6.3. ERMUSR 06-12-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Apparently DNR is somewhat concerned with Mt Simon aquifer quantity and level of drawdown. 8. ISD asked why Zimmerman and Rogers allows irrigation wells but not Elk River. Adams, DNR and MRW responded "we do not know, each case is to be reviewed separately." (Possible reasons are no city ordinance, no wellhead protection issue do not take water conservation seriously. If schools provide irrigation, city does not have to provide infrastructure.) 9. ISD did not understand City on providing potable water only and not irrigation water. City does not operate two systems, potable and irrigation. Existing irrigation well is not grouted and therefore cannot be used for potable water. 10. MRW and DNR stated this is a state wide issue and not just Elk River. ISD is looking at this issue from a money perspective $30-$40K/yr. at this time with more wells in the background. MRW, DNR and Adams looking at it from ground water protection, conservation, protecting revenue streams to pay bonds with more cities watching the outcome. 11. DNR would desire a negotiated settlement so they aren't the bad guy. Other communities where this issue arose, the local parties found a solution before DNR had to rule. DNR is getting weak kneed. If they do not support Elk River Municipal Utilities, DNR's entire conservation plan becomes obsolete state wide. State Statute requires DNR not approve the permit for ISD if City objects and they stated such. Because City Park and Recreation Department uses school facilities, maybe City wants to finance some of the irrigation costs - (not likely to happen). 12. Who is really pushing this irrigation well issue, ISD or MN Well Drillers Association of which Roger Renner is very active? 13. O'Meara suggested Elk River allow ISD to use wells for one year until solutions could be found. Adams suggested municipal water system is available for their use at established rates. If ISD uses <1,000,000 gal/year, they do not need a DNR permit but that is not enough water to meet their needs and would be in violation of City ordinance. A special rate for a governmental entity would be in violation of conservation rate structure. Even City pays the current rates although Utilities pays some of City's electric. Multiple irrigation wells to take advantage of the 1,000,000 gallon rule would not be approved by DNR. 14. It was suggested to get an opinion from the Attorney General about City ordinance and DNR's position. Time to get this opinion does not fit ISD's time frame and DNR was not interested in picking up the costs. 15. Adams and Waterius to discuss this issue further to find resolution Three Options a) Do nothing --ISD will get lower water rate ($1.40/1,000 gal.) for Twin Lakes Elementary School for one year only. Lincoln well and Twin Lakes well to be sealed. b) Let school do as they wish. c) Honor August 4, 2006 compromise but now Lincoln well must be properly sealed.