06-06-2019 Special Meeting Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING JUNE 6, 2019 weather and stopped during rain events, we should be able to protect the Owasso basin and North Star Estates, but there is still some risk. He noted that the primary goal with pumping would be to get the lake below the lowest home on the lake. The Public Works Director stated that he has been working with a contractor to install a pump in the field on the south side of the railroad tracks on Frank Frattalone's property. He explained that a road will need to be built in order to get a fuel truck to the pump, and Mr. Frattalone has offered to build the road on his property and gave a price of $6,400 for the road. He explained that the current estimate will be about $25,000 for the first month which includes setup, and will be the most expensive month. He noted that monthly costs for employees and fltel costs are less, but there is a lot of work to get it all set up. He stated that the idea is to get ahead of the water coming in from West Vadnais in order to stop the increase in level, and then continue in order to work towards lowering the lake level. He noted that the pumps would be turned off 12-24 hours before a rain event. The Public Works Director explained that the city applied last night for a permit from MNDOT and they agreed to fast -track the approval process, and a DNR appropriations permit is already approved. He noted that MNDOT is supportive of this pumping operation. City administrator stated there are several options, but the City is mainly considering one of the most feasible options. He explained that the City wants to focus on protecting the house structures. He stated that sandbagging has occurred at the lowest home on the lake, which is at 876 feet. He added that the next lowest home is at 878 feet, and that property is also protected by sandbags for protection. He stated that the City could take the position that this is enough and now rely on the overflow_ pipe which is at 877 feet. He stated that given the history and the high rainfall already this spring, that is not a recommended option, so pumping Twin Lake is the option the City is looking at. He explained that Council member Fischer was not able to attend the meeting today but submitted a letter that he asked to be read at the meeting. My apologies for not being able to attend in person, but I have a conflict. I am hosting a business meeting with international attendees. Thank you to the Watershed for their unanimous support of a pumping effort to reduce the water levels on Twin Lake. I also believe it is important for the City Council to act to preserve the homes surrounding Twin Lake from the rising water levels and assist in 2