Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Noaa Mou Rainfall topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
PUC authorizes NOAA MOU to pilot fine‑scale rainfall forecasting for sewer operations
Summary
The Commission approved a two‑year MOU (up to $160,000) with NOAA for advanced, high‑resolution rainfall prediction research to improve combined‑sewer operations and reduce overflows; staff said NOAA will permit city ownership of the data and potential cost‑sharing with neighboring agencies.
The Commission authorized the general manager to execute a memorandum of understanding with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for up to $160,000 over two years to develop a finer‑scale, city‑focused rainfall prediction tool.
Tommy Boala, Assistant General Manager for Wastewater, described the project as a research test bed to deliver higher‑resolution forecasts so operators can take proactive steps — for example, emptying storage basins or activating pumps ahead of heavy rainfall — to reduce combined‑sewer overflows. NOAA and city staff said the forecast grid under development will be far finer than the current national grid and that the city would own the generated data; staff also said other jurisdictions could cost‑share to adopt the model. The Commission approved the MOU by voice vote.
