5.1 Public Hearing - Small Cities Development Program

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There is a vulnerable population in Pequot Lakes that may be affected by these conditions. The population includes 16% who are over 65 years old, and 28% are under 18 years of age. This vulnerable population represents 44% of the entire city population. This project will protect this special population from illness triggered by raw sewage backing potentially up into residential basements. "Overflows from aging municipal sewer systems expose persons to bacteria, microorganisms and viruses," (2005, EPA). Illness, brought on by damp conditions from backups, can create mold. Mold can cause many health effects ranging from a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or a skin rash. "People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions. Immune -compromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get infections in their lungs from mold," according to the Center for Disease Control. The housing stock in Pequot Lakes is aging and may be more prone to backups or other seepage. Of the 1,368 housing units in the city, 54% are more than 42 years old. In addition, 20% of homes are rented. The persons living in rented homes may be more affected by backups, as they depend on off -site maintenance (2019, US Census). The City of Pequot Lakes has been concerned about the wastewater system for some years prior to the breaks occurring. The issue has been discussed at city council meetings where they consider their wastewater system. July 2020 Council reports states "We continue to have frequent blockages in the sewer line flowing south of the intersection off East Woodman St and South Washington Ave. The line has been cleaned 3 times in the last month and we'll be keeping a close eye on it." In 2021 they ordered a Preliminary Engineering Report and a Facilities Plan to be developed. The plans were submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) in March of 2022. Critical health and safety issues could result from the forcemain breaks in Pequot Lakes. When the breaks occur, they could release a high level of contaminants from wastewater into the groundwater. Contamination of groundwater can create a serious environmental concern or a health concern by seeping into the water supply. We are requesting DEED's assistance in preventing these critical issues. Community Impact 1. Describe the community impact for this project: Narrative Answer: The SCDP funding will correct a key piece of infrastructure, as it will be used for construction costs of the wastewater improvement project in the City of Pequot Lakes. With the outdated, failing system the City ordered a Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) in 2022. They reviewed four alternatives, and the chosen alternative includes rehabilitation of the Gravdahl Lift Station, their main lift station, and replacement of 4,000 feet of the forcemain. Specifically, the SCDP funds will be used for removal and replacement of these key pieces of City wastewater infrastructure. This SCDP funding will replace approximately 4,000 feet of forcemain from the main lift station to the aerated stabilization ponds. This process would include excavating and removing or abandoning the existing Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) 2023 Full Proposal Public Facilities Infrastructure 9