During a recent council meeting, significant discussions centered around the approval of an ordinance related to irrigation and drainage, as well as the implications of stormwater fees on housing affordability.

Councilmember Pfeiffer initiated the motion to approve Council Bill 2409, which aims to repeal and reenact Chapter 50 of the Arvada City Code concerning irrigation and drainage. The council unanimously voted in favor of the bill, passing it with a 7-0 vote. The ordinance is expected to streamline the permitting process for projects, particularly distinguishing between those that disturb five acres or less, which will only require a city permit, and larger projects that necessitate both city and state permits.

However, the discussion took a critical turn when Councilmember Marriott raised concerns about the cumulative impact of such ordinances on housing costs. He emphasized that while the council frequently discusses housing affordability, decisions like increasing stormwater fees could inadvertently raise the cost of housing across the board. Marriott urged his colleagues to consider the broader implications of their decisions on housing affordability, questioning whether the council's priorities truly align with their stated commitment to addressing this issue.

Councilmember Davis echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the necessity of the stormwater fees for public health and environmental protection, but also recognizing the financial burden they could impose on residents. He noted that while the fee increases are modest, they still contribute to the overall cost of living in the city.

The meeting concluded with a brief recess before moving on to the next agenda item, highlighting the council's ongoing commitment to addressing infrastructure needs while grappling with the complexities of housing affordability in the community.