Agenda - 05-04-2004-5l - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

Introduction Page 9 of 11 is Town's utility ordinance, including payment of applicable fees. However, the University has a different understanding of the relevant law. Therefore, the Manager recommends that the Utility proceed without including any revenue from the University in the first-year revenue estimate. ESTABLISHING ORDINANCE Attachment I is a draft ordinance that would establish a Chapel Hill Stormwater Management iJtility and a Stormwater Management Utility Advisory Board. It also would establish relevant definitions and an Enterprise Fund to account for utility revenues. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES We believe that the main advantages of using a utility as a funding source for a comprehensive stormwater ranagement program are: (1) a utility would provide a stable source of revenue upon which a program could be designed to accommodate current and future stonnwater management needs; (2) a utility would provide a uniform and equitable means of assessing property owners for service demands placed on the Town's drainage system, based on impervious surface area; and (3) tax exempt properties would be required to participate. We believe that the main disadvantages of using a utility as a funding source for a comprehensive Stormwater management program are: (1) a utility would result in additional costs to citizens; and (2) fees would not be tax deductible. CONCY,i7SION We think that the first year of a utility-based Stormwater management program should focus primarily on organizational and master planning activities to establish a solid basis upon which to implement program activities in an orderly and effective manner. The Manager's recommended program retains the basic elements and intentions of the program goals and objectives developed by the Policy Review Committee while allowing sufficient time for thorough program organization and master planning. We think that developing and implementing a comprehensive public education and participation program, continuing existing Stormwater management services, and providing new services in response to federal and state mandates should alt be accomplished in year one as well. The recommended program includes the addition of two (2) new staff positions in the Engineering Department and the lease of necessary office space, Finally, we think that the preparation of a detailed master plan for the Town's stormwater management program would allow the program activities and work elements originally identified and recommended by the Committee and Consultant to be undertaken in an orderly sequence and on a reasonable schedule, if adequate resources are provided. Program work would include new and increasing compliance activities relating to State and Federal mandates. NERT STEPS Following tonight's meeting we will continue to consider comments from the Council, citizens, and advisory boards and will revise our recommendations and the draft ordinance as necessary. Additional opportunities for discussion by the Council are available at the Budget Public Hearing on May 12 and at subsequent Budget Work Sessions. http://townhatl ownofchapelhilLorg/agendas/ca040426/7-Stormwater%20Utility%204-26-... 4/26/2004