Agenda - Council - 07/28/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Based on our review of the draft 2015 Twin Cities Metropolitan Area Master Water Supply Plan we did not identify any new goals or initiatives that significantly conflict with current goals or initiatives of the City of Ramsey. However, based on other recent Met Council plan reviews we question whether the draft 2015 MWSP accurately reflects population growth forecasts for the region, and therefore question the accuracy of some of the information included in the draft 2015 MWSP. The draft 2015 MWSP also does not appear to create any new requirements for the City of Ramsey, but instead appears to expand upon existing guidelines that could ultimately result in the City needing to consider the use of surface water for some or all of our water supply needs, instead of continuing to use groundwater aquifers. Because the City of Ramsey borders the Mississippi River, the City was previously directed to explore the use of the river as a potential water supply source before any new groundwater supply wells would be permitted. In response, the City completed a study which showed that a surface water treatment facility may indeed be technically feasible, though it would not be economically feasible if the intent is to serve only our water supply needs, unless significant outside financial assistance was received. However, it could be economically feasible if multiple communities were to partner in constructing a regional surface water treatment facility to serve the needs of all partnering communities. The City of Ramsey appreciates the opportunity to review and respond to the draft 2015 MWSP and hopes that the Metropolitan Council will continue to work with the City to address our local water supply concerns and needs. Please note that our concerns with the population forecasts are not about our future land use vision, but rather how that vision relates to current infrastructure capacities, as well as future infrastructure investments and funding opportunities. If you have any questions on these comments, please call me at 763-433-9825, or email me at bwestby@cityoframsey.com. Sincerely, Bruce Westby, P.E. City Engineer C: Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator 2IPage