FAQs • Chesapeake, VA • CivicEngage

Why was the rate increased in the first place?: The Stormwater Utility Fee was increased to maintain current levels of services and in response to requests from the community for more improvements to the stormwater system. With more than 2,700 miles of open ditch, nearly 1,100 miles of underground pipe, and nearly 37,000 drainage structures throughout the City, the previous rate could not properly fund these projects. Additionally, the Stormwater Utility Fee has not changed since 2010 so the increase will help meet current economic demands.

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June 2023 Stormwater Utility Fee Bill

1. Why was the rate increased in the first place?: The Stormwater Utility Fee was increased to maintain current levels of services and in response to requests from the community for more improvements to the stormwater system. With more than 2,700 miles of open ditch, nearly 1,100 miles of underground pipe, and nearly 37,000 drainage structures throughout the City, the previous rate could not properly fund these projects. Additionally, the Stormwater Utility Fee has not changed since 2010 so the increase will help meet current economic demands.

2. What happened that caused the December 2022 bill to be incorrect?: Technical limitations in the City’s billing system caused a delay in the programming of the new rates. Because this is the first rate increase since 2010, we were unaware that these limitations existed. Staff was able to troubleshoot the issue and the new rate is now active in the system. Complete modernization of the City’s billing system is currently underway as part of a planned Capital Improvement Project. This substantial project is scheduled to be complete in 2025.

3. Why can't you start the rate increase January 1, 2023 and forget about what wasn't collected?: Chesapeake City Council approved the rate increase to start on July 1, 2022. By not starting the increase on that date, the Comprehensive Stormwater Management Program would have a $4.4 million deficit, leading to significant delays or cancellations of critical stormwater projects.

4. What if I already paid my June 2023 bill?: If you already paid $68.10 (for residential accounts) towards the June 2023 bill using the online payment system, you will only need to pay $24 by June 5, 2023. Your online payment account and your paper bill will reflect this.

5. What if I can't afford to pay my bill?: While there aren’t any hardship programs specific to stormwater bills, we encourage anyone having trouble paying their bills to reach out to the Chesapeake Treasurer’s office to discuss options.

6. What if I didn't own my property for the entire billing period of July 1 - Dec. 31, 2022?: If you purchased your property between July 1 and December 31 of 2022, please contact the Division of Stormwater Management at 757-382-3330.

7. Will this increase also affect my water bill?: Stormwater and drinking water are two separate things. The Stormwater Utility Fee has no impact on your water and sewer bill. For information on your water and sewer bill, contact Public Utilities.

8. What time frame does this bill cover?: While Stormwater Utility Fees are monthly charges, they are billed once every six months. The bill due in June 2023 covers six months of Stormwater Utility Fees, January - June 2023, plus the not previously billed portion of the June-December 2022 bill. For residential customers, this equates to $68.10 + $24 = $92.10 due in June 2023.