11-24-1986 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO COUNCIL MEETING HELD NOVEMBER 24, 1986 DNR PRESENTATION CONTINUED Ms. Adelsman indicated by graph that the groundwater level from 1971 - 1980 has decreased and consistently recovered to remain at basically the same level. She stated that with all the concerns considered, the DNR has determined that the Ulrich project itself would not have any impact on the lake. Based on some of the other projects in Minnesota, the Ulrich project pumping 11 million gallons of water per year is not considered a major appropriation. Councilmember Grabek asked staff what concerns the Freshwater Biological Institute had regarding this project. City Administrator Bernhardson stated that the main concern indicated by the FWBI was the impact on the aquifer if numerous systems were installed. Councilmember Adams asked how the DNR would react if 50 permits for heating /cooling systems were applied for. Ms. Adelsman stated that they would only be concerned if they were all in one area. Mr. Japs noted that other requests would most likely be on a much smaller basis than the Ulrich project. Ms. Adelsman noted that the DNR can revoke or change the conditions of a permit at any time if they find that the project is causing a detrimental impact on the resource. Mayor Butler stated that, based on information she has received, this type of system would not work in Minnesota because of the chance of freeze -up. Ms. Adelsman stated that she does not fedl that would occur based on the success of much larger scale Minnesota projects. Ms. Boudreau noted that because of the slight chance of the discharge creating ice melt, they felt discharge into the lagoon area would be safest at this point. Councilmember Frahm asked if the City could ~initiate a DNR study after the permits have been issued if the City feels there are problems. Ms. Adelsman and Ms. Boudreau acknowledged that they are always willing to listen and re- evaluate the permit. 8