01-03-1984 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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-.., City Council Minutes January 3. 1984 Page Five 13. Administrator's Update A. Elk River Flooding The City Administrator indicated that over the past several weeks the level of the Elk River has been higher than normal and therefore, has caused some problems for residents on Waco Street and Yankton, particularly for two families, the Huffs and the Watts. The City Administrator further indicated that on Friday, December 23rd, several County officials, residents, representa- tives from the Corps of Engineers and the DNR met to discuss the problem and the general feeling was that there was no action that could be taken by the City of Elk River at the present time. The City Administrator indicated that the DNR and the Corps of Engineers indicated that the problem could possibly be caused by silt in the river at the entrance to Orono Lake which then would cause a shallowness of water and that in turn would cause ice jam-up and build- up, forcing the water to go elsewhere. Mayor Hinkle indicated that the news medias were contacted regarding the problem and that the City Administrator's whole day was taken up with the media. The City Administrator indicated that Channel 4, Channel 5, Channel 11 and Channel 7, in addition to radio stations and newspapers. had contacted him regarding the Elk River flooding of the Huff's residence. Mr. Tom Zerwas indicated that the County refused a building permit to the Huffs to remodel and add on to their cabin, but they went ahead and did the remodeling and addition anyway. Discussion was carried on regarding the well and septic system at the Huff's residence. The City Administrator indicated that Mr. Brian Benson expressed concern of the Huff's water system and suggested that the Huffs boil their water and get it tested. Further discussion was carried on regarding the water problem and the possibility of greater flooding problems in the springtime. The City Administrator indicated that the DNR would be contacting the City of Elk River with some suggestions to alleviate springtime flooding problems. The City Administrator further indicated that the DNR also indicated that the City should make residents aware of flood insurance. Mayor Hinkle indicated that the DNR is also concerned with the Mississippi River during springtime flooding, as the Monticello Nuclear Plant\fJwlllbbecciliosedfci' February 1st for approximately seven months. It was the consensus of the City Council to keep in touch with the DNR and the Corps of Engineers regarding the Elk River flooding problems now and ex- pected in the springtime.