Natrona County staff proposes RFP for third‑party building condition assessments

Garrett, a county staff member, asked the Natrona County Board of County Commissioners on the record to issue a request for proposals for a third‑party buildings condition report covering five county buildings. Garrett said the study would identify structural weaknesses, safety hazards, code violations and help prioritize a five‑ to 10‑year maintenance and capital plan. “The plan will help identify structural weaknesses, safety hazard hazards, and code violations,” Garrett told the commission.

The staff presentation said the RFP would focus on structural systems, mechanical systems (HVAC and major plumbing), elevators, roofing and building envelope, fire and life‑safety systems, and interior and exterior finishes. Garrett specifically cited recent problems with an elevator: staff reported that two county employees from the public defender’s office were briefly stuck on an elevator last week, underscoring the need for a timeline for potential elevator upgrades.

Commissioners asked staff to attach work they have already done to the RFP so bidders understand which items have been inspected or upgraded. Commissioner Mercolais suggested attaching a recent valuation and other background documents so proposers do not duplicate inspections of systems the county has already repaired. Garrett agreed that attaching the valuation would reduce redundant site work.

Commissioners pressed for specificity in the RFP scope so proposals do not produce only a generalized overview. Several asked that the RFP require bidders to separate immediate critical safety concerns from long‑range replacement needs, and to provide a prioritized grading schedule. Commissioner Nicholson urged that the RFP clarify which equipment or systems bidders should exclude because the county has already upgraded them.

No vote was recorded on a formal motion in the transcript. Commissioners and staff discussed timing and next steps: staff said they can attach the existing valuation and refine the RFP language to request prioritized, itemized findings. Commissioners expressed support for moving ahead quickly so the county can plan budget items over coming years rather than react to failures.

The discussion concluded with staff directed to prepare an RFP that includes the county’s existing building valuation and to return with proposed timelines for procurement and the work scope so commissioners can finalize budget planning.

The commissioners and staff discussion is ongoing; no final contract or vendor selection was recorded in the meeting minutes.