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In Their Words …
" Keeper of political scorecards on environmental votes, this small but feisty group actually endorses candidates who might be good for green causes. Its small staff proves that you don't need a huge budget to make a difference. Still, more money couldn't hurt. "
Chesapeake Life Magazine
Local Stormwater Legislation—at Last
The Watershed Restoration and Protection Act sets up a funding mechanism to tackle Anne Arundel county'sobligations under its federal
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| Bear Creek Before Restoration |
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| Bear Creek After Restoration |
Over half the streams in Anne Arundel County are severely degraded and, as a result, dump tons of sediment into our rivers with every big rainfall. This bill will provide the resources to begin restoring these streams to their natural biological function as stormwater runoff filters.
Initially, this legislation would generate $26.5 million for restoration activities generated by reasonable fees on all landowners.
This legislation, which is supported strongly by the Leopold Administration was developed by a Task Force led by Councilman Chris Trumbauer and Councilman Dick Ladd that included representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, residential and commercial developers, maritime industry and the environmental community.
This is a landmark bill for Anne Arundel County's most important environmental resource-our waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. With the passage of this bill we can begin restoring these waterways to a healthy state that we all - including our children and grandchildren -- deserve.
Fees--Residences would be charged one of three rates based on zoning classification: $34 for townhomes and multi-family dwellings (R10, R15, R22); $85 for single family homes (R2, R5); $170 for low-density or agricultural (R1, RLD, RA). Non-residential property fees would be based on actual impervious surface at a rate of $85 per 2,800 sq. ft.
Other points you should know about this bill:
- State law passed last year mandates that Anne Arundel County create a stormwater fee, but does not specify the amount;
- All fees will go into a special fund that is dedicated to stormwater restoration and money cannot be diverted to other uses;
- A credit of up to 50% of the fee would be available to properties found to have effective stormwater practices;
- All improved land except state and local government properties are subject to fees;
- Fees would be billed annually by the County;
- Residential owners who demonstrate substantial financial hardship would be exempted from the fee.
To review the amended Bill 93-12, click here.
To see Capital Gazette editorial supporting stormwater fee click here.
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