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Hollidaysburg council authorizes RFP for stormwater‑fee feasibility study; ERU explained
Summary
Council authorized a request for proposals for a stormwater feasibility study to evaluate an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) fee structure and stable revenue options; staff said estimated consultant costs range roughly $45,000–$80,000 and the sewer authority agreed to share the cost.
Council authorized staff to issue a request for proposals to evaluate the feasibility of treating stormwater as a utility and to recommend revenue options, including an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) framework.
Consultant Mr. Hicks explained the study would establish a baseline service unit (ERU) representing an average single‑family home and quantify impervious surfaces across the borough (roofs, driveways, sidewalks). The ERU then serves as the basis for a rate that can be applied to properties; commercial or large industrial parcels would be assigned multiple ERUs based on impervious area.
Mr. Hicks said the study would review legal and implementation options, propose rate structures, evaluate credits for on‑site mitigation (for example, rain gardens), and advise on public outreach and ordinance language. When asked about cost, staff said comparable studies have ranged roughly from $45,000 to $80,000 and that the sewer authority had agreed to share the cost of this study.
Council members asked about impacts to residents and businesses and whether the study would create an immediate fee; staff emphasized the RFP is a first step to produce options for council consideration, not a commitment to adopt any particular fee. After discussion, the council carried a motion authorizing staff to solicit proposals and to explore funding options and public outreach plans.
