Savannah Prepares for Community Meetings on Stormwater Utility

News Summary

Savannah is set to hold community meetings from April 21 to April 30, 2025, to discuss the proposed Stormwater Utility aimed at addressing stormwater drainage issues in the city. Residents are encouraged to participate and provide feedback on the stormwater management plan, which includes proposed user fees based on property impact. The initiative seeks to improve long-term drainage infrastructure and funding strategies to better handle flooding and stormwater challenges.

Savannah Gears Up for Community Meetings on Proposed Stormwater Utility

Savannah, a city known for its charming historic streets and beautiful parks, is preparing to tackle a significant issue that affects many residents: stormwater drainage. To do just that, a series of community engagement meetings are set to take place from April 21 to April 30, 2025, at 6 p.m. each evening in various Aldermanic Districts throughout the city. These meetings are designed to gather valuable feedback from the community while sharing essential information about a proposed Stormwater Utility.

Why the Stormwater Utility?

As many residents are likely aware, Savannah faces ongoing challenges related to stormwater drainage. Concerns have been raised about aging infrastructure, the need for effective flood mitigation, and the impact of intensified storms caused by climate change. Historically, the city has tapped into federal grants, Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds, and general fund appropriations to handle these pesky drainage issues. However, it’s becoming clear that these funding strategies are not sustainable long-term, leading officials to consider a dedicated funding mechanism with the proposed Stormwater Utility.

What Will the Stormwater Utility Do?

The proposed utility is expected to handle the long-term stormwater management needs of Savannah. It would focus on key areas such as drainage system maintenance, flood reduction, water quality management, and regulatory compliance. This development is also intended to lessen the city’s dependence on the General Fund, allowing more resources to be allocated for other community needs.

How Will It Be Funded?

Similar to other utility systems, the Stormwater Utility will establish a user fee structure, which will be determined by the impact and service needs of individual properties. For instance, properties with lush lawns and gardens that allow for water absorption—also known as pervious areas—would be charged lower fees. On the other hand, properties that feature impervious surfaces, such as parking lots and rooftops, would face higher fees due to their significant stormwater runoff.

Planning and Research

Back in May 2024, the City of Savannah issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a study to evaluate the services currently being provided and how these could be impacted by the introduction of the new Stormwater Utility. By August 2024, a $300,000 contract was approved with Stantec Consulting Services to carry out this important study. Recent severe flooding in the area has underscored the urgency of finding sustainable financing options for drainage projects.

Addressing Funding Shortfalls

The proposed user-fee program aims to resolve an estimated $245 million funding shortfall for crucial stormwater infrastructure improvements. With so much at stake, the community engagement sessions will comprise breakout groups focused on current and potential funding strategies, along with discussions on drainage projects and areas prone to flooding.

Looking Ahead

For those unable to attend the April meetings, don’t worry—there will be a second round of engagement sessions in the fall of 2025, along with interactive online mapping and public input surveys. The city plans to present a final recommendation for a stormwater service delivery plan by the end of 2025.

Learning from Neighbors

Savannah isn’t alone in this endeavor, as nearby municipalities like Garden City and Richmond Hill have already successfully implemented similar stormwater utility programs. This regional trend highlights the importance of proactive measures in addressing flooding and stormwater management challenges.

Community Involvement is Key

City officials are emphasizing how crucial it is to have community feedback and engagement during this process. After all, it’s the residents who experience these challenges firsthand, so your input is vital in shaping a strategy that will benefit everyone.

Mark your calendars for these community engagement meetings, and prepare to add your voice to the conversation about Savannah’s stormwater challenges and the exciting solutions on the horizon!

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Additional Resources

• Savannah Business Journal
• WTOC
• Savannah Now
• Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
• Google Search: Savannah stormwater utility