Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/18/2022

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Theresa Moldoff, 147th and Junkite, commented that when the Ponds development was built that is when the culvert was changed and lowered. She stated that she worked with Tom Hovey from the DNR, and they made the developer block that culvert to correct the issue by raising the water level 12 inches. She stated that a few years ago there was an infestation of beavers, and the culvert would be cleared out. She stated that the last time that was cleared, the blockage of the lower culvert was removed. She would like that lower culvert to be blocked again as it had been in the past. She commented that the outlet should be 12 inches higher. Joe Acre, 5730 142nd Avenue, commented that the problem is not that there is less vegetation but that there is more vegetation because of the lower water levels. He stated that when they first moved into the home you could see the water but then the vegetation grew wild, and you could not even see the water. He believed that if the water level were higher, the vegetation would not be as thick. Diane Anderson, 5750 142nd Avenue, commented that she has been cutting the cattails and about eight years ago the people on the peninsula were told they could not do anything with their cattails. She commented that ducks and other waterfowl were often on the water but are not anymore. She stated that the water never comes back to a level that kills the vegetation. Chairperson Riley commented that he understands that as it occurs on Lake Itasca as well. He stated that the homeowners are creating a lake association and is working with the DNR and the City in attempt to solve their issue. Ms. Anderson commented that there is buckthorn in the culvert area as well that should be removed. Chairperson Riley asked if that is City land. Ms. Anderson commented that it is City land that was previously mowed but is no longer mowed. She stated that it was a park previously and now is just overgrown with invasive species. Rodney Allen, 5730 142nd Avenue, commented that the boardwalk needs to be repaired and asked if that has been approved in the budget. Parks Superintendent/Interim Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that the boardwalk was put in to reach the sanitary sewer manhole and that project will be discussed by this group and the Park and Recreation Commission. He stated that the cost to fully replace the boardwalk would exceed $90,000 and therefore that will be a separate discussion as they would need to determine if there is that level of recreational value to the boardwalk. Conrad Peterson, 5730 142nd Avenue, referenced the comment that the DNR does not have an elevation on record for the lake. He asked if the highest level of the wetland has been for 100 years, similar to what is required for a septic system. Civil Engineer IV Linton replied that the DNR does have an elevation of record. He explained the difference between the readings for septic and a wetland. He stated that water levels fluctuate in Public Works Committee/ October 18, 2022 Page 4 of 7