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Commission approves first reading of ordinance modernizing stormwater rates, adopting GIS‑based ERU methodology
Summary
On first reading the commission adopted Ordinance No. 10167 to change how stormwater fees are calculated: the city will use GIS measurement of total impervious area, a revised equivalent residential unit (ERU) of 2,800 sq ft and updated tiers. Staff said the 2026 rate change funds capital projects including the Jayhawk Watershed tunnel and Maple
The Lawrence City Commission adopted on first reading Ordinance No. 10167 on Oct. 14 to modernize the city’s stormwater rate structure by measuring impervious area with geographic information systems and recalculating the equivalent residential unit (ERU).
Under the new methodology the ERU — previously stated in code as 2,366 square feet — was recalculated as 2,800 square feet based on measured impervious areas across single‑family parcels. The ordinance replaces a building‑footprint tier system with a measurement of all impervious surfaces on a parcel (roof, driveways, compacted gravel used for parking, etc.) and expands the billing category definitions so duplexes, triplexes and other non‑single‑family parcels are billed by measured ERUs instead of a default multiplier based on unit count.
Staff presented examples showing how some single‑family and multifamily parcels will see lower bills because building footprints did not capture all impervious area previously, while other parcels with large paved areas or parking will pay more under the new measurement. In staff’s analysis, 24% of residential accounts would see a bill decrease, 38% would see little change, and 38% would see an increase under the new methodology and the proposed 2026 rate level. For nonresidential properties staff reported roughly 34% would see a decrease, 30% a modest increase (less than 6%) and 36% an increase greater than 6%.
Commissioners and staff emphasized targeted outreach and an appeals process for parcels with apparent measurement errors; staff also indicated a public, parcel‑level map and formal credit criteria will be available so property owners can review calculated impervious areas. The ordinance includes a stormwater credit program that allows up to a 50% reduction in the stormwater charge for properties that construct and properly maintain approved best‑management practices that reduce runoff.
Staff tied the rate structure change to capital needs: major projects under design or construction include the Jayhawk Watershed tunnel (replacement of a severely undersized early‑20th century culvert), Maple Lane storm, sanitary and water improvements, and a multi‑year system asset‑inventory and hydraulic modeling program that will replace the 1996 master plan. Commissioners adopted the ordinance on first reading by voice vote (4–0); the city will continue outreach and provide parcel‑level notices ahead of the rates taking effect in 2026.
