BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

CANTON – Canton officials are hoping to identify grant funding for an accessibility lift at the municipal building, according to Town Supervisor Jim Smith, who provided an update Sept. 9. 

The decision stems from recent public complaints in which members of the public attended Canton municipal meetings raising complaints about the lack of accessibility for people with physical limitations. 

Several members of the public shared personal experiences they’ve dealt with due to the lack of access and others raised concerns about the impact it had on their family members.

At a recent joint meeting Smith and village Mayor Michael Dalton said the issue would be addressed by the building that includes himself and councilor John Taillon as well as Dalton and Anna Sorensen from the village.

Smith said the committee has tapped Leigh Rodriguez, Canton’s economic developer, to investigate grant possibilities for a lift that would run from the main lobby to the upper floor, providing access to the police department, supervisor’s office, mayor’s office and boardroom. 

The goal is to allow town and village meetings to return to the upstairs boardroom while providing substantially improved accessibility throughout the building. 

Smith said the improvements would improve access throughout the facility.

“It’s a long way from being perfect, but the access would be there,” he said.

The effort follows concerns raised by residents about the building’s accessibility limitations, which can restrict civic participation and make it difficult for some people with mobility disabilities to attend meetings or access government services. 

At a July 29 joint meeting, the town and village boards directed their joint building committee to examine potential solutions, including all building entrances and the possibility of consulting experts. 

Officials have said they are committed to addressing the issue and considering broader accessibility needs in the community, but nothing is set in stone at this time.

Help St. Lawrence County Stay Connected!

We’re glad you read this article reported by the staff of NorthCountryNow.com.

If you haven’t done so already, please consider subscribing to ensure you have full access to all the news and info about St. Lawrence County.

Your subscriptions make it possible for us to provide trustworthy local news, promote our many community events, and encourage community dialogue.

Please click here to subscribe today!