After several years of dealing with a malfunctioning boiler, the Salem City Council Monday night voted to replace it with a new heating and air conditioning system.
The council selected the bid from Booher Tin Shop that will contain three units at a cost of $37,000. Some of the ductwork will also be replaced as part of the proposal. The bid was the higher of the two submitted, but the lower bid only contained a two-unit system.
City Manager Rex Barbee says Booher’s would be ordering the equipment immediately and should begin installation in three to four weeks.
Councilman Nic Farley made the motion, noting persistent complaints about the temperature in city hall and concerns about how much longer the boiler might last.
The cost is over the $25,000 budgeted, but Barbee says so far this year projected revenue is $60,000 above estimate.
Barbee also updated the city council on several other projects. He reported Wabash Communications is now installing the Wi-Fi System in Bryan Memorial Park. He reported the leaf vacuums are now running for the fall season and will vacuuming up leaves on your regular trash collection day. The Public Works Department on Monday helped set up the Avenue of Flags for the Veterans Day Holiday.
Barbee announced the city’s traditional Christmas Party will not be held this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. He said the city would find other ways to spread the holiday cheer.
