In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around proposed changes to the warranty period for roads and stormwater management systems in Lexington County. Currently, the warranty period stands at two years, but a new ordinance seeks to extend this to five years. This proposal has sparked significant debate among local contractors and engineers.

Key updates to the ordinance include revisions to the language regarding financial assurances for asphalt and storm drainage systems, as well as adjustments reflecting the reorganization of county departments overseeing these areas. The stormwater management division, previously under public works, is now part of the community development division, necessitating updates to the ordinance documentation.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, several local professionals voiced their opposition to the five-year warranty extension. Civil engineer Josh Rabba argued that much of the storm drainage infrastructure is privately maintained, meaning the county's warranty would not cover significant portions of the system. He expressed concerns that the two-year warranty, which effectively begins after the final plat is recorded, does not account for the wear and tear from construction traffic that occurs prior to this point. Rabba suggested that extending the warranty could be burdensome and called for further discussion on alternative approaches.

Contractor Jason Wilkie echoed these sentiments, stating that he has not observed failures in the current two-year warranty period that would justify an extension. He emphasized that most issues would likely manifest within the existing timeframe. Another contractor, Clifford Fisher, raised concerns about the practicality of monitoring roads for five years, particularly given the potential for damage from utility companies and landscaping activities.

The meeting concluded without any supporters of the ordinance present, highlighting the contentious nature of the proposed changes. As the county considers these updates, the feedback from local professionals will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final decision on the warranty period for road and stormwater management systems.