Clinton-area library asks council for $371,030 appropriation to replace failing HVAC and control mold concerns

The director of the county library told the Vermillion County Council that a long-running failure of the building’s HVAC system has left the downstairs gymnasium without climate control and prompted mold and odor problems that are disrupting programming. The director asked the council for an additional appropriation of $371,030, saying the funds would pay for a system of mini-split units to provide zoned HVAC and humidity control. "We currently have no working HVAC in the library," the director said, describing mold on tables and water coming up through floors this summer and noting ongoing program impacts. The library presented bids and said it had selected AirServe of Terre Haute after receiving multiple quotes; AirServe and other firms told the library that parts and labor availability may delay scheduling. Council members and staff discussed advertising and procurement timelines for an additional appropriation and agreed a short special meeting would be scheduled so the library can begin work promptly if the council approves. County staff said the earliest newspaper placement would allow a potential meeting on September 29 and that contractors indicated materials ordering could begin once the county provides authorization to proceed; members discussed whether to put an upfront deposit to secure materials. The council directed staff to advertise the special meeting and said they would consider the additional appropriation at that session; no formal appropriation was made at the budget hearing.