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Cascade Annex heating and AC problems prompt emergency repairs and contract signing
Summary
Valley County facilities staff reported multiple failing HVAC units and a malfunctioning electric boiler at the Cascade Annex; the board authorized staff to finalize the already‑voted boiler replacement contract signatures and directed staff to obtain repair quotes to ensure building heat for winter.
Facilities director Terry told commissioners on Oct. 29 that seven aging AC units and an electric boiler at the Cascade Annex are obsolete and failing. Several units use R‑22 refrigerant that is being phased out, and a clogged control valve in the boiler system is preventing proper temperature control.
Terry said repairing or refilling the old refrigerant could cost nearly as much as replacing units and estimated a ballpark cost near $80,000 to fully replace seven units. He described the boiler control valve as clogged with debris and said the system may require a full flush and valve replacement to operate reliably through winter.
The board reviewed existing contracts: Terry said the boiler replacement contract had already been approved in a prior vote and simply needed signatures. Commissioners instructed staff to move forward with emergency repairs required to maintain heat through winter and to gather quotes for replacement or conversion from electric to other heat sources (propane or geothermal were discussed). Terry cautioned that keeping an all‑electric boiler would likely result in high utility costs while a replacement or alternative heating source could reduce long‑term energy bills.
Commissioners also discussed parking, lighting and other facility shortfalls at the Cascade Annex related to an upcoming occupancy timeline; staff said they will coordinate parking plans, motor pool staging and snow‑plow logistics with the road department to address employee access and safety.
No detailed contract dollar amounts beyond ballpark estimates were adopted at the meeting; staff obtained signatures for the already‑approved boiler replacement contract and will return with formal quotes for repairs and replacement options.
