County seeks $2M-plus capital grant for Riverside; staff warn moving residents during window work will be complex

County staff told commissioners they are applying for a multi-project capital grant (roof, boiler and window replacement) for Riverside, and that grant rules would require a public bid process. Presentation materials and discussion indicated an anticipated award date around Nov. 1 and a 23-month project period from award to completion if funded.

"We have 23 months from the date of our award to complete those three pro if we get funded for those three projects. We have 23 months," a staff speaker said, explaining the timeline and the need to structure bids that address resident movement and installation methods. Staff said the roof and boiler are straightforward in scope but that windows present significant operational challenges because partial shutdowns and resident relocations will be required during installation.

Nursing staff and commissioners described unit-specific limitations — for example, some units lack alarms or equipment to safely host residents relocated during work — and said contractors must be asked in bid specifications how they will prevent resident decompensation and safely complete work in sections. Commissioners also emphasized avoiding winter installation when moving residents would be more disruptive. Grant scoring may weigh the facility’s Medicaid-population statistics and other demographic factors staff said they compiled for the application.

Why it matters: If funded, the capital work would address long-standing building needs but will require precise contracting and operational plans to maintain resident safety and continuity of care during construction.