Minutes - 2024/04/08 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council April 8, 2024 Regular Meeting Page 4 Ayes – 3 Nays – 0 Motion carried. E. Water Meter Replacement Program - Valve Replacement. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson requested the Council approve the water meter replacement and valve replacement program. He explained the Council approved the replacement of the City’s water meters back in June of 2023. He indicated at the April 1, 2024 Council work session that the Council discussed the replacement of residential valves on each side of the inoperable meters. He stated water service lines, including the internal service lines were to be maintained by residential property owners. He reported letters were sent to residential property owners encouraging them to schedule a time to have their water meter replaced. It was noted this letter explained residents would be responsible for replacing valves on either side of the meter, if there were concerns. Staff estimated it would cost residents $92 to replace inoperable valves if requiring only 30 minutes of work, this amount would increase to $185 for an hour of work. Staff requested the Council review this information and provide staff with direction on how to proceed. Mayor Lindstrom asked if water meters were in an inconvenient location, how the contractor would address this concern. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson stated he would have to speak with the contractor regarding this matter. A member of the public (Tony Preciado) asked if he could replace his own water meter. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson explained this could not be done. He stated staff had to ensure all meters were properly installed and operational with software readings. He reported the contractor would be doing inspections of service lines in order to inventory which homes have lead water lines. He indicated this was a requirement of the federal government. Jeffery Hedstrom, 7748 Woodlawn Drive, reported he had the City out last summer and noted the valve inside his home was not holding. He questioned how the water meter would be changed out if this valve was not holding. Mayor Lindstrom explained this valve would be addressed as part of the meter replacement. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson commented further on how valves were replaced. Council Member Meehlhause asked if there would be a small increase in utility fees to cover the cost for the water meter replacements over time. Mayor Lindstrom recalled this would be a later discussion for the Council. City Administrator Zikmund indicated this item would be discussed at the May budget session. Council Member Meehlhause suggested the Resolution be amended to include an amount up to, for the valve replacement work. Mayor Lindstrom suggested a maximum reimbursement of $300 be considered for work performed to replace valves.