Stormwater Fee & Infrastructure Information
Meridian Service Metropolitan District’s stormwater program is guided by applicable federal and state regulations designed to protect water quality and public infrastructure.
These regulations include:
Federal
State of Colorado
MSMD monitors applicable regulations and guidance to ensure stormwater facilities are operated and maintained in accordance with current standards.
The Stormwater Fee was established to create a dedicated, reliable, long-term funding source specifically for stormwater system operations, maintenance, capital improvements, and regulatory compliance.
Historically, stormwater costs were funded through operating budgets and available reserves. As infrastructure has aged, development has expanded, and regulatory requirements have increased; these costs have grown.
The Stormwater Fee allows the District to:
- Plan responsibly for long-term infrastructure needs
- Perform routine maintenance and inspections
- Fund major rehabilitation projects
- Meet state and federal regulatory requirements
This fee provides the resources necessary to meet these requirements and support responsible long-term stewardship of the community’s stormwater system.
Stormwater Fee revenue supports the ongoing operation, maintenance, and long-term sustainability of the District’s stormwater system.
Operations & Maintenance
- Routine and annual inspections
- Sediment and debris removal
- Vegetation management
- Maintenance of inlets, outlets, and conveyance systems
Capital Improvements & Rehabilitation
- Repair or replacement of aging stormwater infrastructure
- Structural repairs to detention ponds and outlet structures
- Restoration of pond storage capacity
- Full detention pond rehabilitation is typically required every 15–20 years
Regulatory Compliance
- Pollution prevention practices
- Water quality protection efforts
- Required documentation, inspections, and reporting
The Meridian Service Metropolitan District maintains stormwater infrastructure throughout the community, including 10 ponds that total approximately 50 acres.
These facilities are designed to:
- Temporarily store stormwater during rain and snowmelt events
- Release runoff at a controlled rate
- Reduce downstream flooding and erosion
- Protect roads, homes, and other infrastructure
Stormwater infrastructure requires ongoing inspection, maintenance, and periodic rehabilitation to function as designed.
Stormwater and wastewater are separate systems with different purposes and funding structures.
Stormwater
- Rainwater and snowmelt
- Flows over streets, sidewalks, and developed surfaces
- Collected by storm drains and detention ponds
- Not treated before entering waterways
Wastewater
- Indoor water from sinks, toilets, and showers
- Collected through sanitary sewer systems
- Treated at a wastewater treatment facility
Because these systems are different, they are managed and funded separately.
The stormwater system serves the entire community by managing runoff from streets, rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, and other developed areas.
Even when runoff does not originate from a single property, all developed properties rely on a functioning stormwater system to:
- Reduce flood risk
- Protect roads and utilities
- Prevent erosion
- Meet regulatory requirements
Properly maintained stormwater infrastructure supports public safety, environmental protection, and long-term community resilience.
Questions about stormwater or the Stormwater Fee may be directed to the District office. Policy decisions are made by the Board of Directors during public meetings, and residents are welcome to attend or submit comments.