pages: CityCouncil/2010-07-06.pdf, 10
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2010-07-06 | 10 | Mayor Johnson inquired how air testing works. Gisa Ju, RMC Water and Environment, responded non-toxic smoke is blown into a sewer and pathways lead smoke to the surface; crews observe what is coming out of yards; smoke cannot be detected from a basement connection. The Public Works Director and Mr. Hildebrand continued the presentation. In response to Mayor Johnson's inquiry, the Public Woks Director stated the current commercial additional flow rate is $1.84 per hundred cubic foot [HCF] and would increase to $2.81 HCF. Councilmember Gilmore inquired whether Alameda has an additional issue with its sewer system because the water table is so high. The Public Works Director responded inflow infiltration would increase if pipes or joints have cracks. Councilmember Tam stated Slide 18 shows the current rate for a single family home would go from $14.91 to $22.09, which is a 48% increase over three years; spreading 48% over three years equals 16% per year; inquired whether she is missing something on Slide 16, which shows 14% per year. Mr. Hildebrand responded the total amount increases to 48% over three years due to compounding. Councilmember Matarrese complimented staff on the analysis; stated people know that sewer charges increase by cost of living but cost of living does not account for regulation changes; Emeryville's rates are less, but Emeryville does not perform sewer laterals like Alameda; inquired whether structuring residential rates similar to commercial rates has been considered for the future; stated a two bedroom, one bath home uses much less flow than a four bedroom, three and a half bath home. Mr. Hildebrand responded a flow-based sewer rate is not commonly considered [for residential rates]; stated administrative costs and data collection could pose a hurdle. Vice Mayor deHaan stated a lot of seniors have concerns; inquired whether other jurisdictions have some type of reduction for seniors. The Public Works Director responded Proposition 218 prohibits using sewer rates to buy down for seniors; stated an alternative funding source, such as the General Fund, would be needed to do so. Mr. Hildebrand stated Proposition 218 prohibits using one person's rate to pay down another person's rate. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 10 July 6, 2010 | CityCouncil/2010-07-06.pdf |