CED Annexation Policy Plan 1992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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b. Annexation Responsibilities The Water Department (Distribution Bureau) has a master plan that covers the present incorporated City and certain adjacent areas. This master plan identifies a need for additional well capacity and identifies the network of the larger distribution mains. While the expansion of the distribution system is, to a large extent, based upon a mile -square grid pattern, this pattern may vary due to topographic and demand constraints. At the present time, the Water Department is in the process of adding ten wells to the system on a phased development plan. Depending upon the rate of increase in demand, the proposed annexation areas to the southeast and northeast could be the first areas to require increased supply capacity. Expansion to the west appears to pose a definite requirement for new wells. The existing Bureau of Water master plan for the distribution system should be expanded to include the entire annexation area. Locations of needed well sites should be identified and the land purchased and necessary measures instituted to ensure wellhead protection. It may be desirable to add elevated storage to the system, particularly in the northeast portion of the study area. A decision should be made regarding this improvement and any needed site secured to guarantee availability. An in-depth analysis of capital improvement financing should be conducted to ensure that the distribution system is in place prior to development. A formula for connection fees should be established for each expansion project to ensure recovery of expenditures. The Water Department does construct new mains. Depending upon the rate of development, this practice can continue. A time -limited increase in the main expansion program could be supported by contracting with the private sector. The addition of wells to the west of the present City limits will, at full development, result in the need for an additional maintenance person and related transportation and equipment. At some point, the expansion will result in the need for an additional two -person main -flushing crew with related transportation and equipment. All Bureau of Water activities are user fee -funded. This bureau will continue to be supported in this manner. Because there is no requirement that potential users connect to the system, extensive capital improvements may pose funding problems. Experience indicates that new construction will probably utilize an existing water supply, while existing development with wells in place are not inclined to do so. Tax -incremental financing can be used where appropriate, however, it may be necessary to utilize General Obligation Bonds for much of this financing. c: