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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — AUGUST 15, 2011 4 Mayor Grant questioned if there is an adequate number of pumps in Lift Station #8 because the homeowner immediately adjacent has reported strong sewer smells at times. He also asked if the electrical use is monitored at this lift station. Public Works Director Maurer responded that this is a three -pump station which is adequate. He added that there could be times when there may be a septic smell if there is a low -flow period. He also explained that the electrical system is monitored and recorded on a daily basis and on July 16 the pumps in this station ran 11 to 12 hours each. Beyond that day, he has not been aware of any electrical usage that is beyond the normal amount. Public Works Director Maurer proceeded to review the flooding issues related to Indian Oaks pond and explained that he has been talking to the homeowner just west of the pond regarding the pond overflowing its banks on July 16. He added that the overflow did not get into that home but he is aware of one other home in that area with damage. He pointed out on a map the drainage easement for this pond where a shed has been placed and a tree has been planted. The storm sewer line running through this easement is plastic so he doesn't anticipate any problems with tree roots in the storm sewer line. He explained that the debris in the area makes it clear that the water flowed over land so he thinks the system worked. He doesn't recommend any changes at this time unless the Council wants to address the shed that is partially located in the easement. He also stated that he is not concerned about the tree in the easement other than the homeowner's risk if the pipe in that area has to be dug up. Mayor Grant suggested that Mr. Maurer make the homeowner aware of the fact that the shed and tree are located in a drainage easement. Councilmember Tamble asked if Mr. Maurer had received any phone calls from the area of 1546 Briarknoll. He also stated there was water coming out of the manhole at the area of 1565 Briarknoll. Public Works Director Maurer responded there were two property owners that had individual issues. He was aware of the ponding in the area of 1565 Briarknoll but noted that it drained fairly quickly. Public Works Director Maurer went on to discuss an issue that occurred on Amble Road and Nursery Hill Court where there is a lot of overland flow. One property owner's retaining wall failed during the July 16th storm. He explained that after reviewing the area, he doesn't see any easy way to divert the water anywhere else and the City doesn't own any land in the affected area. He stated it is his opinion that the drainage patterns have been established for a long time and there is not much that can be done. He thought the best solution would be for the property owners involved to work together and the City could assist them. Councilmember Tamble suggested that Bolton & Menk take a look at this area and offer suggestions to the homeowners.