Council approves groundwater monitoring contract and commits funds toward Knoll Creek project

Blaine council approved two environment- and utility-related actions on Dec. 15: a contract award for groundwater monitoring wells and an agreement to participate in watershed work on Knoll Creek.

Public works staff recommended awarding a contract to Trout Companies for groundwater monitoring well installation required by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for operating permits on wells 19, 20 and 21; the low responsive proposal was $137,050, and staff recommended a 10% contingency for a total project authorization of $150,000. The director said the work is within the approved CIP budget and that the wells are expected to be drilled this winter; baseline monitoring will be coordinated with the DNR prior to additional pumping and permitting steps.

Separately, Director Salander summarized a Rice Creek Watershed District study finding elevated phosphorus and E. coli levels in Knoll Creek (Anoka County Ditch 39). The district secured a $625,000 grant that offsets much of the cost; local partner contributions remain. Based on drainage-area allocations, Blaine's share of the remaining local match was estimated at roughly $400,000 (about 72% of the local portion); Coon Rapids and Anoka County would contribute smaller percentages. Council authorized signing a memorandum of agreement to assemble the funding and directed staff to return a joint powers agreement and project contract prior to construction.

Council approved both actions by voice votes. Staff said more detailed cost and maintenance responsibilities will be included in the future joint powers agreement, and that the pond associated with the Knoll Creek work is located in the neighboring jurisdiction but will include cooperative maintenance terms.