Mississauga Offers Storm Water Programs
In October, the city of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, council passed a resolution to form a working group to consider a program for residential properties. As a result of the working group’s decision, the city will offer three storm water programs for residential properties:
- • An enhanced Residential Storm Water Outreach and Education program,
- • A Home Visit pilot program, and
- • A Storm Water Subsidy program for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities in single residential homes.
“The enhanced Outreach and Education program, together with a Storm Water Home Visit pilot program and a Storm Water 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 storm water 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."
April 13, 2016, two workshops were held to collect input on potential options for programs that would recognize and encourage storm water best management practices on residential properties. In total, 179 people participated in the workshops, and the city received responses or comments through email as well.
"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 storm water 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.”
The enhanced Residential Storm Water Outreach and Education program will focus on increasing awareness of storm water issues. The program will include information about the city’s storm water projects, face-to-face outreach at city facilities, workshops on flood protection and tours of low-impact development sites.
The Home Visit pilot program would help homeowners use storm water best practices on their property. It would extend beyond outreach and include specific information on what actions homeowners can take on their property, including eaves trough maintenance, downspout disconnection and rain barrel installation. This program would be funded for two years to determine its value.
The Storm Water Subsidy program offsets storm water charges for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities that own a single residential home. Eligibility for the program will be based on the city’s Tax Rebate program.
For more information, visit the corporate report: Storm Water Programs for Residential Properties.
Source: City of Mississauga
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