For some time, the Courthouse has experienced service interruptions in elevator service, Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner said, speaking to the County Commission Wednesday morning. Now, the troublesome elevator will be remodeled after commissioners approved a $122,300 contract for the improvements. 

It has been suggested that part of the problem is due to the mechanics being housed on the roof, he said. The modernization of the unit to be done by CABB Elevators of Whitewater will include electrical components, power unit, wiring, hydraulic oil, piston and cylinder.

Capital Improvement funds will be used for the upgrade. However, state tax credits will cover about 30% of the cost, he said.

And, the county is currently paying $350 per month for elevator maintenance. CABB is offering one year of no maintenance costs, and noted that the rebuild will extend the life of the unit about 40-50 years.

The work will be done while the Courthouse is shut down for the HVAC replacement project.

“This is not something we want to do,” commission Chairman Shawn Hutchinson said, referring to the cost. But, having that access to the building’s upper floors is crucial.