Photo: Caleb Groves
by Caleb Groves
The Cobb County Board of Commissioners delayed a decision on the proposed stormwater utility fee code amendments until August amid public opposition on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
The proposed stormwater fee structure would calculate fees based on the amount of impervious space on a property, rather than how it is currently calculated with the amount of water used on a property. Impervious space includes surfaces such as roofs, driveways and patios.
Monthly residential fees for impervious square footage would be determined in a five tier system that escalates with square footage, starting at $2 up to $12, according to Cobb County Water Systems Director Judy Jones.
“As water consumption increases, the amount paid for stormwater services increases. An alternative method for charging for stormwater services is a fee based on the amount of impervious surface on a property, because that is what impacts the County’s stormwater system,” Jones said in a letter to Cobb County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris.
Cobb residents’ have struggled in the past with flooding and sinkholes, with many incidents left unresolved. In response, the commissioners are seeking answers.
Pushback against the fee
Residents and commissioners were both clear that stormwater is an issue in the county, but how to address it was unclear. During the public hearing, 42 residents addressed their concerns regarding the stormwater fee.
Some speakers discussed transitioning county water system funds into the general fund and the water transfer, which, despite being unpopular among multiple speakers, is legal.
Other speakers suggested placing a greater burden of the stormwater fees on developers by charging them impact fees for large developments such as subdivisions or apartment complexes.
Richard Grome, president of the East Cobb Civic Association, recommended that the board table the item.
After public comment, Commissioner…
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