By Elaine Trumpey
Original Article
LEBANON – After investing $5.5 million in major renovations to the Golden Lamb Restaurant over the last two years, owners are looking for some financial help from the city.
The Portman and Mullinger families have incurred extraordinary expenses in making repairs and updates to the historic 200-year-old inn and restaurant, according to Steve Mullinger.
The renovations are essentially complete, but owners want to continue to make improvements, Mullinger said.
Utility rate credits that would forgive part of the electric bill might help, he said. Tax credits were another possibility mentioned during Monday’s council work session.
“I’m not feeling that cash is the answer,” Mayor Amy Brewer said.
The city has helped the business in several ways over the two-year course of the project, including waiving building permit fees. That waiver saved the Golden Lamb $10,000.
The city has also guided the restaurant’s owners to apply for tax credits offered through an Ohio historic preservation tax credit program in addition to those granted through a community reinvestment program.
“It’s a gem,” said council member Charleen Flick, who voiced her support for working with the business.
In the next two weeks, Mullinger will prepare a list that prioritizes and puts a timeline on the restaurant’s needs.
Council members will then consider additional help for the downtown landmark at its next work session on Aug. 4.
