Will all properties have to pay?

All developed properties will be charged a stormwater fee. Undeveloped lots and agriculture will be excluded. Properties paying the fee will include privately owned parcels, non-profit organizations, commercial, industrial, office, City, El Paso Water Utilities, and residential properties. Federal properties, State properties and public institutions of higher education are exempt.

What is impervious surface?

Any area that has been disturbed from its natural condition in such a way as to reduce the ability of the surface to absorb and infiltrate water into the soil. Impervious areas include, but are not limited to, compacted soils, buildings, pavement, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and any other man-made structure or surface that is built or laid on the natural surface of the land which has the effect of increasing, concentrating, or otherwise altering stormwater runoff so that flows are increased. For the benefit of this definition, xeriscape landscaping is considered pervious.

How is the amount of impervious area calculated?

The impervious area of properties is determined by using aerial photographs and information in the Utilities' Geographic Information Systems (GIS), along with parcel information from the El Paso CAD (Central Appraisal District) Real Property Information.

Will the stormwater utility fee be influenced by the amount of rain?

No. The stormwater utility fee is in no way related to the amount of rainfall. The fee will fund ongoing maintenance and capital improvements on the storm drainage infrastructure.

I pay for water service. Doesn’t that money go towards stormwater needs?

No. The Stormwater Utility established by City Council in June 2007 is a separate utility managed by El Paso Water Utilities. The money received from the stormwater management fee can only be used for the management, maintenance and improvement of our stormwater system.

Why was this change made?

During Storm 2006, it was evident that the storm drainage system needed major upgrading and repairs. Construction and maintenance had not been adequately funded. Without a dedicated funding source, separate from the City’s general revenue, stormwater drainage needs would have continued to be deferred.

How will the stormwater utility benefit me?

The stormwater system will benefit from an increased level of service. Dedicated funding ensures that resources will be available for maintenance and construction projects.

A comprehensive assessment will be the basis for a master plan that identifies the system’s immediate and long-term needs. Areas that are traditionally flooded will be evaluated and solutions will be aggressively pursued. Also, stormwater will be treated as a resource. For example, the runoff can be captured and used to replenish the aquifers that provide 50 percent of our drinking water.

Will the new utility protect arroyos and open space?

A percentage of the revenues from stormwater utility fees will be used for green projects that combine stormwater management with the preservation of open spaces, arroyos and wilderness areas.

What is the difference between a storm drain and sewer?

El Paso Water Utilities has managed the sanitary sewer system for years. Sewer pipes take used water and liquid waste from homes and businesses to plants where it is treated and cleaned. Treated wastewater (reclaimed water) is used for landscape irrigation, industrial and construction purposes. It also helps sustain the aquatic habitat of the Rio Bosque wetlands and provides water for farming in the Mission Valley.

Storm drains are separate from the sewer system. They carry runoff to the Rio Grande and retention basins. Some storm drains run under streets, but much of the system consists of open canals, street gutters, and other features that collect, channel and divert stormwater runoff.

Will the stormwater utility correct problems outside the City limits?

The stormwater utility will work with El Paso County, incorporated villages and state and federal agencies to obtain support and funding to develop a comprehensive master plan that encompasses the entire county.

What are the infrastructure problems that our storm drainage system faces?

Following Storm 2006, an evaluation identified extensive damage to the stormwater system. The City is repairing the most severely damaged items. The stormwater utility is responsible for the remaining projects, as well as the operation and maintenance of the system and the construction projects needed to reach an adequate level of service.

Most of the channels, culverts, and storm drainage trunk-lines do not have adequate capacity to convey the 100-Year Event. Specifically:

• 40 of 108 channels need immediate attention
• 41 storm drains significantly undersized/critical need of attention
• 277 Ponds Analyzed
  • 19 severely damaged/need immediate attention
• 23 Largest Dams Evaluated
  • 2 need significant upgrades
  • 3 damaged but functional
• 16 Pump Stations Assessed
  • all need repair or replacement

For more information please contact Customer Service at (915) 594-5500