3.0 ERMU MINUTES 12-09-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 5 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission November 13, 2008 5.6 Review & Consider MMUA Safety Compliance Contract At the October ERMU Commission meeting, staff proposed the 2009 MMUA safety contract. At that time the City of Elk River informed the Commission they have been researching alternative safety providers. The ERMU Commission directed staff to renew the contract contingent upon the ability to change the contract if the City decided to pursue other options. Staff discussed the situation with MMUA, and was awaiting decision from the City prior to renewing the safety contract for 2009. The City safety coordinator and ERMU staff met and reviewed the options they are looking into. Troy Adams informed the Commission of the safety program that is offered by Anoka Technical College. The City is favorable to this program and the cost is considerably less. The question of changing safety programs is of concern. MMUA requires a 30 day notice prior to cancellation. Jerry Gumphrey commented that safety is important. John Dietz moved to allow Troy Adams, Mark Fuchs, and David Berg to review the programs and make a decision for the 2009 safety program. Jerry Gumphrey seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 5.7 Review & Consider Proposed Water Rates Changes —Fixed vs Tier Rate Chanties At the last ERMU Commission meeting, staff was asked to review the possibility of changing the fixed monthly charge instead of the 1 S` step rate for the 2009 budget. The 10¢ increase of the base rate resulted in approximately $50,000 and by raising the fixed monthly charge $1 instead it would result in $47,500. John Dietz moved to raise the fixed monthly charge from $6.50 to $7.50 effective January 1, 2009. Jerry Gumphrey seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 6.1 Review & Consider Proposed 2009 Budget and Cash Flow Proiections The proposed 2009 electric and water expense budgets were reviewed. Capital projects were changed in the water department to achieve budgeting a $58,837 replenishment of reserves. 6.2 Review & Consider 800 MHz Radios This month the City of Elk River will be converting from their old analog radio system to a new 800MHz radio system. The new system provides better range and clarity. The City received a grant from Sherburne County to convert to this system. Once the City converts to this system ERMU would not be able to communicate without modifications to the existing system. It is important to keep the analog system as it is still being used by MMUA for emergencies. Discussion followed. The need to communicate with the City of Elk River and