11-10-2004 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER 10, 2004 SAVAGE The City Administrator indicated that the condition of the Savage Lake LAKE weir structure and debris blocking it had artificially raised water levels, WATER and as a result of improvements made on that structure, the levels of LEVELS the lake were lowered. Once the lake levels went down, the property owners abutting the lake expressed concern. A meeting was held with the Watershed at which time the Watershed indicated that they would make some changes that would result in the water levels increasing. The Administrator indicated that the Watershed has now indicated that due to DNR rules, they will have to get a special permit from the Commissioner in order to raise the lake level. This will require getting permanent flooding easements from every property owner around the east and west side of Savage Lake. Estimated cost for the survey work, easement drafting, etc. is $100,000. The Watershed Board is not willing to pay for this expense, and have instructed the Watershed Administrator to contact the DNR to determine if there is a less costly approach. The City Administrator also suggested the possibility of special legislation. ST. PAUL The City Administrator reviewed a draft letter he is proposing to WATER seed to St. Paul Regional Water Services relative to their NEGOTIATIONS willingness to discuss a contract renewal prior to the expiration of the current contract agreement on February 10, 2007. That letter outlines the City's concern that St. Paul Water is proposing to reduce the water rate being charged Little Canada effective December 1, 2005 rather than earlier. The City Administrator indicated that it is his position that Little Canada has been overcharged by St. Paul Water and that the situation be corrected now earlier than later. The Adminisriator also pointed out that the current effective rate being charged by St. Paul Water to Roseville as a wholesale customer is lower than the current rate to Little Canada. St. Paul Water and Roseville are currently renegotiating their contract. It appears that the rate to Roseville will be increased, but even that increased rate is substantially lower that Little Canada's rate. Blesener indicated that he met Pat Harris, the President of St Paul I2egioual Water Services, at the League of MN Cities Conference. Harris had indicated a willingness to meet to discuss the issue. Blesener noted that St. Paul Water is currently seeking a noise variance from the City relative to work on their well system. It was the consensus of the Council that the City Administrator's letter should be sent with a reference to Blesener's and Han is's conversation at the League Conference, and a meeting be scheduled with St. Paul Water, City Staff and Mayor Fahey and Council Member Blesener.