Fitchburg’s common council approved a 5% increase to the stormwater utility rate after a three-year evaluation; the city said most single-family homes should expect an annual increase of about $3 to $5 depending on impervious surface.

City staff told the Resource Conservation Committee that the stormwater utility, created to meet MS4 obligations, may need a rate increase to cover higher construction and maintenance costs; single-family fees are based on a 3,700-sq-ft equivalent runoff unit and any change will return to council for formal approval.

Staff briefed the RCC on Stormwater Awareness Week (Sept. 19–27), suggested a proclamation to the mayor, promoted native‑plant education and webinars, and proposed a goal campaign (20–25 new adoptors) plus watch‑parties and QR‑enabled outreach at recycling events.