COLUMBUS – Having passed a referendum last year to keep the former Columbus Town Hall in the hands of taxpayers, residents are still uncertain of the fate of the 210-year-old building.

Columbus Town officials called a public meeting Tuesday to hear options from The Chazen Companies, the engineering firm that was contracted by the town earlier this year to assess damages to the building located along State Route 80.

A report done by Chazen outlines a number of significant damages, including a deteriorating foundation, drainage issues that are damaging the foundation, poor insulating around the windows, deteriorating floor beams, and sagging on the east side wall that compromises the structure’s stability.

The report does not consider mechanical, electrical or plumbing issues.

The report concludes that the building is “in poor condition, and requires significant repairs in order to put the building back into service.” Engineers recommend upgrades to meet egress, fire, ADA and energy code guidelines; therefore, the township ought to consider the cost benefit of making repairs versus new construction.

Since May, The building has gone largely unused due to structural damages that make it unsafe for use, as deemed by building inspectors and engineers. However, adhering to the desires of voters, members of the Columbus Town Board are proceeding with an investigation of alternatives that may allow it to be refurbished.

Town officials discussed their options with The Chazen Companies in front of a small crowd of residents at Tuesday’s meeting.

“There are some inherent challenges with the property,” said Joseph Lanaro, Chazen’s vice president of engineering services. “The foundation and wall are moving incrementally and it’s at a point where we don’t know. It could be good for another season, but it’s at a condition where it’s unpredictable.”