Mapleton City Council is set to implement significant changes to its stormwater management system, including a proposed increase in the stormwater utility rate and the introduction of an impact fee for new developments.

During the June 11 meeting, city officials discussed raising the current stormwater utility rate from $5 to $10 per month for residents. This decision comes as the city grapples with insufficient funds to maintain and improve its stormwater infrastructure. City representatives emphasized that the increase is necessary to cover operational costs and to fund essential projects, as the city has been relying on its reserves to manage current needs.

"This increase is not just about bringing us up to the middle of the pack compared to other cities; it's about ensuring we have the funds to complete necessary projects," a council member stated. The proposed rate hike will be communicated to residents in the July newsletter, with the new rates taking effect in August.

In addition to the utility rate increase, the council is also proposing a stormwater impact fee of approximately $975.86 per equivalent residential unit for new developments. This fee aims to address the additional demands that new construction places on the stormwater system, ensuring that adequate infrastructure is in place to handle increased runoff and potential flooding.

The council believes that these measures will not only stabilize the city's finances but also enhance the overall effectiveness of its stormwater management system. With projected costs for upcoming projects reaching $415,000, the new fees are expected to alleviate the financial strain on the city's reserves, which currently stand at just under $300,000.

As Mapleton prepares for growth, these changes are seen as crucial steps toward sustainable development and improved public safety in the face of increasing stormwater challenges.