Charlotte to pilot $5M program to address stormwater backlog issues

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte has a massive backlog of stormwater issues, including busted pipes, flooding and erosion and a new proposal from city leaders would shift that responsibility from the city, leaving taxpayers to help pay for the repairs.

Daretha Hodges' stormwater issues are so severe that the foundation of her house is cracking and she hasn't been able to use her first floor in two years.

“I would love to be able to actually use my home,” she said.

Stormwater backlog issues:

• 4,205 people on the stormwater repair list
• 2,000 of the projects on the list are C projects, which are the lowest priority
• Some customers have been waiting for repairs for more than a decade

Hodges is one of more than 4,000 people in Charlotte waiting for the city to address their stormwater issues.

Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera is chair of the Environment Committee and told Channel 9 that the city has a plan.

“We cannot continue to do business as usual,” Ajmera said.

The city is planning to invest $5 million in a pilot program over the next two years.

The funds will be used to pay for part of the 2,000 lowest-priority projects.

Home and property owners must share that cost but rather than continuing to wait for a fix, it would come right away.

“Instead of telling folks, ‘You're waiting 15 to 20 years, (we can say,) ‘Hey, you can be qualified to receive the service now,’" Ajmera said.

The plan would allow the city to focus on higher-priority projects, such as Hodges' home.

She's been waiting seven years for a fix.

People will have to apply to be a part of the program.

The cost split between the city and the homeowner will vary based on the severity of the project.

City staff will determine in May whether a rate increase is needed to fund the project.

City leaders said that homeowners will also have to donate all necessary easements and pay an application fee as part of the program.

City officials said repairs that will create new problems on other properties will not be eligible.

For more information on the plan, click here.

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