As noted previously, financial resources will likely be needed to plan and implement many of the strategies set forth in this Plan. Among these resources are loans, grants, technical assistance, fundraising, and in-kind services. Funding is available from numerous governmental and non-governmental agencies, as well as private interests. Other stormwater financing options that are becoming more prevalent include taxes, fees, special assessments and bonds. Creative financing, whereby a mix of resources are combined to carry out stormwater planning and implementation projects, will likely be a beneficial avenue to pursue.
Appendix F contains information on an array of local, State, and Federal financial resources. It also includes a brief description of, and links to, guidance documents, casestudies, and training materials that can assist local governments and other stakeholders in understanding the many available funding options for stormwater projects.
When seeking funding, it is important to keep in mind that projects that have been identified in an adopted/approved plan, regional projects, and projects needed to meet permit obligations are often ranked higher. Also in-kind services can often be used to meet grant match requirements. This can range from services provided by the local municipality to services provided by other organizations.
With regard to fundraising, it may be advantageous to have a fiscal sponsorship. Through a fiscal sponsorship, a municipality or organized group can raise funds as charitable contributions without the necessity of obtaining its own 501(c)(3) status. This can serve as an impetus to stimulate project interest and donations. A fiscal sponsorship also allows municipalities/organizations to access grant funds requiring a 501(c)3 applicant. The Community Foundation of York is one entity to pursue for a fiscal sponsorship. Another is the Partnership for Economic Development of York County (PEDYC), however, it only acts as a fiscal sponsor for economic and community development projects in the County that support the goals of the York County Economic Development Plan. There is potential for some stormwater BMP projects to be considered a community or economic development project, particularly when it is a park, parking area, or business area improvement project.
Additionally, many service organizations are available to assist with project implementation, which can result in cost savings. Among these organizations are watershed associations, boy scouts, girl scouts, 4-H clubs, senior centers, church youth groups, civic groups, and environmental organizations. Also, the York County Prison has a program through which supervised inmates can assist with various types of projects.
