3.1.B. MINUTES 07-12-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Page 3 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission June14,2011 4.4 Update on 2011 Purchase of a Directional Bore Rig Mark Fuchs discussed the operations and benefits of the new bore rig that was delivered in May. Two employees have been trained to work the machine. Vermeer has also been out to assist and train in the field. Discussion followed regarding the benefits of having this machinery in place. No action taken. 5.1 Joint Meeting with the Heritage Preservation Commission to Discuss the Jackson Street Water Tower Rebecca Haug, the Environmental Administrator for the City of Elk River, discussed the status of putting the Jackson Street Water Tower on the National Register. Discussion followed regarding the cost of maintaining the tower, the funds ERMU set aside for demolition, and the avenues available for funding the towers expenses now and in the future. Troy Adams stated that the cost to repair and paint the tower is approximately $400,000. Troy Adams also stated he does not think the ERMU water customers should be solely burdened with additional fees to save the tower. Steve Rohlf asked for approval to apply for grants and also stated he understands that if the cost is extreme and funds cannot be raised, the tower would not be saved. John Dietz said to go ahead and check on the grants available. John Dietz then asked Peter Beck if the City could purchase the tower after it was on the National Register. Given the mission of the City of Elk River is more in line with ownership of a historical asset, versus the utility mission of ownership of functioning assets, Peter Beck said he didn't think it would be an issue. Rebecca Haug asked for permission to post flyers to save the water tower. Consensus of the Commission was it was a great idea. 5.2 Review and Consider Proposed Utilities Organizational Restructuring In April 2009, the Utilities underwent organizational restructuring. At that time the supervisory and advisory responsibilities for the Water Superintendent were assigned to the Public Works Director for the City of Elk River. In early 2010, the Public Works Director resigned and the City of Elk River decided not to fill the position at that time. Troy Adams discussed the benefits of bringing the Water Department back in house. Troy Adams also requested a change in title due to the confusion of his current job title in the industry. Discussion followed. Daryl Thompson moved to change Troy Adams job title to Utilities Director until April 2012, and adopt the new staff organizational chart with the Water Department being under the Utilities Director with a probationary period thru April 2012. Al Nadeau seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.