Chesapeake College describes HVAC emergency; asks counties for local match support

Milton Nagel, vice president for administrative services at Chesapeake College, briefed the commission about an emergency HVAC problem at the college’s Economic Development Center (part of the Todd Performing Arts Center). Nagel said insulation was coming loose in late May and that, although air-quality tests found no unsafe conditions, insulation was falling into occupied spaces and the system — more than 30 years old — was failing to perform.

"They had the air quality tested. It was found to be safe, so we did not put any staff in any harmful situations," Nagel said, explaining the college relocated 21 staff temporarily and added filters where possible. He said the college contracted G E I P to design a properly sized replacement system and anticipates documents for bid by late fall. Nagel said the project is categorized as a utility need under the state process; that classification requires addressing other code items while ceilings are opened (sprinkler upgrades, technology tray installation and LED lighting improvements), adding to cost.

Nagel asked the counties to provide a support letter for the 25% local match needed for FY28 state funding applications. He estimated Caroline County’s share at about $128,586 (based on the county’s capital share), while saying the college will explore financing options if timing requires. Commissioners asked about timing, capital-share calculations and contingency plans if state funding is delayed. The board agreed to receive the college’s draft letter, put the item on the next consent agenda for a letter of support, and to consider short-term financing alternatives if the state award timing requires interim funds.