The Sunnyside Unified District is taking significant steps to address urgent air conditioning needs at Desert View High School, where a failing HVAC system has raised health and safety concerns for its 2,000 students. During a recent Governing Board meeting, district officials discussed plans for a comprehensive design study and procurement process to replace the aging cooling towers and related systems, with an estimated cost of $3.5 million.

The current air conditioning unit, which has been in operation for approximately 40 years, has struggled to maintain comfortable temperatures, particularly during peak afternoon hours. Last week, the system experienced a failure, prompting the district to quickly replace it with a rental unit to ensure students remain comfortable and safe. This temporary solution, however, comes at a high cost and is not sustainable long-term.

To expedite the replacement process, district officials are considering utilizing a job order contracting method, which would allow them to bypass some of the typical procurement delays. This approach could significantly shorten the timeline for getting a new system in place, which is crucial given that the current rental unit is only a stopgap measure. The district is also exploring funding options through the School Facilities Board, although competition for state funds is fierce, with only $200 million allocated statewide for school facility projects.

The board is expected to authorize the use of the job order contracting process, which would enable the district to solicit bids from multiple qualified vendors. This strategy aims to ensure that the district receives the best possible service and pricing for the new HVAC system. Additionally, warranties for the new equipment will be a key consideration in the procurement process, providing assurance against future failures.

As the district moves forward, officials are committed to keeping the community informed about the progress and any potential impacts on school operations. The urgency of this project underscores the importance of reliable infrastructure in maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for students.