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Commission approves first reading of Chapter 19 to create stormwater utility framework
Summary
On first reading the commission reestablished Chapter 19 of the municipal code to authorize assessment and collection of storm sewer charges; commissioners stressed this reading creates authority only and does not set rates.
The Livingston City Commission gave first reading to Ordinance 3069, which reestablishes Chapter 19 of the municipal code and creates the legal framework for assessing and collecting storm sewer system charges in the future.
City staff emphasized that the ordinance provides authority to collect charges but does not fix rates. Director Holmes, who has led stormwater planning work, told the commission the city identified a suite of capital projects and deferred‑maintenance needs and that the ordinance is the next step to finance those projects: "This is a monumental night for our community ... we will spend the money wisely," he said.
The ordinance passed first reading on a 4–1 roll call. Commissioner O'Neil was recorded as opposing the first reading. Commissioners who supported the ordinance said it is a measured step toward reducing flooding, protecting streets and improving water quality in Fleshman Creek and downstream to the Yellowstone River.
Why it matters: staff and consultants have identified multimillion‑dollar stormwater projects and told the commission earlier in the meeting that implementing a utility or other dedicated funding mechanism is the most practical way to advance those projects without repeatedly deferring maintenance.
What’s next: the ordinance will return for a required second reading and, separately, staff will bring detailed rate options and project schedules to the commission for further decisions.
