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Concord Public Works posts stormwater rate and credit policy for May hearing; commission adopts Option 2b for public notice
Summary
The Public Works Commission voted April 9 to post a stormwater enterprise rate structure (Option 2b) and a credit policy for a formal rate hearing May 14. The action advances the town's plan to fund stormwater operations and capital needs via parcel‑based fees and to offer credits for on‑site stormwater management and income‑based discounts.
The Public Works Commission on April 9 voted to post a proposed stormwater enterprise rate schedule (referred to as “Option 2b”) along with a draft credit policy and to hold a formal public hearing on May 14.
Staff presented the rate and credit framework the commission will consider at the public hearing. The draft policy would establish parcel‑based fees to fund stormwater operations and capital needs and a three‑category credit program: small residential credits (for one‑ to three‑family homes) of up to 25 percent for qualifying on‑site management; nonresidential/commercial credits of up to 50 percent; and an income‑based residential credit of up to 25 percent for qualifying low‑income or senior households consistent with other utility discounts.
Commissioner David Long moved to accept the rate structure identified as Option 2b for posting and public hearing. The motion was seconded and passed by roll call with all commissioners voting in favor.
Staff said the enterprise is structured to collect revenue for stormwater activities and that the proposed budget and rate schedule would yield approximately $1 million in revenue under the preferred option. The commission also discussed outreach plans and existing online tools that allow residents to estimate parcel fees by address.
Why it matters: the town has been developing a dedicated stormwater enterprise to fund stormwater system maintenance, drainage improvements and regulatory obligations. A formal hearing on posted rates will allow public comment before the commission sets final rates and any Town Meeting decisions are made.
Next steps: staff will publish required notices and materials for the May 14 public hearing and continue outreach to committees and the public. The commission’s posting authorizes the formal hearing and does not itself set final rates.
