Edgewater staff estimates $1.2M stormwater study; fixes could cost tens of millions

City staff told Edgewater's Economic Development Advisory Board that a consultants' stormwater master plan will cost about $1.2 million and that the resulting capital improvement list could show tens of millions in repairs or upgrades.

"The proposed cost for the stormwater master plan is $1,200,000," Ryan, the director of development services, told the board. He said the consultant's CIP, expected next year, will identify the projects and their estimated costs. Staff stressed the study is not a repair plan by itself; it will produce the capital list that shows where city investment is needed.

Board members asked how the study's timing fits the FY2026 budget. Ryan said the CIP report is expected after budget adoption in September and that the city typically performs budget amendments once new data arrives. He noted that the city does not currently have a stormwater impact fee in place and that the existing building department reserves are restricted to building‑related work.

Staff presented an example that would raise the stormwater utility from approximately $14.58 per month to roughly $43 per month, which staff said could generate several million dollars toward projects — a proposition several board members warned would be politically unpopular. Residents urged the board to prioritize maintenance of existing drainage infrastructure — culverts and canals — and to explore funding avenues such as CDDs, targeted grants, and improved maintenance before raising rates.

The board recommended forwarding a formal recommendation opposing blanket moratoriums and urged city council to weigh targeted solutions, maintenance funding and clearer financing plans before deciding on rate increases or long moratoria.