LEXINGTON – The Lexington–Fayette Urban County Government’s Water Quality Fees Board elected new leadership and received an extensive briefing on the city’s stormwater incentive grant program during its meeting Thursday morning.
Board members unanimously elected David Lowe as chair and confirmed a vice chair to begin the 2026 calendar year, following the expiration of the previous chair’s term. The board also approved minutes from its Oct. 9 meeting, with a minor correction related to the length of service of the outgoing chair.
Much of the meeting focused on an overview and status update of the incentive grant program, which is funded by 10% of annual water quality management fee revenues. Staff told the board the fee generates roughly $18 million per year, with about $1.8 million annually available for grants aimed at reducing stormwater runoff, improving water quality and addressing localized flooding.
Single-family and farm properties pay a flat monthly fee under the program, while commercial and other non-residential properties are charged based on impervious surface area. Large institutions and developments can pay tens of thousands of dollars per month, staff said, making them among the largest contributors to the fund.
Staff outlined several changes planned for 2026, including a shift to fully online grant applications, expanded outreach and marketing efforts, and new office hours to help prospective applicants navigate the process. Officials said the changes are intended to reverse a recent decline in applications, even as available funding remains steady.
The board also reviewed the annual grant cycle timeline, which typically spans about six months from application deadlines to final approvals and notices to proceed. Certain meetings — including those where grant recommendations are approved — require a quorum of board members.
An update on active, completed and expiring grants showed more than 260 awards have been issued since the program’s creation. Staff said most project cancellations or delays are driven by economic pressures, staffing changes or leadership turnover within neighborhood associations, particularly for multi-year projects overseen by volunteer boards.
Several board members praised the program and staff during closing remarks, describing it as an effective and well-run example of local government collaboration.
No residents offered public comment during the meeting.
The board adjourned shortly after 9:30 a.m.
