Agenda - Public Works Committee - 01/17/2006

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CONSIDER WATER CONSERVATION POLICY By: Leonard Linton, Civil Engineer CASE Background: The City Council approved enforcement measures for ignoring the odd-even watering ban in 2004. The measures have been enforced since inception of the measures. The City will be applying for permits for Water Supply Wells #7 & #8 in 2006. The communication received when Well #6 was approved indicated conservation measures must be investigated and implemented. The enforcement measures approved are one component of conservation. The City is required to file a Water Emergency and Conservation Plan every 10 years, the first plan was filed in 1996. The plan renewal requires that conservation measures be in place or a detailed outline for implementing conservation be included. State law requires that conservation measures be implemented before seeking approvals for new well construction. Suggested measures include modifying the rate structure to encourage conservation, adopting regulations, requiring rainfall sensors on irrigation systems, promoting use of water conserving fixtures and educating customers. Measures suggested for new development include requiring 6" of topsoil under landscaping areas and promoting use of low water demand plants. Examples of informational materials are attached for your review. These materials can be incorporated in the Public Works section of the City website or links to the sources can be added. Brochures can be developed and made available at City Hall and articles can be written for the Ramsey Resident. Staffhas learned that the DNR will be increasing the rate for water pumped in excess of the winter average rate. This fee will be applied to the peak pumping months; this fee is part of the State efforts to encourage conservation. The potential impact of this fee should be reviewed in the Finance Committee; the rate structure may need to be amended to provide an avenue for passing along this increased fee. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends Chapter 9 of the City Code be revised to require 6" of topsoil in all new developments. Rain sensors should be required on all new irrigation systems. Educational materials should be developed and disseminated through the website, the Ramsey Resident and brochures at City Hall and the new resident package. Commission Action: Based upon discussion. Reviewed by: Assistant Director Public Works/Principal Engineer Public Works Director PW: 1/17/06 15