County approves emergency replacement for courthouse boiler; cost and asbestos details remain uncertain

Grundy County approved an emergency purchase on June 10 to replace the courthouse boiler after a leak in the decades‑old system. County and sheriff’s staff said the replacement was declared an emergency to meet fall‑installation timelines and avoid heating interruptions during colder months.

Speakers conveyed uncertainty about the final cost. The sheriff initially described the replacement as “somewhere around $180,000,” after which another board member referenced a $363,000 figure; county staff later described an $181,000 estimate coming in under an earlier, higher expectation. County officials said the contractor’s written quote explicitly excluded any asbestos removal or abatement costs, and that asbestos findings remain unresolved: asbestos removal may be necessary and would add to the final cost if required.

The county declared an emergency because the replacement timeline and lead times for equipment made a sealed competitive bid process impractical without risking installation after the heating season begins. Staff said temporary repairs had been performed to keep the existing boiler operating, but the patch was not considered a reliable long‑term solution.

Board members asked how the county ensured the price was reasonable; staff replied that earlier informal estimates were higher and that the emergency declaration authorized immediate procurement while staff pursue more formal competitive processes for future projects where time allows. County officials also said contingency funds are available to cover potential asbestos abatement costs.

The board approved the emergency purchase by roll call during the meeting. County staff said they would proceed with replacement work and, if asbestos removal is required, use allocated funds to address that separate cost item.