3.0 ERMUSR 02-20-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 3 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission January 9, 2007 5.4 Keview Customer Water Valve Realacement At the December 2006 Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission meeting, David Berg, Water Superintendent, brought up the issue of utility staff replacing or repairing main shut-off valves in customer homes. On occasion, water customers call the utilities for assistance if the main water shut-off valve in their home develops a leak. This often happens after hours or on weekends when it is difficult or very expensive to find a plumber to replace this valve. The utility staff responds to this type of call to locate and turn off the curb stop so the faulty water valve can be replaced. Instead of waiting for a plumber to show up, it is quicker for the utilities to replace the valve while they are there. Unfortunately, the utilities are taking on some liability if the valve installed is defective or workmanship is flawed. Discussion followed regarding previous practices, problems, and the growing customer base. James Tralle asked if we could compile a list of plumbers for customers to call with our ordinance on the top. Jerry Takle asked if there was something the customer could sign negating us from problems, staff replied that we would still be liable if something went wrong. Jerry Gumphre}~ asked if we were insured for this type of service repair, staff responded we currently have a $2500 deductible. David Berg said most plumbers have their o~~m curb stop key. Jerry Gumphrey asked if we could require a better quality valve to be installed in new homes. Staff responded the State plumbing code dictates materials used, and it would be hard to police. Staff was directed to compile a list of plumbers who are on call 24 hours a day so customers could contact them for repairs. Motion by James Tralle to discontinue water valve replacement in homes. Jerry Gumphrey seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 5.5 Review Irrigation Wells in City Bryan Adams met with the DNR & MDH concerning the issue with ISD #728 using irrigation wells. Bryan updated the Commission on the issues involved, the requirements for permits, our current ordinance, and the response from the DNR suggesting a water appropriation permit will probably not be issued to ISD X728. 6.1 Review Bid Tabulation for Padmount Switch ear On January 8, 2007, bids were received for the 2007 padmount switchgear needs. Staff recommends the bid be awarded to Cooper Power Systems, the lowest responsive bidder. Motion by James Tralle to award the 2007 padmount switchgear to Cooper Power Systems, the lowest responsive bidder. Jerry Gumphrey seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 6.2 Review Water Service Testing Procedure The water service line from the corporation cock on the water main to the building is the property of the owner. For new construction, the utilities take on the responsibility of inspecting the service line for leaks. For commercial/industrial service lines, the test pressure