The Capital Outlay Committee received an update Oct. 2 on heating, ventilation and air-conditioning work at the county jail, where multiple rooftop units need parts or repairs. Maintenance staff said parts have been ordered and purchase orders pulled; work is focusing on heating components ahead of colder weather.

Why it matters: The jail’s HVAC condition affects facility operations and the safety and comfort of staff and detainees; completing heating repairs before cold weather is a priority.

Rick, the county maintenance supervisor, told the committee that about six units have parts on order and several others are waiting for parts that are several weeks out. “They promise within the next 3 weeks that all the heating issues will be taken care of,” Rick said. He added the situation shifts as units fail; recently a compressor was struck by lightning and failed, creating unplanned work.

Committee members said they and staff have met repeatedly with the vendor (Lee Company) to press for faster response and to ensure quotes and repair orders are shared with county staff. Rick and other staff said they have been receiving quotes, coordinating orders and prioritizing heat repairs. The committee asked staff to continue updates at future meetings.