02-15-2001 ERMU MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission February 15, 2001 5.3 Review Service Territory Acquisition for 2001 Commission and Staff reviewed the territory acquisition map, reflecting the present territory and future plans. Bryan Adams further discussed strategies for acquisition, and recommended authorization be given to proceed with the 2001 planned acquisition, and to push back by one year, acquisition areas 16,17,18,19, and not to purchase any territory in 2002. Necessary construction to serve these areas will then have an opportunity to be done in a timely manner. George Zabee moved to acquire Area 15, and Area 20 in 2001, at an approximate cost of $200,000.00, and to not purchase further territory in 2002. James Tralle seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 5.4 Update Laborer Position Staff presented the position description of a laborer, the reviewal by Hay Management Consultants, with point evaluations for Pay Equity. John Dietz asks what the starting pay would be for the position. Bryan Adams responded with the 4 step wage plan and advised that the top wage step would be $15.86 per hour. John Dietz asked who the supervisor would be for this position. David Berg will be the Supervisor, and the job duties would be both in the Water and Electric Departments. James Tralle moved to approve the Job Description, Wage Plan, and to authorize the hiring of a Laborer. George Zabee seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 5.5 Update Wholesale Rate and Connexus FERC Filing The issue of the interpretation of the allocation of refunds to ERMU by Great River Energy/Connexus was discussed. Bryan Adams explained that we assumed we would be entitled to a portion of the refund to Connexus, because of the Contract wording. John Dietz feels that the amount of a $68,000.00 refund warrants further investigation. Staff is authorized to request clarification from Mr. Robert McDiarmid, FERC Attorney, on the matter. 6.1 Review 2001 Annual Report Bryan Adams presented and discussed the 2000 Annual Report to City Council with the Commission. The report was briefly discussed with regard to 2000 major accomplishments and goals. The plans for a new garage to be erected by the existing Plant were reviewed with discussion. Staff brought to the attention of the Commission, the need for a mechanic. John Dietz responded with the suggestion of the City hiring a second mechanic,who would share his time with the Utility. Pat Klaers agreed that it would be a good possibility. John Dietz asked Glenn Sundeen to put together a report to Pat Klaers about the need for a mechanic by the Utilities. John Dietz asked Bryan Adams to discuss the possibility at the City Staff meeting on 2-27-01. Bryan Adams asked the Commission to look closely at the statistical information within the annual report, with special concern regarding wholesale power.