Westmoreland County commissioners are set to approve a contract this week for the purchase of a new $2.2 million backup generator for the Greensburg courthouse complex. The generator is crucial for maintaining operations during power outages.
Commissioner Sean Kertes emphasized the importance of the upgrade, saying the courthouse has been neglected for years. “It’s one of the reasons we did what we had to do in 2024,” he said, referring to the 32.5% property tax increase implemented this year. Despite financial challenges, including revenue shortfalls and rising costs, the county’s proposed 2025 budget does not include a tax hike.
The new generator will be partially funded by a $500,000 state grant, with the remaining cost covered by capital funds in next year’s budget. It will replace the outdated generator, which has been in use since the early 1970s.
The upgraded generator will ensure the county’s data center and emergency lighting remain operational during power failures, and it offers the potential to power additional equipment, including elevators in the courthouse annex.
The generator is expected to be delivered next year, with installation completed by late 2024.
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