MECHANIC FALLS — The Town Council on Monday approved forming a Public Safety Committee to make recommendations on the future of municipal facilities.

Town Manager Zakk Maher listed four objectives of the committee:

1. Assess the assets and facilities used by the Public Works, Police and Fire departments.

2. Develop capital investment plans for the facilities utilized by the departments.

3. Research feasibility and financing options.

4. Make recommendations to the Town Council for the best course of action.

The committee will consist of the Maher, one representative each from the Public Works, Police and Fire departments, a town councilor and one member each from the Development Commission, Planning Board and Budget Committee.

Residents Peggy Emery and Sandra Ballard asked councilors the current status of the former medical building, which the town agreed to purchase for a town office and public library.

“I am very concerned about this whole matter,” Emery said. “ We’ve gotten so many different stories that are going around.”

Maher said because of the federal government shutdown, authorization of the floor plan by the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been delayed and therefore, no estimates on interior renovation can be requested.

Emery said the former medical building on Pleasant Street was bought without knowing how much space was available inside.

And when the town considered moving the library to the former railroad depot building next to the post office, she said, “I think there were a lot of secrets going around.” The plan was voted down at a special town meeting.

Councilor Nick Konstantoulakis answered: “Honest to God, there were no secrets. At the time it seemed like a great idea, it really did. We saw an opportunity and we jumped on it.”

Konstantoulakis said: “We’re trying to make it right. Bear with us.”