Livingston staff recommend stormwater utility as residents question costs and timing

Summary

City staff presented a stormwater‑utility feasibility study that would create a standalone fund to pay for maintenance and capital projects; staff proposed a mid‑range residential charge of about $7 per month to raise roughly $564,000 in year one. Commissioners heard more than an hour of public comment; no ordinance was adopted and the commission asked staff to continue outreach.

City staff told the Livingston City Commission on March 3 that years of studies, a 2024 feasibility report and recent mapping show the city’s stormwater system needs dedicated funding and staff to fix aging pipes, reduce flooding and protect downstream water quality.

The staff presentation, led by City Manager Grant Gager and Public Works Director Shannon Holmes, outlined three rate scenarios and a recommended mid‑level approach that would aim to raise roughly $564,000 in the first year. Under the mid‑range model the residential equivalent would be about $7 per month; commercial and large impervious parcels would be assessed higher amounts. Staff said the revenue would fund one dedicated stormwater position, routine maintenance and a five‑year capital program that planners estimated at about $1.7–$1.75 million for initial priority projects.

“Right now we have…

Livingston staff recommend stormwater utility as residents question costs and timing

Summary

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