CC 05-24-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24,1999 12 Councilmember Rem expressed agreement, stating this would encourage residents to attend committee meetings who might not otherwise express interest. Councilmember Larson stated he is uncomfortable with the provisional appointments, as some people will misinterpret it. He added the Council should use a more disciplined process to choose those residents who will serve. He asked whether it has been the City's policy that current committee members may continue to serve if they wish. Mayor Probst stated he has never known of a resident who was not re-appointed. Council member Malone stated in his opinion the Council has spent too much time on this issue, and suggested the Council liaison make arrangements and phone calls. Mayor Probst stated he would work with staff to identify task force heads and bring recommendations to the Council. He agreed that Council liaisons could contact respective task force members and make recommendations on how to proceed, as well as determine level of interest from respective committees for the next round of meetings. G. Scwer Infiltration Inspection Alternate, Residential Water Meter Replacement Project Discussion Mr. Stafford explained that staff is aware of illegal sewer system hook-ups within the City which account for 50% of clear water through the system. He noted staff intends to make meter replacement visits to homes and this might be an appropriate time to make inspections. He added the issue could become controversial, as correcting illegal hook-ups can be costly. Mr. Stafford stated that staff recommends approaching this as an identification process through which the City will work with residents to identify problems, make them aware of consequences to the City, and enforce compliance. Mr. Stafford stated that many metropolitan area communities are faced with this problem which has become increasingly serious due to the high cost of sewage treatment and the increased need for sewage infrastructure and facilities resulting from these connections. Mr. Stafford requested the Council's consideration of the addition of this inspection to the water meter installation process that would save money in the long run, but could impact the installation of meters and cause residents to perceive property encroachment. Mayor Probst asked if staff had determined whether this kind of inspection might be illegal. Mr. Fritsinger stated it is legal, and there are standard penalties for Ordinance violations. Mayor Probst expressed his approval of proceeding with the inspections since illegal hook-ups are costly to the City, adding the inspections can be done so residents do not feel intruded upon. Mayor Probst stated the two issues could be separated if there are concerns with regard to hindering the installation of meters. He noted water meter installers could assess the hook-ups and determine where the problem is focused.