CCP 12-11-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . ~ 4 ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - NOVEMBER 13, 2000 Councilmember Grant asked whether the residents are paying their water bills. Mr. Post stated some have paid their bills and some have not. He added that one resident is undergoing property foreclosure, but that is an unusual circumstance. Mr. Post stated that residents perceive the water meter to be part of their residential property. He added the meter is actually City equipment and should be maintained by the City. He added that access to the home must bc gained if thc meters are to be maintained properly. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the $100 surcharge is the most feasible option. She added she does not think the sum is punitive. Councilmember Larson stated that the City must specify that the quarterly surcharge will be imposed until the resident complies, adding it would be logical for their water to be shut off after a specific period of time. Councilmember Aplikowski stated tile surcharge could be increased after the second quarter. Councilmember Aplikowski asked how many quarters would be reasonable. Mr. Post stated the water could potentially be turned off in April 2001 after two quarters. Mayor Probst stated the Council would be hard pressed to approve a backcharge for the current quarter. Councilmember Larson stated the residents could be given notice that the surcharge would be imposed in the upcoming quarter. Mayor Probst stated the water would then be shut off on July 1,2001. Council member Grant stated the sample letter did not specify a City contact for residents who have questions or comments. He added the coordination of surcharges should be handled by City staff. Mr. Post stated the letter was simply intended to be an illustration of options. Mayor Probst asked whether a motion was required. Mr. Lynch stated a motion could be made directing staff to draft a resolution for action at the Council's next meeting. Mayor Probst reiterated that thc Council had expressed agreement that a surcharge should be imposcd for two quarters. Councilmember Grant stated he believes that is punitive. Mayor Probst disagreed, stating the real cost to the City is well over $50 and other residents bear the costs. Councilmember Larson stated that the meters which are not working properly represent lost revenue to the City. He added the City will be able to calculate what the residents actually owe to the City. Councilmember Grant asked whether City staff had noticed an increase in usage among meters which have already been replaced. Mr. Post stated that some customers have reported their usage is higher than in previous years for similar use patterns. He noted most meters were at the end of their cycles and had slowed down, and do not reflect accurate consumption.