Three rooftop heating/cooling units at the Marshall County Jail expect to be replaced this year after a decision made by the Marshall County Commissioners Monday morning.
Jail Maintenance Director John Greer presented quotes to the commissioners from four companies to replace two-25 ton units and one-20 ton unit that service eight pods and the trustee’s room at the jail. The units are Aaon brand units.
The current units have been found to be at their end of life and several repairs have been made to several other units that were costly.
The lowest quote came from OJS Building Services, Inc. at $204,680. Greer said Aaon units are the top unit of the industry and there are warranties that cover more than one year for parts.
Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hassel stressed the importance of buying these heating/cooling units.
“If we can’t heat and cool those pods, we’re going to have to move the inmates and nowadays I don’t know if we have anyplace to move them to. Every county jail I talk now to is filling up!” said Sheriff Hassel.
Greer urged the commissioners to take action Monday morning as it takes about 19 weeks to build the units.
Commissioner Kevin Overmyer said that this is an extraordinary circumstance that could turn into a dire emergency if the units quit working.
After some discussion about companies and the work they’ve done for the county, it was the recommendation of County Attorney Jim Clevenger that the commissioners accept the lowest quote from OJS.
The purchase will be made with funds from the Jail Special CAGIT LIT Fund. An additional appropriation request will be presented to the Marshall County Council members during their meeting on Monday, July 8.
