In a recent special meeting held by the Glendale Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Advisory Committee, significant discussions centered around the urgent need for renovations to the historic building on Lexington, constructed in 1939. The building, which has undergone various improvements over the years, is now facing critical safety issues, particularly concerning its outdated electrical system and inadequate heating and cooling facilities.

The building currently operates on an insufficient 200-amp electrical system, which is deemed unsafe and inadequate for its size. The existing electrical panels, some dating back to the building's original construction, have led to frequent power failures and safety concerns raised by the fire department. Glendale Water and Power (GWP) has been involved in assessing the situation, and the committee is now prioritizing the replacement of the electrical system as a critical first step in the renovation process.

The proposed plan includes a phased approach to renovations, starting with electrical upgrades, followed by improvements to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and finally addressing the roof. The current HVAC setup is inadequate, with window units failing to provide sufficient cooling, particularly during the summer months. The committee aims to replace these units with a more efficient split system that separates heating and cooling functions, enhancing comfort for the building's occupants.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the financial aspects of the renovation project. A request for $605,000 in funding was presented, which is expected to cover the essential electrical and HVAC upgrades. The committee emphasized that these funds are not merely desired but necessary to ensure the safety and functionality of the building. They also noted that while they are prepared to move forward with or without additional funding from Congressman Adam Schiff, securing these funds would significantly aid in expediting the renovation process.

The discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining the building's historical integrity while addressing modern safety and comfort needs. The committee is committed to working closely with GWP to find the best solutions for the building's power requirements, which may include installing a new transformer to support the upgraded electrical system.

As the committee prepares to revise and resubmit the necessary plans for approval, they remain optimistic about moving forward with the project. The urgency of addressing fire life safety issues and improving the overall environment for the building's users remains a top priority. The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed about the progress and next steps in this essential renovation project.