DALTON, Mass. — The lift for Town Hall has run into a conflict, Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator Alyssa Maschino informed the committee on Thursday. 

 

According to Hill Engineering, Town Hall could install a vertical lift in the Police Department's closet and go up into the town account's office. However, no one wants to give up the closet or office, she said. 

 

The lift has been out of service since December because of safety concerns. In the meantime, people with disabilities can use the lift in the library to access the town hall. 

 

Previous attempts by Garaventa Lift to repair it have been unsuccessful. 

 

Replacing it in the same location is not an option because the new weight limit requirement went from 400 pounds to 650 pounds. Determining whether the current railings can hold 650 pounds is outside the scope of Garaventa's services to the town. 

 

According to a Garaventa Lift representative, a new lift in the same location can be installed, but the railings need to be replaced, committee Chair Patrick Pettit said. 

 

Committee member David Wasielewski asked if Hill Engineering considered installing an elevator on the outside of the building.