A higher than expected cost estimate for the Johnson County Administration Building heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning upgrades has led to a redrafting of the original construction plans.

The upgrades are intended to bring the building’s heating and cooling systems up to date and improve overall efficiency.

Facilities Manager Eldon Slaughter spoke before the Board of Supervisors on Thursday meeting, informing the supervisors he received two bids for the project ranging from $1.2 million to $1.9 million — both much higher than officials had expected.

Slaughter suggested fragmenting the project into segments and allowing the smaller developments to be individually bid on.

“By going into separate phases, I think we’re going to get more people involved,” he said.

Slaughter hopes the phases will also attract more small and local contractors and in turn, reduce the overall price required for the project.

Supervisor Rod Sullivan moved to reject the two bids and redraw the plan, which passed 5-0. Slaughter intends to have the new plans ready in the near future.

— by Carter Cranberg