01-14-2014 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes Page 8 January 14,2014 studied by the DNR and MPCA. He stated that Tiller's permits with the State are designed • to protect the groundwater to make sure any fuel storage or chemicals are handled to protect the groundwater. He noted that in Maple Grove,water features were created from past mining. Also,the same was done in Dakota and Washington Counties. Kirstin Pauly stated that there was some correspondence between city and the water superintendent, and this site was found to be outside city's Drinking Water Source Management Area (DWSMA). Commissioner Konietzko asked if the residential wells were outside this area. Ms. Paul stated,no, the management area only applies to the municipal water source and there could be wells down from the area, as she stated previously. Mr. Caron stated that the landfill studies found depth fluctuation in the groundwater level of 5 - 10,and that at any given time they will have 2—5 feet, and rarely will have only 1 foot of protection. Chair Anderson stated that water is regenerated by allowing it to percolate down to nearest aquifer. He stated that most of water will go to the west wetland area. Certain areas may be more highly exposed. He stated that some areas such as the Sand Dunes,regenerates the major aquifers more quickly. He stated that since they don't know how deep the wells are, they don't know which aquifer they are taking water from. Mr. Leeseberg will look into the residential drinking water areas that are outside of the • municipal system, such as the Ridges of Rice Lake area which has a common well. Commissioner Konietzko asked for clarification on what the soil looks like next to the water table. Mr. Caron and Ms. Pauly explained. There being no further public comment,Chair Anderson closed the public hearing. Commissioner Konietzko asked for clarification on what staff will check on prior to the City Council meeting. Mr.Leeseberg stated he will check on whether or not residential wells could be impacted by the operation. Commissioner Konietzko asked if there is typically any other review besides city staff. Mr. Leeseberg explained how an application is reviewed and all the different depaittnents and agencies that are involved. Mr. Leeseberg stated that the conditions require that they work with the state agencies on the permitting,which includes any monitoring or testing. Mr. Caron noted that when the EIS was completed,groundwater mining was considered in the EIS review of this area and has been approved. He noted that the DNR and MPCA had very active role in reviewing the EIS before the City Council approved the EIS. Commissioner Eric Johnson asked if city staff was comfortable with the responses from Tiller. Mr. Leeseberg stated that the consultant has not had a chance to do a thorough review of Tiller's responses,but he did not see any glaring issues. The consultant will do a full review before the City Council meeting.