Flood Control - Santa Cruz LAFCO

Santa Cruz LAFCO: Countywide Service Review
Flood Protection and Stormwater Services
6) Shared Facilities
The Santa Cruz County Flood Control & Water Conservation District provides major storm drain services
through Zone 5.
7) Rate Restructuring
The City of Capitola currently does not charge any fees for drainage services. The City is evaluating
establishing a drainage utility fee to pay for NPDES compliance, maintenance and capital improvements.
8) Government Structure Options
The City of Capitola provides drainage services through its Public Works Department. No other
government structure options were identified.
9) Local Accountability and Governance
Drainage services are addressed by the Capitola City Council during regular meetings. Public notice is
provided for all meetings. Information on the Public Works Department and stormwater programs is
provided on the City’s website.
– City of Santa Cruz –
1) Population and Growth
Population within the City of Santa Cruz is expected to reach 63,987 by 2030 with an annual growth rate
of 0.5%.
Portions of the City are within the 100-year floodplain of the San Lorenzo River. Growth will result in
continued need for comprehensive flood protection and stormwater management services.
2) Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies
The City of Santa Cruz operates and maintains its stormwater collection system and maintains the US
Army Corps of Engineers levee system on the San Lorenzo River. Some infrastructure improvements are
needed in the stormwater collection system.
The City has constructed two new storm drains and has constructed several infrastructure projects to
reduce flooding in localized areas.
The City has addressed its stormwater system needs in the City’s Capital Improvement Program.
The City is implementing a Stormwater Management Plan in conformance with its Phase II NPDES
permit.
June 2005 – Public Review Draft Section 5 - 20