02-09-2021 ERMU MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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During Mr. Geiser's presentation, Chair Dietz asked if the pink ribbons tied around some of the trees along Highway 10 meant they were going to be removed to clear the right of way for that highway's rebuild project. Mr. Geiser confirmed that was accurate. Mr. Geiser added that current plans for the Highway 169 Redefine project call for ERMU to move all infrastructure that conflicts with work by June of 2022. Following Mr. Ninow's presentation, Chair Dietz asked if there was a lot of water infrastructure that would need to be moved for the Highway 169 Redefine project. Mr. Ninow responded that there were seven areas in the system that conflict with the plan and require rerouting, movement, or the abandonment of parts of the current water main. Ms. Canterbury provided detail of the website redesign project, also explaining goals and objectives which included updating the look, incorporate branding, increasing a focus on visual elements, simplifying navigation, improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities, making the site mobile responsive, and incorporating search engine optimization. Ms. Canterbury noted the importance of this project as the website is often what represents ERMU to the community. Chair Dietz had questions on the landfill gas plant for Mr. Sagstetter during his presentation. Staff responded. Ms. Karpinski presented the paperless initiative adding that the new system will allow for the audit to occur mainly electronically. Chair Dietz had a question about the sorting process for invoices with the new systems. Staff explained the process. At the end of presentations, Commissioner Stewart thanked staff for working through the challenges of COVID-19 to have a successful 2020. Ms. Slominski echoed Commissioner Stewart's comments. Ms. Slominski directed the Commission's attention to the annual business plan which showed ERMU had a good financial year despite the challenges, allowing for a zero percent rate increase. Ms. Slominski went on to ask the commission for feedback about the information they were receiving and if it provided them the details they need to properly govern. Commissioner Stewart reiterated a request to have comparative balance sheet presented. Ms. Karpinski stated that ERMU can request that NISC begin the programing for this. Chair Dietz expressed appreciation for hearing all department leads presenting their topics. Commissioner Westgaard agreed and added there will be a need for continued communication especially with bigger projects in the future such as Highways 10 and 169. Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission Meeting Minutes February 9, 2021 Page 4