(a) The council finds that:
(1) (A) Heavy rain storms have periodically created destructive floods in certain areas of the city threatening the lives of its inhabitants and causing heavy damage to property;
(B) The continued development of these areas without providing adequate drainage and appropriate flood control measures would only aggravate the conditions conducive to flooding; and
(C) Every effort should be made to minimize flood damage potential and to protect the lives and property of the inhabitants of the city.
(2) There is a growing need to protect our city’s natural watercourses and other vital water resources from contamination and pollution.
(3) Natural methods of drainage and soil infiltration, which absorb and slowly release runoff, are preferred methods of stormwater management.
(b) Therefore, the council deems it necessary to enact the ordinance codified in this article for the sound, economic development of the city and in the interests of the health, safety, and general welfare of the inhabitants of the city.
(Sec. 16-6.1, R.O. 1978 (1987 Supp. to 1983 Ed.)) (1990 Code, Ch. 14, Art. 12, § 14-12.1) (Am. Ord. 96-34)