviting comments on a grant it intends to apply for in order to expand the Lebanon Public Library.
The city is eligible to apply for a 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from Business Oregon, which would provide funding for public facilities and housing improvements, primarily for persons with low and moderate incomes.
The city intends to apply for the grant to add approximately 1,200 square feet to the public library at 55 Academy St. The addition will expand the children’s area and provide dedicated space for Storytimes, STEM programs, crafts, book clubs and other youth activities. It is estimated that the project will benefit at least 66,156 persons, of whom 59.6% are low- or moderate-income.
A public hearing will be held by the Lebanon City Council at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, at the City of Lebanon Public Library, 55 Academy St. The hearing gives the City Council an opportunity to obtain citizen views about the project, but also to respond to questions and comments about community development and housing needs, especially the needs of low- and moderate-income persons, as well as other needs in the community that might be assisted with a CDBG project.
The location of the hearing is accessible to persons with disabilities. Those needing special accommodations to attend or participate may contact Julie Fisher at 541-258-4264.
Written comments are also welcome and must be received by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, at 925 Main St., Lebanon, Oregon, 97355. Both oral and written comments will be considered by the Lebanon City Council in deciding whether to apply.
Approximately $11 million will be awarded to Oregon non-metropolitan cities and counties in 2026. The maximum grant that a city or county can receive is $1.5 million. CDBG funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
More information about Oregon CDBGs, the proposed project and records about the city’s past use of the grant funds is available for public review at City Hall, 925 Main St., Lebanon during regular office hours. Advance notice is requested.