(A) Uncontrolled stormwater drainage/discharge may have a significant adverse impact on the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the county. More specifically, surface water runoff can carry pollutants and sediment pollution into receiving waters. The potential impacts include:
(1) Changing natural ecosystems through the destruction of habitat and the loss of plant and animal life;
(2) Posing significant health risks through an increase in bacteria and toxic materials;
(3) Accelerating eutrophication of receiving waters by introducing excessive nutrients;
(4) Increasing metal deposits creating toxicity for aquatic life;
(5) Reducing oxygen levels because of oil, grease and organic matter;
(6) Affecting animal and plant life, adversely, due to changing temperatures of receiving waters; and
(7) Accumulation of excess sediment and/or debris that limits the function of flood control infrastructure.
(B) Adverse water quantity and quality consequences described above may result in substantial economic losses. Potential losses include, but are not limited to, increased wastewater treatment costs, diminished property values, as well as state and federal fines associated with water quality violations.
(C) Every parcel of property, both private and public, either uses or benefits from the county’s stormwater system.
(D) Current and anticipated growth will contribute to and increase the need for an effective stormwater system.
(Ord. 20-2004, passed 12-16-2004)