MECHANIC FALLS — The Town Council on Monday put off signing the deed for the church at 64 Elm St. until there’s a clause prohibiting the new owner from taking out a mortgage on the property.

The local Mission Committee of the Anglican Church of America’s Northeast Diocese wants the former First Congregational Church building which serves as headquarters for the Historical Society.

Councilman Wayne Hackett noted that the town was giving the property to the Anglican Church at no cost and with the hope that it could put the historic building to good community use. He said he wanted to make sure the church didn’t borrow a large sum of money, potentially leaving the town holding the bag should the church fail to develop as envisioned.

The rest of the council agreed, as did representatives of the church group.

Town Manager Koriene Low was directed to have the town’s attorney add the condition on the deed and authorized her to sign it. Low said it should take no more than a few days.

The transfer also carries the condition that the Historical Society continue to use the building.

Barry Vaill, spokesperson for the local mission of the Anglican Church, said he was extremely appreciative for all the town has done for his group and noted that they have made great strides in preparing the church for its first service on Nov. 23, the day before Thanksgiving.

In other business:

* The council met with Fire Chief Fred Sturtevant to discuss his plans to replace the rescue vehicle. Because it’s not used to transport people, he is considering a multiuse vehicle, such as a Chevrolet Suburban, he said. The council encouraged him to continue with his plans and report back.

* The council approved the renewal of the liquor license for the Village Pizzeria.

* Low told the council that the four signs welcoming people to the town are either in poor condition or missing. She was directed to look into the cost and include a proposal for next year’s budget.

* Low reminded council members that their December meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a public hearing on whether to continue having Yates Street one way with parking on one side.

* She reminded townspeople that the winter parking ban on town roads begins Nov. 15 and continues to April 15.

* Low announced that municipal offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day.