The city council unanimously approved agenda item F6 on Oct. 16 to award a GMP proposal to replace the Sunshine Center’s aging HVAC system, a project city staff said was necessary after recurring mold and air-quality issues.

Project details: Raul Quintana from City Engineering described the HVAC replacement as a like‑for‑like installation of roughly 20 pieces of mechanical equipment—principally rooftop units and split systems—intended to extend building service life about 15 years. Staff said the system is approximately 18 years old, and the plan calls for procurement lead times of about 12 weeks with work scheduled for a February–June construction window. Parks and Recreation representative Rick Craft told council the city has spent roughly $400,000 in the last 10 years on repairs at the facility, including temporary HVAC fixes and mold remediation that prompted the current project.

Council discussion and broader planning: While council members endorsed the immediate repair to ensure occupant safety and air quality, several members urged the administration to begin a larger conversation about the Sunshine Center’s future. Council Member Brandy Gabbard asked administration to accelerate a PSNI (public services and infrastructure) referral on reimagining the site that could include a modern senior center with potential housing above; administration said it would bring options to committee and discuss Penny funding and alternative ideas such as relocating or constructing a new facility at a different site.

Vote and next steps: The council approved the GMP award unanimously. Administration said it will prepare committee materials to initiate a broader planning discussion early next year and to coordinate funding options, including penny funds and potential bond considerations.