Trustees Get Earful about Proposed Storm Water Fee

Caledonia trustees heard from residents Monday who are less than thrilled about having their storm water fees increase under a new usage proposal that combines two storm sewer utility districts into one.

Currently, residents live in either the Root River district or the Lake Michigan district, and the associated charges are vastly different. For example, a $100,000 home in the Root district pays about $8 a year while a Lake Michigan home also valued at $100,000 pays about $61 a year, according to a story in The Journal Times.

The new storm water user fee would take storm water funding off the tax levy and impose a uniform payment of $65.25 for all village property owners. Village officials say the move is necessary to fund storm water projects that address present and future infrastructure needs.

Trustees were divided on the issue earlier this year when some, like Lee Wishau, said they feel a new storm water fee would essentially be double-dipping. Others, like Kevin Wanggaard, said the new fee structure makes paying for system projects, from which everyone benefits, more fair. 

Board members will take up the fee again at the Oct. 21 meeting for a first reading. A second reading and possible adoption could be part of the Nov. 4 board meeting.