By SHAWN STREET, shawn@virginiamediainc.com
The Lebanon Town Council is considering how to honor businesses that have been active in the town for a long period of time.
The issue was put on the June 8 agenda at the request of Mayor Tony Dodi.
Dodi said in recent weeks Clerk of the Council, Diane Nunley, has been placing the names of long term businesses on the town hall’s digital sign as a way of thanking them for their service to the town.
Dodi added that he would like to do more to honor such businesses, some of which have been in operation for more than 100 years.
He asked council members to consider how many years a business should be in operation for the reorganization. Council members are expected to give their input during the July meeting.
The Lebanon Town Hall is expected to get an upgrade in its “curb appeal” later this year. Architect Nathan Brown presented plans to plant vegetation around the building and water fountain.
Brown said it would be the same types of flowers that currently grow in roadway medians.
The project is expected to cost between $33,000-45,000.
Each fiscal year the council sets aside in the budget up to $10,000 to help town residents in times of disaster. Currently the housing allowance has $5,000 remaining in the current budget that expires at the end of the month.
Town Manager Drew Short asked the board to consider donating the remaining funds to the Isaiah 117 House. Short made the request on behalf of council member Scott Gilmer who was unable to attend the June meeting.
“That’s a good thing to do,” Dodi said.
Deanna Jackson made the motion to honor the request, which was seconded by Elijah Leonard. The motion passed unanimously.
Isaiah 117 House is a temporary home for children as they enter into the foster system.
