WATE 6 On Your Side | Heating and air contractor takes Morgan County veteran's money, doesn't install unit WATE 6 On Your Side DEER LODGE (WATE) A retired Air Force sergeant says he regrets answering a Facebook ad for a heating and air contractor. The contractor and his partner traveled from Oak Ridge to rural Morgan County where they were supposed to install the unit. |
Hector Uriarte wants locals to conserve water one toilet flush at a time.
Through a program from the Community Service and Development, Proteus Inc. is offering free replacement of water inefficient toilets.
Uriarte, energy division community development liaison, said homeowners or renters can have toilets with a 1.28-gallon or bigger tank replace with ones that are water efficient.
The swap, given the homeowners or renters qualify, is free.
People reduce water conservation and see a reduction in their water bill, Uriarte said.
The toilet replacement program is just one initiative Proteus, Inc. is offering, including weather-striping, door replacement, glass repair and heating and cooling.
Additional water-saving programs Proteus, Inc. offers include the installation of low-flow shower heads, replacement of high-energy consuming washers and fitting of faucet aerators.
Already in place for nearly a year, the toilet replacing program has meant 7,065 water inefficient toilets are no cost. The cost can add up to $250, with parts running up to $150.
We want people to conserve water, Uriarte said.
There are three ways to qualify for the program: income, reside in a disadvantaged community or live in a city with a water basin or drought stricken area. The program is offered in Tulare, Fresno, Kings, Kern, Los Angeles and San Bernardino.
It takes up to four weeks to complete the process, Uriarte said. Those interested are encouraged to call Proteus, Inc. and provide initial information.
Uriarte said state officials have already determined the locations where the program is in effect. County residents are likely to qualify.
After the initial step, an assessor responds to the address and ensures the toilet is one thats water inefficient, Uriarte said. Then, all the information is sent to state officials for final approval.
Once the paperwork is in proper order, an installation appointment is set and the replacement occurs.
On Wednesday, thats exactly what happened at Arsenia Espindolas Visalia home.
After completing the paperwork process, which started late last month, the water-saving toilet was installed. She said she waited on calling about the program. She had received a letter from Southern California Edison, telling her she had a good chance to qualify.
It took me longer to make the phone call than for them to have the installation done, Espindola said. They know what they are doing.
Espindola said she welcome the installation of the water-saving toilet.
Its a good program, she said. Residents need to conserve and save water.
During her home survey, the accessor took photos and told Espindola she could also qualify for a replacement refrigerator, washer, heater and the cooler.
Espindola said power bill get high during the hot summer months.
Uriarte said residents have until May 31 to apply for the toilet replacement program.
The sooner they can get in, the better it is, he said.
Information: 888-255-2142.
Waterwise is a news and notes column Reporter Luis Hernandez compiles. Send waterwise ideas and suggestions to the reporter on twitter @lfhernanvtd.
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Waterwise: Conservation by the toilet flush - Visalia Times-Delta
(The following letter is addressed to MLA Linda Larson.)
Four years ago when you applied for the job as our MLA you were (as were all other candidates) outraged at the high cost of electricity from FortisBC. For a while you made mention of your efforts in your publications to the constituents of Boundary-Similkameen. Of late there has been little news.
I cannot for the life of me understand why this punitive two-tiered billing system is being continued. I have for four years complained to you, to the BC Utilities Commission and to the people through the newspapers about how unfair this billing practice is to people with electric heat. This system was forced upon the electric utility by the BC Utilities Commission who received their instructions from your government. During the initial hearings to establish this reverse Robin Hood billing plan, Fortis told the commission that this change would be devastating to electric heat customers. No one at the commission listened because they had their marching orders from your government. Electric heat customers were just collateral damage to their plan.
Should we take out our anger and frustration on FortisBC? No we should not. This policy was ordered to be implemented by your Liberal government, and to this day your government continues to defend this unfair billing system.
If your government did not wish people to use electricity for home space heating all they had to do was change the building codes to ban the use of electricity for space heating. This has not been done. In fact the concept of heating electrically was promoted with rebates and allowances to install heat pumps. So now all of the folks that do not have access to gas are now stuck with a heating system that has become so expensive that electric heat users must take drastic actions to find enough money to pay the electric bill or freeze in the dark.
I can guarantee you that poorly heated homes result in illness which can and will impact upon medical costs to the province.
My latest electric bill was for $279.59 for Jan. 4 through to March 6. One could say what are you complaining about? This is a reasonable cost especially considering the very harsh winter. I ask you to bear with me here. For this sum I was able to keep my house at 16.3 C for January and 15 C in February. I ran out of Tier 1 rates on February 13, which meant that the 20 days left in the billing period were all at 15.617 cents for every kWh used. If we had dared to keep the house at 20 C during the day and 17 C at night our cost would be approximately double what we actually paid.
I have installed a high efficiency heat pump, energy saving appliances, energy efficient lighting, a timer on my hot water tank (it runs only eight hours per day), energy saving window coverings, insulated our heating/cooling duct work, installed solar film for summer heat reduction and we practice preventing energy waste by not having any electrical item left on when not in use. We seldom use the electric oven and select foods that we can cook using the less costly microwave. Our house has an energy efficiency rating of 82.7 out of a possible 83 points for a home of this vintage. We can do nothing more except pay the inflated rates or freeze in the dark.
Your government likes to say that electric consumption has declined under the tiered pricing. You are mistaken in this belief.
I do not want something for nothing. I already pay above the cost of production. All I ask is a flat rate (fair to all) or at the very least a different winter rate structure for electric heat users.
My final option now is to not vote for any government or party which refuses to correct this unfair billing practice. Therefore I will not support your re-election and neither will I vote for the NDP party who also is not listening to the rural electric customers who do not have access to natural gas and who are penalized for wanting heat in their homes at a fair price with an environmentally clean product.
I suggest to everyone who can, to switch to a fuel source which is priced fairly, although these options have detrimental environmental consequences.
I am tired of freezing in the dark. Your government does not offer tax subsidies for solar installations and obviously supports the use of polluting fuels over clean options.
I am sure that the Liberal government knows that there are more voters who heat with gas than there are those who depend upon electricity for their space heating.
We who oppose two tiered billing are not going away and will not give up fighting for what is fair.
James B. McGinnigle, Oliver
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Tired of two-tier plan and freezing in the dark | Oliver Chronicle - Oliver Chronicle
MEDFORD During a special meeting Friday, the Medford school board reached a decision regarding replacement of HVAC units on the schools roof.
The district awarded the contract to the lowest of four bidders, Owatonna Heating & Cooling, to install 36 Aaon units at a total cost of $2,243,070. The districts account from bond sales currently has $1.6 million remaining, so theyll cover the rest of the HVAC costs with money from the general fund.
Both decisions to install all 36 units, and to pay for it through a combination of bond sale money and fund balance were unanimous. Bids for the HVAC project were received March 30, and the project was split into four groups for bid purposes for both Aaon and Carrier units for a total of eight groups (one base bid and seven alternates.)
Bids were for 20 units, 25, 29 or the 36 the board ultimately opted for, and work is scheduled to be completed by the time the 2017-2018 school year begins this fall. The bids included labor, materials, electrical and structural work, but not assorted fees and an 8 percent contingency built in for unexpected costs.
The initial structural analysis was completed for the weights of the Aaon units. Since the Carrier units are heavier, they wouldve required additional structural work according to Rich Dahman, Medfords superintendent. While the Carrier units are less expensive, they wouldve led to roughly $50,000 in added structural adjustment costs.
The Aaon units also provide better control in AC mode, have a longer warranty on heat exchangers and boast better filters, according to the HVAC project summary provided by the district. In addition, Aaon units will provide consistency with current units and eliminate the need for additional structural work.
Dahman recommended accepting the bid from Owatonna Heating & Cooling to install 36 Aaon units, advice the board followed. Other options the board could have selected included awarding the project to a different bidder, utilizing Carrier units, and/or reducing the number of units replaced in 2017.
He also recommended paying any additional costs for the project, above the funds available in the bond sale account, out of the districts fund balance, which the board also accepted. Other options included paying for additional costs through a capital facilities bond and/or delaying the replacement of some units.
Delaying a portion of the project would have allowed the district to remain within budget, according to the project summary. In addition, the units over the locker rooms have been the most trouble-free to date, so delaying that group couldve potentially allowed Medford to replace them and the roof which is on the 14th year of a 20-year warranty at the same time, placing the district on a timeline where Medford is not replacing all units at the same time.
The total cost would have increased, however, if a portion was delayed, due to inflation, buying less in bulk and labor costs, and completing the entire project this summer will create consistency with one contractor installing all the units, according to the summary. This ensures that all units and controls are working together effectively.
Paying additional costs from a bond sale wouldve spread the costs out over time and increased flexibility with a larger fund balance while also increasing the total cost interest and fees and leaving less for future projects, according to the summary. Paying additional costs from the fund balance avoids fees and interest, and that method still leaves Medford above the districts policy of 25 percent of expenditures.
Reach reporter Ryan Anderson at 507-444-2376 or follow him onTwitter.com@randerson_ryan
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Medford school board approves bid for HVAC work this summer - Southernminn.com
WASHINGTON, April 11, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Window Film Association (IWFA), a nonprofit trade association representing leading manufacturers, distributors and dealers, is proud to recognize April 30, 2017, as the fourth annual National Window Film Day (NWFD). In alignment with proclamations issued by governors and mayors across the United States, NWFD is a day dedicated to furthering public education of the many benefits of professionally installed window film including: energy efficiency, indoor temperature comfort, blocking 99% of the sun's UVA rays, the reduction of fading of furnishings and possible harmful exposure to skin and eyes.
TWEET THIS: For National Window Film Day on 4/30, @IWFAinfo shares new "Go Green & Save Green" infographic: http://bit.ly/GoGreenInfographic#WindowFilmDay
"From increased energy efficiency to protection from 99% of UV rays, professionally installed window film offers home and business owners an affordable improvement to help save money and the environment," said Jack Mundy, President, IWFA. "As a part of the IWFA's celebration of National Window Film Day, we are pleased to share a new 'Go Green' infographic."
The free "Go Green and Save Green" infographic (download here) highlights the many benefits of window film and emphasizes how professionally installed window film is a good choice for the environment over replacing older windows entirely. A professional installation of window film helps consumers save on heating and cooling costs and may also be eligible for "Go Green" energy rebates.
"Window film offers a significant economic benefit at many levels - from employment to energy savings to improved health, to the reduction of our carbon footprint," said Darrell Smith, Executive Director, IWFA. "We are very happy to see the growing support of National Window Film Day and the window film industry from our nation's officials."
To find professionally accredited window film installers near you, visit the IWFA's Find An Installer; for more information on NWFD, visit IWFA website.
About the International Window Film Association The International Window Film Association (IWFA) (www.iwfa.com) is a unified industry body of window film dealers, distributors, and manufacturers that facilitates the growth of the window film industry though the use of education, research, advocacy and consumer awareness. The organization builds alliances with trade associations, utilities and government agencies to advance dealers' and distributors' businesses and provide value to their customers.
Contact: Erin Vadala; Warner Communications Erin@warnerpr.com; 978-468-3076
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(NAPSI)When temperatures rise, many people automatically crank up the air conditioners to stay cool. However, it may surprise them to learn that air conditioners use about 5 percent of all electricity produced in the U.S., costing homeowners more than $11 billion a year in energy expenses.
The good news is that by following some practical tips at home, you can stay cool, save money and even help the environment. Here are a few energy-saving ideas to consider:
Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling: Upgrading your system can have a big effect on your utility billsand your comfortyear-round. In fact, the most energy-efficient heating and cooling products on the marketductless mini-split systemscan save you as much as 30 percent on your utility bills.
How does a ductless mini-split system work? Thin copper tubing is used to pump refrigerant from an outdoor compressor directly into an indoor air-handling unit, where the air is quietly distributed to the interior space. This eliminates the need for basement or attic evaporators and bulky, expensive ductwork. Mini-splits are easy to install and usually require only a 3- to 4-inch hole through a wall or ceiling to connect the indoor and outdoor units.
Ductless mini-split systems also let you control the individual temperature in each room. This means you don't have to waste money cooling or heating spaces that you're not usingsuch as guest bedrooms, bonus rooms, sunrooms and basements. Ductless systems operate at efficiency levels far above central forced-air systems and window units, as duct losses in a central AC system can account for more than 30 percent of your energy consumption. Fujitsu General, a leading mini-split manufacturer, offers the most energy- efficient lineup on the market, including wall- and floor-mounted, slim duct and compact cassette indoor units.
Rebates and Tax Incentives: To encourage homeowners to buy energy-efficient products and reduce greenhouse gases, many utility companies offer rebates on qualified products. To estimate how much money you could save on a ductless mini-split system, you can visit the efficiency calculator on constantcomfort.com. The federal stimulus package also offers significant tax credits to homeowners who invest in new insulation and energy-efficient windows and heating/cooling systems.
Quick Fixes: Small changes can have a big effect on your utility bill as well. Try to use heat-producing appliancesstoves, irons and dryersat night or early morning. Switch to LED lightbulbs instead of incandescent bulbswhich consume 90 percent more power. Seal air leaksaround windows, doors, and places where pipes and wires come through walls. Check existing caulking and weather stripping for gaps or cracks.
Window Treatments: These can work to your advantage, too.Close all windows and coverings to keep your house cool. Dark-colored curtains, Roman shades, even discount store roller shades can be very effective. Solar screens, or meshlike window screens, intercept up to 70 percent of solar energy before it gets into the house, and installing awnings can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 77 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
When it comes to beating the heat, there is no need to suffer high utility bills. There are many actions you can take to reduce your energy expenses. You can change some everyday habits or invest in a new energy-efficient heating and cooling system. Many Fujitsu systems with the Energy Star rating are more than twice as efficient as the minimum standard set by the government.
To learn more or find a contractor nearby, call (888) 888-3424 or visit http://www.constantcomfort.com.
On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)
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Tips To Help Cool Down Air-Conditioning Costs - The Southeast Sun
Sun., April 9, 2017, 7:17 a.m.
A volunteer group of Pullman Avista customers saw their power consumption decline by 9.3 percent after they were given high-tech thermostats.
The devices were distributed as part of a smart grid project where Avista deployed a number of cutting-edge technologies and gathered data to see if their performance merited putting them into broader use.
Overall, the upgrades are saving 43,000 megawatt hours per year in Pullman and Spokane, not counting the conservation by the Pullman thermostat users.
We exceeded our goal, said Curtis Kirkeby, an engineer at Avista. We did our normal utility business case. It met that criteria.
Kirkeby declined to share dollars saved versus those that were spent, but he said that generally Avista looks at the rate of return on investments over 20 years.
And in this instance, Avista didnt assign a value to the 2.5 million customer outage minutes that were avoided from August of 2012 through September of 2016. That was because the benefit came through equipment that had other advantages, such as reducing consumption.
The research completed by Avista was one part of the Pacific Northwest Smart Grid Demonstration Project. A federal grant of $178 million was split among 11 utilities in Idaho, Washington, Montana, Oregon and Wyoming.
Each grant recipient tested emerging technologies to see how well they made strides in conservation and reliability at a reasonable price. The data was documented and shared nationally.
Elements of the smart grid that Avista introduced have been put into broader use and as the utility moves forward, it will consider what it learned anytime it makes a major decision about infrastructure, Kirkeby said.
In the case of the thermostats which are connected to wireless internet, Avista is encouraging residential customers anywhere in its Idaho and Washington territory to buy them by offering rebates of as much as $100. The retail price runs anywhere from $100 to $300 and installation costs vary.
The thermostats allowed 75 Pullman families during the project to adjust the temperatures in their homes using smartphones, which could be done even if they werent on the premises.
They also provided information about daily usage patterns and enabled users to see what their estimated monthly bill would be at any time.
Almost as surprising was what happened when Avista activated another feature of the thermostats, one that allowed the utility to adjust the temperature in private residences up or down by two degrees on days where extreme hot or cold taxed the utilitys power resources.
Avista had high acceptance from the participants who had the option of rejecting the thermostat changes but the utility found other smart grid measures showed more promise.
One is invisible to customers. Voltage in wall outlets was diminished by two volts, something that was possible because the improvements Avista made ensured a constant flow of power in the lower range without diminishing the performance of appliances like toasters. That technology also helped prevent outages.
Another strategy that succeeded involved closer cooperation with Washington State University. Avista now has a protocol where it can request power from the schools generating facilities, which are powered with natural gas and diesel.
It can also have the school reduce its demand through minor changes in how it operates its heating and cooling system for classrooms, conference rooms, offices and hallways, but not more sensitive areas such as laboratories or dormitories.
Even though the smart grid project is technically over, Avista continues to examine innovations, Kirkeby said.
Everything is on a road map where we have customers gain value from what we do and participate in what we do.
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Knowledge gained as power conserved - The Spokesman-Review
SHELBYVILLE, Ind. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has responded after the Executive Director of a historic theatre in Shelbyville told 93 WIBC that he has been in conflict with inspectors from the State Fire Marshals office over plans to upgrade the building.
The Strand Theatre at 215 S. Harrison Street in Shelbyville has been owned and operated by a non-profit group since 2008, which is led by Executive Director David Finkel. Over the past nine years, he says volunteers have put in a great deal of work to modernize the facility, including a replacement of the buildings electrical panels in 2009 and the installation of a new heating and cooling unit in 2015 and 2016. But Finkel says it wasnt until the theatre applied for a permit last year with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to remodel the stage and install an additional emergency exit did he begin to experience issues with the states fire inspectors.
This past year in August 2016, we had a new inspector. For some reason, all that work in the past didnt seem to be what he wanted, says Finkel, who told 93 WIBC that the inspector had required the theatre to install a new sprinkler system which would have cost the non-profit group more than triple the cost of what the building is worth.
We said we didnt think that was right, and [the senior staff from the state fire marshals office] was here for a meeting. That meeting ended up in November 2016 turning into an inspection. The outcome of that inspection was they rescinded our Construction Design Release for this new fire exit and the expansion of our stage. We didnt quite understand why, says Finkel.
A local attorney appealed the decision for the Strand. Finkel says the state decided to cancel their recension of the previous permit before it went in front of a judge.
Finkle says the State Fire Marshals office then sent a written letter notifying the theatre that they would have to go through a Construction Progress Inspection.
We called around to find out what that was all about and there was not a contractor, an engineering firm, an architectural firm [nor] anybody that had ever heard of such a thing, according to Finkel.
During that follow-up inspection on March 13, Finkel says the same inspector told him the theatre had two violations. Both were due to Construction Design Permits that werent filed or approved with the state for the electrical panels that were replaced eight years ago, as well as the new HVAC system that had been replaced starting two years ago.
Finkle says the state inspector has threatened the Strand Theatre with a $250 a day violation per fine, which would equal $3,500 a week if levied against the non-profit organization. Finkel says the theatre will file an appeal.
93 WIBC contacted the office of James Greeson, the State Fire Marshal to ask for his response to the interview with David Finkel. An e-mail was sent from the Public Information Office of the Indiana Department of Homeland to 93 WIBC asking to submit questions in writing regarding the Strand Theatre.
Below is the return e-mail correspondence that 93 WIBC received on Wednesday, April 5, 2017:
Following is a reply regarding the Strand Theatre in Shelbyville. All text from IDHS and the State Fire Marshal are in red. The first is a general statement. The remaining text is in answer to your questions.
Your questions were wide ranging, and we had to talk to quite a few people inspectors, supervisors, an agency attorney, etc., to track down the information you had questions about. Thats the reason we were not able to get this information to you earlier.
Thanks,
Office of Public Affairs
Indiana Department of Homeland Security
Building inspectors under the state fire marshal, part of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, have a primary concern for the safety of the public. One of the agencys responsibilities is to inspect public structures like the Strand Theatre for compliance with state fire and building code as adopted by the Fire and Building Safety Commission. This result is to use the code as part of a process to protect the public with appropriate fire safety measures.
1) A representative from the Strand Theatre says thatthe State Fire Marshalls office performed a Construction Progress Inspection on the property. Are those types of inspections required of every building that is going through ongoing upgrades?
These types of inspections are not required, but are not uncommon. This was not the type of inspection with regard to the Strand Theater. The Strand Theater was being inspected because improvements without a state construction design release were discovered. One of the goals of that inspection was to determine next steps. State Fire Marshal inspectors, part of IDHS, do have the authority to conduct these inspections, even if facility owners originally filed plans with local building officials.
2) Is it common for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to require the installation of a sprinkler system in order to finish work on a previously approved State Design Release, such as the one granted to the Strand Theatre for the installation of a new fire exit?
The design release was given for plans that provided incomplete information, which the agency did not know at the time. Once discovered, the design release was rescinded. This occurred in December of 2016. Also, the follow up inspections that have been negatively mentioned helped determine that a sprinkler system was not required for the building. It helped identify an area that wasnt documented in the plans that removed the need for the sprinkler system.
3) A representative from the Strand Theatre also says the previous inspector(s) with the State Fire Marshals office responsible for regular inspections of the property did not ask for or communicate the requirement of Construction Design Permits for HVAC work done in 2008 and electrical work done in 2015 and 2016?
It is the responsibility of property owners, managers, design professionals and construction managers to follow all applicable code. It is the responsibility of the building owners, managers and designers to ensure their work is properly filed so the appropriate inspectors can conduct inspections.
In this case, the state inspector had no knowledge that the HVAC and electrical improvements had been made. The inspections being conducted previously by the state inspector were for Entertainment and Amusement permits. As such, the inspectors normal inspection would not have required him to view any areas where updates of the electrical or HVAC had been made. When the inspector incidentally saw the updates, he did tell the team representing the Strand that permits would need to be applied for.
Local building officials are responsible for regularly inspecting facilities within their jurisdiction.
State inspectors, in addition to regular inspections, may make more frequent visits to a facility. The main two reasons are: 1) Follow up on violations or 2) if complaints are received.
Were these permits required as far back as 2008? Yes.
4) How does the Indiana Department of Homeland Security respond to those who would say that the recent requests made of the inspector from the State Fire Marshals office, as well as the suggestion of a $500 a day fine for violations, put an undue financial burden upon a non-profit organization with limited funds such as The Strand Theatre in Shelbyville seeking to provide an economic benefit to the community?
While the option of a fine does fall under the authority of IDHS and the State Fire Marshal, this option isnt used often. Also, if its determined a venue owner or manager is working to come into code compliance, fines can be withdrawn. The agency would prefer to simply work with the facility to ensure compliance with state code. Also, please note that the option of a fine is up to $250 per day, per violation, just to clarify.
Representatives of the agency have explained to the Strand team on several occasions that they would rather work with them for compliance rather than issue a fine. The agency is charged with protecting the public with appropriate safety measures, according to code adopted by the Fire and Building Safety Commission.
93 WIBC asked David Finkel, Executive Director of the Strand Theatre, for his follow up response to the answers provided by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security:
[In response to IDHS answer to Question #1] This answer is not what was communicated to the Strand. The following is part of the email received from the State Fire Marshal's Office:
Marshal Greeson has directed a construction progress inspection of the Strand Theater. Could you please make arrangements for our inspection team to have access to the facility on Monday March 13that 10:00 AM. We will need access to the entire building including the loft above the stage.
We informed them that there was no work done on the area for the Construction Design Release. It was assumed that progress of the construction from the reinstated Construction Design Release was the purpose of the inspection, hence a "construction PROGRESS inspection". All other work at the theater was properly permitted and inspected locally. When we asked construction professionals about what to expect in a Construction Progress Inspection, none had ever heard of such an inspection. The "next steps" as determined by that inspection was issuing of violations.
[In response to IDHS answer to Question #2] The Constructions Design Release for this fire exit was reinstated by the State Fire Marshal's office in December 2016.
[In response to IDHS answer to Question #3] The 100% volunteer Strand Theatre relies upon the advice and guidance of the local inspectors and design professionals for all work done to the theater. At no time was it communicated that work such as replacing of electrical panels would need a Construction Design Release. The work was locally permitted and inspected. The Strand is proud to provide entertainment to our community without soliciting our community or businesses for funds. We have had gracious professionals do work pro-bono and contractors perform work at reduced rates. Had there been a requirement at that time, the Strand would have complied.
[In response to IDHS answer to Question #4] The State Fire Inspector, during the process of having the violations signed for on his tablet, told the representative from the Strand that each violation carried at $250 per day fine. The volunteer asked specifically when that fine commenced, he stated "as of today's date" which was March 13, 2017. He did not mention it was a potential fine. He did not seem willing to help in resolution of these issues, only communications of the violations and actions that could be taken.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE POSTED TO WIBC.COM ON SUNDAY, APRIL 2.
93 WIBCS C.J. MILLER REPORTING.
Twitter: @CJMillerWIBC
Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Strand Theatre
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State Office Responds to Conflict Over Shelbyville Theatre Inspections - 93.1 WIBC Indianapolis
Steve and Natalie Brogan, owners of the nearly 20-year-old A-Plus Air of Stoney Creek, believe that everyone should understand the basics behind their home heating and cooling systems. This makes for informed consumers who can recognize top-notch, reliable service when they see it.
If youre looking for a heating and cooling specialist, look for a company that has taken on projects of all sizes. Make sure the contractors are not simply installers, but also have first-hand experience in custom designing, building and installing complete systems.
If youre a business owner, hire a company that has a full portfolio of varied commercial projects under its belt. It doesnt matter whether your own job is large or small; ideally, you want to hire a team that is expert in their field.
A reputable HVAC business will always look to create efficiencies for its customers, regardless of the scale of the project. Every job should be equally important, whether its a straightforward, minor residential repair or a complex, brand new commercial installation that involves several different heating and cooling zones.
The company should also be able to offer you a comprehensive range of products and services. The staff should attend ongoing training to keep their skills and knowledge sharp.
Look for a company that provides a personal and professional home consultation where you can gather information and have an open, relaxed and pressure-free discussion about your needs.
The Brogans last bit of advice is to insist on a business that is a long-time member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Its an important safeguard for consumers.
A really top-notch HVAC company can go beyond the basics to offer specialty services, such as designing and installing in-floor radiant heating, or expertly controlling your indoor environment through zoning systems and the use of separate thermostats. A-Plus Air can do all of this, and can even make recommendations on essentials like air purifiers and humidifiers.
A-Plus Air is a member of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute, the Niagara Home Builders Association and the Ontario Home Builders Association, as well as the BBB. For more information about the company, please contact them at 905-385-6450. A-Plus Air is located at 1100 South Service Road, Unit 110, in Stoney Creek.
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What to look for in an HVAC provider - Hamilton Spectator
A vital program youve likely never heard of has been working behind the scenes to greatly improve the quality of life in Walla Walla.
In May 2013, the city of Walla Walla earned its status as an entitlement city Community Development Block Grant program.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, CDBG helps the least privileged and the most vulnerable in our community.
With CDBG funds, the city has:
While the allocation varies from year to year, the city of Walla Walla received $368,678 in 2016.
CDBG funds are administered by the Citys Support Services Department.
The citys CDBG program has a number of projects and priorities for 2017.
The Home Repair Program, funded by CDBG and run by the Blue Mountain Action Council, provides home loans with no interest, and common house repairs such as roof replacement, heating/cooling system installation and electrical and plumbing improvements, to citizens with low to moderate incomes. CDBG will put $55,750 toward that effort this year.
CDBG will provide a total of $140,000 in funding for the construction of a teen center being built by BMAC.
The center will include a six-bed homeless youth shelter for youths ages 13-17, to be operated by Catholic Charities; The Health Center for Lincoln High School students; and a Childrens Home Society child-care facility.
With $35,000 in CDBG funding, Public Works employees will install a flashing pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 12th Avenue and Poplar Street to help Blue Ridge Elementary School students get to class more safely.
$20,000 in alley lighting will be installed in the Washington Park, Blue Ridge and Edith and Carrie neighborhoods. Homeowners in those neighborhoods can apply for lighting by emailing me at jbeckmeyer@wallawallawa.gov, or contacting Commitment to Community.
Habitat for Humanity will build three new affordable homes for families in the Edith and Carrie neighborhood.
A $31,500 contribution will go toward purchasing the land for the homes. Applications are currently being accepted by Habitat for Humanity for two of the homes.
More information and applications are available at ubne.ws/2oMY96i.
In 2018, approximately $50,000 in CDBG funds will be available for small-business loans with the goal of creating new jobs for low- to moderate-income individuals.
I am now accepting applications for these funds.
The infusion of federal funding into these local CDBG projects wont make headlines, but it makes a big difference to an elderly homeowner who cant afford to fix a roof, or a disabled person who has difficulty navigating a curb in a wheelchair, or a child who has to cross one of the busiest streets on the way to school, or a neighborhood that has been routinely victimized by criminals under the cover of darkness.
To apply for funding, please email me.
Jennifer Beckmeyer is the city of Walla Walla Community Development Block Grant coordinator.
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Community Development Block Grant program benefits Walla Walla's least privileged, most vulnerable citizens - Walla Walla Union-Bulletin