Hammond council enacts stormwater fee increase to fund repairs; first-year revenue estimated at $1 million

The Hammond Common Council on Oct. 27 approved Ordinance 25-29, which amends user fees for the operation and maintenance of the citys stormwater system. Officials described the initial increase as $1.25 per account in the first year (about $15 per year per resident), projected to yield roughly $1 million in the first year, with that amount pledged to the Capital Improvement Board (CIB) to fund stormwater repairs.

Mylan Krasinski, district manager for the Hammond Sanitary District, told council the first-year revenue will be about $1 million and that the majority of that money will go to the CIB; he said the sanitary district will continue to use subsequent funds to support stormwater improvements. Mayor McDermott and staff explained the city maintains roughly 200 miles of storm infrastructure and noted major repair projects can be extremely costly — citing one $3 million Kennedy Street repair as an example.

Council emphasized that even with the fee increase Hammonds combined water, sewer and stormwater rates will remain among the lowest in the state, per the mayors statement. The council approved the fee changes by roll call 9-0.

Why it matters: The fee generates ongoing revenue to address recurring flooding, clogged or damaged storm pipes and long-term capacity needs. Officials said the funds will help the city respond to flash floods and increase sewer capacity to accept heavy rains.

Next steps: The CIB will receive the pledged funding in the first year; sanitary and engineering staff will continue planning repairs and prioritizing high-need locations.