2015.05.05 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Lotter discussed how Tucson, Arizona was addressing their water concerns. Councilmember Bauman believed that the City could learn a lot from Tucson and did not have to recreate the wheel when addressing the City's water concerns. Schlichting discussed the measures the City has taken to date to reduce its water usage. Councilmember Bauman believed that most of the options available for new toilets and showerheads would assist with water conservation. She thought that residents would assist the City with water conservation efforts once made fully aware of the situation. She suggested the City encourage conservation through communications with residents via the City newsletter and water bills. Councilmember Strub was in favor of the City further promoting water conservation efforts beyond the odd/even watering ban. Lotter recommended that a total yard watering ban be put in place this summer. Councilmember Bauman did not support an all-out watering ban. She questioned how the City would police the watering ban. Schlichting discussed how the City would address this concern and believed that neighbors would report any concerns. Councilmember Burg requested that residents still be allowed to water fruit trees and gardens. Councilmember Strub asked how the City would address blending. He recommended that additional information be provided to the public addressing how and when blending would occur. Schlichting provided further comment on how the City would address this matter with the residents. Councilmember Bauman believed that addressing the public up front and informing them how important water conservation was, may mean the City doesn't even have to consider blending later this summer. Lotter stated that low flow showerheads were available from at a very low cost to residents, which would be a good place to start. Councilmember Strub wanted to see the City take whatever steps necessary to try and avoid blending for fear of how the public will react. Scott explained that irrigation put the largest strain on the City's water supply. He commented that conservation efforts would assist the City in managing its water supply. He reported that the State of Minnesota has a different threshold than other states when addressing Dioxane. Mayor Jacobsen discussed how Dioxane requirement levels varied between different states. Councilmember Strub suggested the City remain extremely transparent with how it was addressing the water situation. Councilmember Bauman commended staff for how they have handled the water issue proactively to date. She recommended that staff have a weekly water report available for the public to view on the City's website. She stated she did not want to create panic, but wanted the City to keep the public properly informed. Councilmember Strub asked if the City had other options available to assist with providing water to its residents. Lotter appreciated this question and stated staff was evaluating other options and would report back to the Council at a future meeting with further information. Councilmember Burg thanked staff for their efforts for addressing this issue head on and for providing the Council with clear information.