The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has issued a formal response to public concerns regarding environmental conditions at its former headquarters, the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens. In an official statement, the utility provider clarified that despite public speculation, the presence of mold within the facility has not been scientifically verified through multiple independent assessments.
Over a two-year period spanning from 2023 to 2025, APUA commissioned several comprehensive environmental evaluations to address employee and public concerns. These investigations included testing requested by the Aviation Department through the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), supplemented by two additional independent assessments initiated by APUA management.
The PAHO assessment, while not detecting mold presence, identified moisture accumulation within a baseboard area. The recommended remediation involved removing twelve inches around the affected section, which was promptly completed. Another independent evaluation identified localized fungus within sheetrock materials, which was subsequently addressed through professional remediation protocols including enhanced ventilation systems, sealing of central air ducts, and thorough cleaning of air conditioning units.
As part of ongoing maintenance efforts, deep cleaning of the entire Roberts Building was conducted in February 2025, with an additional specialized cleaning of the Planning Department completed in December 2025 following further environmental testing. Current improvement works are progressing according to schedule and are expected to conclude within the next two to three weeks. Upon completion, a final comprehensive cleaning will be performed, followed by an independent reassessment to verify the building’s environmental condition.
APUA officials noted that some visible discoloration observed within the facility has been attributed to moisture accumulation related to the aging infrastructure of certain fixtures, particularly during periods of intense heat. These occurrences have been characterized as sporadic and limited in scope rather than widespread issues.
The Authority emphasized that employee and customer health safety remains its highest priority, confirming that all professional recommendations received to date have been fully implemented. APUA maintains its commitment to continuous monitoring and responsible management of environmental conditions across all its facilities.