The City’s stormwater program is mandated by the State to address critical flooding issues within our region. While the program is State mandated, it is not State funded. Therefore, the stormwater utility fee is used to address aging infrastructure, rehabilitation and maintenance work, education/outreach activities, and compliance with state and federal stormwater runoff regulations. Beginning, January 1, 2023, the stormwater utility fee increases from $3.50 to $4.50 per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) per month. This increased rate remains below the 2021 statewide average rate of $4.85.

The fee increase was approved by City Council on November 14, 2022, after the City had to redirect $87,000 in current-year financing of capital equipment to address emergency critical infrastructure needs. Since March 2021, the City has experienced seven major infrastructure failures, totaling $476,520.

It is easy to overlook stormwater, but it impacts everyone in one way or another. Most of us are contributors to stormwater runoff without even knowing it, and stormwater runoff from one property can affect many more downstream. Additionally, unmaintained stormwater infrastructure can result in flooded yards and roads, property damage, sink holes, and more. 
The City’s stormwater program is critical to the health and safety of our residents. The fee increase helps address stormwater infrastructure issues that affect our entire community. 
For more information on stormwater, please visit www.LexingtonNC.gov/Stormwater