Lebanon staff: proposed Boys & Girls Club lease for 226 Mascoma St. under council review

City staff updated the Lebanon Economic Development Commission that the city manager was authorized by the council to negotiate a lease with the Boys & Girls Club for the city‑owned parcel at 226 Mascoma Street after a previously considered site at Seminary Hill became unavailable. Staff said the club is still evaluating whether the awkwardly shaped, narrow parcel next to Valley Cemetery would meet capacity and program needs.

"It would be for $1 a year," the staff member said when describing the proposed lease terms, and added the arrangement would include a 40‑year term with two 10‑year extensions under the preliminary proposal. Staff emphasized that any final agreement would return to the council and to planning and zoning boards for formal review and public comment.

Commissioners pressed for practical details: whether the lot could accommodate play areas, parking and the ADA‑required first‑floor space needed for infant care, and how a two‑story building would affect elevator and egress needs. Staff said those operational questions are part of the Club's current evaluation and that the project would not proceed without confirming the site can meet program standards.

The commission did not take action; staff said the proposal will come back to council and to the planning process where the public will have additional opportunities to comment.