ORONO – The town council voted recently to authorize Town Manager Sophie Wilson to enter into a contract for the cleaning of the air handling systems in the public safety and municipal buildings.

Staff in the two building had complained about particles in the air causing eye and respiratory irritation. That led to the finding of excessive build up of dust particles in the ducts and vents of the air handling systems in both buildings.

While filters are routinely inspected and changed, it did not appear that either system had been cleaned since the renovation/construction project in 1996. It was learned that air quality tests would cost over $2,000; staff was advised that, since the dust build up is extensive and can be seen falling from the vents, cleaning the ducts a most reasonable first step. There is no evidence to suggest that there is any type of mold issue – in fact, part of the issue may be that the air is too dry.

Up to $11,000 will be allotted for the cleaning, with funds drawn equally from the FY19 approved Municipal/Public Safety Facility budget and the contingency account.

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