LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING January 15, 2014 - 4:00 p.m. Service Center Board Room 200 North Wilson Avenue
AGENDA
4:00 pm - CALL TO ORDER 4:05 pm - APPROVAL OF MINUTES - 12/18/2013 CITIZENS REPORTS 4:10 pm - CONSENT AGENDA 1. CBT Market Price Consideration – Greg Dewey 2. Proposed Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for Operation & Maintenance of Stream Gage and Precipitation Gage – John McGee 3. 2013 Quarterly Goal Updates – Steve Adams 4:20 pm - REGULAR AGENDA 4. LUC 2013 Accomplishments and 2014 Goals – Steve Adams
5:00 pm - STAFF REPORT 5. 2013 Flood Update for the Water & Power Department – Steve Adams
5:45 pm - 6. COMMISSION / COUNCIL REPORTS 7. DIRECTOR’S REPORT – Steve Adams
INFORMATION ITEMS 8. Water Supply Update – Larry Howard
ADJOURN
The City of Loveland is committed to providing an equal opportunity for citizens and does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or gender. The City will make reasonable accommodations for citizens in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For more information, please contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at [email protected] or 970-962-3319. 1 2 LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION December 18, 2013 Minutes
Commission Members Present: Dan Herlihey, David Schneider (Chair), Gary Hausman, Gene Packer (Vice Chair), Larry Roos, John Matis, John Rust Jr., Randy Williams
Council Liaison: Troy Krenning
City Staff Members: Bob Miller, Chris Matkins, Garth Silvernale, Gary Graham, Gretchen Stanford, Jim Lees, Larry Howard, Michelle Stalker, Roger Berg, Steve Adams, Sharon Citino, Tanner Randall
CALL TO ORDER: Dave Schneider called the meeting to order at 4:04 pm.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Dave asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the November 20, 2013 meeting.
Motion: Gene Packer made the motion to approve the minutes of the November 20, 2013 meeting. Second: John Rust Jr. seconded the motion. The minutes were approved unanimously.
CITIZEN REPORTS: none
CONSENT AGENDA
Larry Roos pulled Item 1 from the consent agenda, and John Rust Jr. pulled Item 2 from the consent agenda.
REGULAR AGENDA
Item #1: Contract with Brown & Caldwell for the Digester Project Design – John McGee The contract is for the design and bidding services for improvements to the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) anaerobic digesters. Improvements are necessary for process modifications, replacing aged equipment, and to meet current code and safety requirements.
Revised Recommendation: It is recommended that the LUC approve the design contract with B&C in the amount of $830,286 to move forward with the implementation of design and bidding services for the anaerobic digestion system improvements and authorize the City Manager to sign the contract.
Motion: Dan Herlihey made the motion. Second: John Rust Jr. seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.
Comments: Larry Roos made inquiries about the anaerobic digestion process, what triggered the necessary improvements, and if this improvement is to treat wastewater, wastewater sludge, or both, and whether we would be obtaining any renewable energy from the improvements. Staff responded that anaerobic digestion is the reduction of solids that are settled out of the primary clarifier at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Those solids are pumped off the bottom of the clarifier over to a large covered concrete basin digester with a floating cover on it. The digester has an anaerobic environment (an environment starved of oxygen) and as it heats up, bacteria is formed that helps break down the solids in order to help reduce the volume of sludge. It puts off gas in the form of methane, which is burned outside with the flare. The digesters are older facilities and the improvements will increase the safety of the facility and bring it up to the current building code standards. Although renewable energy is not produced, the process does incorporate heat recovery, by routing the methane produced in this anaerobic process back through the plant and mixing it with natural gas as needed for the heating process required in the anaerobic digestion. Staff responded to an inquiry on whether the Water and Power Department bids out $800,000 contracts, stating that it is not required on professional services contracts. However, the process was competitive in the sense that staff went out and interviewed multiple firms that provided us their thought process and cost sheets. In design work, Loveland Water and Power is not necessarily looking for the cheapest solution, but on finding out who has effective approaches to solve the problems in question. Staff responded to an inquiry on the projected total cost, to be between about $5 million to $6 million plus or minus about $1 million.
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LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION December 18, 2013 Minutes
Item #2: Contract Award for 48” Diameter Fabricated Steel Water Line for Water Treatment Plant Meadows Transmission Line Project (Materials Only) – Roger Berg This Contract is for the 48” steel water line materials to replace the 20” and 36” lines destroyed by the flood between Highway 34 and the Water Treatment Plant. The material procurement was bid separately in advance of completing final design drawings due to the long lead time expected for delivery of the 48” steel pipe. The installation will be bid in early February 2014.
Recommendation: Request for award to Northwest Pipe Company, located at 6030 North Washington Street, Denver, Colorado 80216 in the amount of $1,103,415 for the supply of steel pipe materials for the Meadows Transmission Line, Project FLW04C and allow the City Manager to sign the contract.
Motion: Dan Herlihey made the motion. Second: John Rust Jr. seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.
Comments: Staff clarified that although the City will pay for the upfront costs of this project of approximately $3.1 million, which includes design, construction, the access road to the plant etc., the City will receive reimbursements from FEMA of about 75% and the State of Colorado will reimburse us another 12.5% of what the project would have cost if we had replaced the transmission lines with like for like. However, the City is electing to do an improved project. It will receive a specific dollar amount, even if the costs come in higher or lower, to install a single 48” diameter water transmission line, up higher from the flood plain, instead of replacing the lost lines with new 20” and 36” water transmission line. If the costs come in lower on this improved project, then the City can use the excess funds for other projects that meet FEMA approval. Staff also clarified that although the agenda item summary section shows all bid results, the City will only award the bid to one company. Staff explaineded that the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has signed off the environmental portion of this project, and will not require an on-site archeologist during construction. Discussed what can and cannot be covered by FEMA for hillside stabilization verses erosion control. Board inquired on the total weight of the pipe to which staff responded that we could get back to them on that. This project will be presented to the Larimer County Flood Review Board in January 2014 for approval. The City will need to demonstrate that this project will not create a rise in the flood plain.
REGULAR AGENDA
Item #3: IGA with Platte River Power Authority for SCADA Support – Bob Miller Proposed Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Platte River Power Authority to provide Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) services.
Recommendation: Adopt a motion recommending that the City Council approve the Intergovernmental Agreement for SCADA Services with Platte River Power Authority.
Motion: Dan Herlihey made the motion. Second: Gary Hausman seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.
Comments: Discussion ensued on the importance of isolating and compartmentalizing the City’s distribution system from Platte River Power Authority’s (PRPA) generation system and equipment to meet security and safety regulations. Under this agreement, the City will still purchase equipment, but the field work will be performed by PRPA staff. PRPA provides this service to Estes Park as well. Gene Packer inquired that if PRPA were to have some generation fall off, if PRPA would be able to do any switching on City’s distribution system to unload the system. Bob Miller responded that the City does not have a hard wire connection with PRPA, but that there is a load shedding program in which PRPA contacts the City by phone/email, and the City will do the switching to open prioritized breakers within a certain amount of time before, PRPA would open the high side of a kV switch which would dump an entire substation. Discussed situations in which PRPA might open their kV switch prior to 4
LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION December 18, 2013 Minutes
giving the City a chance to shed load such as if a unit drops off-line or if there was a system disturbance and PRPA’s frequency starts to drop too low.
STAFF REPORTS
Item #4: Water Treatment Plant Design Update – Roger Berg Update on the progress of the Water Treatment Plant expansion.
Staff Report only. No action required.
Comments: Discussed the difference in the current bidding environment due to contractors being busy with flood work in the region. Discussed how the new buildings will be state of the art and fully automated with built in redundancies; however, the existing buildings without all the advanced features will still be used to provide 30 million gallons per day treatment capacity. Discussed the current and projected water treatment capacities and an estimated timeline for how long this capacity increase will meet Loveland’s water needs. Clarified that this project does not include any changes to the intake, but as a separate project, repairs are being made due to the flood damage and Home Supply is working on the dam crest repairs. Discussed the benefits of the new driveway loop for deliveries and how trucks have had to come in from the north due to the road having too tight of turns on the bridge to get across the Big Thompson River. Board inquired on whether another fully accessible road could be made from Highway 34 to the Water Treatment Plant for deliveries. Staff described the line of site issues to make that turn from Highway 34 which would require acceleration and deceleration lanes and needing easements from land owners. Discussion ensued on how the plans do take into account future growth with plans to expand buildings to eventually raise the treatment capacity up to 46 million gallons per day.
Item #5: 2013 Flood Update – Steve Adams Staff will provide an update on the status of flood recovery efforts.
Staff Report only. No action required.
Comments: The Customer Relations Division continues to communicate to customers without power in the canyon and many have asked to have update emails sent to them. They are using social media as a means to talk about the great work being done in the canyon such as pole setting, and communicating programs available to help in rebuilding flood damaged properties such as the option to get a free energy audit performed to help build using energy-efficient building technology
The Water Division discussed the Idylwilde Dam removal and pen stock removal and capping projects and the work with the Forest Service and Kiewit to determine where the river should run in the canyon and what could be done with excess materials, if there are any available. Discussed the River’s Edge 16” water line replacement project that was negotiated with FEMA to rebuild 4’ down deeper, which will go out for bid in January 2014 and be built in Spring 2014. Discussed the Meadows pipe installation project which the installation will be mid February 2014 with a goal to have installation completed by July 2014. The only other concern on this project is passing the Larimer County Flood Review Board in January 2014. The City is in the process of selecting engineers for the permanent solution on the Southside Lift Station force main damaged by the flood. Discussed grants obtained for flood damaged projects.
Jim Lees shared that he attended a meeting in which FEMA expressed that the City of Loveland has been great to work with. Discussed how Viestenz-Smith Park will likely not be rebuilt as turfed park. The Board discussed how the hydraulics of the river have been altered due to the flood and road construction and how the stream channel will likely require several runoff cycles to stabilize locations. Discussed how members of the Big Thompson River Restoration Coalition would like to rebuild bridges, but not if the bridges will be located in areas that may be taken out with the spring runoffs. 5
LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION December 18, 2013 Minutes
The Power Division discussed the phenomenal work being done in the canyon to restore power, which involved coordination of effort from City staff with the Forest Service, assistance from the electric utilities in Estes Park and Fort Collins and from contractors such as GE Construction, Badger Drilling and Blasting Company and the helicopter operators.
COMMISSION/COUNCIL REPORTS
Item #6: Commission/Council Reports
Randy Williams: none John Rust Jr: none Dan Herlihey: none John Matis: none Gene Packer: none Gary Hausman: none Darell Zimbelman: none Dave Schneider: Encouraged Troy Krenning, if time allows, to attend the Colorado Water Congress in January 2014. Shared that he has been asked to participate on Highway 287 Corridor Project Committee and requested that other give him input on what information and feedback to pass on to the committee. Melissa Morin, one of the Water Division’s Civil Engineers, will also be serving on the committee. Larry Roose: none
Council Report: Troy Krenning
Study Session – November 26, 2013 • City Council was presented with Platte River Power Authority’s 2014 Strategic Plan.
Regular Meeting – December 3, 2013 • Supplemental Appropriation for Idylwilde Dam Removal: A motion was passed to approve and order published on first and only reading an Emergency Ordinance Enacting a Supplemental Budget and Appropriation to the 2013 City of Loveland Budget for Removal of the Idylwilde Dam, Sediment Material, Penstock, and the Hydro Power House.
Study Session – December 10, 2013 • N/A
Regular Meeting – December 17, 2013 • N/A
DIRECTOR’S REPORT Item #7: Director’s Report – Steve Adams
Comments: Discussed PRPA’s participation in the Windy Gap Firming project and the benefits of the new Efficiency Works program to collaborate with the other cities in a unified program. Discussed the status of the dam crest repairs necessary due to damage from the flood, and additional recently identified deferred maintenance issues, and how much of the cost for each task the City will be responsible to pay. Because Home Supply owns the dam, their company is managing the project and working with FEMA; however the City will participate in a joint review of the project to ensure that it is built correctly.
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LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION December 18, 2013 Minutes
INFORMATION ITEMS
Item #8: Financial Report Update – Jim Lees This item summarizes the monthly and year-to-date financials for November 2013.
Staff Report only. No action required.
ADJOURN The meeting was adjourned at 6:10 pm. The next LUC Meeting will be January 15, 2014 at 4:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Michelle Stalker Recording Secretary Loveland Utilities Commission
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RESOLUTION #R-1-2014U
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE MARKET PRICE OF ONE COLORADO-BIG THOMPSON PROJECT UNIT AS AUTHORIZED BY LOVELAND MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 19.04.040
WHEREAS, Section 19.04.040 of the Loveland Municipal Code authorizes the Loveland Utilities Commission to recognize the market price of one Colorado-Big Thompson Project (“C-BT”) unit by resolution; and
WHEREAS, the Loveland Utilities Commission has reviewed relevant C-BT market data; and
WHEREAS, following said review, the Loveland Utilities Commission is of the opinion that the market price of one C-BT unit is $18,500.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LOVELAND UTILITIES COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LOVELAND, COLORADO:
Section 1. That the Loveland Utilities Commission hereby recognizes that the market price of one C-BT unit is $18,500.
Section 2. That Resolution #R-4-2013U of the Loveland Utilities Commission is hereby repealed and superseded in all respects by this Resolution.
Section 3. That this Resolution shall be effective as of the date of its adoption.
ADOPTED this 15th day of January, 2013.
Chairman, Loveland Utilities Commission
ATTEST:
______Secretary, Loveland Utilities Commission
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______Assistant City Attorney
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FINANCE
Review rates and extension policies: 1. Goal: Prepare Capital Improvement Plans for Water and Wastewater supported by a 2012 cost of service study and a 2012 rate study that provides adequate capital funding while taking into account depreciation. (11B.1.IP3 and 11D.1.IP1) Q1 2013 Update: On February 5, 2013, City Council approved a resolution that allowed for external borrowing of $10 million, internal borrowing from the power fund of $6 million, $750,000 from the general fund, and it set a rate track for the next ten years. Q2 2013 Update: Update: New 10-Year Capital Improvement Plans (CIP) for Water and Wastewater have been developed and submitted to the Budget Officer. The Water 10-Year CIP is adequately funded, save for the System Impact Fee (SIF) fund balance going negative in 2020 and 2021, but then recovering in 2022. The Wastewater 10-Year CIP is not adequately funded, with negative fund balances starting in 2016, due to new regulatory- driven capital projects that were not known at the time of last year’s rate study. The timing of these projects will be analyzed on an ongoing basis. Q3 2013 Update: There have been no changes to the CIPs for Water and Wastewater since their submittal to the Budget Officer. Wastewater has been awarded nearly $1.1 million of grant funding from the State to be used for the Nutrient Removal projects at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. This will be a significant help to the Unrestricted and SIF fund balances, but both funds are still projected to go negative in 2017. Staff is continuing to gather damage estimates from the September flood, and will monitor the impact on the fund balances for both Water and Wastewater. Q4 2013 Update: It is estimated that the damages as a result of the Flood will be around $5 .0 million for Water and $1.1 million for Wastewater. Between FEMA and the State, the great majority of these expenses should be reimbursed to the Water and Wastewater utilities. Staff is continuing to monitor the fund balances for each utility, particularly with Water, where bids are expected to be opened in April for the expansion of the Water Treatment Plant. This project is currently budgeted at $21 million.
2. Goal: Prepare Capital Improvement Plans for Power supported by a 2013 cost of service study and a 2013 rate study that provides adequate capital funding while taking into account depreciation and determine if we should design an electric rate that would encourage customers to lower their demand during system peaks. Q1 2013 Update: Staff has already been working to develop the 10 year capital improvement program for the Power Utility. A cost of service rate study for Power will be kicked off in May, and a series of rate increases will be developed with the goal of funding the capital improvement program and to keep pace with PRPA wholesale rate increases. Part of the scope of the rate study will be to develop a new rate class for large commercial customers that will encourage those customers to reduce their demand during system peaks. Q2 2013 Update: A new 10-Year CIP has been developed for Power and submitted to the Budget Officer. The rate study is continuing, and a series of rate increases to adequately fund the capital needs is a key component of the study. The development of a coincident peak demand rate design is also an ongoing part of the study. Q3 2013 Update: There has been no change to the CIP for Power since it was submitted to the Budget Officer. With annual rate increases ranging from 0.8% to 4.15% per year over the next ten years, the fund balance for both Unrestricted and Plant Investment Fees (PIF) stays positive and grows over that period. This works out well, as we don’t currently have an estimate from PRPA on the cost of extending a transmission line to I-25 and State Highway 402. Staff is continuing to gather damage estimates from the September flood, and will monitor the impact on the fund balance for Power.
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Q4 2013 Update: It is estimated that the damages as a result of the Flood will be around $13.0 million for Power and possibly higher. Between FEMA, the State and CIRSA, the City’s insurance carrier, the great majority of these expenses should be reimbursed to the Power utility. Power’s Unrestricted Fund balance was nearly $15 million through the end of November, and is therefore well-positioned to weather this financial challenge.
3. Goal: Continue to formulate an electric line extension policy. Q1 2013 Update: Kathleen Porter is working on the policy and is projecting this will go to LUC in June of 2013. Q2 2013 Update: The extension policies for other cities in the area (Fort Collins and Longmont) have been surveyed for comparison. Brieana is in the process of evaluating Loveland’s policy and making any necessary changes. This is planned for the LUC in August of 2013. Q3 2013 Update: This was taken to LUC in September. The LUC recommended that the change to policy be brought before City Council. The Power Division is working with the Water Division on a date that will work for both groups to present to City Council for adoption. Tentatively we are planning on presenting to City Council on November 5, 2013. Q4 2013 Update: The extension policy will be presented to Construction Advisory Board in January 2014 for comments and review along with the policy from the Water Division.
4. Goal: Continue to update the water line and sewer line extension policy. Q1 2013 Update: Melissa Morin met with Sharon Citino from legal on the updates. We project the updated policy will go to LUC in June of 2013. Q2 2013 Update: We project the updated policy will go to LUC in August of 2013. Q3 2013 Update: Policy went to LUC on August 18, 2013 and was recommended to Council with no changes. Policy will go to City Council on November 5, 2013. Q4 2013 Update: This item was pulled from the City Council agenda on November 5, 2013 in order for the item to be presented first to the Construction Advisory Board (CAB) in January before going to City Council.
POWER
Explore how improvements in technology can be utilized to improve efficiencies and enhance department operations and maintenance programs: (11C.3.IP1) 5. Goal: Continue to monitor Smart Grid and other technologies implemented by other utilities to determine if they are applicable to Loveland and recommend to LUC and then to Loveland City Council. Q1 2013 Update: Staff has applied for a DEED grant for the implementation of the load profile meters on Key Account meters. Staff has continued to evaluate meter manufactures that best meet the requirements required for the project. Q2 2013 Update: Our Demonstration of Energy and Efficiency Developments (DEED) grant application for the implementation of the load profile meters on Key Account meters was not selected for funding. Staff is continuing to evaluate meter manufactures. Q3 2013 Update: The Department has finished the initial investigation into the types of equipment that should be used on the Key Account meters. The City is currently out for bid to provide this functionality to Key Account customers that will be under the new Coincident Peak rate as a pilot project.
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Q4 2013 Update: The Department issued and awarded an RFP for the pilot project to include new meters and a web portal to allow key account customers to take advantage of the Coincident Peak Rate. The Department also negotiated an Intergovernmental Agreement with Fort Collins Utilities to access the algorithm they use to better predict the Platte River Power Authority monthly peak. This information will be provided to our key account customers as well.
6. Goal: Expand the use of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to apply to the power distribution system. Q1 2013 Update: Staff has applied for a DEED grant for the implementation of the fault indicators on the distribution system. Staff is waiting to see if the DEED grant will be awarded to the City. Q2 2013 Update: Our DEED grant application for the implementation of the fault indicators on the distribution system was not selected for funding. Staff has put money in the 2014 budget to perform a trial implementation of the fault indicators. Q3 2013 Update: Staff continues to investigate possible technologies for recording the data and monitoring the system and how to tie this information into the OMS system. Q4 2013 Update: Staff continues to work on expanding the SCADA system to improve reliability. Staff negotiated an expansion of the Intergovernmental Agreement with Platte River Power Authority to perform necessary repairs and maintenance on the SCADA system for substations. Due to flood recovery activities related to testing of smart fault indicators was placed on hold.
7. Goal: Continue to implement the Outage Management System (OMS). Q1 2013 Update: We have rolled out the initial installation of Responder and staff has received training on how to use the OMS. Responder went live in the later part of the First Quarter. Staff has been using Responder for all outage tracking, and for all mapping updates when switching the distribution system around. Q2 2013 Update: Staff has continued the use of Responder in daily operations. Staff has been looking into implementing an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) into Dispatch, and are currently looking at the options available. Q3 2013 Update: Staff continues to evaluate the use of an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. Staff has explored the possibilities of having the system hosted by a third party vendor or owning the system out right. Staff is still evaluating the pros and cons of both options. Q4 2013 Update: Staff continues to use the Outage Management System and gain efficiencies. This program was essential during the flood and the flood recovery. Staff has been investigating additional ways to leverage the program to make line switching and maintenance more standardized and improve safety.
8. Goal: Continue to study the impact electric vehicles will have on utilities service, budget and infrastructure. Q1 2013 Update: In partnership with the City of Fort Collins, Colorado State University and the Electrification Coalition, we launched Drive Electric Northern Colorado on February 25, 2013 at the Museum of Discovery in Fort Collins. We also submitted a grant application for the funding of electric vehicle charging stations. Q2 2013 Update: The City of Loveland was awarded the grant from the Colorado Energy Office to assist in the installation of additional charging stations in Loveland. These additional locations are currently being designed and constructed. Also, Fleet has purchased an additional three electric vehicles to be used by the Meter Reading Department and those will be delivered later this year.
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Q3 2013 Update: The five charging stations have been installed and the final reporting information to the Colorado Energy office has been submitted to finalize the grant funding. Q4 2013 Update: Staff in process of evaluating the use and impact of the currently installed charging stations.
9. Goal: Implement an LED streetlight policy. Q1 2013 Update: The new LED streetlight policy will be presented at the April 24, 2013 LUC meeting. Q2 2013 Update: The LUC has made the recommendation to Staff to begin updating the streetlight policy with LED fixtures. Staff is currently working on the LED streetlight specification for the City. Q3 2013 Update: Staff continues to work on the LED streetlight specification and is in the process of testing various models for applicability and aesthetics. Q4 2013 Update: Staff continues to work on the LED street lighting policy. Due to flood recovery activities this project was placed on hold during the fourth quarter of 2013.
Update the following Power studies: (11C.2.IP1)
10. Goal: Emergency Response/Preparedness Protocol, to ensure physical security and timely response to outages, including site security by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: We had one break-ins at a distribution substation, and two copper thefts at the lineman training facility. We continue to work with the Loveland Police Department. We will continue to work in this area along with the continuing work on the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Q2 2013 Update: Staff has been talking with PRPA and other entities about best practices for security of substations, and emergency response. Q3 2013 Update: Staff continues the investigations into security upgrades at the substations and emergency response. Staff has been in contact with both PRPA and the other cities (Fort Collins, Longmont, and Estes Park) to investigate best practices. Q4 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to evaluate security enhancements that will work best for Loveland.
11. Goal: Review, upon request, Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) policies for providing reliable generation and transmission for the City of Loveland and recommend changes to Loveland City Council. Q1 2013 Update: Water and Power will participate with PRPA in the development of a strategic plan. This will include staff participation in at least two subcommittees and general stakeholder meetings. The first scheduled meeting is set for May 8, 2013. Q2 2013 Update: Work is continuing on the development of the strategic plan, and PRPA is collecting ideas and information through stakeholder meetings. Q3 2013 Update: Water and Power staff are awaiting release of the draft Strategic Plan. Q4 2013 Update: The Strategic Plan was released and a paper copy distributed at the January 2014 LUC meeting.
12. Goal: Update the Requirements for Electric Service book. Q1 2013 Update: Power staff is meeting every two weeks to collaborate and update this book. We project the updates will be presented to LUC in June 2013. Q2 2013 Update: Power staff are wrapping up the final technical reviews of the book and will be moving into the final editing portion. This is expected to be ready for LUC in September of 2013.
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Q3 2013 Update: Staff had to delay completion date due to time constraints during the flood response. There has also been feedback from the Building Department and Utility Billing that we are attempting to reconcile in the new edition. This is expected to be ready before the end of the year. Q4 2013 Update: There was no activity related to completion of the Requirements for Electric Services book due to flood related activities and reconstruction.
WATER
13. Support the City’s goals in developing a master plan for development along the Highway 402 corridor, including wastewater service.
Q1 2013 Update: At the City Council Advance on January 26, 2013, the City Council approved this as an active goal for 2013. Staff is retaining consulting engineering services to further develop plans for sanitary sewer service options along this corridor. Q2 2013 Update: A consultant is under contract to complete the Sewer Master Plan. In order to improve the accuracy of the plan, we are waiting to receive the LIDAR data prior to beginning the work. The Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) data will be available in September 2013. Q3 2013 Update: The Consultant contract was cancelled due to a change in personnel and a change in our approach to the project. Once the flood response and repair efforts are under control, Tanner Randall will review the work completed to date refine the route and cost estimates. At that time, we will determine whether or not an outside consultant is needed to complete a detailed study. Q4 2013 Update: No change in status.
Prevent the introduction of pollutants into the raw and treated water supply that could interfere with operations and the ability to supply a clean, safe, and secure supply of treated water: (11B.3.IP1) 14. Goal: Continue to support the monitoring and assessment efforts through participation in the Big Thompson Watershed Forum. Q1 2013 Update: Staff participated in the 2013 Big Thompson Watershed Forum, which is held every other year. This year it was held at the Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley on February 28, 2013. Q2 2013 Update: Staff provided assistance and input regarding including two new partners in the basin-wide monitoring program. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q4 2013 Update: The flood of September 2013 introduced household and other waste into the Big Thompson River. The water utility responded by not diverting any of this water at the river intake and relying on the reservoir supply. This prevented the introduction of pollutants.
15. Goal: Support City wide effort regarding hydraulic fracturing. Q1 2013 Update: Staff commented on proposed oil and gas regulations and City Council adopted a hydraulic fracturing ordinance on March 19, 2013, which will be legally effective on April 2, 1013. Q2 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q4 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period.
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Update the following Water Planning Documents: (11B.1.IP1) 16. Goal: Second Use Water Program Development Report, to maximize reusable water sources and which will consider economics and current development, by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff continues to field inquiries about the use of raw water for irrigation both in existing developments and in new developments. Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues to field inquiries about the use of raw water for irrigation both in existing developments and in new developments. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q4 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period.
17. Goal: Complete an update to the Drought Response Plan by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff presented the Drought Response Plan to the LUC on March 20, 2013. Q2 2013 Update: City Council approved Resolution #R-39-2013, adopting the City of Loveland Drought Management Plan and implementing voluntary water restrictions on June 4, 2013. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q4 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. This goal could be considered complete for 2013.
Explore additional planning opportunities related to water provision: (11B.1.IP2) 18. Goal: To assure the availability of Windy Gap water, continue participation in planning / design of Windy Gap Firming Project Q1 2013 Update: Staff continues to explore these options, including increased and/or new supplies from neighboring providers. Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues to explore these options, including increased and/or new supplies from neighboring providers. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. Q4 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period.
19. Goal: Pursue acquisition of additional Colorado-Big Thompson Project (CBT) units. Q1 2013 Update: Staff continues its search for additional blocks of CBT units for sale, and monitoring market prices. The market prices have increased from about $8,000 per AF to $13,500 per AF. Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues its search for additional blocks of CBT units for sale, and monitoring market prices. The market prices have increased from about $13,000 per AF to $18,500 per AF. Q3 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period. There have been few transactions and all prices have been around $18,500 per AF. Q4 2013 Update: No additional W&P staff activity has been required during this period.
Update the following studies: 20. Goal: Emergency Response /Preparedness Protocol - to ensure physical security and timely response to service interruptions, including site security by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff continues to increase response effectiveness by updating the response protocol and assignments along with the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues to increase response effectiveness by updating the response protocol and assignments along with the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Q3 2013 Update: Staff demonstrated excellent emergency response protocol and coordination in the Flood 2013 event. This item is complete. Q4 2013 Update: Complete
Loveland Utilities Commission 24 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
21. Goal: Explore regional opportunities to participate in studies that look at raw and treated water provisions on a regional basis by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Northern Water is performing a study update with select Northern Colorado Communities. Loveland is participating in this effort and will receive the study results in 2013. Q2 2013 Update: Preliminary results are complete on this study and will be presented to all participating communities on Thursday, July 18, 2013. Staff will return to the LUC with the study results later in 2013. Q3 2013 Update: Staff is awaiting final study results and will share with LUC when available. Q4 2013 Update: Staff is presenting study results at the January 2014 LUC. This item is complete.
WASTEWATER
Update the following studies: (11D.2.IP1) 22. Goal: Level of Service Study - to evaluate adequacy, reliability and safety of wastewater service and whether federal, state and local requirements continue to be satisfied by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff is evaluating options for expanding the treatment capacity of the wastewater plant in order to continue providing adequate levels of service to our customers. Q2 2013 Update: Staff is evaluating options for expanding the treatment capacity of the wastewater plant in order to continue providing adequate levels of service to our customers. This work is likely to continue into 2014. Q3 2013 Update: Staff is evaluating options for expanding the treatment capacity of the wastewater plant and meeting expected regulatory increases in treatment levels in order to continue providing adequate levels of service to our customers. This work is likely to continue into 2014. Q4 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to evaluating options for expanding the treatment capacity of the wastewater plant. A modeling project to determine the most appropriate technology to be constructed to meet regulatory increases in Nutrient Removal levels in order to continue providing adequate levels of service to our customers was initiated in the fourth quarter of 2013. This work is likely to continue into 2014.
23. Goal: Emergency Response /Preparedness Protocol - to ensure physical security and timely response to service interruptions, including site security by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff continues to increase response effectiveness by updating the response protocol and assignments along with the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues to increase response effectiveness by updating the response protocol and assignments along with the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Q3 2013 Update: Staff demonstrated excellent emergency response protocol and coordination in the Flood 2013 event. This item is complete. Q4 2013 Update: Complete
Loveland Utilities Commission 25 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
CUSTOMER RELATIONS
Promote energy conservation by continuing to encourage the use of load management programs and evaluating the use of demand response programs: (11C.3.IP2) 24. Goal: Implement Loveland City Council approved energy conservation programs by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to administer programs including fielding calls, scheduling participants, processing rebates, etc. As an ongoing task, staff continues to review program results, making changes or adjustments where necessary. Q2 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to administer programs including fielding calls, scheduling participants, processing rebates, etc. As an ongoing task, staff continues to review program results, making changes or adjustments where necessary. Q3 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to administer programs including fielding calls, scheduling participants, processing rebates, etc. As an ongoing task, staff continues to review program results, making changes or adjustments where necessary. Q4 2013 Update: Staff is continuing to administer programs including fielding calls, scheduling participants, processing rebates, etc. As an ongoing task, staff continues to review program results, making changes or adjustments where necessary.
25. Goal: Develop a plan that helps the Department evaluate, consider, and guide future renewable energy participation opportunities. Q1 2013 Update: We have developed a strategy and tracking mechanism to report the renewables that the City of Loveland currently owns and operates. We are in the process of researching which renewables would qualify if the City of Loveland needed to comply with the State’s current Renewable Energy Standards. Q2 2013 Update: A subcommittee with PRPA and the four cities has been created to discuss renewables on a more regional basis. Gretchen Stanford is currently serving on this committee. PRPA board has approved the purchase of 30 MW of new wind in May 2013 to include in their resource mix. Staff has met with several solar companies and providers to discuss the various possibilities for solar gardens, solar farms, solar trees, etc. that we could incorporate into Loveland’s local resource mix that would deem most cost effective. Q3 2013 Update: The renewables committee with the four cities and PRPA continues to meet on a quarterly basis. Since the recent flood and decisions that need to be made on the hydro plant as well as the purchase of PRPA has recently purchase 32.5 MW of wind, see attachment, staff will be recalculating renewables we could allocate towards an renewable portfolio standard if we were mandated by the State. This analysis will help us make decisions on future renewable energy purchases. Key account customers continue to ask if the City provides rebates as well as complete their own analysis if renewable energy is an option for their own facilities. (See attachment A.) Q4 2013 Update: Staff is contracting with Namaste Solar to initiate a preliminary feasibility study which will provide a solar PV audit of City properties to define the unique site conditions and assess their effect on the cost of installation and PV production. We are also reviewing potential uses of FEMA reimbursement dollars for renewable energy related projects.
26. Goal: Formulate and implement commercial customer Demand Side Management, by December 2013. Q1 2013 Update: No progress made on this goal. Q2 2013 Update: Staff from finance, engineering, metering, and customer relations met several times to develop guidelines for our coincident peak rate. We also held a video conference with our rate consultant to share our ideas so that they may be incorporated into the 2014 rate study.
Loveland Utilities Commission 26 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
Q3 2013 Update: Staff presented the coincident peak rate to City Council in early October where it was approved on first reading. The rate will go for second reading on October 15. If approved, the coincident peak rate will be included in our 2014 rates, charges and fees. Q4 2013 Update: The rate is approved. Our seven largest customers are presently on the Coincident Peak rate.
27. Goal: Encourage water use efficiency which includes implementing the conservation and peak reduction measures adopted by City Council in July 2010 Q1 2013 Update: In 2013, we are continuing education on xeriscape and irrigation audits through the Garden-In-A-Box and the Slow the Flow programs in partnership with the Center for ReSource Conservation. In addition to continuing programs staff has begun posting bi- weekly wise water use videos online and on Channel 16 as well as hosting the Loveland Water and Power Open House Series. The topic for the May 1, 2013 Open House will focus on Loveland water use and conservation. Q2 2013 Update: Loveland Water and Power is continuing education on xeriscape and irrigation audits through the Garden-In-A-Box and the Slow the Flow programs in partnership with the Center for ReSource Conservation. Garden-in-a-Box sold out this year with 94 gardens discounted. Staff doubled the amount of Slow the Flow inspections available this year with over 100% already committed. In addition to continuing programs staff has begun posting bi-weekly wise water use videos online and on Channel 16, hosted an Open House dedicated to water and is in development of a regular blog communication for various water related projects and topics. Q3 2013 Update: Following City Council direction from the June 4, 2013 meeting, on the Drought Management Plan, the Shave the Peak Program was in effect with the voluntary even/odd watering schedule from July 17 - August 31st. The Garden-In-A-Box and the Slow the Flow programs in partnership with the Center for ReSource Conservation have both wrapped up for the season with 94 gardens sold, 107 residential irrigation audits completed and 4 HOA irrigation audits completed. Q4 2013 Update: Staff has been interviewing other Colorado water utilities to learn more about new programs, lessons learned and potential opportunities to partner on various programs.
Continue promoting responsible use of water to ensure a lasting supply for the future: (11B.3.IP3) 28. Goal: Prepare an updated Water Conservation Plan, in compliance with Colorado Water Conservation Board direction and the Water Conservation Act of 2004 while coordinating with the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy Districts requirements by July 2013. Q1 2013 Update: A draft of the City’s Water Conservation Plan was presented to LUC on February 20, 2013. The draft Plan was available for a 60-day public comment period beginning February 21, 2013 through April 21, 2013. Following the public comment period, staff will present the Plan at the April 24, 2013 LUC meeting, the April 24, 2013 CAB meeting and at the May 14, 2013 City Council meeting. Q2 2013 Update: City Council adopted the Water Conservation Plan on June 4, 2013. The plan has been submitted to the Colorado Water Conservation Board for final approval. Q3 2013 Update: The Water Conservation Plan has been submitted to the Colorado Water Conservation Board and we are awaiting final approval. Q4 2013 Update: The Water Conservation Plan was approved by the Colorado Water Conservation Board on October 22, 2013.
Loveland Utilities Commission 27 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
29. Goal: Support city wide development of a Sustainability Plan which will address water, power and wastewater infrastructure by December 2012. Q1 2013 Update: The Sustainability Plan is currently on the City Council’s schedule to be presented on July 9th. Q2 2013 Update: The Sustainability Plan is currently on the City Council’s schedule to be presented on July 23, 2013. Q3 2013 Update: The Sustainability Plan has been delayed because of the City Council elections in November. There is no date schedule at this time. Q4 2013 Update: Staff is reviewing the Sustainability Plan in detail, there are several new programs that need to be added and staff will be presenting in conjunction with Public Works in the first half of 2014 to City Council.
30. Goal: Participate in EPA Region 8 water and wastewater infrastructure, energy management pilot to develop an Energy Management Plan by December 2012. Q1 2013 Update: Water Treatment Plant Hydroturbine Feasibility Study: The City continues to work with the consultant on the feasibility of installing a small hydro turbine at the water treatment plant. It is anticipated that the feasibility study will be completed mid to late May 2013. The feasibility study will be used to seek further grant and loan assistance for design and installation of the turbine assuming the project is feasible. Biogas Evaluation: The City consultant just completed a secondary benefit evaluation of utilizing biogas for energy or electricity at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The findings of the evaluation concluded that, yes it is a viable energy source, but with today’s low prices of gas and electricity the return on investment to clean and condition the biogas and the cost of the equipment to convert it to electricity has a very long payback period without major grant assistance. At this time, it is recommended to optimize the current biogas uses (i.e. building heat) and continue to evaluate cost effective means for using biogas at the WWTP in the future. Q2 2013 Update: The City’s consultant completed a draft feasibility study for installing a small hydro turbine at the Water Treatment Plant. The estimated costs came in at $1.7 million. There are a couple of funding opportunities available. The Department of the Interior is offering a Smart Water Grant with up to $300,000 for one year or up to $1.2 million over 3 years. We will start the application process in October for this grant. There are also low interest loan opportunities for such projects at 2% interest without the Davis Bacon wage requirement. At this point, utilizing biogas for energy or electricity at the Wastewater Treatment Plant would be too cost prohibitive to pursue. Q3 2013 Update: Applications for the Bureau of Rec Water Smart Grant will be available this month and are due by the middle of December. The City is working with a consultant to apply for the grant. The WTP Hydroturbine feasibility study will be submitted with the grant application (required as a condition of the grant application). In addition, the City will evaluate low interest loans available through the Colorado Water Resources and Power Authority (CWRPA) that are specific to small hydro plants. These loans can be used as matching funds for the grant and are set at 2% interest rate and a 20 year term. Davis- Bacon does not apply. Q4 2013 Update: The City has hired Sunrise Engineering to assist in completing the Bureau of Reclamation Water Smart Grant which is due to the Bureau on January 23, 2014. The grant amount requested is $300,000. The total project cost is $1.7 million. The City will need to locally match with loans, grants or cash on hand the remaining amount. The proposed hydro turbine will be 345 KW in size and the estimated time for return on investment is 12 to 17 years depending on the amount of grant funding and how much water the City can pass through the turbine on a given year.
Loveland Utilities Commission 28 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
31. Goal: Evaluate and plan downtown infrastructure for revitalization Q1 2013 Update: Staff is working with several businesses in the downtown area to accomplish their infrastructure needs and improvements. In this quarter, staff has been working on the expansion of Lightning Hybrids, the Brinkman project and streetlight enhancements. In 2013, we will continue to serve on the Holiday Council, the Holiday Lighting Committee and the Loveland Downtown Team. Q2 2013 Update: Staff continues to work with developers on the Brinkman project, Art Space and Lightning Hybrids. Q3 2013 Update: For the past three months, the Loveland Downtown Team meetings have been cancelled because of staff conflicts and emergency related events. It has been cancelled once again for the month of October. No update at this time. Q4 2013 Update: Staff met with the City Manager and did a walk through downtown to discuss undergrounding power lines, concerns and costs. We will be taking a deeper look at this in 2014. Staff continues to serve on the downtown team and support all economic development in the downtown area.
32. Goal: Expand communications, public outreach and marketing for the utilities programs, challenges, infrastructure concerns, rates and supply. Q1 2013 Update: We continue to serve as the public relations arm of the department, drafting letters and press releases for our internal customers. We recently met with public information officers from other City Departments for a brainstorming session on the Communications Awareness Campaign – an effort to better use our social media and branding resources. We received training and continue to develop our skills on our graphics software in hopes that we can publish a Key Accounts newsletter in the coming months. We will be participating in the Medical Center of the Rockies Earth Day Open House, Children’s Day and Public Works day in the next couple of weeks. We hosted an Open House in March. More than 30 customers and four City Council members attended our open forum through which we were able to share information about new water rate increases, fracking in Loveland and our residential energy efficiency programs. We are working with the Thompson R2J School District to host a media day when we can showcase the solar project at Walt Clark Middle School. We continue to work with Erwin Middle School to develop their greenhouse project that is being funded by our Energy Efficiency Assistance Grant. We continue to work with the Winter Holiday Council to build relationships and ensure they are successful in participating in Loveland’s holiday celebration. We have been working on developing a coincident peak rate for our large commercial customers. We met as an internal development team and created a list of parameters and questions that will be taken to our rate consultant when he works on our cost-of-service study this year. We are hopeful we can design something that will help us reduce peak costs and also help our customers use their power more efficiently. Q2 2013 Update: We continue in our service of editing documents, writing letters and press releases for the Water & Power Department. We edited the press release and letters concerning the Tier 2 Water Situation, as well as fielded calls from customers responding to the communications. We hosted the Governor of Colorado as he signed two bills related to electric vehicles, hosted a table at Colorado Children’s Day and Public Works Day, hosted two contractor training sessions for Platte River Power Authority, attended Fort Collins Envirovation and hosted one Open House on water, xericscaping and water restrictions. We continue to serve on the Winter Holiday Council and the Board of Directors for NoCO Energy Star Homes. We recently designed a sign that will be placed at the site of our water line replacements to remind our customers that we appreciate their patience as we interrupt the flow of traffic. Public Works made the sign. We are working with Platte River Power Authority and the three other owner cities to redesign the structure of our common programs. We will combine all of the efficiency programs under one umbrella and rebrand
Loveland Utilities Commission 29 3 Loveland Utilities Commission 2013 Goals with 1st-4th Quarter Updates
the entire portfolio to develop a more interactive, comprehensive approach to educating our customers. We have five Key Accounts participating in our Building Tune Up Program and more than 35 smaller businesses enrolled in Efficiency Express. We co-hosted a dedication ceremony of the solar panels at Walt Clark Middle School, our first recipient of our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program (EEAP) in schools. We continue to monitor the progress of the greenhouse project at Erwin Middle School, the second recipient of the EEAP. Next quarter, we will send out applications for two $5,000 projects for schools. Q3 2013 Update: Customer Relations played two integral roles in flood operations at Water & Power. Customer Relations served as the public information office dispatching press releases, updating the website, working in dispatch, coordinating and hosting public meetings with EOC staff for those displaced in the canyon, updating the City of Loveland Public Information Office, sending messages to social media and answering customer calls related to business and residential emergent needs. Customer relations handled all communication to those customers who lost their water service, making 73 phone calls each time the situation was updated. Customer Relations stayed in close contact with the Key Accounts during the emergency, as well. Aside from the flood, Customer Relations hosted several events in the third quarter including Garden in a Box, Loveland Youth Gardeners Tour, Loveland Cherry Pie Celebration, Drive Electric Colorado Ride & Drive, two days of the Loveland Corn Roast Festival and Bixpo. This month, we will distribute the application for the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, a program that promotes energy efficiency and water conservation for school kids. This year, we will award two $5,000 grants. Q4 2013 Update: Customer Relations continues to serve as the media arm of the utility by communicating with customers as restoration of service progresses in the canyon. We have regularly called residents, sent emails and dispatched press releases detailing progress and updating those affected. We attended the Rocky Mountain Utility Exchange, representing Loveland Water and Power at a summit for utility professionals in the Rocky Mountain region. We used social media, our website and press releases to celebrate Public Power Week. We coordinated with the power division to evaluate and eventually chose a real-time load profile system to be used by our customers in the coincident peak pilot program. Staff visited each customer in the pilot program to explain the benefits of the rate. We are presently evaluating the grant submittals for the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program in the schools. We will award two $5,000 grants this year. We co-hosted the Net Zero Cities Conference and the first annual regional Business Innovation Fair. Staff collaborated with Drive Electric Northern Colorado to host another ride & drive event with two local breweries. Staff worked with our sister cities to develop Efficiency Works, a program that will house all of our energy efficiency programs and water conservation programs. All of the programs for all four cities can be found under the Efficiency Works umbrella, complete with a new website and new marketing materials. Staff worked on logo development, production of marketing materials and press releases to alert customers and contractors to the new program structure. Staff received notification that the Loveland Water Conservation Plan was approved by the Water Conservation Board.
Loveland Utilities Commission 30 3 31 4 32 4 DRAFT OF 2013 ACCOMPLISHMENTS & 2014 GOALS OF THE LUC
2013 Accomplishments 1. Protected the City’s water supply, restored power to our customers and met FEMA reporting requirements during the 2013 Flood event. 2. Reviewed electric, water and sewer line extension policies 3. Prepared capital improvement plans and updated Power and Wastewater studies and emergency response/preparedness protocols 4. Adopted a Water Conservation Plan and Drought Response Plan 5. Promoted energy efficiency, demand side management and water conservation 6. Explored new technologies, additional renewable resources, water provisions and new uses for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Outage Management System (OMS) 7. Completed the Power Cost-of-Service Rate Study 8. Implemented new Power rates for Coincident Peak Demand customers and Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. 9. Continued participation in the Sustainability Plan, EPA Region 8’s Energy Management Plan, PRPA’s Strategic Plan, hydraulic fracturing, Windy Gap Firming Project and the Highway 402 Corridor Master Plan Attachment A 10. Continued to evaluate and plan downtown infrastructure for revitalization 11. Continued to seek opportunities to expand communication, increase public outreach and market each utility and its programs 12. Worked with City Council and LUC to develop and adopt a Water utility Financing Plan
2014 Goals
33 1. Implement Priority-Based Budgeting 2. Support the transition of the City’s payroll processing to Innoprise software 3. Provide support for Coincident Peak Demand customers to maximize customer savings 4. Adopt the changes to the Requirements for Electric Service Book 5. Adopt an updated Electric Extension Policy and amend the Water Extension Policy 6. Implement an LED streetlight policy 7. Discuss the possibility of increasing renewable energy credits. 8. Support the Planning Department’s Comprehensive planning efforts including a master plan for development along Highway 287, the Highway 402 corridor, and the downtown revitalization efforts 9. Create a Strategic Plan for the Water, Wastewater and Power Utilities 10. Continue the 2013 Flood restoration and service recovery efforts 11. Further develop the Asset Management Program in the Water and Wastewater Utilities 12. Develop a more robust Water Division Safety Program with increased accountability and program measurement 13. Redefine the Key Accounts program 14. Complete a residential and commercial customer survey to help define satisfaction and direction for Loveland Water and Power 15. Update and adopt the Sustainability Plan and Integrated Resource Plan 16. Work with Platte River Power Authority to Implement the Strategic Plan 4 34 4 Attachment B
35 4 36 4 37 5 38 5 39 6 40 6 41 7 42 7 43 7 44 7 Customer Relations Calendar February
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Attachment A Community Circle School District Event
45 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 LUC 23 24 25 26 27 28 Open House Passport to Power 5:00, Service Center
7 2014 46 7 2014 Annual Convention Workshops Attachment B Draft (12-06-13) Meeting Room Grand Mesa Grand Mesa TIME Grand Mesa A Grand Mesa F Chasm Creek Highlands Centennial B/C D/E 8:00 AM Registration 8:15 AM CWC State 8:30 AM Affairs Serious 8:45 AM Results from Surveying Addressing Snow School 9:00 AM Water Colorado Pressures on 9:15 AM CWC Federal Efficiency Ground Water Ag Water 9:30 AM Affairs Programs 9:45 AM Break Data Gaps and Sound 10:00 AM Science Ag 10:15 AM CWC Water Art and Around the Conservation 10:30 AM Quality Science of State with CSU Water 10:45 AM Revenue and Division How Colorado Water Resource 11:00 AM Endangered Efficiency Engineers FLEX Market Law Came to Israel Archives 11:15 AM Species 11:30 AM Break 11:45 AM 12:00 PM 12:15 PM Lunch 12:30 PM 12:45 PM 1:00 PM Break 1:15 PM 1:30 PM Water Supply Planning DARCA 1:45 PM Current Colorado Classic Cases in Workshop 2:00 PM Demographic Patterns Around the Colorado Water Law 2:15 PM State with Instream Flow Coping with Observed Trends in 2:30 PM Division Workshop Flooding: Water System Yield Break 2:45 PM Engineers A Survival 3:00 PM Break Guide for 3:15 PM Planning Horizon: Classic Cases in Ditch 3:30 PM How Far in the Future Federal Water Law Companies 3:45 PM Can We See? POND Event Setup 4:00 PM Break Break 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:45 PM 5:00 PM 5:15 PM POND Networking Event 5:30 PM 5:45 PM 6:00 PM
47 7 48 7 Attachment C 2014
Colorado Water Congress Annual Convention Our Water Platform Standing the Test of Time January 29 to 31, 2014
Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center 49 7 The 2014 Annual Colorado Water Congress Convention Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center January 29 to 31, 2014
Thank You to Our 2014 Annual Convention Sponsors
Board of Water Works of Pueblo
Brown and Caldwell
CH2M Hill
Colorado Water Resources & Power Development Authority
Duncan, Ostrander & Dingess, P.C.
Freeport-McMoRan/Climax Molybdenum
Layne Christensen Company
Leonard Rice Engineers, Inc.
Municipal Subdistrict, Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District
Northern Water
Rio Grande Water Conservation District
San Luis Valley Water Conservancy District
South Metro Water Supply Authority
Southwestern Water Conservation District
Tri-County Water Conservancy District
Ute Water Conservancy District
1 50 7 The 2014 Annual Colorado Water Congress Convention Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center January 29 to 31, 2014
Our Water Platform Standing the Test of Time
All sessions will be in the Grand Mesa Ballroom unless otherwise noted
Wednesday, January 29
Wednesday Morning Meetings and Workshops 8:00 – 11:30 am See workshops program for complete description
Colorado Water Congress President’s Luncheon Winter General Membership Meeting 12:00 – 1:00 pm Food service continues until 12:30 Program will be from 12:30 to 1:00
In a new format this year, the Water Congress President will review our recent accomplishments and discuss priorities for 2014. The luncheon will be one of the best opportunities for members to provide input on the future course of the Water Congress, to share their views on Water Congress member benefits and organizational priorities. Action will be taken on business items including 2014 CWC Policies and confirmation of Board members.
Wednesday Afternoon Workshops 1:30 – 4:00 pm See workshops program for complete description
Annual POND Networking Event Stand By Your Dam 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Especially for our newer members, one of the biggest challenges in networking is meeting others in the water field for the first time. Our POND events are designed to provide an opportunity for attendees to interact in a fun and engaging way. Shared experiences in small groups are the key to making this work. This year, our POND event will be our version of a building game that originated in Africa. No tools are required, but expect to put your visualization skills to the test. The event is free to anyone in the water community. Drinks and appetizers will be provided.
2 51 7
Thursday, January 30
Annual State Legislative Breakfast 7:00 – 8:15 am Food service continues until 7:30 Program will be from 7:30 to 8:15 Co-Moderators: Dianna Orf, Orf & Orf and Emily Brumit, Colorado Water Congress Panelists: Representative Randy Fischer, Chair, House Agriculture, Livestock, and Natural Resources Committee Members of the House and Senate Agricultural and Natural Resources Committees
Members of the House and Senate Agricultural Committees will offer their perspectives on water policy, legislative priorities for the 2014 session of the Colorado General Assembly, and respond to your questions. Our legislative breakfasts are designed to help build strong relationships between legislators and members of the water community.
Break 8:15 – 8:45 am
Platform Plank I: Strong Water Program for Colorado Are We All In for Colorado’s Water Plan? 8:45 – 10:00 am Moderator: Mike King, Colorado Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Panelists: Russell George, Colorado Northwestern Community College, President April Montgomery, Southwestern Water Conservation District, Board Member Don Shawcroft, Colorado Farm Bureau, President Patricia Wells, Denver Water, General Counsel
In 1958, the first Water Congress convention considered the state of our water policy and concluded that it was “imperative that Colorado abandon its past leisurely attention to and consideration of its water problems.” They adopted a platform for action. Their opinions on individual topics were the “planks” of that platform and continue to inform our thinking to this day. As development of Colorado’s Water Plan is now underway, we will examine several of the planks in that historic platform to see if they still serve our purposes. Will our new Water Plan achieve “complete unity of purpose and objective in forming and carrying out a stable water policy for a unified State of Colorado” outcome that our predecessors envisioned?
“There must be immediate and expanded collaboration between the people of Colorado, members of the State Water Conservation Board, representatives of Federal Bureaus and Agencies, and the members of the State Legislature, so as to develop well understood and widely supported policies. . . We urge and recommend that the Colorado Water Conservation Board be directed and authorized immediately to complete its study of the water resources presently available in and to the State of Colorado, and the present and potential uses thereof. This should be done to achieve the unified and harmonious development of those waters”
Break and Open Mic with Panelists
3 52 7 10:00 - 10:30 am
Platform Plank II: Constant Reappraisal of Colorado’s Strength Colorado River Contingency Planning - The Time is Now 10:30 – 11:45 am Moderator: John McClow, Colorado Water Congress President-elect Speakers: Eric Kuhn, Colorado River Water Conservation District General Manager Jim Lochhead, Denver Water General Manager Larry Walkoviak, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Upper Colorado Regional Director
Our original platform outlined concerns regarding Colorado’s ability to fully develop her Compact entitlements. Today in the Colorado River Basin, we are experiencing an unusually long series of dry years. Water storage in Lakes Mead and Powell is now reaching critical levels. Continuation of current trends will create a number of serious issues leading us to prepare for a variety of scenarios to protect our water interests. How are we balancing risk and working toward a no regrets future?
“The natural self-interest of other states, aggressively advanced, has too frequently found Colorado unprepared to safeguard the meager supply of the water of our streams which is left to us by the Compacts. The demands on water originating in Colorado imposed by other states are so great and so continuing that they call for constant reappraisal of the strength of Colorado’s position in respect to its interstate water relationships and obligations”
Break and Open Mic with Session II Speakers 11:45 am – 12:15 pm
Thursday Luncheon 12:15 – 1:30 pm Food service continues until 12:45 Program will be from 12:45 to 1:30 Keynote Speaker: Bob Berman, Astronomer The Sun's Heartbeat How Solar Cycles Affect Our Weather (And Why The Sun's Current Strangeness is a Game Changer)
Everything about the sun is either amazing or useful. It directly or indirectly affects our lives, our health, our emotions, and even our dollars. Bob Berman is one of the best-known and most widely-read astronomers in the world. He will take us on a journey to explore our nearest star.
Break and/ Open Mic with Bob Berman 1:30 – 2:00 pm
4 53 7
Platform Plank III: Water Policy Requires Vigilance The Power of Falling Water Why We Care About Hydropower 2:00 – 3:15 pm Moderator: Kent Holsinger, Holsinger Law Speakers: Rodney Bailey, Colorado River Storage Project, Power Marketing Manager Steve Fletcher, Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association, General Manager Tom Pitts, Water Consult
The Water Congress did not spend much time in 1958 or in recent memory covering hydropower. If drought conditions continue, Lake Powell could soon fall below its minimum power pool. Although hydropower accounts for only 4% of total electrical generation in Colorado, hydropower produced by water after it leaves the State is significant. Important programs, such as the Upper Colorado River Recovery Implementation Program, depend on hydropower revenue. We must be vigilant to ensure federal management of the Colorado River Storage Project will not encroach upon our water policy. On a more local scale, many of our water users are exploring the potential of small scale hydropower. Why is hydropower important part of our water policy?
“These facts now demand and fully justify the immediate and unified attention and action of our State and of all its people to the compelling end that there may be developed a forward-looking water policy, based upon complete internal harmony within the whole state, for the protection of our people and of future generations, against any encroachment upon Colorado’s rightful share of the waters arising within her boundaries.”
Break and Open Mic with Session III Speakers 3:15 – 3:45 pm
Platform Plank IV: Protect Our Funds for Critical Times The Power of Too Much Flowing Water South Platte Flooding 3:45 – 5:00 pm Moderator: TBA Speakers: Sean Cronin, St. Vrain and Left Hand Water Conservancy District, Executive Director Other Speakers TBA
Construction of flood control projects has proceeded in Colorado without much attention by the Water Congress. In September, flooding on the South Platte reminded us that the course of our rivers is often shaped by catastrophic rainfall events. There was little that could be done to prevent the estimated $1 Billion in damages and loss of 200 diversion structures. We are left with many questions. How do we integrate flood risk in water supply planning? What will be the long-term impacts of flooding on water quality? Must floodplains be remapped – especially in fire-scarred watersheds such as Waldo Canyon where a 10-year storm may now produce 100-year runoff? We will cover the South Platte flooding story. And ask do we need a Rainy Day Fund?
“Funds must be appropriated for the use of the State Water Conservation Board under terms such that they may be expended only in accordance with its orders, and so as not to be divertible to any other state function.”
5 54 7 Colorado Water Congress Celebration Reception 5:15 – 7:00 pm Centennial Room
Thursday Evening
Water Tables 2014 A fundraiser to benefit the Water Resources Archive at the Colorado State University 6:30 – 9:15 pm Separate ticket is required for this event Guests will be seated beginning at 6:15 pm Food service continues until 7:15 pm Keynote Presentation: David Schorr, Author The Colorado Doctrine: Water Rights, Corporations and Distributive Justice on the American Frontier
With a Special Introduction by Supreme Court Justice Gregory Hobbs
Colorado’s Appropriation Doctrine: Forged As a Tool to Spread Water Rights Among the Citizens?
David Schorr's book demonstrates that Colorado miners, irrigators, lawmakers, and judges forged a system of private property in water based on a desire to spread property and its benefits as widely as possible among independent citizens. He believes it was part of a radical attack on monopoly and corporate power in the arid West. Come listen and see if he convinces you.
Friday, January 31
Annual Federal Affairs Breakfast 7:00 – 8:15 am Food service continues until 7:30 Program will be from 7:30 to 8:15 The New National Water Resources Association Robert Johnson, Water Strategies
Former U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Robert Johnson has been hired to a lead a team to manage the National Water Resources Association. With a new office located in close proximity to the Capitol and greatly expanded advocacy capacity, what are the prospects of working more effectively on water issues of importance to the West? What are the 2014 priorities? Can we have an organization that involves all of the Western States?
Break and Open Mic with Robert Johnson 8:15 – 8:45 am
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Platform Plank V: Investing in Public Water Education Streamlining Permitting through More Effective Public Engagement 8:45 – 10:00 am Moderator: Nicole Seltzer, Colorado Foundation for Water Education, Executive Director Speakers TBA In addition to the Water Gap, is there also a Public Communications Gap? Our recent survey showed that the public believes water shortages are imminent, conservation alone is not enough, and more storage is needed. The public trusts their local water provider to manage water resources and communicate with them about their work. So we will discuss how some of our water providers are doing just that. Helping the public understand its role in decision-making is one of the best ways to streamline future water project permitting. Are we effective in public communications about the dependence of our economy on Colorado’s water resources?
“If progress is to be made along the lines suggested herein, the public must be afforded ample opportunity to become more informed of the relationship between the State’s future agricultural and economic development and its dependence upon Colorado’s water resources. In this way, the story of water and its importance to the people of this State can be kept alive in the public mind.”
Break and Open Mic with Session V Speakers 10:00 – 10:30 am
Platform Plank VI: A Plan Must Have Money to Succeed Securing Our Water Infrastructure Is There a Better Place to Invest Capital? 10:30 – 11:45 am Moderator: Mike Brod, Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority Speakers: John Enstminger, Las Vegas Valley Water District Steve Hogan, City of Aurora Mayor Other Speaker TBA
Sometimes it is necessary to take carefully calculated political and financial risks to build new infrastructure. Texas just passed by a Proposition 6, Texas’ $2 Billion Water Fund with 73% favorable vote. California is scheduled to vote on an $11 Billion 2014 Water Bond next November. Will our water planning process provide a realistic assessment of the financial demands to maintain existing and build new water infrastructure that exceed local funding capacity? A panel will discuss their approaches dealing with financial risk for new water projects.
“Any comparison of the amount expended by Colorado, in connection with its water problems, with the amounts expended by other states, even on a per capita basis, makes it apparent that if Colorado is to achieve a position of leadership in any phase of water use matters, administration or development, the State must take a more realistic view of the demands of our modern competitive society and substantially increase appropriations for an all-out water program.”
Break and Open Mic with Session VI Speakers 11:45 am – 12:15 pm
7 56 7 Friday Aspinall Luncheon 12:15 – 1:30 pm Food service continues until 12:45 Program will be from 12:45 to 1:30 2014 Aspinall Water Leader of the Year Award Presentation
The Colorado Water Congress presents the prestigious Wayne N. Aspinall “Water Leader of the Year” Award annually to an individual Coloradan who has long demonstrated courage, dedication, knowledge and strong leadership in the development, protection and preservation of Colorado water. Honorees reflect those attributes so clearly possessed by the award’s namesake, Wayne N. Aspinall. The late Mr. Aspinall, a lawyer and former longtime member of the U. S. House of Representatives, was one of the most influential water leaders in Colorado history.
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December 31, 2013 Visit Us Forward
An Electrifying Journey, the DENC First Year in Review
This holiday season, Drive Electric Northern Colorado (DENC) is looking back on the progress the PEV community has made since our program launch in late February 2013. Driving electric is critical to saving money, reducing our oil dependency, and protecting the environment.
We have put together a quick DENC Year in Review to share a few of the program's early accomplishments. Certainly there is more work to do in 2014 but we would like to extend our appreciation to everyone who has been involved during the last nine months - your support and enthusiasm have created a strong start, and we are looking forward to working with all of you in 2014.
A View from the EV Community
We asked EV owners in Northern Colorado what their favorite memory of 2013 was. Here's what they had to say.
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“There are so many, but the National Plug-In day event was so awesome. The synergy, enthusiasm and support were just fantastic that day. Like one big EV family!” –Michael Koenig
“If I had to chose just one, my favorite memory would be seeing the first impressions from people when they drive an electric car. Is always a trip” –Matt Russell
“My favorite memory of volunteering with DENC is seeing folks get the EV bug after test driving one.” –Tim Hall
A Few Highlights from 2013
We launched the program on a snowy February 25th 2013. The founding partners included the cities of Loveland, Fort Collins, and Colorado State University with strong support from others helping expand the use of EVs in Colorado including Project Fever, Colorado Clean Cities,Dellenbach Chevrolet, Tynans Nissan, Erhlich Nissan,Nissan USA, Former Governor Ritter, Odell's Brewery, New Belgium Brewing Company, and Northern Colorado Clean Cities.
With help from Co’s BMW in Loveland, the BMW i3 launched in Colorado on November 13th, before the release at the LA Auto Show. This also led to the announcement of a new partnership with DENC, Centerra, and Co’s for an infrastructure program.
DENC also participated in more than 20 events in Loveland and Fort Collins to introduce PEVs to the community. These have included ride and drives that have put more than 500 people behind the wheel of a plug in vehicle, educational efforts at New West Fest, parades, and many more.
DENC worked to help extend the state tax credit for EVs in Colorado, the effort including having the bill signing at Loveland Water and Power with DENC being prominently featured at the signing.
New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell’s Brewery, Verboten Brewing Company, and Grimm Brother’s Brewhouse have all joined the EV effort over the past year by hosting Ride and Drive events to educate Northern Colorado about EVs. To help bring attention to the important effort, Odell’s Brewery also worked with DENC to create “Plug In Pale Ale”. Additionally both Odell’s and New Belgium have installed Level II Charging Stations that are open to the public.
When DENC launched in February, Colorado State University joined the effort as a DENC partner. In the recent months the partnership has continued to grow in various ways. We are especially excited to have worked with CSU students to learn about EVs through the CSU EcoLeader Club, the EcoCar2 Club, and through the CSU Vehicle Innovation Fair.
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DENC also hosted the 2013 National Plug-In Day in Fort Collins to celebrate the growing number of EVs in Northern Colorado. 33 EVs gathered at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery for an EV photo shoot and local businesses that have converted to EV such as Morning Fresh Dairy, the Fort Collins Downtown Business Association and Tynan’s Nissan, and Dellenbach Chevrolet attended the event to show their support for the program.
Both Loveland and Fort Collins have increased the number of EVs in their fleets and are looking for more opportunities in the future. This has led to extensive media coverage and features at conferences and green fleet publications around the country.
Additionally, many other companies have started to build EVs into their fleets including New Belgium, The Maids, Chippers, and many others are looking at transitions options in 2014.
The Fort Collins Downtown Business Association (DBA) has been an active supporter in DENC and Mike Short, head of the DBA, can be seen driving a LEAF around town.
In conjunction with Public Service Credit Union, DENC launched an educational series to help the public understand the economic benefits of EV transition.
EV Infrastructure Accomplishments
DENC continues to work closely with Fort Collins and Loveland, as well as local businesses, to create a long-term plan for electric vehicle infrastructure. So far, we have made great progress in creating the foundation for what will be a robust network of charging stations. There are currently 10 charging stations in Fort Collins and Loveland that are open to the public.
On August 5th the city of Fort Collins launched the first DC quick charger in Colorado, which is located at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and open for public charging. This charging station will enable many electric vehicle owners to charge their car in a fraction of the time it takes with a standard electrical outlet.
Centerra, an award winning master-planned community that has joined as a new partner of DENC, will install several new level II charging stations and a DC quick charger that will be available to the public.
In addition, many other local companies and businesses are looking at installing public or workplace charging, and working with DENC to provide charging for their employees.
In January, DENC will release a illustrative infographic of current and planned charging stations in Fort Collins and Loveland. This will provide EV owners, as well as those considering an EV, with a simple visualization of where charging stations will be available for use in 2014.
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Going forward, DENC is seeking to build strong partnerships with local businesses to create workplace charging opportunities for employees. By enabling charging at a number of workplaces, we hope to increase EV ownership across the region.
DENC in the Media
DENC is helping to keep the importance of transitioning to EVs in front of the public in various ways.
The program has been featured on the front page of major media sources in Northern Colorado such as the Coloradoan, Reporter Herald, and Northern Colorado Business Report, as well as national publications, blogs, and radio features. A recent case study with the city of Loveland has been featured in several national fleet publications and was recently highlighted in the American Public Works monthly newsletter that goes out to utilities around the country.
Earlier this year DENC and the city of Loveland worked to send a postcard to 31,000 households in Loveland, to help the public learn more about the benefits of driving a PEV.
Businesses, organizations, and institutions that joined the EV movement in 2013
The City of Loveland, The City of Fort Collins, Colorado State University, McWhinney, New Belgium Brewing Co., The Maids Cleaning Services, Tynan’s Nissan, Dellenbach Chevrolet, Ehrlich Nissan, Northern Colorado Clean Cities, Public Service Credit Union, Co’s BMW, Centerra, ClimateWise, the Sustainable Living Association, Odells Brewery, Verboten Brewery, Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, Chippers Bowling Lanes, Nissan North America, The Downtown Business Association, Schneider Electric, The Rocky Mountain Innosphere, SWEEP, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, and Bohemian Companies
Visit us at DriveElectricNOCO.org Visit Us Forward
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Washington, DC | 202-448-9300 [email protected] 64 7 http://securingamericasfutureenergy.createsend1.com/t/ViewEmail/r/066CE67DC438BF0D... 1/2/2014 CITY MANAGEMENT STAFF Loveland is a community of approximately 68,000 CITY OF LOVELAND P. 79 residents, located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains Bill Cahill, City Manager along Colorado’s Front Range. It is central to the COLORADO 970-962-2306 [email protected] Northern Colorado region at the intersection of Interstate 25 and US Highway 34. Our community is rich with Rod Wensing, Assistant City Manager natural beauty, accentuated by the Big Thompson River 970-962-2301 [email protected] and Lake Loveland at its heart. Our trails and parks systems showcase the natural beauty. Loveland is a John Duval, City Attorney nationally renowned center for art, particularly sculpture. 970-962-2540 [email protected] Loveland has a Council-Manager form of government. Steve Adams, Water & Power Director The citizens of Loveland passed their Home Rule Charter 2014 Legislative Policy Agenda 970-962-3559 [email protected] in May 1996. The City of Loveland provides a full range of services including: solid waste, electricity, water, Executive Summary Terry Andrews, City Clerk sewer, storm water, fire, police, parks, recreation, street 970-962-2322 [email protected] maintenance, airport, transit, library, museum, theater, public art, tourism and other traditional municipal Greg George, Development Services Director CITY COUNCIL services. 970-962-2521 [email protected] Attachment F Sales tax and fees for services are the primary sources of Mayor Cecil Gutierrez Betsey Hale, Economic Development Director revenue. Loveland collects its own sales tax. While 970-962-2304 [email protected] Dave Clark citizens want to retain the right to vote on all new taxes, Gary Havener, Parks & Recreation Director they voted in November 2011 to allow the City to keep Phil Farley 970-962-2456 [email protected] revenues in excess of the TABOR revenue limit through John Fogle 2024. Any excess revenues are restricted to specific
65 Luke Hecker, Police Chief purposes (i.e. parks, fire, and police). Troy Krenning 970-962-2222 [email protected] Hugh McKean POLICY AGENDA Julia Holland, Human Resources Director This Executive Summary of the Loveland City Council Joan Shaffer 970-962- 2372 [email protected] Legislative Policy Agenda contains highlights of policy statements for use by Council members and staff in Chauncey Taylor Susan Ison, Cultural Services Director approaching legislative issues. The City of Loveland is an Ralph Trenary 970-962-2411 [email protected] active member of the Colorado Municipal League and National League of Cities. Marcia Lewis, Library Director LEGISLATIVE REVIEW COMMITTEE 970-962-2404 [email protected] For additional information contact: Randy Mirowski, Fire Chief Councilor Joan Shaffer 970-962-2827 [email protected] Rod Wensing Councilor Ralph Trenary Assistant City Manager Councilor Chauncey Taylor Keith Reester, Public Works Director City of Loveland 970-962-2520 [email protected] 500 E. Third Street Loveland, Colorado 80537 Bill Westbrook, Information Technology Director 970-962-2301 970-962-2330 [email protected] WATER RESOURCES [email protected] Loveland depends on water supplied from the Big www.cityofloveland.org Brent Worthington, Finance Director Thompson River, the Colorado-Big Thompson 970-962-2300 [email protected] Project and the Windy Gap Project. Our ability to fully develop and utilize these resources is crucial to 7 LOVELAND, COLORADO our community’s sustainability and success. P. 80
2014 SUMMARY POLICY STATEMENTS 7
maximum flexibility and discretion in levying taxes TAX POLICY Basin of Origin and fees, determining community goals, Loveland advocates for a complete reevaluation of Any transfer of native flows from Northern implementing local policy, and delivering public all of the components of Colorado’s tax structure to Colorado to other basins must compensate the services. The City of Loveland can be most arrive at a comprehensive solution to more native basin. Any basin of origin bill must not responsive to its citizens through the preservation appropriately address the impact of economic unduly inhibit Loveland’s ability to acquire of home rule authority, particularly as it pertains to fluctuations equitably across all functional areas agricultural water rights and change the use of any labor/management relations, local police powers, within the State budget. The burden of state- such rights for inclusion in Loveland’s water supply the provision of municipal utility services and the imposed tax relief should not be borne by local system. administration of land use policy. government.
Water Quality BUDGET Internet Sales Tax Collection Water quality proposals must not infringe on The City opposes state and federal mandates that Loveland maintains that web-based internet Loveland’s ability to seek water court protection of are not funded by those levels of government. businesses should be required to collect local sales its water rights. Managing scarce resources is difficult at every level taxes in a similar manner as brick and mortar of government. The City of Loveland supports businesses in order to create commerce equity. Well Regulation intergovernmental partnerships and collaborative Well regulation proposals must ensure that junior problem solving. We are not in a position to be Sales, Use and Franchise Tax well depletions are fully replaced so that senior able to absorb the costs of programs mandated by Loveland’s viewpoint is that sales tax, use tax, or water rights are fully protected. federal and state governments. franchise tax regulation should not be used to
create inequitable competitive marketplace 66 Water Supply Development HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION FUNDING advantages for one industry or company over Loveland would likely support policies designed to Loveland supports efforts to increase funding for another when they deliver similar services. encourage water supply development within the transportation needs. existing framework of the Colorado water law. Transportation is a priority. Loveland advocates for Motor Vehicle Use Tax the development of regional transportation funding Loveland supports the current distribution of the Public Trust Doctrine sources to assist with the solutions to the interstate Motor Vehicle use tax as allocated to the Loveland opposes any efforts to revise the and state highway infrastructure deficiencies. jurisdiction in which the vehicle is registered so that administration of water rights that would change Loveland also supports expanding the authority of the tax can support the street maintenance effort the stream flow regime for rivers and could damage local-taxing authorities to generate local matching where the vehicle is domiciled. Loveland supports Loveland’s critical water supply planning efforts. funds for transportation improvements. continued utilization of FASTER fees to support Congressional action on long term Federal local transit and transportation priorities. transportation funding is essential to the economic health of Loveland and Northern Colorado, and. to support Loveland’s ability to plan and assist local and regional economic development LOCAL CONTROL URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY Loveland strongly supports the preservation of Loveland supports policies that provide viable local local control. financing mechanisms directed at transforming We strongly support local control and home rule. unproductive and unsafe property into an asset The citizens of home rule municipal governments that creates value for the community. are entitled through the State Constitution to
City of Loveland Attachment G
67 7 68 7 2014 – LUC Meeting Calendar January February March April S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 30 31 Attachment H May June July August S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
September October November December S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 28 29 30 31 30 7
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Boulder declares intent to acquire Xcel assets Joshua Lindenstein BOULDER - The city of Boulder on Monday sent formal notice to Xcel Energy Inc., informing the utility of the city's intent to acquire parts of its electrical system.
The notice kicks off formal negotiations with Xcel on the assets that Boulder would need to create a municipal electric utility. Good faith negotiations are required by law before the city can file condemnation action in district court. Xcel has maintained its position as an unwilling seller throughout the city's exploration of municipalization.
The notice released Monday details the equipment that the city intends to acquire, including all or parts of seven substations plus a 115-kilovolt transmission loop serving the city and access to service the substations serving that loop.
Boulder leaders have asserted that a city-run utility could help the city achieve its goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously maintaining or improving rates and reliability.
"This notice starts what we hope will be productive and collaborative formal conversations with Xcel Energy about the equipment we would need if we choose to meet our community's goals in this way," Heather Bailey, Boulder's executive director of energy strategy and electric utility development, said in a press release. "It would benefit everyone - the city, Xcel Energy and ratepayers across Xcel's service territory - if both parties could reach an agreement on this issue."
By law, Xcel has 90 days to have the property appraised at Boulder's expense and enter into negotiations. The company could also decline to enter into negotiations. Should Xcel have its own appraisal done, the city would then be required to submit its appraisals of the property to Xcel. At that point, there's no set timetable for how long negotiations must last before Boulder could file for condemnation. But the law does require that Boulder submit to Xcel a written final offer before proceeding to trial if the parties can't agree on a price through good faith negotiations.
Xcel spokeswoman Michelle Aguayo said it's too early to say whether the company would enter into negotiations as Xcel officials are still evaluating Boulder's notice.
"Xcel Energy has received Boulder's notice of intent to acquire, which is under review," a statement from Xcel read. "We continue to believe that we can help Boulder achieve its goals better, faster and cheaper by working together instead of Boulder attempting to take over our business."
When Boulder city council gave staff the go-ahead to begin pursuing acquisition of Xcel's assets last summer, the original timeline called for good faith negotiations to occur in the fall so that the city could file for condemnation as early as this month. But that timeline was delayed for a couple of reasons.
The city was waiting to see the results of a couple of utility debt-limit measures on the November ballot to gauge the community's interest in moving forward with municipalization. The city also wanted to learn the results of a proceeding with the Public Utilities Commission and how that would affect the municipalization process.
The PUC ruled in October and confirmed its ruling in December that, because Boulder's municipalization plans include serving customers and acquiring assets outside the city limits, the city must have the technical aspects of its acquisition plan approved by the PUC before filing for condemnation.
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The city has until Jan. 15 to appeal the PUC decision to district court. If it does, it could still start working with the PUC on the approval process while the appeal is in process. The approval process is expected to take up to seven months from the time the city files its acquisition plans with the PUC, meaning it would be the second half of this year before Boulder could file for condemnation regardless of how good faith negotiations go.
In addition to the notice of intent to acquire, the city also announced Monday that it is in the process of seeking requests for proposal for legal and regulatory consultants to join the city's efforts on issues related to the PUC and the state's regulatory processes. Copyright © 2014 Boulder County Business Report by Biz West Media.
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30 Yr. Median Inches 15 2013 2012
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SWE Median (81-10) SWE - 2002 SWE - 2011 SWE - 2012 SWE - 2013 SWE - 2014 8 80 8 http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20140106/NEWS01/301060077/Drought-relief-flood-s-slim-silver-lining?nclick_check=1
Drought relief: flood's slim silver lining Written by Ryan Maye Handy Jan. 09 coloradoan.com
Drought relief: flood's slim silver lining
Due largely to the September disaster, Northern Colorado is starting a new year free of drought for the first time in four years.
Northern Colorado water at a glance
• Horsetooth Reservoir was 61 percent full, holding 96,600 acre feet of water, on Tuesday.The reservoir can hold more than 156,700 acre feet of water. An acre foot roughly enough water to cover a football field covered in one foot of water. Snowpack levels • Six of Colorado’s eight major river basins are holding an above-average snowpack for this time of year. Snowpack percentages are measured against The waterline can be seen at Horsetooth Reservoir west of Fort Collins on Monday. Thanks in part to September flooding, Northern a 30-year average, with a value of more than 100 Colorado entered this year without drought conditions for the first time percent above average.Gunnison River Basin: 102 in four years. / Erin Hooley/The Coloradoan percent of averageUpper Colorado River Basin: 105 percent of averageSouth Platte River Basin: 108 percent of averageLaramie and North Platte River Basins: 117 percent of averageYampa and White River Basins: 115 percent of averageArkansas River Basin: 104 percent of averageUpper Rio Grande Basin: 90 percent of averageSan Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan River Basins: 90 percent of averageSource: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service.
For the first time in four years, Northern Colorado is starting a new year completely drought-free.
With snowpack and reservoir levels across the northern part of the state at or above their average levels for the start of January, climatologists say Coloradans can point to one major event as the source of drought relief — the devastating fall floods.
“Our area is completely out of drought and that was largely due to rains that we had in September,” said Wendy Ryan, the assistant state climatologist at Colorado State University’s Colorado Climate Center. “We also got just a year’s worth of precipitation in just a few days.”
Unlike recent Januaries, none of the reservoirs that provide water to Fort Collins or Northern Colorado hold below-average water levels.
Mountain snowpack — the amount of water held in Colorado’s high-altitude snow — is more than double what it was in January 2013, when Colorado suffered through a dry, warm winter and a record-breaking 81 8 Page 1 of 2 Jan 10, 2014 08:25:25AM MST http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20140106/NEWS01/301060077/Drought-relief-flood-s-slim-silver-lining?nclick_check=1 hot summer.
Northern Water’s Colorado-Big Thompson Project, which typically supplies Fort Collins Utilities with half of its water supply, has an excess of 100,000 acre feet of water thanks to the September floods, said Donnie Dustin, a water resources manager. With the blessing of a wet March and April, Fort Collins will likely have no water restrictions this year, he added.
For farmers east of Fort Collins, soils on the eastern plains retained much of their September water, which has some feeling optimistic about their upcoming growing season.
Overall, it’s a good prognosis that leaves Wellington farmer Troy Seaworth optimistic about the growing season to come. Along with his father, Richard, Seaworth manages a 1,000-acre corn, wheat and sugar beet farm north of Wellington.
The Seaworths just started negotiating their water rights with the city of Fort Collins, which leases Poudre River water to farmers, and both men are pleased by the early snowfall in the mountains. For winter wheat farmers, whose crops are reliant on fall and early winter moisture, snow on the ground is a good way to start the 2014.
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