It is hereby determined that:
(A) Development alters the hydrologic response of local watersheds and increases stormwater runoff rates and volumes, flooding, soil erosion, stream channel erosion, non-point and point source pollution, and sediment transport and deposition, as well as reducing groundwater recharge;
(B) These changes in stormwater runoff contribute to increased quantities of water-borne pollutants and alterations in hydrology that are harmful to public health and safety as well as to the natural environment;
(C) These effects can be managed and minimized by applying proper design and well-planned controls to manage stormwater runoff from development sites;
(D) Further, the Commission has identified the Neuse River Basin Estuary, as nutrient sensitive waters; has identified all or a portion of the estuary as impaired waters under the federal Clean Water Act due to exceedances of the chlorophyll a standard; and has promulgated rules (the "Neuse River Basin Rules") to reduce the average annual loads of nitrogen delivered to the estuary from all point and nonpoint sources of these nutrients located within its watershed, including stormwater from new development in this jurisdiction; and
(E) Therefore, the Board of Commissioners establishes this set of water quality and quantity regulations to meet the requirements of state and federal law regarding control of stormwater runoff and discharge for development.
(Ord. 23-O-07, passed 4-10-2023)