Councilmembers present: Dwight Thompson, Mayor pro tempore; Alan Kiest, Mary Jane Goss, Nate Herzog, Roger Olstad, Ed Sterner
Councilmember excused: Carolyn Armanini
Staff present: David R. Hutchinson, Mayor; Karen Haines, City Administrator; Dennis Peterson, Police Chief; Sarah Phillips, Community and Government Affairs Manager; Neil Jensen, City Engineer; Susan Stine, City Clerk
Others present: One visitor
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Hutchinson opened the study session meeting at 6:12 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM/DISCUSSION
Sewering Unsewered Areas
City Administrator Haines reviewed information related to unsewered areas and stated that approximately 240 properties in the city have septic systems. She noted that many of the septic systems are showing signs of failure and that the properties are in locations where construction of sewer systems would be expensive.
Haines reviewed the current city code regarding sewer availability and discussed a comparison of sewer rates with other service providers.
Councilmembers discussed potential costs to homeowners and funding options. Previous sewer projects and funding were discussed.
Haines reviewed issues related to sewering unsewered areas that require policy decisions and discussed sources of financing for the city.
Councilmembers discussed recommendations related to establishing a process, developing a repayment program and conducting a rate study for sanitary sewer service.
Additional discussion of issues related to financing options, code requirements regarding sewer connection, environmental protection, sewer installation costs followed.
Cmbr. Thompson moved to authorize the mayor to conduct a rate study and capital improvement plan and to establish a monthly capital facilities charge. Cmbr. Kiest seconded. The motion carried unanimously with six votes.
Kiest said that an ordinance should be prepared for council consideration if the city does not have a policy requiring connection when sewer is available.
Thompson said that property owners not connected to sewer in areas where sewer service is available should be notified of city code requirements.
Adjournment
There being no objection, the study session meeting was adjourned at 7:24 p.m.
Susan Stine, City Clerk
David R. Hutchinson, Mayor
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