Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 09/21/2020

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City Planner Anderson stated that Ramsey water usage is not quite as high as Andover’s but agreed that the water usage almost triples in the summer compared to the winter months. He commented that it is amazing how much water is attributed to irrigation. He stated that even though the water is coming out of the ground to go back into the ground, it takes much longer for that water to go back into the aquifer. Board Member Little asked if there is a more efficient water sprinkler that connects to hoses. He noted that most of his neighbors water with a sprinkler directly attached to a hose. City Planner Anderson confirmed that there are likely more efficient above ground sprinklers that attach to hoses. He stated that while that could be promoted, it would not be eligible for reimbursement through this current grant. Board Member Fetterley stated that if the funds are all spent during the course of the program, perhaps the City look into implementing its own system in the future. City Planner Anderson agreed that if all the funds are used, he would see that as an opportunity for the City to look at a broader City program. Board Member Hiatt asked the percentage of residents that use well water compared to City water. City Planner Anderson replied that about 60 percent of residents use urban services and 40 percent on septic/well. He confirmed that about 40 percent of the community are not able to take advantage of this water savings program. Board Member Hiatt commented that there are a lot of well and septic systems in Anoka County and asked if there would be an opportunity for legislators to develop incentive programs for those well and septic users. Chairperson Valentine commented that would involve complicated dynamics. Board Member Moore asked if the homes built near Pearson Park are on septic/well or City services. City Planner Anderson stated that the Riverstone development is connected to City services. He stated that new construction projects are not eligible to participate in the program. He commented that most irrigation systems installed now already contain water savings equipment. 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT  Fall Recycling Event City Planner Anderson reported that the Fall Recycling Event will be held Saturday, September th 26 at the Public Works Campus from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. 7. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Board Member Little and seconded by Board Member Fetterley to adjourn the meeting. Environmental Policy Board / September 21, 2020 Page 4 of 5