Stormwater Financing Options

• Outline

• Complete Financing Report:
  Policy and Program Options for Montgomery County Stormwater Management

Outline

For a number of years, policymakers have struggled with the daunting task of equitably funding the maintenance needs of the County’s stormwater management facilities. These facilities provide critical water quality and quantity functions, and are an essential tool in the effort to protect and preserve the environment. The variability in funding sources to pay for repair and maintenance of these structures has resulted in some citizen objections to the inequity of the current revenue system. In recognition that this long-standing funding equity issue had to be addressed, the Council President and the County Executive formed the Stormwater Financing Options Working Group. The Group was charged with assessing the current system with regards to maintenance and environmental protections for equity and public benefit.

The Working Group recommended a comprehensive Stormwater User Fee be instituted for property owners in Montgomery County set at a level to adequately fund the inspection and maintenance of all public and private stormwater management and storm drain facilities in the County. This recommendation ensures that all pay a fair and reasonable rate, reduces reliance on general fund tax monies, and, by providing credits, encourages reductions in stormwater quantity as well as improvements in quality controls.

The Group also identified and discussed issues that will require further consideration, analysis and implementation to ensure a successful management of stormwater facilities maintenance and construction program. These issues include:

• Identify and make the necessary statutory and regulatory changes to implement the proposal.
• Develop an organizational structure for implementing the recommendations.
• Develop and implement a billing procedure for the fee.
• Coordinate the implementation of this program with the State authorized municipalities and special taxing districts within the County.
• Map all impervious surface in the County on the Geographic Information System.
• Develop a public information program to receive public input on the proposed changes.

Click on the title to review the entire Work Group report, Policy and Program Options for Montgomery County Stormwater Management.  Copies of the report are also available at all County libraries and Regional Service Centers.  For more information, call 240.777.7760 or email DEP.