Wednesday, August 15, 2001
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Wednesday, August 15, 2001 |
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Consultant to tackle analysis of PTC's stormwater system By JOHN
MUNFORD
To comply with new environmental regulations, Peachtree City must develop a stormwater management program. A consultant will be hired to evaluate the system and develop a plan to manage it. The City Council approved spending an additional $25,000 for the study at its regular meeting last week. The consultant will evaluate current spending on the stormwater system and how to fund future stormwater improvements. City officials have discussed the possibility of creating a stormwater utility and assessing a minimal charge on local residents to fund the maintenance of the system which is currently handled by the city's public works department. There was also speculation that the city's Water and Sewer Authority would take over the stormwater maintenance duties since much of the equipment it has could be used, avoiding the need to purchase much new equipment. City Engineer Troy Besseche said the city is aware of flooding problems in several areas of town but the study should identify any such trouble spots. Mayor Bob Lenox said the city is fortunate because its stormwater system isn't as old as those found in other cities. In studying the city's stormwater system, the consultant will also conduct a series of public meetings to develop a direction for the program. The consultant will be expected to file a report at the end of February so the information can be presented to council at its annual retreat. Besseche said the state Environmental Protection Division expects the program to be implemented in 2003, but there are indications that date could be delayed.
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