Title
Olympia Water System Plan Update
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Move to forward the draft Water System Plan Update to Council for a briefing, public hearing and approval (see attached letter) at the October 6, 2015, Council meeting.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the recommendation of the Utility Advisory Committee (UAC).
Report
Issue:
Whether to refer the draft Water System Plan Update to City Council for briefing and public hearing on October 6, 2015.
Staff Contact:
Laura Keehan, Senior Planner, Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8321
Presenter(s):
Laura Keehan, Senior Planner
Background and Analysis:
Washington Department of Health regulations, WAC 246-290-100, require public water supplies with more than 1,000 connections to submit a water system plan for review and approval. These plans are required every six years and are intended to demonstrate the water system’s capability to achieve and maintain compliance with relevant local, state and federal plans and regulations.
Olympia’s Water System Plan is a key technical and policy document that sets the priorities and program directions for the Drinking Water Utility over the next six years and beyond (see hyperlink to review the Draft Plan and Appendices).
The following key issues are addressed in the plan:
• Adopting new conservation goals for both indoor and outdoor water use and addressing system leakage.
• Continuing to improve operation and maintenance practices to maximize the life of system assets.
• Identifying water system infrastructure needs through capital planning to continue a high level of service to existing customers and build capacity for system growth.
• Outlining a six year financial plan, including an updated cost of service study and customer rate projections.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Neighborhoods may be interested in construction or maintenance activities in their areas. Customers will be interested in rates and service levels.
Options:
1. Authorize a briefing and public hearing on the draft Water System Plan Update at Council’s October 6, 2015 meeting. The Plan will ensure the City’s compliance with Department of Health regulations and the needs of our community.
2. Redirect staff efforts to address LUEC preferences. This option will delay Plan implementation.
Financial Impact:
The source of funds for the Water System Plan is the Drinking Water Utility. The plan recommendations will have utility rate and General Facility Charge (GFC) implications. Chapter 14 of the draft plan outlines the financial program for the utility.
Attachment(s):
1. Utility Advisory Committee Letter of Support
2. Water System Plan- Goals, Objectives and Strategies
3. Link to draft Water System Plan Update and Appendices