Agenda Packets - 2003/11/03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The process of locating buried manholes consists of utilizing a metal detector. Once a metal reading is indicated, a T-rod probe in inserted into the ground (assuming it is not frozen) to determine that the reading is in fact a manhole cover and not some other metallic object. The area is then flagged and locations are called in for utilities to be located before any digging can be done. This takes a minimum of two days. A crew is then sent out to expose the structure and determine the repairs and materials needed to perform the job. If this were an emergency situation (plugged manhole) property would be flooded within this time. Another scenario is that the employees would start to dig without the utilities, such as gas and electric, being located and take the risk of putting their lives and the neighborhood in danger. As stated, this manhole has not required emergency access in recent history. However, that does not mean that emergency access will not be needed at a future date. To clarify this point: there is a fire hydrant across the street front this property just to the south. This hydrant is much more unsightly and noticeable than a manhole cover at ground level. It too has never been needed for emergency purposes in recent history. However, its removal or burial would be just as detrimental to public safety as burying this manhole cover. Although public safety and the reduction of damage to property are the overriding factors in requiring manholes to be accessible, there is also a financial factor of which the City Council should be aware. There are numerous storm sewer manholes located in non-paved areas such as boulevards, side and rear yards. Considering the new federal mandates of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II permit, the City of Mounds View, as a minimum, must inspect twenty percent (20%) of its storm sewer system each year. This means that every storm sewer manhole which is buried will need to be exposed at least once every five years. This could translate in to a cost of several thousand additional dollars to the City. Staff recommends that City Council allow Public Works to continue with its policy to locate, inspect, and make accessible and operation all storm sewer manholes in the City. Staff also recognizes that the owner of the property adjacent to where this particular manhole is located desires to maintain the aesthetics and value of his property. Given this, Staff will work with the property owner to set the slope and elevation of the storm sewer cover to match the existing boulevard as closely as possible. In addition, when Knollwood Drive is reconstructed, Staff and its consultants will try to locate such manholes in the roadway surface – although no guarantees can be given at this time. Staff will proceed to raise this manhole discussion during the week of October 13, 2003. If the City Council wishes to take a different course of action, please contact me. Thank You.