3.1.B. MINUTES 11-15-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 5 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission October 11, 2011 City staff currently forecasts the cost and implements a maintenance and or replacement plan for street lights. However, there is some efficiency to be gained by having the entity currently responsible for general maintenance also being responsible for the upkeep of current street lights. ERMU has the equipment and is licensed as an electrical contractor to be able to legally perform maintenance to street lights under the National Electric Safety Code and the National Electric Code. Discussion followed. Staff was directed to bring back a memorandum of understanding to be approved by the commission, which will then be submitted to the City Council for their consideration. AI Nadeau moved to accept the proposed Street Light Installation and Maintenance Policy. Daryl Thompson seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 5.7 Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association Safety Management Program Renewal ERMU contracts with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) to provide safety training through their Safety Management Program and Job Training and Safety (JTS) Program. This program provides the required training for all staff. It covers the topics such as Blood Borne Pathogens and Right to Know. It also covers specific trainings such as Pole Top Rescue and OSHA compliance inspections for water and electric facilities. Daryl Thompson moved to continue with the MMUA Safety Management Program and JTS Program at a cost of $22,950. Al seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 6.1 Staff Updates Troy Adams discussed the ownership and responsibilities of the Elk River dam. It is still in ERMU's name. So far ERMU has operated the dam to maintain the lake level, and the City of Elk River has maintained it. Troy's concern was for future maintenance and inspection issues. Daryl Thompson asked if it could be turned over to the City of Elk River. Troy Adams responded it would have to go to the City Council for approval. Troy asked for a memorandum of understanding with the City. Discussion followed. John Dietz directed Troy Adams to meet with Justin Femrite, the City Engineer, to draft a memo for the agenda and talk to City Council about this. Troy Adams discussed a water issue that was recently discovered. Discussion followed. Elk River Landfill is adding a new incinerator to the Landfill Gas Recovery Plant at their expense. They are asking ERMU for help with the energy cost. Discussion followed. Troy Adams stated he has not received an official request yet. John Dietz said to bring back to the commission when a written request has been received. Theresa Slominski reviewed the Auditor RFP Evaluation results. The current auditor, Abdo, Eick & Meyers received the highest rating. The City of Elk River along with ERMU is recommending staying with Abdo, Eick & Meyers for the annual auditing services.