(A) Whereas, the community's municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) receives discharges that are not composed entirely of stormwater runoff causing increased nonpoint source pollution and receiving water degradation.
(B) Whereas, surface water runoff can carry pollutants into receiving waters, and uncontrolled stormwater drainage and/or discharges may have significant adverse impacts on the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the town, the potential impacts of these pollutants and pollution may include:
(1) Adverse impacts to public health and safety, drinking water supplies, recreation, fish and other aquatic life, property values and other land and water uses;
(2) Changing natural ecosystems through the destruction of habitat, and the loss of plant and animal life;
(3) Posing significant health risks through an increase in bacteria and toxic materials;
(4) Accelerating eutrophication of receiving waters by introducing excessive nutrients;
(5) Increasing metal deposits creating toxicity for aquatic life;
(6) Reducing instream oxygen levels because of oil, grease and organic matter; and
(7) Affecting animal and plant life, adversely, due to changing temperatures of receiving waters.
(C) Whereas, the adverse water quality consequences described above may result in substantial economic losses. Potential losses include, but are not limited to, increased drinking water and wastewater treatment costs and diminished property values, as well as state and federal fines associated with water quality violations.
(D) Whereas, every parcel of property, both private and public, either uses or benefits from the town's stormwater system.
(E) Whereas, current and anticipated growth will contribute to and increase the need for an effective stormwater system.
(Ord. 2004-SW-01, passed 11-9-04)