IAQ project could cost taxpayers $7 million

BERLIN, CT — Proposed upgrades to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system at Catherine M. McGee Middle School could cost taxpayers as much as $7 million, according to the New Britain Herald News.

According to the story, an indoor air quality (IAQ) study commissioned by the Berlin Public Schools Board of Education in 2009 found that there is an ongoing problem with mold and permanent moisture causing headaches and rashes in students and staff.

Though the Catherine M. McGee Middle School classrooms were recently deep cleaned and wiped down with bleach, the IAQ is still a concern for many as complaints continue, the story stated.

Renovations are set to begin over the 2010 summer vacation and, although it will be expensive, the most cost-effective solution would be a four-pipe system that allows classroom temperatures to be individually controlled, the story noted.

John Pajor, superintendent of Berlin public buildings, said: "This is not a wish list or pie in the sky. It's what's necessary to make Catherine M. McGee Middle School operational."

Although there were no contaminants found in the air, the negative air pressure in the building is thought to be compounding the moisture problem and contributing to student and staff respiratory ailments, the story added.

Click here to read the complete article.