Agenda - Public Works Committee - 04/19/2011

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Public Works Director Olson confirmed there is no cost. Councilmember Elvig clarified the testing is only for water quality, for the record. Ms. Reason confirmed that is the case. Councilmember Elvig mentioned Ramsey's water table is going down and others are using it. He asked if the MPCA can work with the City to solve other issues. Ms. Reason responded these types of issues would be handled by another department at the MPCA. Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Mayor Ramsey, to recommend that the City Council approve of the access agreement subject to the review and approval by the City Attorney. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson McGlone and Councilmembers Elvig, Mayor Ramsey, and Councilmember Tossey. Voting No: None. Case #2: Consider Policy for the Disposition of Surplus Wood and Tree Waste Parks Supervisor Riverblood reviewed the staff report. Councilmember Elvig raised the issue of the City being responsible for spreading bugs or diseases to others' property. Parks Supervisor Riverblood explained the policy states the City is not responsible for diseased trees or other issues. Councilmember Elvig noted he spoke with Police Chief Kapler in regard to Happy Days. There will be a bonfire at the Happy Days festival this year. He suggested the diseased trees be kept separate and used for the bonfire. Parks Supervisor Riverblood commented the wood does belong to the City until it is declared for sale. Chairperson McGlone inquired if a previous policy is being ratified. Parks Supervisor Riverblood responded there is no policy in place. If the wood was in a resident's property, they could have it if they wished. If the property owner did not want it, Staff brought it back, and it was offered as first come, first served. Chairperson McGlone noted the County owns the compost site, though they do not accept waste from commercial businesses. He proposed that perhaps the City could be exempt from that. He Public Works Committee / March 15, 2011 Page 3 of 6