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Dunn County authorizes moving forward on $9.3 million judicial center geothermal HVAC project
Summary
The Dunn County Board approved moving forward with replacement of the Judicial Center HVAC system using a geothermal approach, accepting an $8.9 million bid and planning borrowing of about $9.3 million; staff said approximately $2.5 million of federal Inflation Reduction Act funds may be available to offset costs.
The Dunn County Board voted to authorize staff to move forward with a geothermal replacement of the Judicial Center's HVAC system and to complete financing steps required to obligate funds.
Facilities staff and the county manager presented the project background, the public bidding results and financing steps. The low bid for the work was $8.9 million; including additional project costs the county estimates total borrowing at roughly $9.3 million. The borrowing was anticipated as part of the 2026 budget, and the board was told a parameters resolution would follow in a future meeting to finalize borrowing arrangements.
Dan, the county manager, said the facilities committee recommended geothermal because staff are familiar with the technology in Dunn County facilities and because lifecycle maintenance and replacement costs are expected to be favorable. He also told the board that, if eligible, the county could pursue a federal benefit under the Inflation Reduction Act that staff estimated could provide about $2.5 million toward the project; staff cautioned that the availability and exact amount of that federal benefit are subject to program rules and timing.
Supervisor Larry Bork asked for clearer documentation of life-cycle savings and comparison figures; facilities staff said the committee reviewed alternatives and life-cycle costs, and that the geothermal option had been determined to be the most cost-effective over the equipment's expected life.
The board voted by roll call to move forward; the motion passed.
Next steps: Staff will proceed with steps to obligate project funds and prepare the parameters resolution for borrowing and financing at a future meeting. Staff will also pursue available federal incentives and report back.
