1998 ADJ MIN JUN 23 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Electric, Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Utility Director Clarke reported that no rate increase was anticipated for the Electric Unit and noted that the preliminary approval for the 14% rate increase for Wastewater Unit had been factored into the budget. Director Clark said he planned to ask Council to set a Public Hearing, in July, to raise water rates to cover infrastructure and water system improvements. He stated there was an aggressive program developed to maintain the stormwater system and for considerable amount of infrastructure work to improve the curbs and gutters in areas of town where they are non-existent or are in need of dire repair. He identified new budgeted positions: One for Electric Unit to handle marketing and deregulation activities; two for Stormwater Unit; and, one each for Water and Wastewater. Director Clark informed that capital improvement programs had been included in all of the budgets, along with Temporary Salaries for data entry positions to input and implement the GIS system. He declared that the thrust of Electric's capital work was for system improvements in the distribution system and to implement the GIS map program. Discussion followed on the subject of deregulation wherein Director Clark explained the City's holding pattern due to the disappearing market. He said the Department was actively pursuing outside sales, dealing with ESPs, with a limited approach. He said an institution advertising -- package (mailers, television/radio ads and newspaper releases) was paid for and ready to go. He concluded that the plan was to concentrate on specialized services for the outside consumer (large industries that are looking for a small price break) but to spend more money for the existing customer base in town and work with RDA to promote a business attraction incentives to in -fill the City with new load. Notice of Violation and NPDES Program Utility Director Clark reported they had reviewed the Notice of Violation very carefully and provided written response addressing each point raised. The NPDES budget was structured to handle all of those concerns, along with an aggressive time table to comply with the Notice, which would require utilizing existing staff, filling in vacancies required by the Board, provide the maintenance coverage needed, provide inspection and stormdrain repair and inspections requested and inspections for construction and permitting, and which would include Community Development Staff, Public Works Staff and Utility Staff. City Manager Garcia added that a letter, with specific timelines and implementation plan by program, had been prepared for delivery, on Thursday, to Regional Water Control Board, with copies to be forwarded to City Council. Discussion ensued regarding CIP report and repair to Washington Street, from Weir Road to Waterman Avenue. CM/Director Hutton responded it could be included to the overlay projects that would commence upon the approval of the budget. Council Mins June 16, 1998 2