Gates Town Board authorizes up to $3.999 million energy contract with Veregy to upgrade Town Hall

The Gates Town Board unanimously authorized the town supervisor on Jan. 5 to enter an Energy Savings Performance Contract with Veregy Energy Solutions not to exceed $3,999,000 to replace the Town Hall’s aging HVAC system and make related facility upgrades.

The resolution (44-26), moved by Councilman Christopher B. DiPonzio and seconded by Councilman Lee A. Cordero, directs the supervisor to finalize the agreement with Veregy subject to final review and approval by the town attorney and the terms of a Town letter of intent dated Sept. 18, 2025. Attorney John DiCaro told the board the town issued bids because the Town Hall HVAC is “very old” and in need of replacement; the authorization allows Veregy to advance to a proposed contract stage.

Supervisor Cosmo A. Giunta described the existing system as roughly 60 years old and said the proposal includes interior and exterior LED lighting, multiple heating and cooling units, building automation, fire detection upgrades, a new ceiling grid in the original town hall, minor roofing work and a generator that would enable the facility to serve as a cooling and warming site for residents during extreme weather events. Councilman Andrew M. Loughlin said the town expects energy-cost savings over the life of the equipment and noted the town will pursue available grants to offset costs.

The resolution caps contract authorization at $3,999,000, and the board recorded a unanimous vote: Giunta, DiPonzio, Cordero, Loughlin and Tucciarello all voted aye. The authorization is procedural: it permits Veregy to move toward a final contract but does not bind the town to final terms until the attorney and the board give final approval.

Next steps include attorney review of the proposed contract language and board consideration of the final agreement before any funds are committed.