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Councilmember Pearson stated that he has been involved with the Town Center Task Force since <br />the beginning and it is a highly developed plan put together professionally which included <br />several studies. He felt that the plan that was being presented was a great plan and very well <br />designed. <br /> <br />Councilmember Zimmerman stated that the AUAR indicated that there could possibly be a lack <br />of underground water for drinking supplies with the development of the Town Center, which is a <br />concern. <br /> <br />Principal City Engineer Olson explained that the City has a water supply plan that will be <br />updated in the western well field. Every new well that goes in will have to pass a pumping test to <br />assure there is enough water. If two new wells are put in the Town Center area they can provide <br />adequate water as well as hook up to a future water treatment facility. The third well would be <br />placed nero' the water treatment facility, which they anticipate being constructed near Fire Station <br />I. He noted that the City could also go to the next aquifer if it becomes necessary. <br /> <br />John Feges, Ramsey Town Center LLC, explained that they are looking at different technologies <br />for storm water as well as self-irrigating possibilities to reduce the amount of water that is being <br />pulled from the aquifer. <br /> <br />Councilmember Kurak questioned how the City would address the needs for water up to the Elk <br />River border. She inquired if there would be a need for more wells in that area. <br /> <br />Principal City Engineer Olson replied yes, explaining that the Town Center will require three <br />new wells alone and then there will probably be a need for two additional wells in the future. <br /> <br />Councihnember Kurak inquired if eventually the City will need another aquifer. <br /> <br />Principal City Engineer Olson replied not necessarily. <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen stated that there is a need for the DNR and the Met Council to <br />discuss the issue on a regional basis. <br /> <br />Tim Engen, Ramsey Town Center LLC, stated that if they do their job right with storm water <br />management, then other communities will look at this development as the appropriate way to <br />handle storm water. <br /> <br />Councihnember Kurak questioned the status of the AUAR and the impacts of proposed new <br />legislation. <br /> <br />City Administrator Norman explained that an amendment is being proposed that would require <br />that as of January 1, 2003, no AUAR process could be used in lieu of an EIS or EAW when <br />groundwater is a concern. Staff has had regular dialog with the chief authors and they will make <br />sure the City is protected. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session/May 6, 2003 <br /> Page 4 of 11 <br /> <br /> <br />