Old School HVAC study shows big price gap among options; council leans to mini‑splits, seeks more cost details

Consultant Jed Jenkins of Resolut Group presented an HVAC analysis to the River Heights City Council on June 2, laying out three upgrade pathways for the Old School building and offering estimated mechanical costs and tradeoffs.

Jenkins described Option 1 as a ductless split‑system approach with Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) and electric heaters, with a mechanical estimate of $161,500; Option 2 would convert the steam system to hydronic heating (heating only) at about $230,000; Option 3 would add chilled water to the hydronic conversion for combined heating and cooling at roughly $416,000. Jenkins noted electrical, structural and architectural costs are not included in those mechanical estimates and that full building automation would add an estimated $80,000.

Jenkins discussed expected component life spans (compressors roughly 15 years; hydronic systems considerably longer) and told the council that Option 1 would shift use toward more electricity versus gas and that the breakeven point between Option 1 and Option 3 could be around 15 years, depending on energy prices and maintenance. He also said Option 2 would require less demolition than the other choices and that Option 2 could be designed to permit adding cooling later.

Councilmembers expressed a preference for Option 1 with electrical upgrades: Councilmember Chris Milbank and Councilmember Kandi Evans both voiced support for the mini‑split option (Evans noting the benefit of heat and cooling despite shorter component life spans). Councilmember Milbank asked for comparisons of operating costs between Options 1 and 3; Jenkins said the comparison depended on local utility rates and that he could provide more detailed operating‑cost modeling.

Public Works Director Clayten Nelson said he would defer electrical repairs in the Old School until the council made a decision. Nelson also said he would reach out to Rocky Mountain Power because their representative previously raised concerns about mini‑split systems. Mayor Blake Wright and councilmembers discussed potential funding, noting the city budget included $63,000 for windows in the coming year and that rental income might need to rise to cover higher capital costs.

During public comment earlier, a resident recorded as Bryan Casio reported maintenance problems at the Old School (hanging balusters and a loose electrical panel) and said Catalyst, the facility manager, had been slow to respond; Brittney Cascio echoed concerns about poor communication from Catalyst. Councilmember Milbank said he would follow up with Catalyst to ensure work orders were addressed.

Council directed staff to obtain an electrical cost addendum to the Option 1 proposal, ask Rocky Mountain Power about mini‑split concerns, and return with more detailed cost and funding options before proceeding.