Trustees agree to get more details on $12,200 LED conversion quote for can lights

The Franklin Public Library board received an estimate to convert recessed fluorescent can lights to LED fixtures that was described in the meeting as “worse than $12,200,” but trustees declined to act until staff provides more information. Library staff reported that the building’s recessed can lights currently use fluorescent fixtures and that conversion to LED would require replacing ballasts and, in some fixtures, the whole housing. Jennifer relayed the contractor’s initial estimate: converting the can lights would cost about $12,200; she said she had not received full documentation from Danielle (project contact) and recommended staff obtain more details. Board members questioned how often fluorescent bulbs are replaced, the efficiency payback period and whether a simple LED bulb substitution would suffice in some fixtures. “If we can put an LED bulb in there, then why replace the whole fixture?” one trustee asked; staff and trustees discussed ballasts and fixture compatibility. The board asked staff to consult Joe (city staff) and the contractor for specifics about which fixtures require housing/ballast replacement and any long-term savings calculations. The board voted to table the lighting decision pending additional information from the contractor and staff. Mike Karlovitz seconded the motion to table and the motion carried. Trustees directed staff to report back with a detailed quote, fixture counts, expected energy savings and an estimated payback period so the board can evaluate budget and timing.