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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-06-02 Public Services Committee MinutesDublin City Council MINUTES OF PUBLIC SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, November 6, 2002 — 7:00 p.m. Attending: Mr. Lecklider, Chair Mr. Reiner Mrs. Boring Ms. Salay Ms. Brautigam Ms. Grigsby Mr. Hammersmith Mr. Herskowitz Mr. Lecklider called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m. He stated that the purpose of tonight's meeting is to consider the request of the residents of Cara Road and Cara Court for water service. Report from Engineering Staff Mr. Hammersmith stated that a report was provided to the Committee with background information. He noted that the intent of the inclusion of the Cara Court/Cara Road project in the CIP was as a placeholder, with direction given to Eagon & Associates to provide an assessment regarding the vulnerability of the wells in the area The letter of Eagon and Associates of September 20 was previously provided to Council. Certain conditions have now changed —there have now been four wells replaced and six pumps lowered in the area. Eagon reviewed 24 residential wells in the area and categorized them as follows: 6 are limestone bedrock wells; 11 are sand and gravel wells; and 7 are of unknown type and depth. Of the limestone wells, none were expected to have significant impact, but two had their pumps lowered; the other four are fine. Of the 11 sand and gravel wells, two have been replaced and two are scheduled for replacement. Of the remaining 7 sand and gravel wells, they are assumed to be vulnerable as they are less than 50 feet deep. Of the 7 unknown, they believe 5 may need some sort of future remediation. In summary, there are 10 wells that may need to be addressed in the future. In terms of this review, he would suggest focusing on the Cara Road /Cara Court residents in particular. In the staff report, the costs associated to date for remediation has been $35,000. This cost will not be recovered and so was not included in the calculations. In a worst -case scenario, if 20 wells would eventually need replacement (four have already been replaced) there would be a total cost of remediation of $150,000. When looking at the Cara Road/Cara Court area, there are 13 benefiting properties. A revised drawing has been distributed tonight showing the 13 subject properties, which are adjacent to Cara Court/Cara Road. Mrs. Boring asked how many of the 13 wells have been replaced. Mr. Hammersmith responded that of this group, none have been replaced and 6 have been lowered. To replace all 13 wells, the cost would be $97,500, should that need to be done in the future as a result of the golf course or park watering. Eagon believes that the pumpage will be less in these locations next year, and so the impact will lessen. Mr. Hammersmith stated that in terms of the Avery Road waterline extension - a 20 -inch main from Rings Road south along Avery to the Cara Road /Rings Road area - the City has planned this project in the future in conjunction with the Avery Road improvements. It was also identified in the Master Plan as necessary to support future development in areas to the southwest. The cost of extending the waterline is estimated at $175,000, and the additional cost Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 2 to bring the waterlines to Cara Court/Cara Road is estimated at $157,500. It is detailed in item #1 on page 2 of the staff report. Typically, the benefiting property for a utility extension participates in the costs of the project, and easements necessary for the project are donated. Mr. Lecklider pointed out that this type of assessment process is not necessarily the way these matters have been addressed in Dublin in the recent years. Mr. Hammersmith noted that under Ordinance 146 -01, within 90 days of notice of completion of the project, the property owners are required to connect to the public water system. Secondarily, the property owner's expense to connect includes assessment fees, if any; tap -in fees levied by Dublin and Columbus — impact and tap fees; and costs to install the line from the main to the home. In terms of bacteria contamination of the wells, the extension of water service to the area would provide a reliable public supply that addresses residents' concerns regarding potential bacteria contamination and eliminate the need for perpetual maintenance associated with wells. Staff therefore recommends two options: 1) Perform future remediation of domestic supply wells in the area should they be impacted by irrigation operations at either Ballantrae Park or the Golf Club of Dublin; or 2) Extend water service to the Cara Road /Cara Court area and assess the $60,000 difference in costs between water line construction ($157,500) and the well remediation ($97,500) equally among the 13 benefiting properties. Mr. Reiner asked if there is any potential for a developer to extend this line in conjunction with a future development? Mr. Hammersmith stated that there has been contact from a property owner further south on Avery Road regarding a residential development planned for next year. They are in the concept discussion stage at this time. At the earliest, they would be under construction next fall. They would be required to extend service from the Rings /Avery intersection in conjunction with their development. Mrs. Boring stated that by waiting for this development, the City would not have to pay the $175,000 cost for running a water line down Avery Road. The City would typically ask the developer to do this. In fact, some people have been told previously to wait until development brings water lines to their areas. Mr. Hammersmith agreed. Mrs. Boring noted that she has a concern about how the computation was done for #2. If the properties have been made whole now, and none of the 13 wells have required replacement — why would the remediation figure include well replacement if that is not necessary? Mr. Hammersmith responded that this takes into consideration the worst -case scenario in terms of the City's responsibility in the future. Mrs. Boring stated that the worst -case scenario would actually be a need to replace wells during the construction period for the new lines. Mr. Hammersmith stated that should this happen, staff would recommend temporary water for the duration. The intent would be to have the project executed and constructed before the mid- Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 3 point of next year. Eagon is continuing to collect data, but the wells have returned to static levels prior to the golf course construction. Mrs. Boring asked about the consultant's opinion about contamination. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this issue was not addressed within the consultant's letter. At the neighborhood meeting in September, the consultant indicated that bacteria contamination is common within domestic supply wells and is related to maintenance and chlorination. Mr. Reiner stated that the contamination then is not related to the drop in water levels. Mr. Hammersmith responded that the water level was never high enough within the region to be impacted by leach fields. The water level is approximately 30 feet below ground level, so there has always been a safety barrier between the two. Eagon's assessment is that the golf course development was no responsible for the contamination. Mr. Reiner stated the future subdivision to the south may want this water line run to them. This would open up tapping ability to the Cara Road residents. He inquired if that area is zoned for residential development. Mr. Hammersmith indicated that rezoning has not yet occurred. Mr. Reiner inquired if a single - family builder has indicated interest in building. Mr. Hammersmith responded that they have indicated an interest in beginning construction next fall; however, an application for rezoning has not yet been submitted. Mr. Reiner inquired if all the residents included in the designated area currently have a stable water supply. Mr. Herskowitz stated that some of the homeowners may still have a problem with indoor water quality due to water filters becoming clogged when the wells initially went dry. At the recommendation of Eagon & Associates, the City assisted in the cost of replacement of the water filters /softeners that were damaged. Mr. Lecklider inquired if the residences in this area operate on septic systems. Mr. Hammersmith indicated that no one in this area is on City sewer. Mr. Lecklider stated that of the 13 homes in this area, six were required to lower their pumps, at a cost of approximately $750 per pump, and no wells were replaced. He inquired if the City intends to request Mr. Edwards to participate in the cost of the remedy for the residents. Mr. Hammersmith indicated that those discussions would occur. Mr. Lecklider inquired if the typical process is to install sewer lines at the same time water lines are installed. Mr. Hammersmith responded that, typically, they are mutually exclusive projects, as separate trenches are required. In this case, the City considered only a water line extension at a cost of $332,500. Adding sanitary sewer to the area would be an additional cost. Mr. Lecklider inquired if installation of the sewer lines would be recommended if the road were to be widened. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 4 Mr. Hammersmith responded that it could be. There are two ways the sewer line could be added. There is a sewer line to the southeast of this area from which service could be extended. If that should not be advisable, the line could be extended along Avery Road. A 21 -inch sewer line was provided with the Cramer's Crossing development, from which an extension could be run. Mr. Lecklider inquired about Mr. Hammersmith's comment in his report that "14 residential wells were evaluated for potential future impact although all appear not to be impacted at this time." Is there an estimation of future impact? Mr. Hammersmith responded that Eagon and Associations predict that next year the volume of pumping at the golf course is anticipated to be less than this year. Therefore, their estimation is that, with all factors equal, if the residence was not impacted this summer, they would likely not be impacted next summer. Mr. Lecklider inquired if the widening of Avery Road is scheduled on the CIP, and if so, which year. Mr. Hammersmith responded that it is scheduled for year 2006. That project was broken into two phases. The first phase was Woerner- Temple to Shier Rings; Woerner - Temple to Tuttle was scheduled for 2006. Mr. Reiner inquired if the sewer to the southwest were to be developed next fall, would there be an opportunity for these homes to connect to that line. Mr. Hammersmith stated that if the sewer line were to extend from Cramer's Crossing and run parallel to Avery Road, it would also run past Cara Road, similar to the water line extension. Certainly, a connection point would be available. Mr. Reiner inquired if the golf course estimates they will use 30 percent less water next year, as the grass will be established. Mr. Hammersmith affirmed that is the estimation. He noted that the wells are actually a secondary source of feeding the irrigation pond. The pond is first fed by surface water flowing from the west. All of the turf area is established. Mr. Lecklider requested an update from Ms. Grigsby concerning a financial participation from Mr. Edwards in this project. Ms. Grigsby stated that there are ongoing discussions between the insurance company and between the attorneys reviewing the level of responsibility of the parties involved —the City, Tartan Golf Club, and Edwards Land Development Company. No final conclusion has been received. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 5 Mr. Lecklider inquired if it is true that the Law Director has reviewed the relevant documents /contracts, and if his opinion is that there is obligation for the other parties to make a contribution. Ms. Grigsby affirmed that statement. Mr. Lecklider invited public comment. David Hall, 5522 Avery Road stated that his home is also in the Miller Estates subdivision. He has heard several references to the 13 affected properties, and, unintentionally, five properties in that development were excluded. Their homes should have also been included. They have heard reasoning as to why their homes were excluded. They have also heard that the Avery Road extension is not planned until 2006. What are they to expect over the next four years? Mr. Hammersmith responded that it was not the City's intention to exclude the Avery Road residents. To get water service from the Cara Road /Cara Ct. area, the line would be extended down Avery Road. It is assumed that the residents along the south side of Avery Road would also tap into the extension. Ms. Boring stated that if this occurs as a CIP project in 2006 with the widening of Avery Road, it would be at the City's cost. However, it could occur before that, if a developer installs a sewer line with a residential development, and at no cost to the City. Mr. Hammersmith confirmed that was correct. Mr. Hall asked if the City's responsibility for remediation would extend over the next four years. Mr. Hammersmith stated that would be so only if the problems were a result of operations at the Ballantrae golf course or park. There have already been four well replacements for Avery Road residences. Mr. Reiner inquired if a present problem exists with Mr. Hall's water. Mr. Hall stated that no problem presently exists. Mr. Reiner inquired if Mr. Hall would tap into the sewer line, if it should be installed by a developer. Mr. Hall stated that he would. Mr. Hammersmith clarified that such an extension would come from the southeast, where there is a water line trunk. Mr. Hall stated that in his view, it would be an asset for his property to be tied into the City water and sewer lines. With the notoriety of the current water situation, it is presently a liability for the homes to have well water. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 6 Dan Bates, 5540 Cara Ct ., stated that the minimum cost for him to tap into City water would be $9,500.00. If the total assessment for all 13 properties is $157,000.00, and the City does not offset some of that cost, the cost per household increases an additional $6,500.00, for a total cost per household of $17,000. At that cost, he does not want City water. He did not realize that there would be an assessment fee on top of the tap fee. Mr. Lecklider stated that this is staff's recommendation. Council has not made a formal decision to that effect. He inquired if a developer were to install the water line, would the individual homeowner still incur a cost of $9,500.00 to tap in? Mr. Hammersmith stated that they would. A developer's responsibility would be to install the water line along Avery Road, but they would not extend the line to Cara Ct. Mr. Bates stated that the cost is unreasonable for the homeowner. Although he signed the original petition, he would like to remove his name from the document. He does not want City services at that cost. Mr. Reiner stated that the new homes in a subdivision have that cost included in the cost of the home. The developer passes along that cost to the buyer. Therefore, all the other homeowners in Dublin who tap into City services also pay that fee. Mrs. Boring stated that Council has been struggling with this issue in other neighborhoods, where, typically, there are older homes considering City services. Council has requested the Community Services Advisory Commission to study the issue and recommend a policy for Council regarding the methodology for providing City services to these areas. She encouraged the residents to attend that meeting, which will be held on November 12 , to provide input. Mr. Lecklider stated that if a developer installs the water line along Avery Road, the residents on Cara Ct. would not be required to tap in. Mr. Hammersmith stated that the connection requirement exists only if it is a City - funded proj ect. Mr. Lecklider inquired if the City installs the water line along Avery Road, Cara Road, and Cara Court at the City's expense, would the homeowners be required to tap in within 90 days, unless they can prove hardship. Mr. Hammersmith confirmed that is so. Donna Krohn, 5508 Cara Ct., stated that her home is in the designated area. Seven homes on that street had wells lowered, not six. Their well was the only one not lowered, although they experienced dirty water several times throughout the summer. She inquired if there was an assessment before the Ballantrae project commenced regarding the potential for these wells to be affected. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 7 Mr. Hammersmith responded Edwards Land Company did have an assessment done by BBC &M. The purpose of that assessment was to determine if there was sufficient groundwater supply to irrigate a golf course, and should there be sufficient water, what would be the impact of the anticipated usage on the neighborhood. That study did identify that there was potential impact. However, their assumption was that the deeper wells would most likely be impacted, and the shallow wells would not. They assumed there was no connectivity between the lower aquifer, which is bedrock and limestone, and the shallow sand and gravel wells. Eagon's assessments have been based on actual field data collected since the summer. Ms. Krohn stated that this is her concern regarding Eagon's projections. They have lived in their home for 26 years and never had a problem with supply or contamination. They do not want that to occur again, nor do they want to pay $10,000 to assure that it does not reoccur, as they did not do anything to cause the problem. Ms. Krohn inquired if easements are typically donated. Mr. Hammersmith stated that, typically, the homeowner receiving the City service donates the easement. Mr. Herskowitz stated that in 2001 the City extended water and sewer to the Hanna Hills area. There were two homeowners who donated easements across their properties, and the City negotiated with them regarding their connection fees. Ms. Krohn inquired about the contamination. No contamination existed before the water levels dropped. However, the contamination may not necessarily be the result of low water levels. It could also have resulted from the water testing procedure. She was present when the testing was done. She discussed the testing procedure with a Franklin County employee. The procedure requires that the equipment be chlorinated between each water dip; it was not. Mr. Hammersmith stated that Eagon has indicated that their normal protocol is to chlorinate the equipment within the truck between samples, not out in the field. Ms. Krohn would not have observed that procedure. Ms. Krohn stated that the individual performing the water tests walked with her to the homes. Ms. Krohn suggested that the City should not keep looking to the development that may occur to the south of them. The City, Tartan Golf Company and the Edwards Co. should pick up the cost of restoring their water. Seven pumps on their street have been lowered as low as possible. They cannot be lowered further; the next step is a new well. They should not be required to wait for some other developer, who had nothing to do with this problem, to install a water line. Ms. Krohn stated that realtors have spoken to them about their diminished property values. Now, the whole area has the stigma of a water problem. The only remedy is to provide City water to their area. The residents have a right to know that they will have enough water next year. They should not have to worry about this problem continuing. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 8 Mr. Reiner stated that next year, if there is a drought, the City will be responsible for installing new wells for these residents. The City will protect the residents. In addition, the Ballantrae development will add value to the other homes in the neighborhood. Mrs. Boring stated that well water contamination is a City -wide concern. How will the City address this problem for all its residents? She is anticipating the Community Services Commission report and recommendation. Mr. Reiner stated that several neighborhoods have suffered with similar problems. If there were a dangerous situation, the City would immediately resolve it; however, the City must develop an impartial policy that fits Dublin as a whole. It is partially a financial issue. The City has six years committed to projects in its CIP budget. The City works with afixed budget, influenced, of course, by emergencies. For this reason, Council cannot take action for large expenditures until a policy and budget impacts are evaluated. He added that, notwithstanding, if a developer installs a water line, there would be an opportunity to tap into that line within a few months. Mr. Lecklider inquired if Council should approve provision of City water to this area, how soon would water be available to the residents? Mr. Hammersmith responded that it would be necessary to design the project this winter, so that it could be bid in March and construction begun in April. With a two to three month construction phase, it could be completed by mid - summer 2003, assuming that there is a good alignment with minimal obstacles. Mr. Lecklider stated that there are several issues to consider. He has heard that there is the potential for imminent development to the south of this neighborhood. This would result in a developer carrying the cost of extending the water line down Avery Road, which would result in $175,000 that the City would not have to assume. If the City is not bearing that cost, there is greater potential that the residents may not have to assume the cost or full cost of running the water line down Cara Road and Cara Court. At this time, however, he is unsure what recommendation he would make. In the meantime, the residents have the City's commitment that the residents' water supply will be uninterrupted. He is of the opinion that Council should wait to see the Community Service Advisory Commission's recommendation. The policy could lead to the extension of the waterline sooner rather than later. This area would be high on a priority list. Mrs. Boring encouraged the residents to attend the Community Services Advisory Commission meeting on November 12 Mr. Lecklider agreed that it would be within the residents' best interests to attend the meeting and attempt to influence whatever policy is ultimately developed. Mr. Reiner moved to table further action regarding the Cara Court pending the adoption of a City -wide policy. Mrs. Boring amended the motion to add that the Cara Road /Cara Ct. request be prioritized for future consideration, pending the policy development. Public Services Committee Minutes of November 6, 2002 Page 9 Mr. Reiner accepted the amendment. Mrs. Boring seconded the motion. Vote on the motion Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Clerk of Council