DALTON, Mass. — After four years, a pandemic, and renovations to Town Hall, the Select Board is meeting again in the Callahan Room on a trial basis.

 

In 2021, the Select Board relocated its meeting location from the Callahan Room to the Senior Center; however, some members now want to move back. 

 

The board will hold its meetings in the Callahan Room for August and September to see how it goes. 

 

"We belong in Town Hall. We belong in the Callahan Room. That's what it's there for. That's where we should be," Select Board member John Boyle said. 

 

"We're not supposed to be here. This was temporary … We are supposed to be in the Town Hall, the seat of government, in the Callahan Room. And I don't see why we wouldn't return there, at least on a trial basis."

 

Boyle highlighted that holding their meeting in Town Hall is easier for staff because all their files are readily available and can be accessed immediately. 

 

"If it doesn't go well, we'll move back," Select Board chair Robert Bishop Jr. said. 

 

Select Board Vice Chairman Daniel Esko and board member Tony Pagliarulo expressed concerns about moving back to the town hall on a permanent basis.

 

Esko questioned the move, considering the town hall lift is still out of order; however, board members demonstrated that accommodations could be made with advance notice, using the library lift instead. 

 

"Certainly, we can try it, but I believe this is a superior meeting location for the general public than the Callahan Room. It might be more convenient for staff, but it's certainly not more convenient for the general public," he said. 

 

Pagliarulo emphasized the need to get input from citizens before making a permanent change. 

 

"I understand. I can see both sides but in all fairness, this is a very comfortable space. It's handicapped accessible, [and] parking is easy," he said. 

 

The board has had well-attended meetings at the Senior Center; however, prior to the move, the Callahan Room had been able to accommodate the larger crowds, Boyle said. 

 

The format of the Senior Center layout is not good because board members can not look at each other when talking directly to their fellow members, he said.