El Segundo council approves City Hall HVAC replacement after debate over timing and cost
Loading...
Summary
The council voted 4‑1 to adopt plans and seek bids for a 25‑ton HVAC replacement and associated roof and duct work at City Hall after staff said engineers estimated the project at about $550,000 plus contingency; some members questioned spending while possible repurposing of the facility remains under discussion.
Councilmembers on Feb. 17 voted to adopt plans and specifications for Phase 2 of City Hall HVAC improvements and to proceed toward public bidding.
The plan covers replacement of a 25‑ton HVAC unit, a smaller condensing unit serving the media room, roof repairs and associated ductwork. Councilmember Voyles, who pulled the item for discussion, said the price was substantial and asked how the project ranked among other capital needs: “It’s a lot of money,” he said, asking whether the work should proceed while conversations about repurposing City Hall are still unresolved.
City staff said the unit identified in the 2019 facility assessment is in poor condition and that consultants (KPFF) produced a design estimate of roughly $550,000 for the core work; staff added contingencies and explained bids will determine final cost. Paul, a city staff member involved in the project, said the city has earmarked CIP funds over several years to address HVAC and electrical needs and that delaying the project risks emergency repairs if the unit fails.
Supporters of the project framed it as prudent upkeep. “We should be proactive when it comes to our facilities,” one councilmember said, noting a backlog of deferred maintenance across public buildings. After discussion, the council voted 4‑1 to approve the plans and move forward; one member voted no.
The council’s action approves the plans and authorizes staff to proceed toward bidding and implementation. Staff said bids and final contract awards will be brought back for council oversight before expenditure of final project funds.
