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Meramec Funding Sources

Watershed Improvement District

Watershed Improvement District

Aug. 1, 2019
By WSU EFC

Story summary:

  • A Watershed Improvement District is a special taxing district, governed by an appointed board of trustees, that implements projects that protect the watershed and prevent flood damage.

Quick Facts

Mission of a Watershed Improvement District
To carry out watershed protection and flood prevention program, to prevent floodwater and sediment damage, and for furthering the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water.

Powers of a Watershed Improvement District
Acquire lands, Construction, Repair, Operate, Improve, Borrow money, Issue bonds, Levy annual tax, and more.

Benefits of a Watershed Improvement District
Proceeds collected can be used for a broad range of public purposes – including stormwater infrastructure

Focus costs only on those benefiting from the services

Allows local residents to obtain expanded services they want at a price they are willing to pay 

Drawbacks of a Watershed Improvement District
Adds another layer of government

Adds another layer of taxes and taxing districts

May deter businesses or residents

Lack a long-lasting example in Missouri

About

A Watershed Improvement District (WID) is a separate political subdivision that collaborates to generate funds and implement projects that improve the watershed – reduce erosion, flooding, sediment damages and project the water supply.

To generate funds for project implementation, operation or maintenance the trustees may levy an annual tax on property within the district. The tax cannot exceed 40 cents per $100 in

WIDs are governed by a nine-member board of trustees appointed by the county commission. All services to properties are voluntary.

Missouri state statues that govern the powers, establishment and disestablishment of a WID can be found in Chapters 249.1150, 249.1155.

Consult your municipal attorney prior to moving forward with Watershed Improvement District opportunity.

 

Contact Info

Consult your community’s attorney and financial advisors prior to moving forward with any of these funding options. Any reference in this website to any person, or organization, or activities, products, or services related to such person or organization, or any linkages from this website to the website of another party, do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of companies or organizations.
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