Minutes - Public Works Committee - 04/15/2014

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City Engineer Westby explained that Garnet Street and a portion of Riverdale were not constructed in 2013. In addition, the Garnet Street feasibility report was prepared in house. The City had budgeted funds for roads and those funds were not spent. Councilmember Riley asked whether staff was aware that the City of Blaine is doing a study on municipal wells and impact on the aquifer. City Engineer Westby explained that Ramsey, in the past, has been a member of several work groups dealing with water supply issues. Staff is now working with three groups and one is working with the Met Council to use Clean Water Act funds to complete a Northwest Metro Water Supply Study. He stated Ramsey had conducted a pilot test study for treating surface water so that data and well data will be provided to the Met Council. The Met Council is studying creation of a sustainable water supply and regional treatment. Councilmember Riley stated his understanding that Blaine will run its municipal pumps for four weeks in an effort to show the DNR that it does not impact the aquifer. City Engineer Westby stated it sounds like Blaine is trying to prove its groundwater supply is sustainable. He stated staff will contact Blaine to get more information on its study. In addition, staff will determine if Ramsey uses the same aquifer as Blaine. City Engineer Westby stated the DNR is not saying the cities have to shift to a surface water supply; however, it wants all cities to lessen dependence on ground water and shift to a mixture of ground and surface water supplies. City Administrator Ulrich stated there was focus by the Met Council on the northern metro area, including Anoka and Ramsey Counties. He explained that Ramsey is on the fringe area but included in the Met Council study and Ramsey supports this issue being studied so it does not prevent the future development of Ramsey. Councilmember Riley stated Coon Rapids is the lead with a Street Maintenance Consortium comprised of seven cities. Public Works Superintendent Riemer explained that staff found Ramsey would receive no cost benefit as part of that Consortium. In addition, there would be some loss of control over scheduling. Chairperson Backous asked if the Consortium shared equipment, such as street sweepers. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated it does not and one of the obstacles with shared equipment is that all want it at the same time. Chairperson Backous asked about the Dysprosium Street sod project. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated it will start next week and the City will use the Football Booster to help with that project. Public Works Committee / April 15, 2014 Page 11 of 12