Title
NPDES Municipal Stormwater Permit 2024-2029 Re-Issuance
Recommended Action
Briefing Only
Report
Issue:
Briefing on the process and proposed 2024-2029 NPDES Municipal Stormwater Permit reissuance process and potential new requirements.
Staff Contact:
Timmie Maturan-Lee, Environmental Services Supervisor, 360.742.2620
Jesse Barham, Water Resources Director, 360.753.8164
Presenters:
Timmie Maturan-Lee
Background and Analysis:
The City’s drainage system is regulated under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Phase II Stormwater Permit for Western Washington, administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology). This Ecology permit program is authorized by the 1972 federal Clean Water Act with the Environmental Protection Agency authority delegated to Ecology. The permit requires local jurisdictions that operate a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) to develop and implement a broad array of stormwater management planning, regulatory and operational programs to protect downstream receiving waters. Every five years the permit is reissued, often with new and updated requirements.
The new permit will be finalized July 1 and effective August 1, 2024, Staff will provide the UAC with a brief overview of Ecology’s NPDES update process to date and the likely new requirements and status of City programs in meeting the potential new and updated permit requirements over the next five years.
Climate Analysis:
This analysis only covers one aspect of the NPDES permit requirements and is provided as an example of how climate is considered in the permit required programs.
Our education and outreach programs have recently introduced a pilot curriculum for middle school students, offering hands-on engagement opportunities. This program, known as Stormwater Week, brings an educational experience directly to secondary schools, eliminating the need to bus children around town. This approach enhances safety and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
This analysis only covers one aspect of the NPDES permit requirements and is provided as an example of how equity is considered in the permit required programs. Overburdened communities are also a focal audience for many of the education and outreach and public involvement aspects of the permit.
In 2023, staff worked with regional partners to update the Construction Stormwater Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Pocket Guide through transcreation of the guide into Spanish. This effort reflects our commitment to inclusivity and raising awareness. Staff have recognized the importance of further updating other materials through transcreation into multiple languages.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Protecting local waterways from pollution is important to many community stakeholders and neighborhoods. Regulatory compliance with the Clean Water Act is also a requirement for the city and protects local marine and freshwater bodies.
Options:
N/A
Financial Impact:
N/A
Attachment:
Link to Ecology permit reissuance website