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Council told City Hall elevator 1 has been out since Sept. 2023; staff seeks direction to bid $500,000–$900,000 system replacement
Summary
City staff told the Joplin City Council that Elevator 1 has been shut since September 2023 and repeated repairs failed; estimates to modernize the control/drive systems for all three elevators run roughly $500,000–$900,000 and would require a budget amendment and a spring bid process if the council directs staff to proceed.
City staff told the Joplin City Council that at least one City Hall elevator has been out of service since September 2023 and that repeated repairs failed because replacement parts for the existing drive system are no longer available.
"We've been pretty disappointed with our service agreement," the presenter, Mr. Johnson, said, describing troubleshooting since September 2023 and noting attempts to replace circuit boards and overseas repairs that did not guarantee a fix. He said estimates to modernize all three elevators — to put them on the current 2018 code and to standardize systems — range from about $500,000 to $900,000.
The city staff recommended bidding a modernization package if the council wants to proceed. Johnson told the council that a full replacement would require a budget amendment, that staff could prepare bid documents this spring, and that work could be completed by fall if the council directs staff to move forward.
Councilmembers pressed for practical details: how the three elevators would operate if one system were modernized, what portions of the system would be replaced (controls and drive cabinets rather than traction motors), whether utilities or other upcoming work would conflict with overlay or other projects, and how long current motors could be expected to last. Johnson said the motors and mechanical traction equipment installed in 2006 should have a life expectancy of roughly 30–35 years and that parts being replaced now are the control and drive systems housed in the cabinets.
Several councilmembers signaled support for replacing the control systems rather than pursuing short-term repairs. Councilmember Lawson asked staff to bring a full recommendation (including funding sources) at the next meeting; staff said funding could come from capital improvement sales tax, reserves, or a combination and that funding specifics would be provided when a bid award is presented.
Next steps: staff will prepare bid documents if the council confirms the direction to pursue replacement and will return with a funding recommendation and award for council consideration.
