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Linda Grandstaff, the chair of the TEAB, stated her group's intent to explore how tree credits <br /> could offset sewer costs. Mr. McMahon stated that the project team has considered tree credits, <br /> but wants to make sure trees are put in the right places. He likened them to icing on the cake <br /> when it comes to addressing Lakewood's sewer problems. <br /> Marc Dann, TEAB member, advocated locking in changes that mandate innovation and <br /> incorporation of more environmentally conscious methods of addressing climate change. <br /> David Sangree, former Tree Task Force chair, noted how the number of private property trees <br /> has declined and proposed reduced sewer rates for people that have trees on their yards. <br /> Co-Chair Bullock passed out the city's 16 goals for trees, along with other research material, and <br /> spoke to how the city should consider implementing defining sewer credits for tree <br /> infrastructure. He asked for further explanation of an ERU. Mr. McMahon reviewed the concept <br /> once more. <br /> Mr. Crea continued with the presentation, focusing on the importance of developing rates based <br /> on the cost of service and that folks are paying an equitable share. He noted that large <br /> water/sewer users should be charged less because they tend to use water more efficiently. He <br /> listed examples of utilities across Ohio and the Midwest that charge less based on the more water <br /> an entity uses. This concept ensures that municipalities remain competitive in their support of <br /> business and helps their ability to attract new ones. The new rate structure proposes the current <br /> charge be reduced by 50%per 2500 cubic feet of water per month(a very large amount). There <br /> are many places with tiered volume rates and impervious surface charges are common <br /> throughout the region and country. These concepts help balance capital investments over a 20-30 <br /> year period to match household affordability metrics. Mr. Crea gave an example of how the <br /> Westerly building would benefit from a cost savings standpoint monthly based on the proposed <br /> formula. It was also noted that a homestead discount program would be available for eligible <br /> households (homeowners 65+ making less than $35,000 per year). <br /> Councilmember Litten inquired about the breakdown of what the requested $25 million in ARPA <br /> funds would be spent on, specifically, would it all be spent on capital costs or whether some <br /> would be left over for operating costs. Engineer Papke indicated that the ARPA stipulates that all <br /> projects funded must be completed by 2026 and that a large portion of the money would go <br /> towards a 6 million gallon storage tank at the wastewater treatment plant. It was noted that the <br /> interceptor in the sewer system located in Ward 3 is performing well. <br /> Councilmember Shachner reviewed the savings to taxpayers that the $25 million ARPA <br /> expenditure would deliver. With back of the envelope math, he calculated a total savings of over <br /> $2 million dollars in relief over the next two years. He also proposed a utility assistance fund. <br /> Mr. McMahon stated that putting the ARPA dollars towards capital costs now frees up Council <br /> to have future flexibility on what rate increases will be. He called this "buying down the middle" <br /> of the rate structure. <br /> Co-Chair Rader stated the joint committee would defer until next week for an hour long <br /> discussion on the same topic. <br /> 3 <br />