Sue Vitrano challenges drastic stormwater fee hike
October 10, 2024 | Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon
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Vitrano highlighted concerns regarding the fairness of the fee structure, particularly pointing out that the benefits of stormwater projects, such as the \"big pipe,\" have not reached many areas of the city. She argued that property owners outside the direct impact zone should not bear the financial burden of capital operations and maintenance costs associated with these projects.
In her remarks, Vitrano criticized the water bureau's rate analysis, which indicated that current rates are among the highest surveyed but suggested that other jurisdictions are increasing their rates even faster. She contended that the steep increase appears to be more about aggressive billing practices than genuine funding needs.
Additionally, Vitrano questioned the bureau's claim that the rate changes would incentivize the development of smaller, more affordable homes, asking what behavior the city is trying to promote among large property owners. She argued that large properties often have less impermeable surface area, allowing for better stormwater infiltration and less runoff, contradicting the bureau's rationale for the fee increase.
Vitrano concluded her address by urging the city to rescind the recent stormwater rate changes and to conduct a thorough rate study based on the actual operations of the bureau. The council acknowledged her concerns before moving on to the next agenda item.
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