By C1 Staff
FORT MADISON — The still-unopen prison in Fort Madison now has cold air leaking into the recreation building and “mechanical alleyways.”
Radio Iowa reports that the situation was uncovered as the prison’s new heating and cooling system was being tested.
The prison was supposed to be open nearly a year ago, but problems with heating and cooling as well as the system for ventilating smoke out of the prison have delayed the opening indefinitely.
Officials say they’re receiving “conflicting reports” about this latest glitch.
“Some are saying it’s because the geothermal system isn’t actually fully functional in times of duress. Others are saying there is potentially leakage on the roof,” said Rep. Bobby Kaufmann, who’s been heading a House Oversight Committee investigation of the delays.
“Either way, this is absolutely unacceptable and insane that we’re continuing to have new issues.”
Senator Tom Courtney says he’s at least relieved the water pipes didn’t freeze and break. They were turned off after it was believed this was a possibility.
“They said nothing froze, nothing was hurt. They’re trying to poo poo it, saying it’s kind of normal,” he said. “ … I guess I kind of halfway believe that.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Corrections declined a request for an interview.