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Dakota Mainstem RWS Water System Option.
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The Lewis & Clark Rural Water System First Expansion to 60 Million Gallons per Day is happening sooner than expected due to growth and drought conditions. All twenty members agreed to participate and signed an agreement to that effect. Construction on the expansion is expected to reach substantial completion in 2030. The State of MN is covering the expansion cost share up to $22M for the four MN members, with current estimate at $20M. The City of Luverne’s reserved capacity is 821,000 gallons/day. With the expansion, the City will receive an additional 477,000 gallons for a total of 1.298 MGD. A capacity survey of all the Lewis & Clark members showed an additional need for 82.8 MGD by 2070. Luverne estimated needs are another 500,000 gallons/day from 2030-2070. An Appraisal Level Study will be completed this fall, followed by a Feasibility Study. An alternative to a second expansion, would be joining the Dakota Mainstem RWS. Initial membership application deadline is September 1, 2024 for inclusion in the feasibility study. The current annual membership are $3,000, plus 25 cents/person in the service population, which equates to $1,200 for Luverne. The membership will include our system in the feasibility study and a seat at the table as decisions are made for future water capacity. The other three Minnesota members have already joined DMRWS.
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City Administrator Recommendation: City Council Approve Joining Dakota Mainstem RWS Water System Option.