Duchesne County approves $348,009 HVAC upgrade for Crossroads building amid design questions

Duchesne County commissioners on Aug. 25 approved awarding a $348,009.22 contract to Solomon Mechanical for HVAC controls and upgrades at the Crossroads building, but facilities staff said design and procurement issues remain under review.

Shane Jenkins, facilities staff, recommended Solomon Mechanical after discussing the project with the engineer and contractors. Jenkins told the commission the project faces complications from new refrigerants that include flammable hydrocarbon blends, which require safety interlocks and design changes. He said staff are pursuing value-engineering and potential savings and working to meet Buy America rules; some equipment has components made in Canada or Mexico that could require waivers for grant compliance.

"We are still looking at value engineering," Jenkins said, and staff estimated potential savings and noted the need for revised approaches to ensure safe operation and grant compliance. A commissioner moved to accept the bid of Solomon Mechanical for $348,009.22; after brief questions about unresolved issues the commission approved the motion by voice vote.

Jenkins also reported other facilities needs, including a proposed 1,300-gallon domestic hot-water tank (unit cost about $25,000 without installation), ongoing generator repairs and replacement of a troublesome 4-inch clay valve estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Commissioners directed staff to continue engineering work while moving forward with contract award to maintain project schedule and grant timelines.