County certifies generator project completion, orders disconnection and relocation of older units for storage or reuse

Nueces County commissioners on Sept. 24 approved certificates of substantial completion for recently installed emergency generators serving the courthouse, main jail and McKinley (McKinsey) annex and authorized the disconnection and removal of five older diesel generators. Public Works staff told the court that several of the older generators have exceeded expected useful life and carry environmental monitoring obligations because they contain underground diesel storage tanks.

The court authorized Public Works to disconnect the older units, drain fuel and prepare them for relocation to a county yard or other county‑determined site while staff evaluate repurposing options. Commissioners discussed potential reuse at county facilities such as the fairgrounds or the Calderon/Robstown clinic site, and asked Public Works and facilities staff to assess load compatibility and maintenance obligations before relocation.

Why it matters: The action reduces the county’s regulatory reporting burden for underground fuel tanks and positions some usable equipment for redeployment at county facilities rather than paying for rented temporary generators during emergencies. County staff cautioned the court that any unit kept in reserve will require routine maintenance and monitoring, which carries ongoing cost and operational responsibilities.

Next steps: Public Works will locate storage, perform required tank empties and environmental steps to remove TCEQ monitoring obligations, and present a prioritized list of potential reuse sites and estimated maintenance costs for commissioners’ approval.