Stormwater Programs For Residential Properties

In October last year, Council passed a resolution to form a working group to consider a program for residential properties.  As a result of the working group, the City of Mississauga will have three stormwater programs for residential properties:

• Enhanced Residential Stormwater Outreach and Education Program
• Home Visit Pilot Program
• Stormwater Subsidy Program for Low-income Seniors and Persons with Disabilities in single residential homes

“The enhanced Outreach and Education Program together with a Stormwater Home Visit Pilot Program and a stormwater subsidy for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities will help address the needs of our residents and still allow the City to meet its stormwater financial responsibilities,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie.  “The working committee formed of Members of Council and staff listened to residents needs and concerns to help determine the most valuable and balanced approach for the City.”

On April 13, 2016, two workshops were held to collect input on potential options for programs that would recognize and encourage stormwater best management practices on residential properties. In total, 179 people participated in the workshops and the City received responses or comments through email and the workshop.

“We looked carefully at the comments and input we received from residents to balance their needs with what was workable,” said Helen Noehammer, Director Transportation and Infrastructure Planning. “Affordability, information and compensation for stormwater management measures taken were common themes among respondents. For most homeowners the amounts the City could offer through a credit or rebate would not encourage significant participation. Administrative costs including inspections would be five times greater than the credits or rebates awarded.”

Outreach and Education

An enhanced program will focus on increasing awareness of stormwater issues.  The program will include information about the City’s stormwater projects, face-to-face outreach at City facilities, workshops on flood protection and tours of low-impact development sites.

Stormwater Home Visit Program

The Home Visit Program would be added to help homeowners use stormwater best practices on their property. It would extend beyond outreach and include specific information on what actions homeowners can take on their property including eavestrough maintenance, downspout disconnection and rain barrel installation. This program would be funded for two years to determine its value.

Subsidy program for Low-income Seniors and Persons with Disabilities

The Stormwater Subsidy Program is for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities that own a single residential home to offset their stormwater charges. Eligibility for the program will be based on the City’s Tax Rebate Program.

For more information read the corporate report: Stormwater Programs For Residential Properties

Background

Stormwater Charge

The stormwater charge is a new, dedicated source of funding that was added to the Region of Peel water bill in 2016. The City of Mississauga’s stormwater drainage system protects water quality and lowers the risk of flooding that can damage property and the environment. To keep the system in good working order, the City invests in planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance, renewal and by-law enforcement activities. Learn more about the stormwater charge at stormwatercharge.ca

Stormwater Residential Program Working Group

On October 28, 2015, Council passed a resolution to form a working group to consider a credit program for residential properties. The working group is comprised of Ward 2 Councillor Karen Ras, Ward 3 Councillor Chris Fonseca, Ward 6 Councillor Ron Starr, Ward 8 Councillor Matt Mahoney and Ward 11 Councillor George Carlson as well as staff from the City’s Transportation and Works department. The group explored a number of different options for residential properties that were shared at the workshop.

Credit program for Non-Residential and Multi-Residential Properties

The City of Mississauga currently has a credit program for non-residential and multi-residential properties that reduce the impact of stormwater runoff. The City will provide credits for non-residential properties that have best management practices in place. Credits are awarded in four categories: peak flow reduction; runoff volume reduction; water quality treatment; and pollution prevention. Credits will be valid for up to five years and eligible for renewal, provided terms and conditions are met. The City’s Stormwater Credit Program Policy outlines the program framework.