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Cramerton board approves stormwater rate study after state audit, 4-1
Summary
After an NCDEQ audit found the town’s stormwater program under-resourced, the Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 to hire WithersRavenal for a $25,000 rate study to evaluate needed staffing and a potential new fee structure; Commissioner Atkinson voted against proceeding with the paid study.
The Town of Cramerton Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 on Oct. 6 to hire WithersRavenal to conduct a stormwater fund rate study after staff said a recent North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality audit found the town’s stormwater program insufficient to meet state requirements.
Assistant Town Manager Josh Watkins told the board the existing monthly residential stormwater fee is $3.00 and non-residential properties are charged $3.00 per each 2,500 square feet of impervious surface. Watkins said the study would evaluate program needs, staffing and what rate structure would provide the resources required for compliance; he noted the town of Lowell raised its stormwater rate to $6.75 in a comparable study referenced by staff.
Commissioner Kincaid moved to approve the study; Mayor Pro Tempore Neeley seconded. Commissioner Atkinson opposed the motion and asked whether staff could first survey neighboring municipalities or rely on the town’s Master Stormwater Plan without spending $25,000 on a consultant. Staff responded that an outside study would provide the necessary justification if the town proposes a substantial rate increase.
Votes at a glance: consent agenda approved 5-0 (set public hearing for RZ-22-03 and Budget Amendments #4–#6); Dr. Morgen Houchard appointed to the ABC Board 5-0; stormwater rate study approved 4-1; meeting adjourned 5-0.
Ending: WithersRavenal will begin the study as approved; staff indicated further budget and rate recommendations will follow after the consultant’s analysis.
