By adding storm water facilities as part of municipal utility services, Sen. Sharer aims to equip municipalities with the necessary authority and framework to manage storm water services more effectively. Municipalities will be able to implement fee structures that can support the acquisition and maintenance of storm water systems. This legislation addresses lingering concerns about storm water management and the environmental impacts of runoff, potentially leading to improved public health and safety standards connected to flooding and water quality.
Summary
Senate Bill 372 seeks to amend the Municipal Code to include storm water facilities within the definition of 'municipal utility'. This change will authorize municipalities in New Mexico to acquire and operate storm water utility services, allowing them to collect fees for services related to storm water collection, treatment, storage, and disposal. The bill is introduced with the intention of enhancing local infrastructure management regarding storm water, which is increasingly relevant due to urban growth and climatic changes that affect rainfall patterns and runoff management.
Contention
While the bill aims to empower local governments to tackle storm water challenges, it may not be without controversy. Stakeholders could express concerns about the financial implications of imposing new service fees, especially for individuals and businesses in municipalities struggling to manage fiscal burdens. In discussions surrounding the bill, questions may arise over the equity of expense distribution, especially in low-income areas that may disproportionately bear the cost of enhanced storm water management. Furthermore, there may be debates about the adequacy of local ordinance frameworks to manage the new responsibilities this bill would introduce.
To require larger municipally owned public water and wastewater utilities to pass rates to meet the same standards as utilities regulated under Chapter 24 of the Code