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Facility manager warns of costly roof and HVAC replacements; board discusses funding options, solar questions
Summary
Facility manager Mike Hanna told trustees the library’s roof is over 20 years old and a full replacement could cost more than $500,000; he recommended planning for capital funding and noted the west air handler may need replacement in the next 5–10 years.
Mike Hanna, the library’s facility manager, briefed the board Dec. 9 on building and grounds work, emphasizing deferred maintenance and upcoming capital needs. Hanna said the roof is more than 20 years old and estimated a full replacement would cost "over half $1,000,000" (reported on the record as more than $500,000) because multiple roof sections and double-layered areas require complete removal and added engineering for insulation tapering and drainage.
Hanna also identified the west air handler as a potential large-ticket replacement down the line. He noted that while 20 years has been a common planning horizon for air handlers and chillers, some newer units appear to have life expectancies closer to 15 years due to manufacturing and parts‑availability changes. In answer to trustees’ questions, Hanna said he would be comfortable estimating the newer west unit could last "easily 5, probably 10" years, but cautioned that future technology changes could shorten operational life.
Trustees discussed funding options. Hanna suggested the need to consider a capital improvement bond or other reserve mechanism to prepare for major replacements. Board members also raised solar as a potential option—either placed on a new roof or over parking—but Hanna said site logistics and the need to take panels down when roofs are replaced would require a detailed feasibility study.
The board thanked Hanna and noted James Porter will take on interim facility manager duties; trustees emphasized the need to incorporate these capital items into long-term planning and budgeting.
