Stormwater is the water that flows into sewers, creeks, and lakes after rainfall or melting snow. In natural environments, this water is absorbed by the ground or taken up by vegetation. However, in urban areas, impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking lots prevent water from soaking into the ground, causing it to run off quickly. As it travels, stormwater often picks up pollutants like debris, chemicals, and other contaminants, which can degrade water quality and harm ecosystems. Additionally, the increased volume and speed of runoff in urban areas contribute to higher risks of flooding and erosion. Proper stormwater management is crucial to minimizing environmental impact, protecting water quality, and reducing the risks of flooding and erosion.
Stormwater
What is the Municipality’s role in managing stormwater?
The Municipality is responsible for managing stormwater within its jurisdiction. This involves the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure within the Municipal right-of-way, easements, and stormwater facilities. The Municipality’s stormwater management program plays a critical role in protecting public safety and health by reducing flood risks, controlling erosion, and preserving water quality in local waterways. The program addresses both the quantity and quality of stormwater through the management of storm sewers, ditches, inlets, stormwater management facilities (such as retention ponds), bridges, culverts, infiltration systems, oil grit separators, and storm sewer outfalls that discharge into streams and watercourses.
The Municipality of Thames Centre conducted a study to identify an equitable, sustainable, and reliable funding source for its stormwater management program. This study aligns with Ontario Regulation 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure, which requires municipalities to develop long-term funding strategies for critical infrastructure. The focus of the study was on the financial aspects of stormwater management within the urban areas of Dorchester and Thorndale, including assessing current funding practices, identifying funding sources, and determining whether existing financial resources are sufficient to maintain the infrastructure.
Overview of the Stormwater Rate Study
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Assess the current expenditures, revenue sources, and asset management needs for stormwater management infrastructure.
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Determine an appropriate and affordable level of service for future stormwater projects.
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Identify and evaluate potential stormwater rate structures and funding alternatives.
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Recommend a preferred rate structure and analyze its impact compared to existing funding methods.
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Present the study’s findings and recommendations to Council.
Outcome of the 2024 Stormwater Rate Study
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Revised Fee Structure: A more equitable and balanced approach, based on property size and usage.
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Expanded Coverage: Inclusion of all lands within the Urban Boundary limits of Dorchester and Thorndale (excluding vacant, agricultural, or provincially exempt properties).
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Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term viability of stormwater services while reducing future debt burdens for upcoming generations.
2024 Stormwater Rate Presentation
Contact Us
Municipality of Thames Centre
4305 Hamilton Rd
Dorchester, ON, Canada, N0L 1G3
Ph (519)268-7334
Fax (519)268-3928
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