In November 2022, following the Trunk or Treat event on the Square, the Mayor observed structural damage to the 1934 Lincoln Community Building. In response, a structural engineer was enlisted to conduct a thorough inspection, ultimately concluding that the building was unsafe for occupancy. Given the deteriorating condition of the walls and other significant issues, repairing the structure was not economically viable. Due to safety concerns, all future community events were canceled, and Christmas on the Square was relocated to the Lincoln Public Library.

 

On November 15th, the city council passed an ordinance officially declaring the building a public hazard, resulting in its closure.

 

In a special election held in May 2023, voters opted to extend the city's 0.625 sales tax to retire the library debt and secure bonds for the construction of a new community building. This upcoming facility will encompass approximately 4,431 square feet, featuring a commercial kitchen, a spacious community room with seating for 176 people arranged at round tables, a storage area, and modern restrooms. The exterior of the new building will be designed with brick to harmonize with the library's aesthetic. Additionally, the city plans to integrate a plaque from the 1930s structure into the new building and incorporate some of the original brick into the construction. The new community building will boast two porches, with the front entrance facing Main Street, a convenient drive-up kitchen area, and easily accessible men's and women's restrooms accessible from the exterior.