Council adopts 5% stormwater rate plan to accelerate maintenance staffing

The Sedro-Woolley City Council on Nov. 12 adopted a revised stormwater capital funding scenario (option 4) that sets a 5% annual stormwater rate increase and funds hiring one additional stormwater maintenance employee in 2026.

Public Works Director Bullock explained the revised model was developed after consultants presented three scenarios in July. Option 4 flattens the rate curve, lowers early-year spikes compared with previous models, and accelerates a first hire so the city can be proactive—cameraing storm lines and evaluating culverts and water-quality projects—rather than solely reactive maintenance.

Bullock said the approach could stretch out the timeline for a second hire to five or more years and reduce near-term debt needs. He framed the model as more predictable and, in aggregate, potentially cheaper over time than the prior scenarios.

Council members largely praised the approach. Councilman Henderson called it “exactly what I think everyone envisioned,” while Councilman Burns appreciated that the plan avoids incurring new debt. Councilman LaVaca and Councilman Cook noted the plan still raises costs for residents over time and asked staff to clarify the schedule and specific impacts.

Councilman Henderson moved to adopt option 4 — a 5% stormwater rate increase with the 2026 hire included — and the motion carried by voice vote.

What happens next: staff will proceed with the personnel action to hire a stormwater maintenance employee in early 2026 and incorporate the adopted rate schedule into the stormwater fund’s budget and outreach materials.