Krebs City Council approves $15,000 contract to repair City Hall HVAC; councilmember votes no over scope concerns

The Krebs City Council voted to approve a $15,000 contract with Gatlin Heat & Air LLC to replace a heater, install ductwork and complete associated repairs at City Hall. Councilmember Dan Heathcock moved for approval and Councilmember David Bailey seconded; the motion passed on a roll call (Dan Heathcock — yes; Connie Poole — no; Jason Wagnon — yes; David Bailey — yes).

Mayor Tommy Ray Walker said the contract covers replacing one failed unit, installing new ductwork and putting in a new package unit for the portion of the building serving the computers and staff area. "The $15,000 includes the air conditioner deal too," Walker said. Councilmembers noted the building has three rooftop units; the council discussed moving one unit to a ground-mounted slab while exterior work proceeds.

City Clerk Cindy J. Cooper told the council she contacted four contractors and only one could respond immediately; she also estimated the electrician's work to hook the unit would be under $2,000. Councilmember Connie Poole raised a contract-clarity issue, noting the contractor's paperwork had an earlier total of $17,580 and that the $15,000 line item did not explain which "associated repairs" were included. "He should say what those repairs are so we know what part of this we're paying for," Poole said. Mayor Walker said the contractor reduced the original figure and that the city had paid a $69 inspection fee; he offered to have the contractor provide a detailed list of work to the council.

Mayor Walker said he or city staff will oversee the work and that an electrician will complete the electrical hookups when the unit is set in place; the council instructed staff to proceed with the contract as approved. Work was expected to begin as contractors become available and may be coordinated with planned exterior work on the building.