Stockton to put proposed stormwater rate increases to voters after hearing

The Stockton City Council on March 31 directed staff to move a proposed stormwater rate transition plan to a mailed Proposition 218 ballot after hearing a presentation from Utilities staff and their rate study consultant.

Utilities deputy director Jeff Morasevich and consultant Sean Korn (HDR) explained that stormwater rates have not increased since 1992 and that the utility faces an anticipated operations and maintenance shortfall and a roughly $285 million capital improvement backlog to address aging pipes, pump stations and detention basins. The study translated revenue needs into an equivalent‑unit rate for single‑family homes and proposed a phased increase beginning with a first‑year adjustment to approximately $3.85 and a five‑year target of $8.10 per equivalent unit.

Officials noted that the initial year of the proposed transition is driven by an immediate need to restore reserves and support identified capital projects. Staff outlined an outreach plan including an online open house, mailed ballots and in‑person community meetings. The city clerk reported 45 written protests had been returned from 84,871 mailed notices — far below the threshold needed to block the ballot (50%+1). The council voted to proceed to the mailed ballot process and to set the follow‑up public hearing date in June; the motion carried 7–0.

Council members repeatedly emphasized public education and district outreach before ballots are due. Vice Mayor Lee and others encouraged additional town‑hall style meetings in hard‑hit neighborhoods and offered to help publicize materials and host local events.