Aging building's stench has state workers reeling

[July 15, 2009]  SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) -- For some state employees, going to work really stinks.

Aging sewer pipes are being blamed for a rotten smell at the Manuel Lujan Sr. Building, which was built in 1974 and houses the state Taxation and Revenue Department as its main tenant.

General Services Department spokesman Alex Cuellar said: "If your sewer line blows at your home, it's not going to be very pleasant until it's repaired."

About 325 people work in the building, where state revenue is processed. Employees have been sent home twice in the past two weeks because of other problems, including a broken air conditioner.

Taxation and Revenue Secretary Rick Homans estimated it will cost $7 million to $10 million to upgrade the building's heating, cooling and plumbing systems.

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Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican, http://www.sfnewmexican.com/

[Associated Press]

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