06-12-2001 ERMU MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission June 12, 2001 5.2 Review and Consider Ridges of Rice Lake Electrical Bid Tabulation Bids for Ridges of Rice Lake cluster development were received on May 22, 2001. A bid tabulation reflecting the results of the bid were presented. Commission, at the May 8, ERMU meeting, authorized Staff to award a contract to the lowest responsive bidder, with the approval of the ERMU auditors. The lowest responsive bidder was M&P Utilities. Staff reviewed the bid tabulation with the Commission. John Dietz moved to formally approve the award of the contract to M&P Utilities. George Zabee seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0. 5.3 Update Meter Reading Costs Radio read meter reading, contract, and in-house meter reading were reviewed. It was agreed that in the event that our present Contract Meter Reading service does not renew the contract, that at that time the ERMU would return meter reading to in-house. Staff was directed to return to a future meeting, information, and statistics for ERTs (Encoder/Receiver/Transmitter). 5.4 Review Response Time and Computer Use Certain operational people are now required to live within an 8 mile radius of the power plant for response time. A survey on response time, by other Utilities, and the local Fire Department were reviewed. Miles versus time, and staff recommendations were discussed. John Dietz moved to change the wording of the required 8 mile radius to 10 mile radius for certain operational employees. George Zabee seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0. The subject of possible $1,200.00 interest free loans to employees for computer purchase was discussed. Commission and staff weighed the benefits of the program, with different viewpoints expressed. It was the consensus of the Commission to table the topic to the July Commission meeting. 5.5 Review Safety Program Evaluation A reviewal of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Safety Program by the MMUA Regional Safety Coordinator was presented and discussed. George Zabee commended the ERMU employees for the successful report. Discussion continued, with comments from Staff, Commission. 5.6 Review Financial Projections Many large projects expected in the next three years, such as wells, water towers, substations, administration building, and a plant garage may require debt financing. These projects, along with financing requirements were discussed. Updated financial cash flow projections were commented upon by Staff and Commission. The subject of rate increases,timing, economy, and cash were discussed. It was noted by George Zabee that he would prefer to see gradual increases of a modest nature rather than an abrupt large increase. John Dietz agreed with that thought.