Commissioners approve $53,200 generator purchase amid questions about sizing and grant timing

San Patricio County Commissioners Court approved a request from the Elections Office to buy a 60 kW backup generator for up to $53,200, using HAVA grant reimbursement of up to $42,500 and a local match of about $8,500.

Election Administrator Victoria Pereira said the purchase is a follow‑up from prior funding rounds and that the grant requires a local match and reimbursement process. She told commissioners the office obtained three quotes and relied on recommendations from building and yards staff and a licensed electrician recommended by the contractor.

Several commissioners questioned whether a 60 kW generator was oversized for the building’s expected load, arguing that a smaller generator might suffice and that oversizing can create technical issues without a proper heat sink or load management. One commissioner said, “I’m just saying that it seems like an overkill with a 60 kW,” and urged a load study; another recommended adding a heater as a heat sink if excess generation is a concern.

Staff cautioned that many election systems and electric locks can draw power during peak times and that the office’s move to a larger early‑voting location could increase peak demand. A staff speaker also noted the grant’s deadline, saying the reimbursement window closes July 31, prompting urgency to accept the bid and secure funds.

After discussion, the court voted to approve the purchase to secure the grant funding and proceed with installation. Commissioners asked staff to document load calculations and contractor specifications for the installation and to consider mitigation (heat sink or other measures) if the generator will encounter low loads while online.