Title
A Resolution Eliminating the Surcharge Fee in the Cottonwood Creek Drainage Basin
(Legislative)
Presenter:
Travis Easton, P.E., Public Works Director
Brian Kelley, P.E., Stormwater Capital Programs Manager
Summary:
At its May 3, 2018 meeting, the City of Colorado Springs / El Paso County Drainage Board approved the elimination of the Cottonwood Surcharge Fee.
Previous Council Action:
The current Cottonwood Creek Drainage Basin Planning Study (“2000 DBPS”) was approved by City Council on July 11, 2000 by Resolution No. 104-00 which set the Cottonwood Creek Surcharge. This surcharge fee was established to fund improvements downstream of Rangewood Drive on the Cottonwood Creek channel.
Background:
The authorization and administration of the Drainage Basin fee program is described in the City of Colorado Springs City Code, Chapter 7, Planning, Development and Building, Article 7, Subdivision Regulations, Part 9, Subdivision Drainage Facilities; the Drainage Criteria Manual, and the Engineering Criteria Manual.
The current Cottonwood Creek Surcharge Fee is $678 per acre to be collected from the developer at the time of platting. Since all of the improvements downstream of Rangewood Drive set forth in the 2000 DBPS have been completed, the fee is no longer necessary and on May 3, 2018 the Drainage Board approved eliminating the fee. The May 3, 2018 Drainage Board Agenda is attached as Exhibit A, and May 3, 2018 Drainage Board Meeting Summary attached as Exhibit B. This elimination of the Cottonwood Creek Basin Surcharge Fee is reflected in the updated 2018 Drainage, Bridge and Pond Fee Schedule attached as Exhibit C.
This item supports the City’s strategic goal relating to investing in infrastructure by analyzing special funds and restructuring revenue to address needs. Drainage infrastructure is vital to insure the City’s ability to protect its citizens and downstream neighbors from potential damage due to stormwater.
Financial Implications:
The Cottonwood Creek Surcharge was established for the City’s use in constructing additional drainage improvements on the Cottonwood Creek channel downstream of Rangewood Drive. Those improvements have been completed and the fee is no longer necessary.
Board/Commission Recommendation:
The City of Colorado Springs / El Paso County Drainage Board approved eliminating the Cottonwood Creek Surcharge its May 3, 2018 meeting. The approval was based upon the completion of the intended drainage projects.
Stakeholder Process:
The City of Colorado Springs / El Paso County Drainage Board approved eliminating the Cottonwood Creek Surcharge Fee at its May 3, 2018 meeting. City/County Drainage Board agendas are published and posted in advance for those interested in attending meetings. There were no comments either for or against by attendees for this fee increase.
Alternatives:
Approve or disapprove the elimination of the Cottonwood Creek Surcharge Fee.
Proposed Motion:
Move to approve the resolution eliminating the Cottonwood Creek Surcharge Fee.
Summary of Ordinance Language:
A resolution eliminating the Surcharge Fee in the Cottonwood Creek Drainage Basin