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Page 5 <br /> Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission <br /> April 14,2009 <br /> 5.3 Consider Rebates to Encourage Automatic Sprinkler Controls <br /> David Berg discussed the possibility of requiring automatic sprinkler controls on <br /> irrigation systems. The automatic sprinkler control could reduce water use for irrigating lawns <br /> by up to 50%. Staff is recommending a"Smart Irrigation Rebate Program"to encourage <br /> ERMU water customers to install automated"Smart"sprinkler systems. Discussion followed <br /> regarding the possibility of enforcing this for new irrigation systems. John Dietz asked Terry <br /> Maurer if the City Council would be receptive to this requirement and Terry Maurer said he <br /> thought they would. Lori Johnson recommended water staff meet with the City Attorney to <br /> put together an ordinance for City Council approval. <br /> 5.4 Review and Consider Changes to Meter Testing Policy <br /> The current meter testing policy is in need of revision. Meters do not have to be removed <br /> to be tested anymore. Staff recommends revising the current meter testing policy to read; "If a <br /> customer requests the testing of his/her electric and or water meter because of high bills,they <br /> shall deposit with the utility the sum of$50.00 for this test and it shall be paid prior to testing." <br /> Jerry Gumphrey moved to change the wording for the meter testing policy as stated. <br /> Daryl Thompson seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. <br /> 5.5 Review Company Vehicle Take-Home Practice <br /> The vehicle take home policy was reviewed. John Dietz distributed information <br /> regarding mileage,gas cost for vehicles,and asked of the necessity of taking home some of <br /> the vehicles. Discussion followed. Jerry Gumphrey said he didn't have a problem with this <br /> practice and didn't know why it was even being discussed. This discussion was tabled till IRS <br /> tax rate status to individuals becomes available. <br /> 6.1 Discuss Use of City Attorney <br /> In the past ERMU has utilized City Attorney Peter Beck and outside attorneys to deal <br /> with legal issues. John Dietz said by law ERMU should be using the City Attorney. <br /> John Dietz moved to use City Attorney Peter Beck for all future legal issues. Daryl <br /> Thompson seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. <br /> 6.2 Staff Updates <br /> Jerry Gumphrey voiced his concern in future investing in the Big Stone II project. Vance <br /> Zehringer responded the progress is looking good and John Dietz will be meeting with them <br />