County facilities staff on Sept. 2 briefed the County Property Committee on a range of maintenance and capital issues at the courthouse and jail, reporting completed repairs, ongoing work and budget-planning questions tied to fund 28.

Facilities staff reported that a sewage pump serving the jail had been removed and cleaned after becoming clogged with plastic bags, rope and other debris. The pump impeller was locked; staff said they replaced a corroded band with a stainless-steel band and returned the pump to service. Facilities staff warned that replacing a pump destroyed by such debris could cost about $56,000 plus contractor fees if a full replacement were required.

On jail air-conditioning, staff said the 26-year-old system has limited parts availability. Carrier technicians repaired and welded cracked piping and restored three of four compressors to working order; one compressor still requires an oil-seal (o-ring) repair that may require evacuating refrigerant and partial disassembly. County staff and a mechanical engineer are reviewing installation options because new refrigerants carry higher flammability and drive new ventilation requirements; staff said they are investigating exterior or roof-mounted units to meet the updated safety and ventilation standards.

Facilities staff also described other courthouse work: repairing a water leak in a courthouse office with plaster ceilings, replacing a door for the state’s attorney that will receive an access fob, cleaning and floor buffing in downtown public areas, and installing heat and air in the Big Martin building to support vehicle and equipment maintenance. Staff presented photographs of cracked tile and wear in a courtroom, and noted plans to add LED lighting and expand electrical distribution in certain buildings.

Committee members raised budgeting issues: staff said proposed office upgrades (new flooring, painting, carpet or vinyl) could total about $24,000 for certain state's attorney spaces, but those requests would be part of next year’s capital planning and fund 28 discussions. At the meeting staff confirmed fund 28 had not yet been worked out and that project lists will be presented for committee and budget consideration. Staff also reported that window and door replacement schedules remain uncertain because manufacturers and suppliers are delayed; a vendor told staff that many school projects are occupying lead times.

No formal committee votes were taken on the maintenance items; staff said specific engineering proposals and cost estimates will return to the committee or finance for consideration. The facilities presentations included multiple photographs and detailed operational descriptions but did not include binding budget approvals at the Sept. 2 meeting.