The Cass County Board of Supervisors had a light agenda this (Wednesday) morning, and therefore a brief meeting. The Board continued discussion with regard to the bidding process for the courthouse HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) replacement project, but made no decision on the matter.  Auditor Dale Sunderman said he visited with various vendors, one of whom was trying to put together a cost estimate. Sunderman says since the cost is expected to exceed $135,000, Iowa Code requires there to be a competitive bid process.

The Board said that there are still too many questions with regard to efficiency, and about what kind of system should be installed, or for that matter, if the current room radiators should be retained or replaced. There also needs to be an inspection to make sure the pipes aren’t insulated with asbestos.

Supervisor Chuck Rieken said they have to decide if they’ll use independent room heating and cooling, a boiler or whatever, before they can issue an RFP – a Request for Proposal.) Board Chair Frank Waters said it looks like they have a way to go before any changes are made to the courthouse system.  He said it’s shaping up to be a project for next year, at this point.

And, in his report to the Board, Cass County Engineer Charles Marker said there currently is no road rock available from the local quarries, but they still have some available for the worst roads. Road crews are being kept busy in the mean time, cleaning out road ditches and taking care of mowing. He said also officials with the City of Lewis had inquired about placing a tornado warning siren within the County road right-of-way by the Lewis School on the south side of town, near where County Roads G-43 and M-56 form a triangle.

He said he sees no problem with the position of the pole and siren, but the Supervisors need to approve the request during their meeting next week. The Board also reminds Cass County residents that if they see people tearing-up the dirt roads when they are soft and muddy, to call the Sheriff’s Department with a description of the vehicle and direction of travel. Offenders will be fined if they are caught.