11-29-94 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER 29, 1994 Hanson and Pedersen agreed. Hanson noted that the City is not in a position to cut services, and pointed out that police and fire protection are the few services that City taxpayers receive without a direct assessment. The Administrator reviewed the Water Budget pointing out that the City has received the increase from the St. Paul Board of Water Commissioners. That increase was less than expected.' Council should adjust the figure of $502,000 to $494,500. Morelan asked if the City would receive a better rate if it purchased water from the City of Roseville. The Administrator reported that there has been discussion about a joint purchasing group for water, however, he was sure that the City of St. Paul will protect its interests. It was suggested that this option be investigated when contracts are renegotiated. The Public Works Superintendent reported that Roseville has a 20 year contract with the Board of Water Commissioners. The Board has been discussing an equitable contract for all the cities. Arden Hills does purchase water from Roseville, but they do so at a higher rate than what Roseville pays St. Paul. Scalze asked if a joint purchasing group would result in a lesser rate for Little Canada and a higher rate for Roseville. The Administrator anticipated that the Little Canada rate would not change much, but Roseville's could likely increase and Roseville will not go for that. The Administrator reported that the Board of Water Commissioners has been doing a much better job recently accounting for rate increases. Morelan pointed out that the City has the option of producing its own water supply. The Administrator pointed out that there are the issues of water quality and cost to consider as well as the fact that appropriation permits to put in wells are becoming much more difficult to obtain. 10