This case study focuses on the Phase I Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) municipalities, in the Mid-Atlantic region, where 19 of the 25 municipalities have implemented stormwater utility fees (SUF). These 25 municipalities are distributed across the states within the Chesapeake Bay region. Specifically, Maryland has 7 municipalities with the utility, representing 87.5% of the state permits. Virginia has 9 municipalities, constituting 81.82% of the state's permits, Pennsylvania has 2 municipalities, representing 100% of the state's permits, and the District of Columbia. The study will examine SUF revenue generation and expenditure patterns. It also investigates trends related to parameters like population size, annual rainfall amounts, and others. To ensure an analysis of revenue allocation the study categorizes expenditures into distinct categories. This approach allows the analysis made to be uniform and consistent, consequently resulting in a more meaningful insight into the allocation of stormwater utility fees. The findings and evaluations presented in this study provide information, for policymakers, environmental stakeholders, and the wider public. By promoting public awareness regarding the allocation and utilization of SUF funds, the municipality will promote transparency and strengthen public engagement in environmental management.
