Title
To recognize and celebrate October 1 - 7, 2024 as Stormwater Awareness Week.
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WHEREAS, stormwater management is a critical component of the City of Columbus’ One Water approach, which integrates drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems to ensure sustainable water resources for current and future generations; and
WHEREAS, effective stormwater management helps reduce flooding, protect water quality, and promote the health and safety of residents, businesses, and the natural environment; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus is facing the effects of climate change, including more intense storms, and is committed to taking action to fight and adapt to these effects through the Columbus Climate Action Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus is committed to advancing its stormwater initiatives through collaboration among multiple city departments, each contributing to the success of stormwater programs and the overall well-being of our community; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus Department of Public Utilities provides leadership in ensuring stormwater systems are properly maintained and equipped to meet environmental regulations, protecting the city’s water resources and public health; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus Department of Public Service plays a vital role in maintaining and enhancing the city’s infrastructure, such as streets, drainage systems, and public rights-of-way, and conducts street sweeping to prevent debris from entering stormwater systems, ensuring effective stormwater management; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus Department of Finance and Management plays a vital role in ensuring the financial stability and support for citywide stormwater management projects, enabling continued investment to sustainable infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department improves stormwater quality by protecting and preserving green space, incorporating green infrastructure, enhancing tree canopy, creating natural buffers, and promoting public education initiatives; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That the City of Columbus hereby declares the first week of October as Stormwater Awareness Week, and recognizes the hard work, dedication, and cross-collaboration the City of Columbus departments to keep our city’s waterways clean to support a thriving city today and a prosperous future.