Calling on City Council

An important milestone in the health of our Rivers was reached last year when DHEC issued what is called a MS4 permit to the City of Columbia that requires it to regulate stormwater runoff within its city limits.  The City is the last of the three largest local governments in the Midlands to obtain this permit.  Lexington County and Richland County have been working to control stormwater pollution for five years or more. The City's permit requires it to revise its existing stormwater ordinance to make it consistent with its permit.  Final reading of the revised ordinance will take place on December 20, 2011. 

We commend the City's stormwater staff for their professionalism, competence and willingness to engage stakeholders in the revision process. However, as currently drafted, this ordinance represents a missed opportunity for City Council to show its commitment to clean water.  Congaree Riverkeeper proposes new language that establishes policy objectives within the ordinance, including a requirement to establish stream buffers consistent with stream buffer regulations of contiguous local governments, among other things.  We believe our proposal presents a golden opportunity for City Council to make clear policy statements regarding watershed protection that establishes important policies and sets the tone and direction of the City's efforts to protect our rivers.  Take a look at our proposed revisions here.  Check back periodically to see if we've made any edits or further additions.  Call or email your City Council Member and ask him/her to stand for our rivers by adopting our proposed changes.