Little Canada City Council — Transcript
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Twin Lake Emergency Pumping Operation
Funding and Cost Analysis for Pumping
Downstream Risk Management and Monitoring
Long-Term Water Level Management and Property Concerns
Votes (1)
Decision to Initiate Emergency Pumping for Twin Lake
Dissent: Councilman Fisher was absent but had expressed conditional support for pumping. No dissenting votes from present councilmembers.
Moved by Councilmember [22:30] · Seconded by Councilmember [23:45]
The council convened to make a decision on how to address the unprecedented high water levels on Twin Lake, which have surpassed the lowest home's elevation. The city administrator and Bill Dirks presented background, options, and a detailed plan for a pumping operation, including costs, permitting, and risk mitigation strategies for downstream properties. Councilman Fisher's conditions for support (understanding risks, management plan, cost acceptance) were addressed. Funding mechanisms were reviewed, emphasizing reliance on city reserves and anticipated revenues. The urgency of protecting private property was a key driver for the decision, despite the significant financial outlay and the need for ongoing management and monitoring.
Notable Quotes (7)
we are now officially higher than the low home on the lake at 154 Twin Lake Boulevard
The primary goal for pumping would be to get to below the the low house on twin Lake
I support pumping water from twin lakes a few conditions
any decision made here today to pump is probably in the range of a fifty thousand dollar decision or more or more
what we're here for today is basically the emergency situation
I'm in favor the pumping to take care of the homeowners they can't see letting that go
minimal efforts would be targeting that you know 875 level
Ordinances & Resolutions (6)
Permit required from MnDOT for the pumping operation, fast-tracked for approval.
Permit from the DNR, already approved, for the pumping operation.
City policy that allows unreserved fund balance to be used for unforeseen expenditures related to emergencies.
Bonds issued for a housing project, generating revenue for the city, considered a funding source.
A declaration through the governor's office, necessary for FEMA disaster assistance.
Existing plan for homes around Jarvis Lake to address high water and wave action.