Officials warn long lead times for switchgear and chillers; budget timing could push work into 2028

Facilities staff told the committee the electrical switchgear replacement will have a significant lead time and may push work into 2028.

“The electrical engineers are estimating 5 months time for the equipment that’s going to go in, the replacement equipment, the main switch gear,” staff said. Members noted that by the time approvals, bidding and procurement occur, actual installation could slip into next year and beyond. Chiller replacement work was described as already mobilized for demolition and long-lead equipment delivery.

Committee members questioned whether the downtown transformer relocation and generator project should be combined or staged. Staff said the transformer location in current drawings differs from earlier configurations and that the transformer and generator might not be sited adjacent to each other. Members instructed staff to adjust department worksheets to reflect a downtown-courthouse transformer line and to prepare appropriate budget language to ensure funds are available if needed.

Next steps: staff will refine project drawings, clarify whether the generator will move back to public safety or remain in the property fund, and identify funding lines based on the committee’s preference.