New Jersey municipalities are experiencing more frequent and extreme rainfall that is causing flooding and damaging property. It is estimated that $16 billion is needed to properly address stormwater issues in the state. The letter urges Governor Murphy to sign a bill that would allow communities to voluntarily establish stormwater utilities and collect fees dedicated to upgrading stormwater management systems, which would help alleviate flooding and improve water quality while providing an important source of funding. Lower income cities tend to be hardest hit by flooding and polluted runoff.

1. February 26, 2019
The Honorable Phil Murphy
Governor of New Jersey
Office of the Governor
PO Box 001
Trenton, NJ 08625
Dear Governor Murphy,
New Jersey’s municipalities are experiencing more extreme rainfall more frequently as a result
of our changing climate. The increased rainfall causes flooding that shuts down streets,
damages property in homes and businesses, and pollutes our waterways.
It is estimated that $16 billion will be required to properly address stormwater issues in New
Jersey. In addition, 21 municipalities with combined sewer systems are required by the EPA to
upgrade stormwater management systems--an expensive endeavor that requires a steady
revenue source. This is not a unique problem, and over 40 states in the nation have recognized
that enabling municipalities to implement stormwater utilities can dramatically alleviate flooding
and improve water quality.
New Jersey’s legislature passed A2694/S1073 on January 31. This bill would permit
communities to voluntarily establish stormwater utilities which can collect fees that are dedicated
exclusively for stormwater management upgrades. Stormwater utilities provide municipalities
with a tool to address and manage polluted runoff. Access to this funding mechanism is not just
a flooding or pollution issue--it is also an equity issue. Cities with lower income populations such
as Newark, Trenton, and Camden, are hit hardest by the impacts of flooding and polluted runoff,
reducing the quality of life for residents, endangering local businesses, and dampening the
attraction for new businesses to relocate.
New Jersey’s cities and towns deserve the opportunity to address chronic flooding and polluted
runoff. Please sign A2694/S1073 and give our communities that opportunity.
Thank you,
Peter Kasabach
Executive Director
New Jersey Future