Minutes - Public Works Committee - 05/17/2011

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Chairperson McGlone stated his concern is with the cost of $13,000 and running three lines. He asked if a heavier line could be run and lessen the cost. He also expressed concern with having a generator on both sides of a street that does not exist yet. Developments would change the landscape, and the landscape would change the event. He suggested putting the service in across the street, with a speedbump over the wire. Discussion took place regarding the type of service needed and possible locations. Mayor Ramsey said he would like to see what the configuration would look like. Public Works Director Olson offered to show the Council what it would look like at the June Council meeting when the Council discusses the item. He explained they would look much like what is at campgrounds for power. Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Mayor Ramsey, to recommend that the City Council consider approval of installing permanent power of either 400 amp service in one location, or 200 amp service in 2 locations, dependent on further research, on the east side. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson McGlone and Councilmember Elvig and Mayour Ramsey. Voting No: None. Case #3: Consider The Use of Social Media in Public Works Street Supervisor Reimer reviewed the staff report. Councilmember Elvig posed the question of what communications are available for those that do not use email and internet. Public Works Director Olson indicated this would not replace regular postal mail and phone line options. Public Works would most likely continue to send construction alerts by mail. Chairperson McGlone questioned why the sites would be specific to Public Works. Since the City does have a Facebook page, it could include communications from Public Works. City Administrator Ulrich stated the Staff is looking into customer response management software and whether it would save Staff from placing phone calls versus sending out one tweet. It could save money and Staff in the long run. The City will consider social media as a communications tool for all departments, but it is working on this incrementally. Councilmember Elvig noted the site should have a link to the County for purposes of issues on a County road Public Works Director Olson indicated an event can be set up for a construction event on Facebook. Any issues on roads can be reported on this page as well. There are other similar Public Works Committee / May 17, 2011 Page 3 of 6