Increased stormwater fee coming down the pike
The City of Castle Pines will take over 125 new stormwater inlets, manholes and outlets, in addition to more than 13,000 feet of pipe, and eight ponds beginning March 31. This stormwater holding pond and drainage structure is located in Castle Valley, one of the newer developments in the city.
The Castle Pines City Council approved the creation of a stormwater utility fee at their regular meeting on March 14. Responsibility for stormwater management will be transferred effective March 31 from the Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) to the City of Castle Pines. The transfer of stormwater responsibilities from CPNMD to the City of Castle Pines was agreed to in June 2022.
“It’s great that we’re having a reduction in points of contact for people,” Mayor Tracy Engerman said, addressing the opportunity to streamline government oversight in Castle Pines. Following a presentation from City staff, the resolution to create the stormwater fee passed unanimously.
Stormwater is rain or snowmelt that is not absorbed into the ground. Stormwater picks up debris and pollutants as it flows to stormwater drainage systems. It is not treated before entering streams and other bodies of water.
Residential stormwater fees will be based on whether you live in or out of the current CPNMD boundaries. The largest fee change is expected to be approximately $8.75 per month ($105/year) for properties outside CPNMD boundaries. Residents already paying a stormwater utility fee who live within CPNMD boundaries will see an increase of about $3.75 per month ($45/year). The City is planning to start assessing its stormwater fee beginning in June. City Council deemed the new fees necessary to appropriately fund stormwater utility obligations.
Addressing the new stormwater fee, Councilmember Geoff Blue said, “When you are sitting on a city council you have to get the job done. This is an example of something that has to happen.”
The City of Castle Pines manages storm drain systems throughout the city. Stormwater management is critical for controlling flooding, environmental protection and adhering to federal regulations. City government is responsible for the maintenance of existing stormwater facilities and construction of capital improvement projects for the stormwater system.
Article and photo by Bear Rothe
