By Joel Thompson

LEBANON -- A contract dispute may result in the city losing the historical Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad at the end of the year. The historic train runs along 5 miles of track leased by the railroad company from the city. The train company's lease costs them $5,250 yearly, while the city spends around $200,000 annually to maintain the tracks. Even though the "Council members universally like having the train there", with decreases in attendance over recent years, and the city facing declining revenue from the state, councilman Jeff Monroe said "There is no room for negotiation'.

The railroad may find a new home in the nearby city of Mason or Canal Winchester, 15 miles outside of Columbus. Mason has offered to help promote the railroad along with parking while Canal Winchester offers free advertising. Both cities would provide free use of the rail lines.

Source:Cincinnati.com