CITIZENS’
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Meeting
Minutes
August 16, 2007
CAC Members in Attendance: Theresa Jehn-Dellaport (Chair), Barbara Boardman, Russell Burton, Becky Long, Deb Pilon, Myrna Poticha, and Jason Randall
DW Staff: Marie Bassett, Marc Waage and Joe Sloan
Guest: Tim Flynn
OPENING REMARKS, AGENDA AND MINUTES
Minutes and agenda were approved as presented.
WATER RESOURCES - Marc Waage, Planning
Theresa asked Marc to speak about some proposed regional water projects. Theresa wanted to hear DW staff perspective before inviting outside speakers. A project to divert water from the Green River to the metro area has been in the news. Myrna and Becky stated they have heard presentations on this proposed project. Marc explained the proposal and stated DW does not have a position, as the project is conceptual. Marc stated the project could potentially bring more water to the Colorado River. Years ago, people stated the water in Platte River was fully developed and then DW built Dillon and the Roberts tunnel and more water was added to the Platte. The project to move water from the Green River could have a similar outcome for the Colorado River. Some view the Colorado River as being fully developed, then an idea like this one comes that has the potential to increase water in the Colorado River. As with all projects this one would be complex. Marc again stated that DW did not have a position on the proposed project.
Another topic in the news is the closure of the Shoshone Power Plant. Marc explained the history of the plant and the Shoshone Call. He distributed as article from the Post Independent which reported on Xcel’s plan to have the Shoshone Plant operational by spring 2008. The Shoshone Call has a significant role in the management of the Colorado River. The Shoshone Call affects municipal use, plans for the protection of endangered fish, rafting, etc. While some benefit from the closure, others do not. Since the Shoshone Call has not been on this year, there have been opportunities for entities to work together. It was a bit of a success to see some of these entities, who usually oppose each other, working together.
Jason requested an update on the Chatfield Allocation proposal. Theresa has been attending the meetings for this proposed project. There are fifteen users in the group. The big issue will be mitigation. Work is being done on the draft EIS.
TREE CANOPY ON THE HIGH LINE CANAL - Myrna Poticha
Myrna gave an update on the tree initiative for the High Line Canal. The mayor has a Million Tree Initiative and the High Line has cottonwoods which are nearing the end of their lifespan and no new trees are being planted by Denver Water. The High Line appears to be perfect area for some the new trees. South Suburban is the only agency which has a plan for the portion of the High Line they maintain. Myrna has met with some Parks staff in Denver and with DW staff. Barbara and Theresa both expressed interest in helping Myrna with the initiative. Marc stated the High Line Partnership has not met in over a year but he believes the Partnership would like to be informed on the initiative as it progresses.
DENVER WATER STAFF UPDATE - Marie Bassett, Director of Public Affairs
Operating Rules - DW staff has another meeting scheduled with the HBA for the end of August. In September Marie plans on sending a final draft of the Operating Rules to the Board.
Rates Meeting - Marie asked the CAC to host a public rates meeting in September. Theresa asked how large of an increase would be proposed. Marie responded Finance is looking at a 7% revenue increase. This does not mean every customer would see a 7% increase, it would vary in each customer class. After some discussion the CAC decided to meet on September 13, 2007 to accommodate a rates meeting.
Customer Letter to CAC - Marie commented on a letter sent to the CAC by a Mr. O’Brien regarding a high bill complaint. Research was done on the high bill. It appears the customer has three lots on one tap. This could explain the high bill. It is also an example of a problem when lots are combined. DW is not given notice when lots are combined. The original plan from the developer shows three lots and three taps. When one tap serves three lots there will probably be high bills and also the issue of uncollected SDCs. Russell believes DW is losing SDCs revenue due to lot line vacations, which are common and do not go on record at DW. Jason asked what programs or incentives would be used to encourage large lot owners to reduce use or change landscaping. Marie stated with the new CIS there will be more capabilities to measure lot sizes and see what is used by similar lot sizes. Using that information a conservation tech could talk to the customer about water use on similar size lots and give suggestion on how to use less water. She anticipates the new CIS will be connected to the GIS system which will provide better data to DW, which can then be shared with customers.
ADDITIONAL CAC REPRESENTATIVE - Marie Bassett
Commissioner Beardsley was approached by a resident in the Grand Valley who suggested the CAC add a position which represents the Grand Valley. The issues in the Grand Valley are different than those is Summit and Grand Counties. Theresa has reviewed the Foothill Agreement, which created the CAC. In the agreement is sets the number of CAC members at nine. Theresa will contact the resident and invite them to a CAC meeting. Theresa made reference to Tim Flynn who is not a member of the CAC but regularly attends meetings and is welcome to comment on issues of his interest. Russell suggested Theresa let the Board know the decision of the CAC and the letter or e-mail should include an explanation of the selection of new CAC members.
Meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm.