Mr. McDaniel then introduced Ricki Brown, City Librarian, who briefed the Council on the various activities, special programs, and events of the Abilene Public Library. Following Ms. Brown's presentation, Mr. McDaniel briefed the Council on various Consent and Regular Agenda items. Councilman Southward submitted information regarding current versus proposed water rates. Ashley Mays, fifth-grader at Bowie Elementary, led the pledge of Allegiance. The bid was awarded to Vulcan Materials on a per unit price basis, as recommended by staff.
Staff recommends approval.
Dwayne Hargesheimer, Director of Water Utilities, briefed the Council on the O. H. Ivie water treatment plant capacity. Mr. Hargesheimer stated the firm of CH2M Hill has begun the pilot testing of membrane filters and developing the procurement process. As the Water Treatment Plan design effort begins, the initial capacity of the Water Plant needs to be determined. July of 1998 was the highest monthly water use of record with the average daily use at 38.8 MGD and only two days of 46.9 MG peak day usage. Ivie being equal to Hubbard in respect to cost, factors to be considered include conservation, cost, and efficiency.