LaPorte County Council presses for answers after countywide HVAC failures tied to Ameresco project

LaPorte County commissioners spent a lengthy portion of their Feb. 23 meeting pressing county staff and contractors for a plan to fix failing heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems installed during a previous Ameresco energy project.

Angie Davis, LaPorte County facilities director, told the council the county is seeking multiple quotes to repair compressors and coils, address roof leaks, and replace and test refrigerant in several courthouse floors and the jail. She said some work can be handled in-house but other pieces "we can't do without having someone come in" because the controls are proprietary.

Several commissioners and staff described a breakdown in communication between Ameresco (the engineering/installation contractor) and LG (the equipment provider). Mr. DiMartino said LG has been "totally ghosted us on that" and urged the county to pursue a meeting that includes the companies' legal teams. Davis said Ameresco told the county its system is now several generations ahead of the county's original install, making piecemeal upgrades incompatible.

Commissioners expressed frustration that promised energy savings and long-term performance have not materialized. One commissioner observed the county spent "what $9,000,000" on the project. Several council members urged tighter contract language in future procurements and asked staff to try to convene Ameresco and LG, including reaching out to LG contacts such as Bruce or Scott Cooley, to explore diagnostics or a liability waiver so LG will assist with troubleshooting.

Staff said they have an outstanding recommendation from LG after two site visits but have not received full guidance from the company. Davis said she expects more detailed quotes and recommendations next month.

The council did not take a formal vote on remedies at the meeting but directed staff to pursue a joint meeting with Ameresco and LG and to work with counsel on options to secure cooperation and clarify warranty or post-installation responsibilities.

Next steps: staff will pursue vendor meetings, collect comparative quotes for needed repairs, and report back to the council; a formal remedy or claim against contractors was not recorded at the meeting.