Bowling Green to Implement New Stormwater Utility Fee in 2027
Property owners in Bowling Green, Kentucky, will be subject to a new stormwater utility fee starting in the first quarter of 2027. This initiative aims to fund stormwater infrastructure and mitigate damage from flooding, particularly after severe events in 2025.…
Bowling Green, KY, November 9, 2026 —
Bowling Green, Kentucky property owners are set to face a new stormwater utility fee, slated for implementation beginning in the first quarter of 2027. The initiative is designed to generate funding for essential stormwater infrastructure upgrades and to help mitigate the impact of flooding.
The decision comes in the wake of severe weather events experienced in 2025, which highlighted the need for enhanced stormwater management systems within the city. The proposed fee structure aims to provide a sustainable revenue stream dedicated to addressing these critical infrastructure needs.
Under the new plan, residential property owners will see a modest increase, with homeowners expected to pay an additional $4 per month on their utility bills. This flat rate is intended to be an accessible contribution for individual households.
For larger commercial or industrial properties, the fee calculation will differ. These assessments will be based on the amount of impervious surface area present on the property. Impervious surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt, prevent rainwater from soaking into the ground, thereby increasing runoff volume and velocity, which can exacerbate flooding issues.
The exact details regarding the collection mechanism and the specific allocation of funds are expected to be further clarified as the implementation date approaches. City officials have indicated that the revenue generated will be exclusively directed towards projects aimed at improving the city’s capacity to handle stormwater runoff, including maintenance, repair, and expansion of drainage systems.
The introduction of this fee marks a significant step for Bowling Green in its commitment to addressing climate resilience and protecting its residents and infrastructure from the increasing threat of severe weather and its consequences. The utility fee will become a component of property owners’ regular utility statements starting in early 2027.
Story summarized from the original created by Tommy Modeszto on www.wnky.com, see more information here.
