COUNCIL WATER COMMITTEE
STORMWATER PROP 218 PUBLIC OUTREACH
ITEM 26-0026
January 8, 2026
Stormwater Rate Study
Today’s Presentation
Receive information regarding the public outreach approach for the stormwater rate setting process Request feedback and input on the proposed public outreach approach
Challenges to be Addressed
3 Current stormwater utility rate revenues do not adequately fund the cost to provide reliable service Operations and maintenance
Emergency repairs
Capital improvement projects
Regulatory compliance
Aging stormwater infrastructure at risk for failures
Stormwater master plan:
Identified and evaluated flooding concerns
Developed CIP projects to alleviate flooding
Support future development
Proposition 218 Process
Upon City Council acceptance of the Study,
Direct staff to send customer notification outlining proposed rates for protest hearing Review and count protests
Council may move forward with proposed rates if no majority protest (50% + 1) If no majority protest (<50%)
Direct staff to send ballot to customers and set public hearing If majority (>50%) of ballots received are in favor
City Council may approve the Study and implement proposed rates
Proposed Stormwater Rate Schedule
January 27, 2026: City Council meeting/set public hearing Feb. 3, 2026: Protest Notice Mailed
March 31 , 2026 : Public (protest) hearing
April 25 , 2026 : Ballots Mailed
June 9 , 2026 : Public Hearing and Ballot Tally
5 Key Messages - Topline
Stockton’s stormwater system protects public health and safety.
Our stormwater system is at a breaking point.
Current rate revenues don’t cover the total cost of providing reliable service.
Without new funding, Stockton faces a growing stormwater utility fund deficit, leading to service cuts, system failures and increased threats to public health and safety.
The city is proposing a gradual, five-year rate adjustment starting in fiscal year 2027 (July 1, 2026).
Even with the proposed five-year adjustment, Stockton’s stormwater rate will remain lower than many cities in the region. 6 7
Outreach/Communication Efforts
Online open house
Community meeting
Business/Civic group presentations
Meetings with Commercial/Industrial properties
Mailings
Protest notice
“Gap mailer” (between protest hearing & ballot mailing) Ballot package (ballot and ballot information guide)
Social media
Traditional media
Online Open House - Demo
Next Steps
9 Present findings and proposed rates to City Council and set public hearing and mail notice if directed Begin public outreach
Online open house
In person meetings
Mailings and social media
Questions and Discussion
Online Open House – Demo (cont’d)
Online Open House - Demo (cont’d)
Online Open House - Demo (cont’d)
Online Open House - Demo (cont’d)