Overview

The Village of North Palm Beach is actively working to improve its stormwater management system to reduce flooding, protect water quality, and enhance environmental sustainability. The Stormwater Master Plan, developed in partnership with Hazen and Sawyer, provides a data-driven approach to modernizing and maintaining our stormwater infrastructure.

For decades, the Village’s network of pipes, gutters, swales, waterways, and ponds has managed rainwater runoff from streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and rooftops. However, this system is aging and requires ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and repairs to function effectively. The lack of a dedicated funding source in the past has resulted in system failures and the need for critical updates.

To address these challenges, the Village established a Stormwater Utility Fee, which provides a predictable funding source for necessary repairs, improvements, and long-term resilience against flooding and climate change impacts.

How Stormwater Management Works

Stormwater is excess rainwater that cannot be absorbed by the ground due to impervious surfaces like roads, buildings, and parking lots. This runoff is collected by the Village’s stormwater system and eventually flows into local canals, waterways, and the Lake Worth Lagoon. Without proper management, stormwater can contribute to erosion, flooding, and pollution.

The Stormwater Master Plan identifies key projects and initiatives to improve the Village’s drainage system and enhance water quality. It uses a hydrologic and hydraulic model to analyze stormwater conditions and prioritize projects that address the most vulnerable areas. The plan considers future climate challenges, including rising sea levels and increased rainfall intensity, ensuring the Village remains resilient in the years ahead.

Environmental Concerns & Clean Water Initiatives

As stormwater moves through the Village, it can collect pollutants like oil, pesticides, and fertilizers, which degrade water quality and harm aquatic ecosystems. Managing stormwater properly helps protect local waterways and marine life while preventing excessive erosion and sediment buildup.

The Village of North Palm Beach Citizens’ Master Plan (2016) identified clean water initiatives and stormwater management as a top priority, emphasizing the need for a dedicated funding source to support these efforts. The Stormwater Utility Fee is a key component of this initiative, ensuring funds are available to maintain and improve our infrastructure.

Stormwater Utility Fee & Equivalent Residential Units (ERUs)

To fund stormwater improvements, the Village Council approved a stormwater utility fee based on a unit of measure called an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU). This fee structure is commonly used by municipalities to fairly distribute costs based on a property's impact on stormwater runoff.

• Fee Structure: $7.78 per month per ERU ($93.36 annually).
• Offset: To minimize financial impact, the Village Council lowered the property tax rate.
• Estimated Annual Costs: Maintenance and improvements range from $380,000 to over $1 million, with an initial target of $515,000 for critical repairs and upgrades.

Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) & Future Projects

The 5-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) includes targeted stormwater projects designed to enhance flood control, improve water quality, and prepare the Village for future climate challenges. Key initiatives include:

• Upgrading drainage infrastructure to reduce system failures and enhance performance.
• Installing tidal valves to prevent tidal flooding in low-lying areas.
• Enhancing pumping capabilities to manage higher water levels and extreme weather events.
• Implementing water quality best management practices (BMPs) to reduce pollution in stormwater runoff.

Credit Program for Property Owners

A stormwater fee credit program is being developed to encourage property owners to implement effective stormwater management solutions on their properties. Those who install approved systems to reduce runoff or improve drainage may qualify for a fee reduction.

Stay Informed

The Village is dedicated to keeping residents and businesses informed about stormwater projects and policy updates. Sign up for notifications on our Zencity page to stay updated on progress, upcoming projects, and opportunities to provide input.