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2026-06-09 City Council Regular Session - Media

Published: Jun 9, 2026

UtilitiesInfrastructure

ASR Well Program Continues to Successfully Recharge Aquifer, Council Reviews Annual Report

The council reviewed the annual Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) well report. A council member recalled approving the program in 2003, questioning the impact on water levels over the past 20 years. Staff confirmed that water levels have increased due to injecting millions of gallons annually, monitoring data from surrounding wells. The system can inject up to 240 million gallons per year, with actual injection typically between 100-200 million gallons, and withdrawal limited to the amount injected. The initial approval in 2003 was a significant decision as it was a novel program in the state. The program has been successful in maintaining and increasing water levels, with current operations running smoothly and no immediate concerns. A public hearing was opened and closed regarding the ASR well process, with no public testimony.

Community DevelopmentOther

City Council Honors Long-Serving City Attorney and Provides Downtown Development Update

The City Council recognized Dan Van Thiel for his 25+ years of service as City Attorney, presenting him with a flag and acknowledging his dedication through numerous decisions and challenging moments. Van Thiel expressed gratitude for his tenure and wished the city well. The council also received an update on downtown improvements, including the installation of flower baskets, the success of Third Thursday events, and the upcoming Taste of Baker event, for which 7,500 additional tokens were ordered. The groundbreaking of the Port Plaza, a project over 40 years in the making, was highlighted. Additionally, a new initiative called 'Coffee and Conversations' with the SBDC advisor was launched to engage with local businesses and residents in a more informal setting, discussing grants and business development.

Budget & FinanceOther

Finance Director Updates Council on Audit Progress and Water Operations

The Finance Director provided an update on the audit process, indicating that financials are being prepared for the auditor. The first section, including financial statements, is nearly ready. The auditor is currently finishing their work. The director anticipates submitting the remaining financial information by the end of the current week. The audit covers the 2023-2024 fiscal year, which presented challenges due to the first year of a new software implementation and a period when the director was away. The director expects the 2025 fiscal year to be significantly easier to manage due to improved systems and continuity. Additionally, the director mentioned that the April report is slightly behind due to the lack of a second May meeting, but a May report will be available at the next meeting. An update on water operations indicated that meter readings are accurate, and there is anticipation for a new smart metering system.

Community DevelopmentOther

Local Student Wins American 250 Essay Contest

Councilor Joseph shared that her daughter won an American 250 essay contest for her age group. The winning essay will be displayed, and other student artwork related to the anniversary celebration will be featured in downtown windows.

Parks & EnvironmentOther

Council Member Opposes Water Park Hour Reduction Amidst Water Conservation Efforts

A council member expressed strong opposition to the reduced hours of the water park, particularly during times when working parents need to bring their children to cool off after work. The member questioned why, if water conservation is a priority, the golf course's water usage isn't similarly scrutinized or cut. Staff noted that the golf course is currently using less water than allotted and that they are trying to conserve water gradually. While the splash pad is popular, hours may be increased as conditions allow. The council member suggested exploring ways to use less water to potentially extend the water park hours, highlighting that closing at 5 PM prevents access for many working families. It was also noted that the water park hours were previously 10 AM to 8 PM last year, and are now 12 PM to 5 PM, with some confusion on the exact current hours. The council acknowledged the validity of the concern about access for working families.

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