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Talent adopts stormwater master plan, phases utility fee increase and design standards
Summary
City Council adopted the 2023 Stormwater Master Plan, approved a phased stormwater utility fee increase and adopted updated storm drainage design standards; the utility fee will increase in two steps to $7.10 monthly by Jan. 2026.
The City of Talent on Jan. 15 adopted its previously drafted stormwater master plan, approved a phased increase to the stormwater utility fee and adopted updated storm drainage design standards.
Staff said the master plan, prepared in January 2023, had not been formally adopted and that adoption was necessary for environmental review and for implementing recommended infrastructure upgrades tied to the West Valley View project. The council adopted the plan (dated 01/11/2023) by motion.
Why it matters: The master plan lays out stormwater infrastructure needs and funding pathways. The council approved a phased increase to the monthly stormwater utility fee collected by the regional billing service (RVSS) and adopted updated design standards that contractors and engineers will use for future projects.
Key actions and timing: Staff proposed phasing the fee increase in two steps: a first increase to $5.35 per month effective April 1, 2025, followed by a second increase to $7.10 per month effective Jan. 1, 2026. Staff confirmed the percentages of fee allocation (approximately 46.7% to maintenance, 34.6% to capital improvement projects and 18.7% remitted to RVSS) and said the System Development Charge (SDC) changes are a separate ordinance with public hearing requirements that staff will bring back for council consideration.
The council adopted the master plan and then approved Resolution 2025-106-R establishing the phased stormwater utility fee adjustment (with staff amendments to correct percentage language). The council also adopted Resolution 2025-110-R to approve storm drainage design standards effective upon passage.
Council members asked whether the phased approach would transition the fee to a regular incremental schedule; staff confirmed the fee structure would be monitored and future adjustments could be brought forward. Staff said SDC updates (which affect new development fees) will require an ordinance and a 90-day public notice and are expected at a later meeting.
Votes on three separate motions were recorded by roll call and each motion carried. Council instructed staff to return with the SDC proposal and to publish the adopted master plan and updated design standards for contractors and developers.
The adopted changes take effect on the dates specified in the fee resolution and the design standards are effective upon passage.
