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District 204 identifies South Campus condensate‑tank failure, seeks competitive quotes for emergency replacement
Summary
Facilities staff reported a failing 50‑year‑old condensate tank at South Campus; administrators requested authority to replace the tank, estimated at $78,960 in the first quote while they pursue additional bids and said delivery lead time may be roughly 14 weeks.
District 204 facilities staff notified the school board that a condensate tank serving the South Campus steam‑boiler system failed during the spring and that a replacement is needed to prevent elevated water and chemical makeup costs and risk of complete failure.
Why it matters: The condensate tank returns steam condensate to the boiler; running without it forces the plant to consume large volumes of fresh water and chemicals and risks equipment damage. Administrators said the tank is roughly 50 years old and that replacement should be scheduled to avoid heating‑season failures.
What was presented: Building and grounds director Brad Drake told the board the district attempted repairs through a vessel‑repair firm that could not restore the unit. The district has received one replacement quote of $78,960 (vendor and equipment lead times included) and is seeking two to three additional quotes; Drake told the board he expected additional quotes by the end of the week. He said delivery lead time is approximately 14 weeks and installation about two weeks after delivery.
Board response and next steps: Administrators asked the board for authority to move forward as soon as comparable bids are received. The administration said if a vendor can provide an apples‑to‑apples price under $50,000 the board will not need to take further action; otherwise staff will return to the August 18 meeting with a recommendation for formal board approval. No emergency contract was awarded at the meeting.
Technical note: Drake explained the condensate system components and the risk of continuing operations without the tank. Board members asked whether new equipment connections and piping were included in the quote; Drake confirmed the vendor’s quote includes replacement of piping, valves and controls necessary for installation.
Ending: Facilities staff will pursue additional competitive quotes, and administration will return with an approval recommendation if the low bid exceeds the district’s $50,000 in‑house purchasing threshold.
