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County warns tri‑county stormwater permit could cost region hundreds of millions over 20 years
Summary
County flood control staff told the council that a retooled, regional NPDES/MS4 permit under negotiation could, in a worst‑case scenario, impose up to $470 million in compliance costs across the region over 20 years; negotiations and a reopened regional board hearing are planned.
County Flood Control representatives updated the council on the California regional MS4 (stormwater) permit renewal, which is moving from a county‑specific permit to a tri‑county regional order covering San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange counties.
The county engaged Beacon Economics to estimate potential implementation costs; staff reported the worst‑case estimate is about $470 million over 20 years for the region. County staff said revisions from the regional board have reduced, but not eliminated, cost drivers — particularly new numeric or structural requirements — and that the regional board has reopened a public hearing (Aug. 21) for further input.
The city’s flood control liaison urged council members to monitor and participate in regional negotiations, since the permit’s compliance obligations and cost‑sharing methodology could impose substantial long‑term costs on local budgets. County staff said they will continue negotiating with the regional board and coordinating implementation strategies to soften fiscal impacts.
Next steps: council members were encouraged to participate in the Aug. 21 public hearing; county and city staff will continue negotiations and report back as the permit evolves.
