2010-04-27_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Schwartz advised that the task force was working on a draft policy, a working copy of which was included in tonight's materials, with phases to address and reduce inflow and infiltration impacting the capacity of metropolitan area sewers; and subsequent surcharges for exceeding capacity, computed based on a formula. Mr. Schwartz reviewed the current program with the City required to spend at minimum approximately $90,000 per year to reduce inflow and infiltration, with one (1) year remaining on that existing program. Mr. Schwartz reviewed ongoing and proposed efforts to narrow problem areas (i.e., sewer lining, manhole cover replacement and inspections). Mr. Schwartz reviewed the challenges in resolving issues; system capacity and penalties to communities; and how to measure success of work completed to-date during very dry periods. Mr. Schwartz noted the most significant and successful change in direction was elimination of the demand charge concept, in favor of GASB incentives to reinvest in infrastructure, and how to achieve standards in maintaining a community's investment in these facilities. Discussion included how best to educate the public in advance of the rationale and reality for complying with these initiatives; changes needed in current policies and ordinances; point-of--sale or city-wide inspections to ensure compliance; new technologies for private sewer lateral replacements and potential grant funds; past practice by staff in metering problem areas, but cost-prohibitive issues; areas identified for groundwater infiltration (i.e., manhole repairs and cover replacements); and the need to continually reinvestment in capital improvements to keep the system up to standard; and redirecting storm water runoff away from the sanitary sewer to reduce costs that impact all taxpayers. Mr. Schwartz advised that further discussion would occur in the future. 8. Future Topic Discussion -combine with next agenda item Mr. Schwartz suggested that the Commission may want to consider larger efforts or topics for the year, rather than just those addressed at the upcoming meeting. Member Vanderwall suggested consideration of discussions among the City and School District for potential sharing of facilities and maintenance of those facilities between government agencies to gain public efficiencies (i.e., vehicle maintenance). Mr. Schwartz advised that the City Manager had requested that the organized waste collection be put on hold at this time. The PWETC could begin to provide feedback based on community values as it relates to recycling in the next couple of months.