Mayor Defends Stormwater Fees | Indianapolis News

Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam is defending the city’s stormwater system against calls for steep fee hikes, arguing that flooding in areas like Concord Village stems more from private landscaping and fencing than infrastructure failure. While Council President Matthew Snyder proposed a $3.15 monthly fee to fund $16-18 million in upgrades, Finkam insists the system is in great shape—with 97% of pipes rated “excellent”—and that improvements will be decided by the Board of Public Works. Residents still shoulder sidewalk repairs via a 50% city match. Councilor Jeff Worrell warned the fee jump is too fast without more data. Finkam also confirmed no plans to extend Richland Avenue, and instead, the city will focus on cost-effective upgrades like asphalt paving, flashing crosswalks, and water main replacements—all while balancing budgets amid falling property tax revenue. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/01d020ebc21792fc