Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/21/2014

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Chairperson Backous stated he did not have a strong opinion whether there was a charge for it. He said he thought people would use it no matter what the cost was. He concurred with the suggestion to allow free use for six months and use that as an exploratory period. Councilmember Kuzma pointed out that even a low charge could get users in the mindset that it will cost something. Public Works Superintendent Riemer noted the charge averages between $3.00 and $5.00 for use in the downtown areas. Motion by Councilmember Riley, seconded by Councilmember Kuzma, to recommend that the City Council recommends charging for the electric vehicle charging service in the municipal parking ramp $1.00 per hour for the first 6 months and then review the usage and see if adjustments need to be made. Further discussion: Chairperson Backous confirmed this service is funded by grant money and it does not involve administration's time or funding. Public Works Superintendent Riemer replied it is only grant money. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Backous, Councilmembers Riley and Kuzma. Voting No: None. 6. COMMITTEE / STAFF INPUT Councilmember Riley brought up an issue he read about in the Anoka Union regarding the City of Anoka and a sewer backup problem. He stated the City of Anoka has gone on record to say they will not cover clean up or repair costs for the residents. Since the City has been found not responsible for the sewer back up, the City's insurance will not cover citizens' costs. The City of Anoka encouraged their residents to buy individual insurance for this type of incident. He questioned if the City of Ramsey has any policies for this type of issue. Public Works Supervisor Riemer explained staff checks both lines to make sure it is flowing, and will also help the homeowner contact a professional for assistance. He said the sewer system is not a secure system. It is a public system, so the City cannot take responsibility. The City does keep records of any and all repairs it has done. Chairperson Backous stated that tree roots can grow through the pipes. Public Works Superintendent Riemer replied the City uses plastic pipe, so that is not as much of a concern. His department maintains the pipes regularly. Chairperson Backous suggested this information be submitted for the Ramsey Resident. City Administrator Ulrich stated he has known of cities that have been sued for sewer backups. The city is usually not liable. He explained if the City maintains their lines, the responsibility goes back to the homeowner. The homeowner is responsibility for the interior of the house. Public Works Committee / October 21, 2014 Page 6 of 9