County sustainability office argues updated stormwater reimbursements will expand participation; supporters cite equity

Julie Constantino of Howard County’s Office of Community Sustainability presented Council Resolution 35, which updates reimbursement rates for residential and nonresidential on‑site stormwater best‑management practices.

Constantino said the update is part of a larger revamp that combines two existing residential programs into a simpler program to broaden contractor participation and reduce cost barriers for homeowners. "The current reimbursement rates do not reflect actual costs...the proposed rate increases will remove financial barriers and allow for participation by a diversity of income levels," she told the council.

The proposal includes a 100% reimbursement (a $1 charge) for homeowners with household incomes at 250% of the federal poverty level or below, an equity measure that supporters highlighted. Lori Lilly, Executive Director of EcoWorks, testified in favor of CR 35 and stressed the environmental need in areas like the Ellicott City watershed. "CR35 brings an equity lens to the reimbursement rate schedule by providing 100% reimbursement to those with a household income at 250% or less of poverty level," she said.

Administration staff said the changes would use existing funds and not require additional county funding; the hearing record included no substantive questions from council on the proposal.