Minutes - Council - 01/23/2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Riley stated that he has voted against participation in this program. He stated that usage has continued to decrease even while the City's population receiving City services has increased, which shows that the community is already conserving water. He suggested that the City not participate. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that he appreciates the comments from Councilmember Riley. He asked if the results of the study would share with other communities the successes the community has had with water conservation. City Administrator Ulrich agreed that water conservation efforts the City has implemented could be used as benchmarks throughout the program, and therefore the City could be used as a role model. He stated that if there is data from other communities, those results could be applicable to Ramsey. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that everyone shares the same aquafer and if the City is showing ways to conserve but yet grow, that could be helpful for other communities. He stated that a larger study, such as this, could have regional benefits. City Administrator Ulrich agreed that regional water supply has been an issue and communities on the fringe of the aquafer are somewhat constrained. He stated that it would make sense to look at conservation in those areas but agreed that there would have to be a regional solution because of the shared resource. Mayor Strommen stated that in looking back ten years ago, the City was instructed to think about surface water use rather than groundwater use. She noted that it had been frustrating as the City was told they were on their own and therefore she is happy to see the change in attitude to see this as a regional problem and solution. She stated that if there are ways to obtain costs savings or participate in shared solutions, that will provide a service to the community. She noted that this study will provide the City with necessary information and the City can ensure that Ramsey is treated equitable and that the solution is applied equally across all communities. Motion by Councilmember Johns, seconded by Councilmember Kuzma, to Adopt Resolution #18-029 Approving Participation in Metropolitan Council Water Efficiency Potential Project. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Strommen, Councilmembers Johns, Kuzma, LeTourneau, and Shryock. Voting No: Councilmember Riley. 8. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF INPUT Mayor Strommen welcomed Troy Olson, the City's representative from the North Metro Mayors Association. Troy Olson thanked Mayor Strommen for welcoming him tonight. He stated that he is at the legislature emphasizing the north metro area to ensure that the area is well represented. City Administrator Ulrich announced upcoming meetings and events. City Council/January 23,2018 Page 7 of 8