City Council Reviews $4.5M Catch Basin Repair Project and Funding Sources

In the heart of Mill Creek, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber to address pressing infrastructure needs that could impact the community for years to come. The focus of the July 22, 2025, City Council meeting was a comprehensive ordinance aimed at repairing the city’s catch basin system, a crucial component of its stormwater management.

Mister Carmody, representing the Public Works Department, presented a detailed overview of the current state of the catch basins, which are essential for managing surface water runoff from roadways. He explained that the city is mandated by the 2024 Western Washington Phase 2 Municipal Surface Water Permit to inspect these basins every two years. Recent inspections revealed that 27.5% of the city’s 3,689 catch basins are out of compliance, highlighting a significant backlog of maintenance that has accumulated over the years.

The council learned that the inspections conducted in late 2024 and mid-2025 uncovered a range of issues, from minor cracks to severe structural failures. The findings prompted a proposed capital project to address these repairs, estimated to cost approximately $4.5 million. The repairs will be divided into two groups, with the first group due by November 2026 and the second by June 2027. Funding for these repairs will be sourced from the surface water utility budget, which is currently under review for potential adjustments to ensure long-term sustainability.

Council members expressed concern over the financial implications of the repairs, with discussions about the need for potential increases in surface water utility rates or other funding mechanisms to cover the costs. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the requirement to complete repairs within two years of discovery, putting pressure on the city to act swiftly.

As the meeting progressed, the council acknowledged the historical context of deferred maintenance that has led to the current predicament. The discussions served as a reminder of the importance of proactive infrastructure management and the challenges faced by municipalities in maintaining essential services.

With the wet weather season approaching, the council is poised to take decisive action to ensure that the city’s stormwater management system is not only compliant but also capable of protecting Mill Creek’s residents from potential flooding and environmental hazards. The outcome of this meeting marks a pivotal step in addressing the city’s infrastructure needs and securing a sustainable future for its stormwater management efforts.