The Eagle Point School District 9 held a work session on September 13, 2024, focusing on significant upgrades to the school's HVAC system. The meeting addressed the ongoing challenges and solutions related to the replacement of aging equipment, particularly the chiller, which is crucial for maintaining comfortable temperatures in the building.

The discussion began with an overview of the current state of the HVAC system, highlighting that the existing chiller, approximately 20 years old, is operating at only 75% capacity. This inefficiency has led to discomfort during extreme weather conditions, such as the recent 105-degree days. The need for a complete replacement of the chiller was emphasized, as ongoing repairs have become impractical due to outdated refrigerants and space constraints in the mechanical room.

The district plans to replace the chiller with a modular unit that fits the existing space without requiring structural modifications. This new model promises increased efficiency and is expected to arrive in October, with installation scheduled for the winter. The project is part of a broader initiative that includes various energy efficiency measures, supported by incentives from the Energy Trust of Oregon, amounting to $587,000. Overall, the HVAC upgrades are projected to cost $1.5 million, with significant funding sourced from ESSER funds, alleviating the need for additional budget allocations from the district.

The meeting also covered the progress made on other HVAC-related improvements, including ductwork adjustments and the installation of energy recovery ventilators. Despite these advancements, some issues remain, particularly with the control systems, which are still being fine-tuned. The district is committed to ensuring that maintenance of the new equipment will be handled internally, with plans for segmented training for staff to manage the new systems effectively.

Looking ahead, the discussion touched on potential future expansions of the school facilities. While the current system has been designed with some capacity for future growth, any significant expansion would necessitate additional equipment and infrastructure investments. The timeline for completing the current upgrades is projected for around spring break 2025, pending the arrival and installation of the new chiller and energy recovery ventilators.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to enhancing the HVAC system, ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students while also addressing long-term energy efficiency goals. The collaborative efforts with the Energy Trust and careful planning for future needs reflect a commitment to maintaining and improving school facilities.