No one, however, wanted to preserve the current heating and cooling system, which featured a wheezy steam boiler, gusty window, and ceiling fans that just blew around hot air (and papers). City Manager John Salomone was surprised to learn there was no air conditioning in the building when he arrived a few years ago. Employees sweltered through hot summers, with temperatures topping 95 degrees F in some offices.
When considering a replacement, City Hall's new heating and cooling system had to meet several criteria. It had to be cost-effective, energy efficient, provide a more comfortable working environment, and blend into the landmark building both inside and out. While a gas boiler and central air system was a conventional choice, design engineer John Manning, P.E., recommended that the city consider an alternative that might exceed expectations.