Minutes - Public Works Committee - 01/20/2009

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Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Elvig, Councilmembers McGlone and Dehen. Voting No: None. Case #3: Overview of MS4 Program Civil Engineer II Linton stated that the MS4 program is the Municipal Separate Small Storm Sewer Systems. He stated that its origins are in the national Clean Water Act. He stated that there are program requirements included in the case and noted, that if the City drains to impaired or restricted waters there are additional requirements. He stated that the Council approved the Comprehensive Surface Water Management plan last fall which limits the peak rate of runoff to 75% of pre-development rates. He explained the requirements for no new or expanded discharges to the Rum or Mississippi Rivers. Public Works Director Olson stated that the MCPA is being very strict with developments from 1998 to today. He stated that staff just wanted to make the City aware of what they have been told and what it may mean to future developments. Chair Elvig stated that he thinks there is some sensitivity and passion on the Council to keep water in the area. He stated that his concern about most of this is from the developer that may come in and say Ramsey is too expensive to develop in. Public Works Director Olson stated that Andover, Elk River and Dayton are all running into the same situation. Civil Engineer II Linton stated that he has been doing some research into what other cities and watersheds are doing to reduce discharge and there may be a sliver of light there. He stated that he thinks the City is in a better situation than Dayton. Councilmember Dehen stated that it is not like the new pipe the City put in is discharging into the Mississippi unless there is a big 100 year storm. Councilmember McGlone stated that the concern he has is having just completed the Comprehensive Plan process this would have been really good information to have because now the City may need to rethink what kinds of development itwants along the river. Public Works Director Olson stated that he thinks the City can still move forward with development, just in a different way, such as having more storm water ponds. Councilmember McGlone asked if this is something that the Council should be focusing on, such as encouraging people to have cisterns and other things to keep the water here. Civil Engineer II Linton stated that cisterns, rain gardens, and green roofs are all ideas that could be used and encouraged. He reviewed the subdivisions in the City by year. Councilmember McGlone asked if the MPCA will apply the standard City-wide. Public Works Committee / January 20,2009 Page 7 of9