Board approves $32,000 appropriation to replace courthouse chiller compressors

Facilities staff alerted the board that a compressor on Chiller 1 at the new courthouse had shorted to ground and that consultants recommended replacing both compressors to preserve HVAC operation through the summer. The county's engineering consultant and Johnson Controls advised replacing the compressors now (estimated $32,000) while budgeting for a full chiller renovation or replacement at a later date (quoted roughly $140,000).

Supervisors moved and passed a motion May 5 to appropriate $32,000 from fund balance so Johnson Controls can install the replacement compressors this fiscal year. Officials said the work is intended as a prudent short‑term repair that may extend the unit's service life while staff plan for capital budgeting of eventual chiller replacement. "Your mechanical system is at service life now... replacement compressors now seems like the best option," staff advised the board. The motion passed by roll call.