Stormwater update

On February 28, Morrisville Town Council passed Ordinance 2012-007 that updated regulations regarding stormwater run-off. While some of the ordinance improved the steps for compliance, particularly with nutrient management, other parts of the ordinance around the design of stormwater retention and treatment would have significantly impacted new development and redevelopment. Thanks to the Chamber's actions, the legislation was changed to remove the cost implications while maintaining water quality.

The Town of Morrisville also passed ordinance 2012-007 that allows the Town of Morrisville to set up a stormwater fee. The Morrisville Chamber will remain engaged in the process to insure that business is represented in the discussions.

Town portal for on stormwater

2012 Legislative Agenda

The Morrisville Chamber of Commerce advocates for businesses primarily at the local level and, as needed, at the state and federal level. The Chamber uses three guiding principles in considering taking positions on issues.

For issues pertaining to the Morrisville Chamber only, position papers available are posted as live links affiliated with the issue.

Principle 1: Maintain and grow opportunities for Morrisville businesses

Support the Morrisville Chamber’s economic development strategy with funding for marketing and research.
Review signage ordinances to improve business visibility and marketability.
Economic development and creation of new jobs is a top priority. We support maintaining economic development efforts including regional efforts, small business support and performance incentives.¹

Principle 2: Reduce the cost of doing business

Support the concept of Ordinance 2012-007 dealing with storm water regulations but include clarification language.
(Ordinance passed 2.28.12 and technical changes addressing clarification language will be proposed in the coming months)
Support streamlining the approval and permitting process to reduce the cost of doing business and to eliminate uncertainty that stifles business growth and development.
Oppose efforts to weaken North Carolina’s right-to-work status, such as allowing public employees the right to collectively bargain.¹
Undertake a comprehensive review of the regulatory environment to identify areas that impede or slow job growth and business success. Examples of areas of focus could include undue environmental regulation, unneeded administrative permitting delays, barriers to businesses to negotiate reduced health care/health insurance cost, and others identified through business community input.¹

Principle 3: Manage growth and support infrastructure improvements so that the marketability of the area is maintained and improved

Request that the vote on storm water funding, including the mechanism for funding, be postponed until information is available on the Town’s plan of action and expected results. The Chamber also maintains its position requesting that a fee structure be considered that takes into consideration current compliance.
(Ordinance 2012-003 setting up the funding mechanism passed 2.28.12. Discussion of whether or not to have a fee and if so what it would to occur through 2013 budget process for a June vote)
Address the seven corridors in Morrisville that have received a rating of F through lobbying efforts at the state and federal levels and consideration of local funding options.
Support the regional plan for transit.

1 These items are part of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership's legislative agenda. For the the complete list, click here.