A change in the monthly fee for the Municipal Drainage Utility System is reflected on your October 2019 utility bill. This fee is calculated based on your property’s zoning, lot size and impervious area. The average increase for residential properties is about $2.50. For other zoning categories, please view this chart. This is the first time the drainage fee has increased since the Municipal Drainage Utility System was established in 1991.
The purpose of the Municipal Drainage Utility System is to protect citizens from loss of life and property caused by flooding. The drainage fee is dedicated to the maintenance of the city’s existing storm water drainage system, as well as the design and installation of new drainage infrastructure where needed.
Notice of the proposed fee change was published in the Fort Worth Star Telegram and on the city's website and a public hearing was conducted at the August 26, 2019 City Council Meeting prior to approval by the City Council.
The fee change was necessary because drainage project needs have outpaced available drainage system funding. Without the increase, the Municipal Drainage Utility System was projected to experience a $2 million funding shortfall over the next 5 years and a $25 million shortfall over the next 20 years. While the increase will not address all of the projected drainage needs, it will allow the city to use a pay-as-you-go strategy to fund short- to mid-term drainage capital projects instead of relying on the issuance of debt.
A survey of 10 area cities completed earlier this year found the average basic drainage fee to be $5.57.
For more information about the Municipal Drainage Utility System fee, please see the August 26, 2019 City Council Meeting memorandum and watch the meeting video.
Questions about the Municipal Drainage Utility System can be directed to Public Works at 817-427-6400.