The LaSalle County Public Safety Committee approved initiating a project to replace the jail’s air‑conditioning system and authorized financing steps to draw the project out of the public‑safety fund. Committee members were presented an architect’s estimate and an explanation that replacement work is best done in winter because of the complexity of equipment and site access.

County staff and the county architect, identified in discussion as Kurt Remley, provided an overview of the issue: the existing unit is in the basement with components that must be moved inside and outside and that the unusual location will complicate replacement work. County staff reported refrigerant leaks and multiple failures during the recent heat season. The Highway Department supplied an opinion of probable construction cost; staff estimated the project might run “about $800 to $900,000,” including design and third‑party commissioning fees.

Committee members discussed funding sources, including a quarter‑cent public‑safety fund and potential use of ARP money for portions of the scope; one commissioner asked whether any ARP funds were available to offset the cost. Members agreed the work is necessary for infrastructure and inmate/staff safety.

A motion to pay for the jail air‑conditioning replacement from the public‑safety fund and to proceed with drawings and bid preparation was made by Craig, seconded by Ray. The committee voted by voice; the chair announced “Motion carries.” The committee instructed staff to proceed with design and to coordinate contracting and budget steps with finance, noting architect and contractor selection will follow the county bidding process.

No detailed bid award was made at the meeting; members were informed the opinion of probable cost is preliminary and that the project will go out for formal bids before construction.