7.1. SR 05-05-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk Elk River Comprehensive Plan River The size and location of the sanitary sewer collection system influences the ability to expand the system, which results in a limit to the growth and development of land. Areas outside of the urban service area are included in this limitation, the area currently being mined as identified in Figure 5-1: Existing Land Use is a critical area. Projected areas of development and flow from un- sewered connections from the Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan were used to estimate the average daily flow (ADF) at 3,980,000 gallons for the year 2035. Improvements to the wastewater treatment facility will be necessary to meet the requirements for this future planned growth to meet the design approved by the City. Improvements to the wastewater treatment facility are anticipated to occur over the next several years as outlined in the Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan and should be incorporated into the City's CIP accordingly. Wastewater flows will be monitored by the City and Treatment Facility improvements will be completed as flows increase. Elk Rivers Municipal Utilities Water System A key element of this section of the Plan is to ensure that the City of Elk River provides a safe and adequate water supply. A sufficient water supply is a fundamental prerequisite for community growth and sustainability. Obtaining, protecting and distributing drinking water that meets health standards is one of the most important functions performed by a community. In addition, water pressures must be maintained for health, convenience, and to meet multiple and simultaneous demands by local residents. It is important to also maintain adequate water pressure and supply for fire protection. The City must maintain and expand its present system to ensure reliability and meet increasing water demands and quality standards. Strategic improvements to support desirable growth patterns will be critical as well. ERMU operates the water system for the City of Elk River and has done so since its creation on October 4, 1945 by the City Council. Water is supplied from 8 wells ranging from 225 to 406 feet in depth with water drawn from the Mr. Simon Hinckley aquifer. The wells range in capacity from 650 to 1,300 gallons per minute (gpm). The water utility is positioned well for the long term growth with the capability of providing over 8 million gallons of water per day to local residents and businesses. ERMU's water system contains over 78 miles of water mains and 4 water towers that have a total capacity of approximately 4,000,000 gallons of water. Peak day water pumped in 2012 was on July 16th with 4,420,000 gallons and 2012 water sales were 727,912,000 gallons. System improvements undertaken by ERMU since 2004 include: added 3 miles of main, changed over 4,000 meters to automated meter reading, completed a 20 year wellhead protection plan, and modified pressure zones in the City to optimize existing pressure by installing RPZ valves. ERMU also installed additional well filter equipment to better serve the long term growth of the City. Water efficiency and conservation efforts have been increased as the concern for the longevity of the aquifers in the state. The water utility implemented a rebate program to promote the installation of Smart Irrigation Controllers, implemented tiered pricing structures to promote water efficiency, and provided rebates and rate schedules for customers that irrigate using the most efficient equipment available. There are also programs for smaller customers that promote rain gardens and water barrels for residential customers. These efforts support the long term growth of the City and water supply. Chapter 8: Utilities / 91