Lebanon County officials are grappling with a critical housing development proposal that hinges on a pressing issue: water availability. During the Lebanon County Commissioner Workshop on May 7, 2025, discussions centered on a plan for 36 new rental units, including one and two-bedroom apartments and townhouses, but the project faces significant hurdles due to water supply concerns.

The developer presented plans for the housing project, emphasizing the need for water from the local authority. However, county officials clarified that the county does not own the water authority, which is managed by the city. This distinction is crucial as it raises questions about the availability of water for new developments. One commissioner noted, “I can’t support something that doesn’t have a source of water,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The water authority has indicated that it hopes to expand its supply by the end of 2025, but uncertainty remains. “Everything rides on DEP,” one official remarked, referring to the Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees water management. The timeline for securing water remains unclear, and without it, the housing project cannot move forward.

In addition to the water supply issues, the meeting also touched on the project's potential to address the county's housing shortage. The developer expressed a commitment to creating accessible units for various demographics, including the elderly and young adults. However, the pressing need for water remains the primary obstacle.

As the county awaits further updates from the water authority, the future of this housing project—and the potential relief it could bring to Lebanon County's housing crisis—hangs in the balance. The next steps will be crucial in determining whether this development can proceed and meet the community's urgent housing needs.