Scappoose budgets stormwater retrofits, dry wells and partners with watershed group

City staff told the Budget Committee the Stormwater Fund begins the year with a healthy carryover and will invest in retrofits, dry wells and creek-stabilization projects in partnership with the Scappoose watershed organization.

Staff reported a beginning carryover for the stormwater fund of about $2,266,843, $35,000 in projected interest, and planned capital outlay of $1,385,000 for the coming fiscal year. The capital allocation includes design work and construction for dry wells, stormwater retrofits and other targeted improvements.

The staff presentation listed an initial focus on the east side of town (Camino Avenue and adjacent neighborhoods) where localized flooding and ponding occur. Staff said they will identify roughly 10 to 20 locations for dry-well installation and will decide whether public-works crews or contractors will complete the work based on workload and cost.

Staff also described collaboration with the Scappoose Watershed on projects along local creeks and in Green Creek Park, noting that the city intends to complete earthwork and planting with public-works crews and then rely on the watershed group for follow-on vegetation and habitat work. Presenters emphasized that properly selected vegetation and bank stabilization reduce erosion, protect sewer lines that have been exposed by bank failures, and create temporary storage capacity during storms.

Committee members asked about private-property participation; staff said the watershed group is better positioned to work directly with private landowners but the city will coordinate standards and enable participation where appropriate.

Staff flagged that one stormwater fund budget table had a mismatch with budget notes and that staff would correct the published materials.