Douglas County to Present Stormwater Rate Study at April 16 Board Meeting, Host Community Workshop for Public Input
Douglas County, NV – Douglas County is inviting residents, property owners, and stakeholders to participate in a Board of County Commissioners meeting and community workshop on April 16, 2026, to review and provide input on initial recommendations from the County’s Stormwater Utility Rate Study.
The Board will receive initial rate study recommendations during its April 16 meeting, which begins at 10 a.m. at the Historic Courthouse in Minden. The stormwater item is the first item to be heard on the administrative agenda. Following the Board meeting, a community workshop will be held in the dining room at the Douglas County Community & Senior Center from 5–7 p.m. The workshop provides an additional opportunity for residents to review information, ask questions, and provide feedback on the preliminary recommendations.
The rate study is being conducted by Financial Consulting Solutions Group, Inc. (FCS Group), a national firm specializing in utility rate development and financial planning.
This workshop represents the next step in an ongoing public engagement process focused on addressing Douglas County’s long-standing stormwater and flood management challenges and identifying sustainable funding options.
“This workshop is an important step in a community conversation that has been underway for several years,” said Stormwater Program Manager Courtney Walker. “We’ll be discussing early rate study recommendations and asking for public feedback before any decisions are made. Community input is essential to shaping a program that is fair, transparent, and responsive to local priorities.”
Building on Ongoing Community Engagement
The April 16 workshop builds on extensive public outreach and planning efforts conducted during the past several years, including:
- Stormwater Master Plan public workshops
- Countywide community stormwater workshop
- Mini-presentations across Douglas County communities
- Meetings with the agricultural community and stakeholder groups
- Board of County Commissioners public discussions and direction
These efforts have helped identify community priorities and inform development of potential funding options.
“Stormwater affects every part of Douglas County—from neighborhoods and businesses to roads, ranches, and natural areas,” Walker said. “We’ve been working to meet people where they are, answer questions, and understand what matters most to the community as we evaluate long‑term funding options.”
In December 2025, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved Resolution 2025R-102 establishing a Stormwater Enterprise Fund and directed staff to develop a county-wide stormwater utility with an equitable fee structure. The Board also approved a contract with FCS Group to conduct a utility formation and rate revenue analysis.
County Manager Jenifer Davidson said the rate study is intended to provide data‑driven options for both the Board and the public to consider.
“Douglas County has made significant progress planning for stormwater and flood management, but funding has not kept pace with the need,” Davidson said. “This study helps us evaluate what it takes to maintain infrastructure, reduce flood risk, and meet regulatory requirements, while also ensuring the community has a voice in how those services are funded.”
Addressing Stormwater Challenges
Douglas County’s stormwater system supports roads, neighborhoods, businesses, and natural resources across the region. County officials say dedicated funding would help maintain infrastructure, address flooding concerns, and support long‑term planning efforts.
Assistant County Manager Wendy Lang emphasized the importance of long‑term planning and sustainability.
“Stormwater infrastructure is critical to protecting homes, businesses, and public assets,” Lang said. “We’ve identified priorities through planning efforts and community input. Now we’re working with residents to determine how to sustainably fund those priorities and ensure the system continues to serve Douglas County into the future.”
Meeting and Workshop Details
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Historic Courthouse
1616 8th St, Minden, NV 89423
Meeting begins at 10 a.m. Stormwater item to be heard first on the administrative agenda
Stormwater Utility Rate Study Workshop
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Community Center Dining Room
1329 Waterloo Lane, Gardnerville
Workshop: 5–7 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to drop in during the workshop to review information, ask questions, and provide feedback. County staff and FCS Group representatives will be available to discuss the rate study and answer questions.
Public input gathered during the workshop will be used to refine options and inform future Board discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a stormwater utility?
A stormwater utility is a dedicated funding mechanism used by local governments to maintain and improve stormwater infrastructure, reduce flooding risks, and meet regulatory requirements.
Why is Douglas County considering a stormwater utility?
Douglas County faces long-standing flooding challenges, aging infrastructure, and regulatory requirements. Current funding from the General Fund is limited and must compete with other priorities such as road maintenance and public safety.
Has a rate structure already been set?
No. The Board of County Commissioners directed staff to develop options and conduct public outreach. Community feedback will help shape recommendations before any rates are set.
Who is conducting the rate study?
Financial Consulting Solutions Group (FCS Group), a professional consulting firm specializing in utility rate analysis and financial planning, is conducting the study.
Where can I learn more?
Residents can learn more about Douglas County’s stormwater planning and outreach efforts by clicking here.