State Representative Jim Struzzi has introduced legislation that would change the way municipalities handle storm water management.
House bills 1287 and 1288 would amend the Third Class Cities Code, Borough Code, First Class Township Code and Incorporated Towns Act to allow local governments to plan, design and construct storm water management systems and direct surface water runoff. The legislation also makes it easier for municipalities to deal with increasing storm water regulations put in place by the PA Department of Environmental Protection. Municipalities would also be able to address those issues without creating a storm water authority, which will save them money.
Struzzi worked with officials in Indiana Borough to move the legislation forward. He said that increased issues with storm water management have resulted in property damage and decreased home values, and the legislation would allow local governments more flexibility in addressing key infrastructure needs.
