Commissioners approve $152,240 West Wing HVAC upgrade for Liberty County Jail after scope questions

The Liberty County Commissioners Court voted to approve a $152,240.40 contract (Gordian with FHP via Sourcewell contract TXR2GC052124‑FHP) to upgrade the West Wing HVAC system at the current Liberty County Jail.

Purchasing staff presented the quote and scope, which the county described as a turnkey price to ensure air handlers 2 and 3 are operational, inspect and rehabilitate or replace air ducts in four dorms as needed, and update sensors and wiring for the building automation system if required. Commissioners questioned whether the lump sum is firm if inspection uncovers replacement items and whether deductions would apply if elements are not needed.

Staff and Gordian representatives said the $152,240.40 figure is the lump sum for the proposed scope; if replacement items are discovered that require additional funds, those would be returned to the court as change orders. Gordian will act as the county's project representative to oversee the contractor and protect county interests. Commissioners pressed for clarity on how inspection time and assumed unit quantities are calculated in the vendor estimate and whether cost savings from less work performed would reduce the county payment.

After that discussion, the court voted to approve the West Wing HVAC proposal. The final vote was three ayes and one nay. Commissioners noted Gordian would oversee the work and return for approval of change orders if additional funding is necessary.

Provenance: Item introduced earlier in the agenda and discussed again after the DA reimbursement/exec session; the court held the item while staff contacted Gordian for clarification before resuming and voting.