Brownstown Council Considers Drainage District to Replace Costly Stormwater Utility

The Brownstown Town Council in Indiana is exploring a more affordable solution to address the town's drainage issues by creating a drainage district funded through annual landowner assessments. This move comes as an alternative to establishing a stormwater utility, which would cost residents between $4.98 and $13 per month.

Since August 2023, the council has been working on a stormwater utility plan to tackle drainage problems in the town, including eight specific projects. A planning study conducted by Wessler Engineering, costing $39,000, was funded by contingency monies from a $6.5 million loan from the State Revolving Fund.

Why this matters: The decision of the Brownstown Town Council has broader implications for other municipalities facing similar drainage issues, as it sets a precedent for alternative solutions to costly stormwater utilities. If successful, this approach could lead to more affordable and efficient management of stormwater issues, benefiting residents and businesses across the region.

The proposed stormwater utility has raised concerns among residents due to its high cost. Initially, residential users would pay $4.98 per month, with the potential to increase to $13 or more in the future. The utility would also impose higher costs on the Brownstown Central Community School Corp., businesses, and industries in the town.

During a recent council meeting, County Surveyor Dan Blann presented an alternative plan to establish a drainage district. This district would be funded through annual assessments of landowners within the district. Blann highlighted that this option is 'so much cheaper to residents' and 'so much easier on the council.' He provided each council member with a copy of the Indiana Drainage Code, which outlines the process and steps for establishing a drainage district.

The eight stormwater projects that the council aims to address have a total estimated cost of nearly $14.8 million. By considering the drainage district alternative, the council hopes to find a more affordable and efficient solution to manage stormwater issues in Brownstown.

The council's decision will significantly impact the financial burden on residents and businesses. As they weigh their options, the focus remains on finding a cost-effective and practical approach to resolving the town's drainage challenges, including the implementation of a drainage district.

Key Takeaways

• Brownstown Town Council explores drainage district as alternative to stormwater utility.
• Drainage district would be funded through annual landowner assessments, not monthly fees.
• Stormwater utility would cost residents $4.98-$13/month, while drainage district is "so much cheaper".
• Eight stormwater projects have a total estimated cost of nearly $14.8 million.
• Council's decision will impact financial burden on residents and businesses in Brownstown.