The Lebanon Redevelopment Commission on Monday voted to award an $81,800 façade grant to the owner of 115 West Main Street to support exterior rehabilitation that staff described as a preservation-focused refresh.

Staff member Derek Warren outlined the project and bid estimates, saying the work would restore historic window openings, fill nonhistoric cuts, install new storefront windows and doors, repaint the façade, replace awning material and reconfigure a rear entrance to improve safety. "So tonight, what's in front of you is 115 West Main Street, and the best way to describe this project is kind of an overall refresh, preservation of the building," Warren said while presenting archival photos and the scope.

Warren listed six qualifying components with two sets of contractor estimates. The low-bid totals were $176,800 and the high-bid totals $187,252.94. Component low bids included window and door framing at $76,300, glazing and windows at $60,550, exterior painting at about $14,500, masonry repairs at $20,250, exterior illumination at roughly $1,700 and awning reconstruction at $3,500.

Under Resolution 2023-03, the project falls in category 6 (estimated cost of improvements $150,000–$200,000), which places the owner's required share at $95,000 and a maximum eligible grant of $105,000. Warren said staff recommended an RDC award of $81,800 toward the project.

Robert Crawford, who identified himself as owner of 115 West Main Street and nearby properties, thanked the commission and said he brought paint samples. "My name is Robert Crawford, owner of 115 West Main Street," Crawford said. He told commissioners he plans to use brighter, historically informed colors to enliven the block.

A commissioner moved to award the recommended grant; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. After the vote, the commission discussed other downtown properties that may need larger interventions, with Warren noting the program's success and the potential to adjust grant language for very large restoration projects such as the Heflin Building.

Votes at a glance:
• Approval of meeting minutes from Nov. 10 — motion carried on voice vote.
• Façade grant: Award $81,800 to 115 West Main Street — motion carried on voice vote.
• Claims: Motion to pay claims — motion carried on voice vote.
• Adjournment: Motion carried on voice vote.

The commission took no other new business and adjourned after approving claims. Staff and the applicant indicated work and permitting steps will follow the award; a timeline for construction was not specified.