City of Manhattan Beach Stormwater Utility Fee Update

The City of Manhattan Beach (City), renowned for its commitment to sustainability and community well-being, has successfully updated its Stormwater Utility Fee through a collaborative effort with Harris & Associates. This initiative, which achieved a 52.65% approval rate, will generate approximately $2.1 million annually, dedicated to the vital maintenance and enhancement of the City's storm drain infrastructure.

Core Elements

This community-driven success saw the Stormwater Utility Fee update approved by Manhattan Beach property owners, securing the necessary funds for storm drain maintenance. Harris & Associates played a crucial role in determining a fair and equitable fee rate structure and ensuring the accurate tabulation of 5,309 ballots, facilitating a transparent and compliant election process. The project was led by key figures from Harris, including Alison Bouley, PE, and Donna Segura, who provided essential support and guidance to ensure the project's success.

Detailed Project Description

Harris partnered with the City of Manhattan Beach to ensure a fair and equitable fee rate structure for their Stormwater Utility Fee. We developed a precise methodology for calculating stormwater fees, based on the impervious area of each parcel, tailored for the Los Angeles County Flood Control District under Measure W. Additionally, we outlined the process for the approval and adoption of the new storm drain utility fee in compliance with Proposition 218.

The City has taken a significant step forward in its ongoing efforts to enhance local infrastructure by updating the Stormwater Utility Fee. Approved by 52.65% of voting property owners, this measure will provide a reliable source of funding—approximately $2.1 million annually—for the City's storm drain system. The measure, supported by 2,795 votes in favor and 2,514 against, passed by a margin of 281 votes from a total of 13,468 ballots distributed to property owners.

Throughout the election process, the City worked closely with Harris & Associates to ensure the accuracy and compliance of the ballot tabulation. Harris meticulously counted the returned ballots, adhering to all legal standards and ensuring a transparent process. The expertise of Alison Bouley, PE, and Donna Segura from Harris was instrumental in navigating the complexities of Proposition 218 and Article XIII D, providing the City with support and guidance.

The Stormwater Utility Fee, originally established in 1996, is essential for the upkeep and operation of the City's storm drain system. This system captures trash and pollutants before they reach the beaches and ocean, protecting both the environment and public health. With the updated fee, property owners in the City will contribute approximately $129 per year, adjusted for inflation, to ensure ongoing repairs, maintenance, and improvements to the storm drain infrastructure. These funds are dedicated exclusively to the storm drain system, preventing issues like sinkholes, flooding, and property damage without diverting resources from other City services.

The City, with the support of Harris & Associates, remains committed to maintaining and enhancing its infrastructure to ensure a safe and sustainable environment for all residents. This project underscores the City's dedication to proactive infrastructure management and community-focused solutions.