Minutes - Council Work Session - 10/20/2020 - Special

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Mr. Larson stated that he attempted to provide similar comparisons for each site but recognized that there could be cost savings for the public works site because of some features that could be shared. He stated that the City is already adding some chlorine and fluoride, therefore some of those elements could be savings. City Engineer Westby provided details on the driving force behind this recommendation, noting that the manganese issue is taxing the current infrastructure and capacity. Councilmember Riley asked if a pressure filter system could also be used for surface water treatment. Mr. Larson replied that a pressure filter is typically not used for surface water. He noted that the City has been saving for this purpose and therefore has funding set aside. He reviewed the current rate charges of the City, noting that the City currently raises the rates two percent per year and stated that in order to raise the $9,000,000 bond the City would need to raise its rate at five percent for a few years. City Engineer Westby stated that the $23,000,000 collected over the years was paid by water users over the years in anticipation of future infrastructure needs. Councilmember Riley commented that the City saved those funds in anticipation of additional infrastructure and asked for details on the five percent rate. Mr. Larson stated that he got that figure from the Finance Director and therefore cannot provide additional explanation. Councilmember Musgrove asked if both water and sewer rates would increase. City Engineer Westby replied that he believed it was just the water rate. Mr. Larson provided details on different options for funding. He reviewed the public engagement process going forward and the different methods that could be used. He reviewed the regional surface water study findings and commented on the likelihood that would move forward. He noted that the gravity filter option would allow the City to use it for surface water if ultimately desired. City Administrator Ulrich stated that one the reasons surface water treatment was reviewed was because of direction from the DNR related to possible capacity concerns. He stated that this study showed that the groundwater has the capacity to sustain Ramsey through full build out. He noted that as neighboring communities continue to expand, the groundwater would be more likely to impact those cities more than Ramsey if Ramsey has drilled its wells. Mr. Larson agreed and noted that the river acts as a buffer from some communities. The consensus of the Council was to further investigate the public works site and gravity filter option. It was the consensus of the Council to direct staff to continue to move forward. City Council Special Work Session / October 20, 2020 Page 3 of 4