Stormwater Management Fee & Infrastructure Information
Welcome to the District’s Stormwater Information Center. This page provides detailed information about the Stormwater Management Fee, why it exists, what it funds, and how it ensures the long-term safety and compliance of our community
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
- Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) stormwater and water quality standards
- Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program requirements
MSMD monitors applicable regulations and guidance to ensure stormwater facilities are operated and maintained in accordance with current standards.
The Stormwater Management 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 requirements have increased significantly in recent years, and the District must meet updated state and federal standards. At the same time, our drainage infrastructure continues to age, requiring more frequent maintenance and repairs.
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
Until now, stormwater activities have been funded indirectly through the District’s general operations budget, without a dedicated funding source. As requirements and system needs have grown, this approach is no longer sustainable or compliant with regulatory obligations. The new fee ensures we can properly manage stormwater now and into the future.
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.
• Why is there a separate stormwater fee?
Stormwater infrastructure is not funded by water or wastewater charges. A dedicated fee ensures consistent funding for required maintenance, inspections, and regulatory compliance.
• Is this a tax?
No. This is a utility-style fee used only for stormwater system operations, maintenance, and improvements.
• Why do I have to pay?
All properties contribute to stormwater runoff. The system is designed to protect the entire community by managing runoff, reducing flooding risk, and improving water quality.
• Who maintains storm drains and culverts?
MSMD maintains specific stormwater facilities such as detention ponds and waterways.
• Where can I learn more?
Residents can review the Stormwater Fee & Infrastructure page and the Stormwater Fee flyer linked on this page.
Questions about stormwater or the Stormwater Management 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.