Agenda - Council - 10/27/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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This estimate does not include acquisition of additional easements, if needed. Following discussion of these options, the Public Works Committee recommended that the City Council consider ordering a feasibility study to further refine option #4 for the Gibbon Street and 173rd Avenue drainage improvements, including an analysis and determination of specific costs, how costs could be paid for, and whether any City policies would need to be created or amended in doing so. Notification: N/A Observations/Alternatives: Available options for effectively draining low-lying, land -locked areas include installing gravity storm sewer to drain the water to another area having a lower elevation, installing storm sewer lift stations to pump the water to a higher elevation where it can then flow to lower elevations via gravity sewers or ditches, pumping the water using a portable pump and flexible hosing to another location where it can then flow to lower elevations via gravity sewers or ditches, or by promoting infiltration by constructing infiltration basins, ponds or trenches. Unfortunately, it is typically not an option to use a portable pump and hose to pump water elsewhere in Ramsey due to the relatively flat terrain and extensive distance between grade breaks. The other options typically require installing thousands of feet of sewer and purchasing numerous easement areas, and/or installing lift stations, all of which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) per area. As part of preparing the Feasibility Report, Staff will further explore grant opportunities as related to drainage improvements for low-lying, land -locked areas. Staff will also explore whether government sponsored programs aimed at assisting homeowners with enhancing private sump pump/drain tile systems exist. Numerous property owners who contacted staff in years past did not have back-up sump pumps in the event their primary pump failed, which resulted in their home being flooded. Private systems can also be enhanced by adding battery back-up in the event their power fails for an extended duration. It is important to note that any selected solution is likely be expensive and could set a precedent for the City to follow in future years. Funding Source: Potential funding sources may include external grants, City Stormwater Funds, and special assessments to benefiting properties. Funding options will be explored in more detail within the Feasibility Report, including an analysis of how each funding program could impact City policy. Recommendation: On June 16, 2015, the Public Works Committee recommended that the City Council order a Feasibility Report to further explore option #4 for addressing the Gibbon Street and 173rd Avenue drainage improvements, including an analysis and determination of specific costs and how this might work with current policy. Staff recommends Council authorization to complete a Feasibility Report to further explore option #4 to determine the overall feasibility of such a project. Action: Motion to adopt Resolution #15-10-269 authorizing preparation of a Feasibility Report for Gibbon Street Drainage Improvements. Attachments Res 15-10-269 Drainage Option Alignments