Minutes - Council - 08/08/2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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additional pilot testing that the Minnesota Department of Health will require for pulling water directly from the river will be taken care of by Bolton and Menk, Inc. and will be reflected in their amended contract. Bolton and Menk, Inc. is requesting an additional $35,000 to provide 3 phase power to the temporary plants for the extended amount of time required to test the surface water. Councilmember Elvig asked whether the test borings have been angled or straight down. A representative of Bolton and Menk explained the concept included two things; first, with the earlier concept of the river bank filtration they were attempting to get parallel to the river with the concept of pulling water through the river bank. They have not completely explored other concepts of going under the river. What is known at this time is that they are not able to get 100% of the water that was anticipated strictly from the river bank. They have not completely eliminated this idea; there may be a mixture of these wells and direct river water. Councilmember Cook expressed his preference in boring under the river, rather than drawing from the river. He stated in his experience as a dam operator, the levels are getting so low they are concerned about surrounding areas being able to draw because of water flows. He would not want to be in the situation where the only option is to draw off the river when flows are below the 2,000 cubic feet per second and they are unable to draw. There are cities that are very concerned about whether there will be drinking water in the next month. He stressed the need to be very careful when looking at this situation. He stated the current water flow is not uncommon, and it is more and more common to see low flows below 2,000 cubic feet per second. Public Works Director Olson replied this is an extremely good point. He noted the City will also have nine deep water wells that will be a backup supply. However, future build-out will require another 15 wells, and the DNR has said they want the City to look at alternative sources. Councilmember Strommen asked if the City has had any follow up with the DNR on the meeting that was held where they discussed the DNR's role in managing ground and surface water. Public Works Director Olson replied there have not necessarily been follow up meetings, but the DNR has been forwarded the minutes of that last meeting to have them involved in the northwest water supply work group. As far as the City participating in other water treatment, he believes the discussion point that came out was that they will explore other alternatives and other community needs for this alternative water source. He does not believe that has been pursued to a great extent, because Andover and Elk River have their water supply right now. Councilmember Strommen noted the DNR really is the only entity that is positioned to be able to coordinate this water management. Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Councilmember Jeffrey, to approve the $35,000 amendment to the contract with Bolton and Menk, Inc. for the installation of a 3-phase power to the Pilot Plant area. City Council / August 8, 2006 Page 21 of29