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16 <br /> 6. Use of regional BMPS may be preferable to individual on-site BMPs. <br /> The issue of regional rather than individual on-site detention ponds was raised by a <br /> citizen at the public hearing. On-site detention ponds may pose significant problems in <br /> developing lots for non-residential use, particularly lots that are relatively small, such as <br /> individual businesses on one- or two-acre lots. A pond for a small development would <br /> probably cover 1/2 acre or more, with the specific location dictated by topography. <br /> At this time, the State mandate makes no provision for the development of regional <br /> facilities. Several jurisdictions, including Orange County have discussed the issue with <br /> DEM staff. Use of regional BMPs to satisfy the State mandate may be possible, but will <br /> require close work with DEM to develop acceptable design and other standards. <br /> In addition to design standards for the facilities themselves, there is the issue of funding. <br /> If a regional facility is to satisfy detention pond requirement for individual developments, <br /> then that facility must be constructed before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued for <br /> the development. There is little reliable information on cost estimates for regional <br /> detention ponds in North Carolina. According to DEM, the data that is available pertains <br /> to other areas in the country where cost factors differ from those likely to be encountered <br /> in this area. The only locale in North Carolina which has any experience with regional <br /> BMPs is High Point, and that experience is somewhat limited. <br /> Regional BMP facilities would most likely be constructed by the County. The costs <br /> could be recouped through establishing a special assessment district or collecting impact <br /> fees. Until such time as a regional facility was in place and functioning, new <br /> development would be required to provide an on-site BMP sufficient to serve the <br /> development until the regional BMP was completed. <br /> Regional BMPs may, in the long-term, be a desirable approach to stormwater <br /> management. However, it is an issue that will require significant study to estimate costs, <br /> and to develop funding alternatives. In addition, County staff would need to work with <br /> DEM to reach agreement on design standards and other issues to assure that a regional <br /> approach would meet the State mandate. These issues can be pursued in the coming <br /> year. In the interim, individual on-site facilities are necessary in order to comply with <br /> State requirements. <br /> RECOMMENDATION - No change to the proposed standards is recommended. <br /> 12 <br />