Title
Presentation and introduction on the proposed amendments to the Lake County Watershed Development Ordinance (WDO).
Staff Summary
• On March 13, 2019, the Illinois State Water Survey published updated statewide rainfall statistics based on recorded precipitation observations. The intensity and frequency of heavy rainfall events in Lake County have significantly increased, up to 45 percent compared to current outdated standards.
• Over the past 18 months, the Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) and its advisory committees held 24 public meetings to develop, discuss, and approve 29 total amendments. The proposed amendments pertain to increased rainfall, stormwater detention options including incentives for green infrastructure, hydrologic soil groups, wetlands, sediments and erosion control, and administrative items. An optional fee-in-lieu program, supporting amendment Number Three, was approved by SMC for Certified Communities to collect development fees and expend funds for in-the-ground projects to resolve local, inter-jurisdictional, and regional drainage and flooding related problems.
• On July 29, 2020, SMC staff briefly introduced the proposed amendments to the PWPT committee. SMC staff will present additional information and discussion on any or all proposed amendments in the 2020 WDO Amendments attachment. Note: Amendment Number Two is being brought back to SMC on October 1, 2020 to request denial.