HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-03-10 UC Packetliwater
T H E R RTHPL E M I N K h' 0 1 0
AGENDA
UTILITIES COMMISSION MEETING
MARCH 10, 2022
8:00 AM
I. ROLL CALL
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. November 4, 2021 Utilities Commission Meeting Minutes
III. OPEN FORUM — the open forum allows the public to address the commission on subjects which
are not a part of the meeting. Commission may take action, reply, or give direction to staff. Please
limit your comments to 5 minutes or less.
IV. NEW BUSINESS
2. Discussion on water service from Roger Ryan
3. Discussion on funding for Utility Improvements on Street Projects
V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
4. White Bear Lake Court Case Update
VI. DIRECTOR/SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
5. Monthly Updates
6. Water Appropriation use and efficiency profile
7. Met Council Water Efficiency Grant Program
VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS
VIII. ADJOURN
8. Next meeting date is March 10, 2022
i 1 INki ater
THE OIRTHELACE OF MINNESOTA
UTILITIES COMMISSION MEETING
November 4, 2021
8:00 A.M.
Utilities Superintendent Benson called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Present: Chairman Speedling, Commissioners Hudak (arrived at 8:10 a.m.) Whitcomb,
Councilmember Polehna
Absent: Commissioners Hutter and Jensen
Staff: Utilities Superintendent Benson, Public Works Director Sanders
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Possible approval of minutes of August 12, 2021 meeting
No vote taken due to lack of a quorum.
OPEN FORUM
There were no public comments.
NEW BUSINESS
White Bear Lake Court Case Update - David Sienko - Levander Gillen Miller PA
Attorney David Sienko, Levander Gillen & Miller, updated the Commission on the White Bear Lake
court case. He said that at the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) the judge granted the
homeowner associations full party status in the current litigation against the Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) for water appropriation permit amendments.
Commissioner Whitcomb asked if there is any way to get the City of Stillwater removed from this case
by either shutting down one of its wells or re -drilling a well outside the five -mile perimeter.
Mr. Sienko said he will talk about that option last. Another issue is the DNR, in a letter dated 10-21-21,
requested a voluntary irrigation ban because the level of White Bear Lake dropped below the trigger
elevation. The consensus amongst lawyers in this case who are acting on behalf of other communities
whose permits were amended, is to not enact a voluntary ban. However, an unrelated ordinance
amendment will go to the City Council this Tuesday enacting an odd -even restriction during summer
months. He anticipates a closed session soon with the City Council to discuss a Common Interest
Agreement circulating among lawyers involved in the case, allowing them to discuss the case and
protecting those communications from discovery by other parties like the homeowner associations.
He will recommend that the City sign off on this agreement to protect the attorney -to -attorney
communications.
Public Works Director Sanders stated that the DNR has done modeling showing that if every city
within the five -mile radius enacts an irrigation ban, it would not do anything to keep or raise the lake
level of White Bear Lake. The DNR has determined that if cities reduce their water usage by 40%, that
would keep White Bear Lake at adequate levels. Reducing water usage by almost half would
significantly impact the City of Stillwater. He said to keep in mind that an irrigation ban would only be
for residential users. Big industrial users will be able to continue watering like there was no ban.
Mr. Sienko continued. The DNR started holding meetings a few weeks ago regarding communities
outside the five -mile radius including Woodbury, Lake Elmo and Oakdale and all the permits they
Utilities Commission Meeting November 4, 2021
believe have an impact on White Bear Lake. They are looking at reducing current actual water usage
(not the appropriate permit amount) by 40%. The big unknown is how the DNR will try to split this
pie among all the municipalities. This group of permit holders is much bigger and more complex than
those in the litigation. It appears that the DNR is looking for a legislative solution. The City of
Stillwater may want to start talking to legislators to figure out how to solve this. It would take a lot of
funding to come up with a system to solve the problem.
Commissioner Hudak asked if Mr. Sienko has seen the models to determine if Stillwater is really
impacting White Bear Lake.
Mr. Sienko replied the DNR has only shared the powerpoint in the packet but the City will ultimately
acquire the models that the DNR is using in the context of the litigation. The next step may be to hire a
hydrogeology firm to help the involved cities do their own modeling.
Commissioner Hudak remarked the DNR's actions could be viewed as posturing for additional
revenue from the legislature or fees from cities.
Regarding the question of whether or not to relocate Well #11, the well that is within five feet of the
original five -mile radius, Mr. Sanders explained that it would cost $600,000-650,000 to drill a new
well, plus the cost of capping or sealing the existing well. The TKDA engineer recommended getting at
least 5-10 feet outside the boundary.
Mr. Sienko added that the problem is, it is not known if doing that will solve the litigation problem.
The original litigation involves the City's whole permit even though only one well is within the radius.
So it might not matter whether the City moves Well #11.
Discussion on Late Payment Fee
Mr. Sanders explained that the Finance Department has been working on combining the sewer and
water billing into one statement. Under the water department billing, late payments incur a $10
penalty, and under the City utility billing (sewer storm and signs and lighting), late payments incur a
$25 penalty. With one billing statement, the finance department has recommended that the flat fee be
eliminated and a late payment of 10% be charged on the balance. Once charged the late payment
would then be divided equally and placed into the appropriate fund account. This new late payment
would go into effect after the first of the year when the combined billing begins. Staff recommends
that the Commission approve the late payment fee recommended by the Finance department.
Motion by Commissioner Whitcomb seconded by Chairman Speedling to recommend that the City add a
straight 10% fee for late payment onto utility bills. and explore administrative fees that would be added
at the point where it would have to be added to property taxes. All in favor.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Superintendent Benson stated that two bids of $17,800 and $15,000 were received to insulate the
water service of Roger Ryan, who came before the Commission in March. Mr. Ryan will come back to
December meeting for further discussion.
DIRECTOR/SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
Monthly Update - Gallons Pumped
Mr. Benson stated there were 49,781 gallons pumped in October, 663 million gallons this year to date.
Commercial versus Residential Rates
Mr. Sanders said the Finance Department pointed out that residential properties are on a tiered
system for water use but commercial properties have a rate based on the time of year. With the new
billing system the months don't jive with the quarterly billing system. A rate study for commercial
Page 2 of 3
Utilities Commission Meeting November 4, 2021
properties may be a good idea. The other thing they brought up is that the commercial properties
don't have a base fee like residential properties have.
Commissioner Hudak remarked he would advocate for a tiered program based on usage for
commercial users.
Mr. Sanders said staff also would like to explore ways to save for eventual replacement of aging
infrastructure. Perhaps the City can set aside an allotment out of the reserve fund every year to create
a mechanism to help fund these replacements. He will bring info on this to the next meeting.
COMMISSIONER ITEMS
Chairman Speedling noted that the next meeting is December 9.
Councilmember Polehna asked what is the security at the pump stations?
Mr. Benson replied with the SCADA system upgrade next year will come improved security. A couple
of the newer stations have alarms that go off when the door opens.
Commissioner Hudak asked the rationale behind sidewalk replacement in varying widths. He noticed
some motorized wheelchairs have to go into the street in places due to narrow sidewalks.
Mr. Sanders answered it is a cost issue to replace all the sidewalks and not all the sidewalks are
deteriorated. The City replaces sidewalks to match existing as much as possible. There is no special
funding for meeting ADA requirements, which require only a 3' width. The City standard is 5' for new
construction.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Whitcomb, seconded by Chairman Speedling, to adjourn. All in favor. The
meeting was adjourned at 9:07 a.m.
ATTEST:
Robert Benson, Utilities Superintendent
Curt Hudak, Vice Chair
Page 3 of 3
MILLI I<
$ i F L L W !F 1 E T+ hi Fr
Quote To:
Attn:
Phone:
Email:
MILLER EXCAVATING, INC.
3741 Stagecoach Trail North
Stillwater, MN 55082
Estimator: Jared Richert
Phone / Fax: 651-338-4345
Email: office@millerexc.com
Roger Ryan
Robert Benson
Job Name:
Job Address:
Job Location:
Date:
Estimate #:
Waterline Insulating
10163rdStN
Stillwater MN 55082
September 27, 2021
221306(P)
ITEM
DESCRIPTION
QUANTITY
UNIT
AMOUNT
100
MOBILIZATION
1.00
LS
110
PERMITS
1.00
LS
120
TRAFFIC CONTROL
1.00
LS
130
SAWCUT & REMOVE ASPHALT ON WILKINS
OVER
1.00
LS
135
(CONTINUED) EXISTING WATERLINE
140
EXCAVATE TO WATER SERVICE, ENTIRE
WIDTH OF STREET
1.00
LS
145
LOWER WATER SERVICE IF POSSIBLE
1.00
LS
150
INSULATE 4" OVER WATERLINE
240.00
SF
155
BACKFILL & COMPACT WITH ONSITE
MATERIAL
1.00
LS
160
PLACE & GRADE GRAVEL ON ROAD
1.00
LS
165
PATCH ASPHALT APPROX 15 X 30 X 4"
450.00
SF
GRAND TOTAL
$15,000.00
NOTES:
QUOTE IS ONLY FOR INSULATING THE SECTION IN THE ROADWASY. CURB TO BE LEFT IN PLACE.
Quote valid for 30 days.
Proposal based on ONE (1) mobilization(s) to complete the work. Additional mobilizations to be charged at $400.00 each.
Sales taxes included (if applicable)
Payment due within 30 days of initial invoice. Past due accounts will accrue 1.5% per month, 18% per year service charge.
Standard insurance included.
Gopher State One Ca11 locates included 4 business days prior to start of work.
Miller Exc. is not responsible for weather, utility conflicts, other contractors, strikes, lockouts, material shortages, acts of god,
or other circumstances beyond our control that may delay the completion of the work.
All items listed above are tied, unless arrangements are made PRIOR to bid opening.
The information in this proposal is considered confidential between the two parties listed.
All excess clean earthwork materials from the project are the property of Miller Exc.
Page 1 of 3
Water, sanitary sewer, and storm utilities to be stubbed within 5' outside the building.
Aggregate base ADD option includes gravel under sidewalk, curbs, asphalt, concrete paving, and building floor
All work to be completed during normal business hours. (Monday thru Friday 700 am to 500 pm)
Due to current global supply chain issues, PVC pipe, geotextile fabric, and HDPE Pipe pricing is subject to change based on the
current price at the time of shipment, and availability is not guaranteed.
THIS PROPOSAL HAS BEEN PREPARED ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS:
PLANS:
SPECS:
GEOTECHNICAL:
ADDENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE EXCLUDED FROM OUR PROPOSAL:
Permits fees or escrow accounts.(building, plumbing, demolition, grading, utilities, right-of-way)
Surveying, staking, blue tops, project layout, or as -builds
Special insurance (i.e. waiver of subrogation, pollution liability, railroad, etc.)
Repair of damage to existing streets, driveways, sidewalks, or yards during the normal course of work.
Backcharges. Any potential corrective items must be notified to MEI in writing and allow fifteen (15) days to review, correct,
or negotiate settlement, before any other party completes such work MEI shall be allowed to review estimated costs for the
corrective work.
Private utility locating, relocation, or repair (site lighting, irrigation, dog fence, private electris or gas, etc.)
Public utility locating, relocation, or installation
Temporary utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer, phone, internet, etc.)
Soil testing (infiltration, vibration, densities, onsite gradations, visual inspection, etc.) Gradations for imported materials
available upon request.
Installation, maintenance, and/or removal of temporary & semi -permanent access roads for job trailer, crane pads, equipment
deliveries, resident access, etc.
Sheeting, shoring, underpinning, piling, etc. Trench boxes may be used for site utilities installation.
Engineering design for overdepth excavation systems
SWPPP design, permit, inspections, and maintenance
MDH plumbing plan submittal or review
Winter conditions (frost ripping, frost blankets, road restrictions, snow plowing, ground thawing, etc.)
Road restriction hauling or mobilization (roads less than 9 ton/axle)
Vapor barrier, foundation insulation, or waterproofing
Trench drain concrete or castings
Pre -demolition survey, samples, testing, reports, or removal of regulated wastes and HVAC systems
Buried or hidden debris, contaminated material testing, excavation, abatement, remediation
Traffic control for non -Miller Exc work.
Sweeping required for non -Miller Exc work.
Final tolerance of sand or aggregate base prior to concrete and/or asphalt
Sod, seed, hydro seeding, straw mulch, temporary seeding, or erosion blanket
Bollards, signs, posts, jersey barrier, or other site direction items
Trees, shrubs, planting plugs, mulch, edging, or other landscaping items
Hand raking, rock removal, final tolerance prior to seeding and/or sod
Soil correction (other than that stated specifically in the project soils report)
Import or export of soils to balance the cut/fill of the site
Dewatering of site
SAC or WAC fees
Prevailing wages
Striping removal, installation, or repair
Targeted business of disadvantaged business goals
Concrete washout area
Manhole or catch basin adjustments
Rock excavation or haul out
Retaining wall excavation or backfill
Other site structure excavation, import/export, and backfill (i.e. fuel island, pump house, tower etc.)
Fence including salvage, removal, or reinstallation
Based on repair of existing water or sewer service.
Page 2of3
Downspout connections
Concrete equipment or clean out pads
Landscape lighting or irrigation locating, relocation, installation, and/or repair
Tree trimming, removal, grubbing, or transplanting
Electrical or irrigation conduit installation
Interior piping installation or connection
Well or septic design, install, removal, or abandonment
PROPOSAL ACCEPTANCE
We hereby accept the proposal for the work as outlined above and agree to the terms and conditions as listed. Any alteration or
deviation from the work as specified above will become extra work over the estimate and will be paid as a change order to the
original contract. Miller Excavating, Inc. is authorized to proceed with the work. Payment will be made according to the terms
outlined above.
Signed:
Print:
Title:
Date:
Page 3 of 3
Bill Wolfe Excavating
Bell Excavating Inc
P.O. Box 775
Stillwater, MN 55082-0775
651.430.2256 651.439.6375
BellExcavatingMN@gmail.com
BWE195@gmail.com
Customer
Roger Ryan
1016 N 3rd St
Stillwater, MN 55082
Estimate
Date
Estimate #
2/17/2020
1978
Project
Item
Description
Total
02 Site Work
Insulate 60 feet water service. Permit. Saw cut roadway. Install insulation over pipe
from main to curb stop. This will require 32 sheets. Haul out asphalt and extra fill.
Back fill and compact with class 5 recycle. Replace asphalt and concrete that was
remove to complete job.
17,800.00
Estimate is valid for 30 days
Total
$17, 800.00
MEMORANDUM
To: Utility Commission Members
From: Shawn Sanders, Director of Public Works
Date: February 7, 2022
Subject: Funding for Utility Improvements for 2022 Street Improvements
DISCUSSION
For the 2022 Street Improvement Project, staff is considering the replacement of the watermain
on Brick Street between Olive Street and Myrtle Street. The main was constructed in 1961 with
6" cast iron pipe and has had eight water main breaks since 1980. Brick Street is proposed to be
reconstructed and now would be a good time to replace the watermain. The estimate to replace
the main is $40,000. Replacement of the watermain was not considered at the time of budgeting
for the 2022 Budget and Capital Outlay. Since this is an additional expense, staff is requesting to
pay the replacement from the water revenue fund.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Commission review and approve the request to replace the watermain
on Brick Street and to fund the replacement with water revenue funds.
ACTION REQUIRED.
If the Commission agrees with the recommendation, the should pass a motion approving the
replacement on Brick Street and to use water revenue funds to pay for the replacement.
MEMORANDUM
To: Utility Commission Members
From: Shawn Sanders, Director of Public Works
Date: February 7, 2022
Subject: White Bear Lake Court Case Update.
DISCUSSION
This past week the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) provided an update
on water supply analysis for White Bear Lake. The presentation for the meeting is attached. Staff
will provide an update on the highlights of the report to the commission.
Also, attached is draft legislation prepared from a consortium of City administrators in the
northeast metro area, that is planned for introduction in the upcoming State Legislature Session.
NO ACTION REQUIRED
District Court Order, White Bear Lake Water Levels, &
Drinking Water Supply Planning
DEPARTMENT OF
NATURAL RESOURCES
• Randall Doneen — Section Manager, DNR
Ecological and Water Resources
• Jason Moeckel — Section Manager, DNR
Ecological and Water Resources
Agenda
• Review key elements of the court order
• Review key statutes and rules
• Describe technical analysis to date
• Answer questions
• Feedback on water use profiles
Implementation and Timing
• 2018 DNR amended permits following the court order
• 12 Communities and 5 other permit holders filed a request for a contested
case hearing
• Permit amendments are not active during the contested case process unless
otherwise directed by court
• E.g. Irrigation ban, contingency plan, per capita water use goals
• DNR contested case process is underway, expect several months to a year.
• District Court is requiring monthly updates on the contested case process
Key Elements of Court Order
• DNR is prohibited from issuing new permits or increases within 5 miles unless certain
conditions are met
• Residential irrigation ban at 923.5 lake elevation as trigger to the protective elevation
• Residential goal of 75 gpd per capita water use and total 90 gpd
• Requires public water suppliers to develop a contingency plan to shift their source of
water from groundwater to surface water
• No groundwater permits can be issued unless the DNR has sufficient hydrologic data
to understand the impact on White Bear Lake and the Prairie du Chien -Jordan
aquifer
• DNR to set a collective annual withdrawal limit for White Bear Lake and adjust
permits accordingly
• Applies to all water use, including private wells
-:
L1TT Laic
.a
St. Paul
Permits and Wells w/in 5 Mile Area
.White- eartake
Mahtomed
Mapl:woo
Landfa
y
Grant.
Lake Elmo
'
0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 Miles
Water Use Priorities and Water Use Conflicts
• 103G.261 (a) (1) first priority, domestic water supply, excluding industrial and
commercial uses of municipal water supply, and use for power production
that meets the contingency planning provisions of section 103G.285,
subdivision 6;
• 3rd agricultural irrigation, ...
• 4th power production...
• 5th uses other than 3rd and 4th , i.e. industrial and commercial
• 6th nonessential uses
Water Use Conflict
• 6615.0740 Water Use Conflicts — (paraphrased)
• Available supply is limited to the extent that there are competing demands
• Evaluate reasonableness
• Evaluate for efficient use
• Possible alternatives — feasible and practical
• If conflicts cannot be resolved through modification of permits, options
include allocation according to priorities established by the legislature.
• Water users can develop a plan and submit it to the commissioner for
approval
Collective Annual Withdrawal Limits
Lake Stage, MSL 1912 (feet)
Jan-02
Jan-04
Jan-06
Jan-08
Jan-10
Jan-12
Jan-14
Jan-16
Jan-18
• MS 103G.285
limits (0.5 ac-
ft/ac)
• Existing use —
0.745 ac-ft/acre
comparable
withdrawal — 585
MGY
• Protective
Elevation - (0.4 ac-
ft/ac) 314 MGY
Observed
— - 0.4 ac-ft/ac
No Use
— • -Protective Elevation
Existing Permits
0.745 ac-ft/ac
Latest Analysis to Ensure Domestic Supply
• Our modeling analysis indicates limiting total water use to the equivalent of
about 55 gallons/day/capita (gpcd) would maintain lake levels near or above 922
ft. under normal conditions.
• This is essentially limiting water for 1st priority uses, which does not include the
use of water for schools; hospitals; medical offices; government buildings;
commercial uses such as restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, or any other
store; hotels; or industrial uses.
• This analysis assumes 2020 population as the basis and pumping volumes from
existing municipal water supply wells. (pop.) x (55) x (365) =allowable volume
• Any increases in domestic use or allowing lower priority water use would not
maintain lake levels above 922 ft.
Average Per Capita Water Use 2005-2017 within 5-miles
140
11n
100
80
60
40
0
■
■
ago � ��. Oaf � ���� �� °s�
�o Jades o� <boa
Q) .`�o
Yellow line is at 90 GPCD
Timing and Process
• Meetings with permittees Feb. 2
• Meeting to brief legislators Friday Feb. 4
• Filing briefs for the District Court Feb. 7
• Timeframe is To Be Determined
• Exploration of alternatives
• Questions and Discussion
• Supplemental slides with previously shared analysis follow
White Bear Lake —Groundwater Model Results for Permits
Within 5 miles of White Bear Lake
Lake Stage, MSL1912 (feet)
927
926
925
924
923
922
921
920
919
918
917
Jan-02
Jan-04
Jan-06
Jan-08
Jan-10
Jan-12
4Observed tiNo use
glExisting Permits Maximum
t. mExisting Permits with Residential Irrigation Ban - - -Outlet Invert
— - -Protective Elevation
Outlet Structure on White Bear Lake
• Spring of 2019 looking south toward
White Bear Lake.
• Culverts in the foreground lead
north into the Rice Creek watershed
• Water in this photo is flowing out of
White Bear Lake
White Bear Lake —Results of Uniform % Reduction of All
Permits Within 5 Miles
927
926
925
� 924
N
r-I
�
923
J
CN
cioal
921
J 920
922
919
918
917
Jan-02 Jan-04
Jan-06
Jan-08 Jan-10
—Observed No use
---40 Reduction - --❑utlet Invert
---25% Reduction • Existing, Apr -Nov
■ 25% Reduction, Apr -Nov
Jan-12
Jan-14 Jan-16
—Existing Permits
— - - Protective Elevation
• 40% Reduction, Apr -Nov
• Existing Use —
44 permits w/5
mile radius
5.65 BGY
• 60% - 3.39 BGY
• Roughly eq. to
0.4 acre ft./
acre
Per Capita Use Scenarios
Lake Stage MSL 1912 (feet)
Jan-02
Jan-04
Jan-06
- Observed
-2040
- Exist Pop, <= 90 gpcd 5mi
- 2040, <= 90 gpcd 5 mi Plus
Jan-08
Jan-10
Jan-12
No Pumping, WBL 5-mi Plus
- - - Outlet Invert
----- 2040, <= 90 gpcd 5 mi
Jan-14
Jan-16
Jan-18
Existing Permits
— • - Protective Elevation
Exist Pop, <= 90 gpcd 5mi Plus
White Bear Lake —Results of Raising the Lake Outlet
Elevation One Foot
927
926
925
924
' al
.
N 923
• 922
CN
921
(jaV 920
J
919
918
917
Jan-02 Jan-04 Jan-06 Jan-08 Jan-10 Jan-12 Jan-14 Jan-16
—Observed No use —Existing Permits
- - -Outlet Invert — - -Protective Elevation ---Existing, Outlet Raise
- - - Raised Oulet
White Bear Lake — Results of Using an Alternate Source
of Water for Several Public Water Suppliers
927
926
925
924
a,
`°J 923
r-I
922
N
6 921
to
co
920
aJ
co
919
918
917
Jan-02 Jan-04 Jan-06 Jan-08 Jan-10 Jan-12 Jan-14 Jan-16
—observed —No use —Existing Permits
- - -Outlet Invert — - - Protective Elevation ---Remove 2
---Remove 3 • Remove 2, Apr -Nov • Remove 3, Apr -Nov
Average Annual Volume of Water Use —Existing and
Projected for 2040
Average Annual Volume (MGY)
4,000
3,500
3,000
2,500
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0
1111 1 11 i I
II..I
a�� +. a\e, tea. r�� a
aa, < 6
`eo\o `�(z
<be' far ,Sc,�`o
A ��r
, Jai �
• 2040 • Existing
c\ A\oo c�� .R5k �a�
vv a
2040 estimates are based on comprehensive plans and
community projections and may not necessarily reflect ongoing
efforts at water conservation
Relative Influence of Individual Permits on Lake Levels Under
2040 Water Use Projections - Top 15 Influencers
3.5
3.0
4-.
a,
2.5
o0
0
eN2.0
1.5
aJ
no
co
aJ
no
1.0
0.5
0.0
1
All 5-mi Plus
White Bear Lake
White Bear Twp. N.
To
cu
0
Mahtomedi
Vadnais Heights
North St. Paul
0 0
G7
= W
J i
I I •
5aputo Dairy Foods
Y
0
J
0
0
0
0
3
LIJ
0
L
O7
z
White Bear Twp. 5.
White Bear Lake —Projected Lake Levels Under Average
2040 Water Use in North and East Metro Area
Lake Stage, MSL 1912 (feet)
927 -
Jan-02
Jan-04
Observed
2040
Jan-06
Jan-08
Jan-10
Jan-12
Jan-14
Jan-16
No Pumping, WBL 5-mi Plus Existing Permits
- - - Outlet Invert
— • - Protective Elevation
Jan-18
White Bear Lake —Projected Lake Levels Under Average 2040 Water Use in
North and East Metro Area with Alternate Source for Several Communities
Lake Stage, MSL 1912 (feet)
Observed
2040
---2040 Four Permits Off
Na Pumping, WBL 5-mi Plus
• • • • 2040 Oakdale & L. Elmo Off
- - - Outlet Invert
—Existing Permits
— —2040 WBL & WBTN Off
— • - Protective Elevation
ANOKA
RAMSEY
WASNGTON
• Forest Lake
H
Cottage Grove
North & East Metro GWMA Boundary
County Boundary
64o.c.nhcr 7411c
North and East Metro
Groundwater
Management Area
10/26/21 12:43 pm COUNSEL BS/TG SC8746
1.1 A bill for an act
1.2 relating to natural resources; requiring the issuance or modification of groundwater
1.3 appropriation permits near White Bear Lake; requiring the development of
1.4 recommendations to ensure safe drinking water for east metropolitan communities
1.5 in a manner that supports both growth and sustainability; amending Minnesota
1.6 Statutes 2020, sections 103G.211; 103G.285, by adding a subdivision; 103G.287,
1.7 by adding subdivisions; 116B.03, subdivision 1; 116B.10, by adding a subdivision.
1.8 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
1.9 Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 103G.211, is amended to read:
1.10 103G.211 DRAINING PUBLIC WATERS PROHIBITED WITHOUT
1.11 REPLACEMENT.
1.12 (a) Except as provided in sections 103G.221 to 103G.235, public waters may not be
1.13 drained, and a permit authorizing drainage of public waters may not be issued, unless the
1.14 public waters to be drained are replaced by public waters that will have equal or greater
1.15 public value.
1.16 (b) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent the commissioner from issuing
1.17 or amending a water -use permit for appropriation from groundwater where:
1.18 (1) the application is for a new groundwater well or to increase appropriation amounts
1.19 under an existing permit;
1.20 (2) the applicant is a municipality wholly or partially located within a five -mile radius
1.21 of White Bear Lake; and
Section 1. 1
10/26/21 12:43 pm COUNSEL BS/TG SC8746
2.1 (3) the amount of water to be appropriated under the proposal is consistent with the
2.2 amount anticipated to be needed by the applicant each year as set forth in a water supply
2.3 plan approved by the department under section 103G.291 prior to 2021.
2.4 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
2.5 paragraph (b) is repealed on January 1, 2041.
2.6 Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 103G.285, is amended by adding a subdivision
2.7 to read:
2.8 Subd. 7. Application. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent the
2.9 commissioner from issuing or amending a water -use permit for appropriation from
2.10 groundwater where:
2.11 (1) the application is for a new groundwater well or to increase appropriation amounts
2.12 under an existing permit;
2.13 (2) the applicant is a municipality wholly or partially located within a five -mile radius
2.14 of White Bear Lake; and
2.15 (3) the amount of water to be appropriated under the proposal is consistent with the
2.16 amount anticipated to be needed by the applicant each year as set forth in a water supply
2.17 plan approved by the department under section 103G.291 prior to 2021.
2.18 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
2.19 is repealed on January 1, 2041.
2.20 Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 103G.287, is amended by adding a subdivision
2.21 to read:
2.22 Subd. 6. Application. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent the
2.23 commissioner from issuing or amending a water -use permit for appropriation from
2.24 groundwater where:
2.25 (1) the application is for a new groundwater well or to increase appropriation amounts
2.26 under an existing permit;
2.27 (2) the applicant is a municipality wholly or partially located within a five -mile radius
2.28 of White Bear Lake; and
2.29 (3) the amount of water to be appropriated under the proposal is consistent with the
2.30 amount anticipated to be needed by the applicant each year as set forth in a water supply
2.31 plan approved by the department under section 103G.291 prior to 2021.
Sec. 3. 2
10/26/21 12:43 pm COUNSEL BS/TG SC8746
3.1 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
3.2 is repealed on January 1, 2041.
3.3 Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 103G.287, is amended by adding a subdivision
3.4 to read:
3.5 Subd. 7. Issuance of certain permits. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the
3.6 commissioner must issue a water -use permit for appropriation from groundwater that meets
3.7 the criteria of subdivision 6. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit the
3.8 commissioner from imposing conditions on the permit so long as the conditions do not
3.9 prevent the applicant from appropriating the amount of groundwater applied for.
3.10 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
3.11 is repealed on January 1, 2041.
3.12 Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 116B.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:
3.13 Subdivision 1. Parties. Any person residing within the state; the attorney general; any
3.14 political subdivision of the state; any instrumentality or agency of the state or of a political
3.15 subdivision thereof; or any partnership, corporation, association, organization, or other
3.16 entity having shareholders, members, partners or employees residing within the state may
3.17 maintain a civil action in the district court for declaratory or equitable relief in the name of
3.18 the state of Minnesota against any person, for the protection of the air, water, land, or other
3.19 natural resources located within the state, whether publicly or privately owned, from
3.20 pollution, impairment, or destruction; provided, however, that no action shall be allowable
3.21 hereunder for any of the following:
3.22 (1) acts taken by a person on land leased or owned by said person pursuant to a permit
3.23 or license issued by the owner of the land to said person which do not and can not reasonably
3.24 be expected to pollute, impair, or destroy any other air, water, land, or other natural resources
3.25 located within the state; provided further that no action shall be allowable under this section
3.26 for
3.27 (2) conduct taken by a person pursuant to any environmental quality standard, limitation,
3.28 rule, order, license, stipulation agreement or permit issued by the Pollution Control Agency,
3.29 Department of Natural Resources, Department of Health or Department of Agriculture; or
3.30 (3) issuance of a groundwater appropriation permit that meets the criteria set forth in
3.31 section 103G.287, subdivision 6, by the Department of Natural Resources.
Sec. 5. 3
10/26/21 12:43 pm COUNSEL BS/TG SC8746
4.1 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
4.2 the amendments are repealed on January 1, 2041.
4.3 Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 116B.10, is amended by adding a subdivision to
4.4 read:
4.5 Subd. 6. Application. No action under this section shall be allowable for the issuance
4.6 of a groundwater appropriation permit that meets the criteria set forth in section 103G.287,
4.7 subdivision 6, by the Department of Natural Resources.
4.8 EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and
4.9 is repealed on January 1, 2041.
4.10 Sec. 7. ENSURING SUSTAINABLE GROUNDWATER LEVELS IN WHITE BEAR
4.11 LAKE AND RELATED AQUIFERS.
4.12 The commissioner of natural resources, in cooperation with the Minnesota Department
4.13 of Health, the Metropolitan Council, and representatives of east metropolitan area
4.14 municipalities, must explore available options for supplying east metropolitan area
4.15 communities with safe drinking water in a manner that allows municipal growth while
4.16 simultaneously ensuring the sustainability and quality of the state's water resources in and
4.17 around White Bear Lake and neighboring aquifers. By October 1, 2023, the commissioner
4.18 shall report its findings and recommendations to the chairs and ranking minority members
4.19 of the house of representatives and senate committees and divisions with jurisdiction over
4.20 the environment and natural resources.
Sec. 7. 4
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total
Gallons Pumped
2016 2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
Monthly
Totals
45271
47827
54174
47578
43126
44488
43203
42187
42360
50969
42335
41409
39016
39409
44082
43799
55676
47276
43148
41908
48484
45235
52580
45808
44003
41587
65753
56415
77250
57949
61400
66124
82031
84085
77502
78308
74342
112800
99063
93342
89533
78536
81984
110149
78478
75439
99896
78626
87645
93628
56973
74893
67085
61054
71455
64168
46825
49115
48481
50054
52576
49781
40135
41620
43112
43786
41754
40311
49230
52404
46710
44426
42857
41322
698512 706534 762968 675736 685699 745282
DNR
Permited Amount
865,000,000 MGY
New Single Family Homes 2021
36 Permits
15 Have been turned c C/O
6 are under two months old
Mit DEPARTMENT OF
NATURAL RESOURCES
Water Appropriation Use and Efficiency Profile
City of Stillwater
The following information provides an overview of water appropriation authorized under DNR water
appropriation Permit No. 1975-6207.
The population served as of 2020 was 20,131.
Average Annual Reported Volume Used
• 2011— 2020: 715.93 MGY
• 2016 - 2020: 705.89 MGY
Authorized permitted volume: 865 MGY
Residential and non-residential use
• Average percent of non-residential use (2011 — 2020): 23.1% (160 MGY)
• Average percent of residential use (2011 — 2020): 76.9% (531.7 MGY)
Total and Residential Per Capita Water Use (Average Annual)
• 2016 — 2020: 99 Total GPCD; 72 Res. GPCD
• 2011— 2020: 103 Total GPCD; 76 Res. GPCD
Average annual winter (Jan. and Feb.) vs. summer (July and Aug.) use
• Average Winter (2011-2020): 43.5 MG
• Average Summer (2011-2020): 92.2 MG
• Average Difference between winter and summer months (2011-2020): 48.7 MG or 2.1 times more use in
summer months
Reported water loss 2011 - 2020 (real losses)
• 2020: 49.44 MG (7.2%)
• 2019: 2.09 MG (0.31%)
• 2018: 67.96 MG (8.9%)
• 2017: 4.94 MG (0.7%)
• 2016: NR
• 2015: 2.79 MG (0.4%)
• 2014: 7.47 MG (1.1%)
• 2013: 8.12 MG(1.1%)
City of Stillwater Appropriation Use and Efficiency Profile, 2022 1
• 2012: 68.5 MG (8.2%)
• 2011: 67.26 MG (9.9%)
Water conservation and efficiency accomplishments (2017 - 2020)
• 2017: NR
• 2018: N R
• 2019: N R
• 2020: 900,000 gallons through 100 single family irrigation controllers
Top water users in the city of Stillwater from the most recent Water Supply Plan
Organization Volume Used (MGY) Percent Total Water Use Type Category
Delivered
Hospital
Diasorin
Junior High School
Stillwater Med
Linden Health Care 01-
385
Crossing by Grand Stay
Good Sam
Rivertown Commons
River Valley Athletic
Greeley Health Care 01-
414
10.06
8.13
3.48
3.45
3.27
2
1.95
1.91
1.76
1.64
1.44
Institutional
1.17 Commercial
0.5 Institutional
0.5 Institutional
0.47 Institutional
0.29 Commercial
0.28
Institutional
0.28 Commercial
0.26
Commercial
0.24 Institutional
*37.65 MG used by top water users; represents approximately 5.3% of annual average volume (2011-20)
pumped.
City of Stillwater Appropriation Use and Efficiency Profile, 2022 2
Sources of Water
Aquifer
Prairie du Chien -Jordan -
St. Lawrence
Number of Authorized Average Annual Water Use Average Annual Water Use
Active Wells
8
(2016-20) (2011-20)
705.89 MGY
715.93 MGY
Water Rate Structure
2015 Residential water rate
Base Rate: $20 per quarter
• 0 —10,000 gallons: included in base rate
• 10,000 or more gallons: $2.20 per thousand in winter (Nov. — April); $2.40 per thousand in May thru Oct.
2015 Commercial water rates
No base rate
• $2.20 per thousand gallons in winter (Nov. — April)
• $2.40 per thousand gallons in summer (May — Oct.)
Other communities served
None
Interconnections
• Oak Park Heights: 800 gpm
Mount Simon permit condition
Not applicable to the city of Stillwater Permit No. 1975-6207 as wells are not constructed in the Mt. Simon
aquifer.
Questions, Information Gaps, Additional needs
• Percent of total or average annual volume appropriated for operational and water treatment processes?
City of Stillwater Appropriation Use and Efficiency Profile, 2022 3
Metropolitan Council
Water Efficiency Grant Program
METROPOLITAN
G O U N c I L
Overview
The Metropolitan Council (Council) will implement a water efficiency grant program effective July 1, 2022 to
June 30, 2024. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to municipalities that are served by a municipal
water system.
The Council will provide 80% of the program cost; the municipality must provide the remaining 20%.
Municipalities will use the combined Council and municipality funds to run their own grant or rebate programs.
Grants will be made available in amounts with a minimum of $5,000 and a maximum of $50,000. Grantees will
be required to provide estimated water savings achieved through this program for Clean Water, Land & Legacy
Amendment reporting purposes.
Legislative Directive - Minnesota 2021 Session Law
$625,000 the first year and $625,000 the second year are for the water demand reduction grant program to
encourage municipalities in the metropolitan area to implement measures to reduce water demand to
ensure the reliability and protection of drinking water supplies. Fiscal year 2022 appropriations are available
until June 30, 2023, and fiscal year 2023 appropriations are available until June 30, 2024.
Grant Program Goal
The goal of the water efficiency grant program is to support technical and behavioral changes that improve
municipal water use efficiency in the seven -county metropolitan area.
Critical Points to Remember
• The applying municipality must be served by a municipal public water supply system
• New construction and new developments are not eligible
• A portion of each eligible activity's cost must be paid by the property owner
• Funds are for rebates or grants only; consulting and city staff time are ineligible
• Grant recipients must display the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment logo and the Metropolitan
Council logo on program -related web pages and paper communications
Grant Program Structure: Administration and Funding
The Water Efficiency Grant Program will be administered by Metropolitan Council Environmental Services
(MCES) and will be funded with $1,000,000 appropriated by the 2021 Minnesota Legislature. Grant applications
will be reviewed and ranked by the MCES Water Supply Planning Unit staff. The remaining $250,000 of this
funding has been allocated to a different municipal water efficiency grant project.
Grants are only for water efficiency programs offering rebates or grants to property owners who are customers
of the municipal water supply system and who replace specified water using devices with approved devices that
use substantially less water.
1
Grants will be awarded to municipalities in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for providing rebates or
grants to property owners. Municipalities will be responsible for the design and operation of their rebate or
grant program and its details. Grant payments to the municipality will be for 80% of approved program
amounts. The municipality must provide the remaining 20% of the granted/rebated amount to the property
owner. Municipality rebates or grants are eligible for reimbursement on device replacements conducted July 1,
2022 through June 30, 2024.
Here is an example of the grant funding design:
Metropolitan Council Grant Amount
Municipality Match
Municipality Grant/Rebate Program Total
$16,000 (80% of total)
$4,000 (20% of total)
$20,000 (100% of total)
Eligibility
This grant program is limited to municipalities in the seven -county metropolitan area.
Municipalities eligible per above must apply to participate and, if approved, sign a standard Council Grant
Agreement, before any eligible rebates or grants can be submitted for reimbursement. Agreements shall require
that municipalities:
• Entirely pass through grants received (as is being done by MCES)
■ Verify purchase of devices to receive grants
• Retain records and cooperate with any audits
• Conduct all communications with property owners and ensure all written communications to property
owners include both the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment and the Metropolitan Council's logo
• Provide quantitative information for state reporting purposes
Eligible water efficiency devices consist of the following:
■ Toilet replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled toilet
■ Irrigation controller replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled controller, either weather -based or
soil moisture -based
• Clothes washing machine replacement with a US DOE Energy Star labeled clothes washing machine
• Irrigation spray sprinkler body replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled spray sprinkler body
• Irrigation system audit by an Irrigation Professional certified by a US EPA WaterSense program
• Residential dishwasher replacement with a US DOE Energy Star labeled residential dishwasher
Expenses eligible for reimbursement are the out-of-pocket cost of the device and its installation only, not to
include any owner labor costs. In addition, new construction and new developments are ineligible, as this
program is intended as a current infrastructure replacement program.
Application Process
• Applicants must be served by a municipal public water supply system
• Municipalities will submit MCES supplied application form by March 31, 2022. Required information
includes:
o the municipality's rebate or grant program design and work plan
o proposed examples of communications to property owners
o requested total grant amount
o estimated annual amount of water saved by the applying municipality
2
• Application form is available at: httos://metrocouncil.org/Wastewater-Water/Funding-
F i n a nce/Ava ila b l e-Fun di ng-G ra nts. aspx
• Submit competed application to: brian.davis@metc.state.mn.us
• Metropolitan Council will notify municipalities of grant awards and provide grant agreements by April
29, 2022.
Proposal Selection Criteria
In the event that funds requested exceed funds available, the following criteria will be used to determine the
amount granted to a given municipality:
• Municipalities with identified water supply issues in Master Water Supply Plan Community Profiles or
Local Water Supply Plans
• Municipalities' ratio of peak monthly water use to winter monthly water use
• Municipalities' average residential per capita water use
• The order in which applications are received and until grant funds are completely committed
Funding Process and Reporting Requirements
• Utilizing forms provided by MCES, the following information must be reported on a quarterly basis:
o Number, type and amount of rebates or grants provided to property owners, along with each
property address
o Estimated annual gallons of water saved per device installation
o Municipality matching funds disbursed
o Number of unmet funding requests from property owners, if any
• Upon review and confirmation of the above information, MCES will process a grant payment in the
amount of 80% of approved total rebates or grants for the reporting period.
• MCES will provide confirmation of grant balances available upon request and reserves the right to
amend grant agreements, in collaboration with grantee municipality, if quarterly reporting indicates
rebate or grant programs will not fully utilize grant awards within the grant period.
Qualified Activities
• Residential dishwasher replacement with a US DOE Energy Star labeled residential dishwasher:
https://www.energystar.gov/products/dishwashers
• Toilet replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled toilet:
https:/llookforwatersense.epa.govjproducts/Product-Search-Results-Toiiets.htmi
• Irrigation controller replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled controller, either weather -based or
soil moisture -based:
https:lllookforwatersense.epa.gov/products/Product-Search-Results-IrrigationController. html
https://lookfarwatersense.epa.gov/products/Product-Search-Results-
SoilMoistureBasedlrrigationController.html
• Clothes washing machine replacement with a US DOE Energy Star labeled clothes washing machine:
https://www.energystar.gov/productfinderiproduct/certified-clothes-washers/results
3
• Irrigation spray sprinkler body replacement with a US EPA WaterSense labeled spray sprinkler body:
https://Iookforwatersense.epa.gov/products/Product-Search-Results-Sprinkler.html
• Irrigation system audit by an Irrigation Professionals certified by a US EPA WaterSense program:
https: jjlookforwatersense.epa.gov/prod
4