Oregon Public Broadcasting


Federal and state leaders have announced a new Veterans’ Home to be built in the city of Lebanon. The 150 bed-facility will provide extended care for veterans who’ve undergone surgery, or have other acute needs. Linn County Commissioner Roger Nyquist said the news could not have come at a better time for an area averaging twelve- to fourteen-percent unemployment. 
 
“We’re just really happy. I could do a touchdown dance, but  I don’t have a football today," he said.



The Department of Veterans’ Affairs gave approval for a slightly smaller project than Lebanon initially bid for. But local officials aren’t complaining.  The new facility is expected to cost almost $30 million. The county will have to raise thirty five percent of that. Nyquist said the plan is to ask voters for a property tax levy to cover the local match. Construction is likely to begin in 2012.