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City Council Meeting Minutes August 4, 2020 <br />Mayor Hughson stated that none of those studies answered the question she has asked <br />which would answer if there is a way to remove the current sedimentation and install a <br />wier or other structure that would allow the Mill Race to remain. She is not looking for <br />any studies to be re -done. She believes the previous studies did not address these <br />concerns. <br />Council Member Baker asked his colleagues if there are any concerns with the previous <br />studies. <br />Dr. Mihalkanin stated that he does not want to prolong this issue and he is in favor of <br />repairing the dam. There will be costs in both repairing or removing the dam. He <br />appreciates all work done by the staff on this topic He is not in favor of doing anything <br />other than repairing the dam. <br />Council Member Derrick doesn't have an issue with the science and she has been told <br />they only used the river elevation and not the model. She is in favor of the health of the <br />river and the science states that the health of the river depends on the removal of the <br />dam. She wants to know exactly what is council being asked for? Mrs. Case stated that <br />staff is seeking direction from Council about moving forward with the proposed scope. <br />We are not asking for a complete re-creation, but we would need the consultant to <br />review the previous studies. Council Member Derrick asked if hydrology and <br />endangered species would be considered. Mrs. Case stated these would be considered. <br />She stated that a totally new study would take a lot more time and money that plans <br />presented today. For any new student, there would be a city technical committee <br />including engineers working with the consultant. Council Member Derrick asked if <br />public input regarding recreation and history would be considered and how it would be <br />weighted. Mrs. Case stated public input would be considered, but uncertain if a <br />comment period would be set. The more extensive the public engagement the more the <br />cost will be for the study. Council Member Derrick wants to ensure the science is not <br />outweighed by public opinion. Mayor Hughson suggested that would be determined by <br />the City Council. <br />Council Member Gonzales expressed his concern regarding public safety. He still wants <br />to repair the dam. <br />Council Member Marquez spoke on the social justice and the connectivity of the East <br />and West in our community. This is a huge issue. Dr. Marquez wanted to dispel claims <br />that she doesn't read the reports provided. She stated as a <br />City of San Marcos Page 4 <br />