Title
Agenda Item:
Approval of Interlocal Agreement Between Thurston County and the Cities of Lacey, Olympia and Tumwater Regarding Joint Storm and Surface Water Monitoring
Body
Issue:
Continue monitoring of Olympia surface waters through the regional monitoring program as described in the interlocal agreement.
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a Committee.
City Manager's Recommendation:
Move to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign an interlocal agreement with Thurston County for storm and surface water monitoring.
Staff Contact:
Laura Keehan, Associate Planner, Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8321
Andy Haub, Planning and Engineering Manager, Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8475
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item
Background and Analysis:
Since 1991, Thurston County Environmental Health Department has performed water quality monitoring for Olympia, as well as Lacey and Tumwater. The most recent interlocal monitoring agreement has expired and the Cities and County wish to continue the monitoring program as outlined in the interlocal agreement.
The mission of the joint storm and surface water monitoring program is to assess the health of regional water resources in order to inform the development of programs, policies and capital facility plans to protect water resources for beneficial uses. Specifically, the program monitors water quality parameters, stream flows, lake levels and precipitation.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
No known concerns.
Options:
1. Authorize the interlocal monitoring agreement
2. Decline authority to sign the interlocal monitoring agreement
Financial Impact:
Payment for surface water monitoring performed by Thurston County Environmental Health Department staff is paid according to Appendix A of the interlocal agreement using dedicated funding within the Storm and Surface Water Utility's operating budget. Annual estimated monitoring costs are $43,761.