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5.0 Implementation of the Utility Prior to deciding whether or not to implement a utility, a public involvement program is usually developed in an effort to measure public acceptance of the program. Once public support exists, implementation of a utility will require several steps: • Drafting a final ordinance to provide the legal basis for implementation of the utility. ■ Establish the individual property charges based on acreage, land use, and the rate as established by ordinance. ■ Modification of the current billing procedure. • Create a fund to which utility revenues would be paid into, and from which revenues can be made available for identified expenditures. • Identify the Administrator of the Surface Water Management Utility. The Administrator, typically the Director of Public Works, City Engineer, or City Administrator, is responsible for managing the funds, establishing budgets, and handling rate adjustments. The major effort in administering the utility will be to determine the area and land use category for each parcel in Lino Lakes. Additional effort may be necessary to expand the billing process to include those properties that do not currently receive City water and sewer service. 5.1 Public Acceptance 5.1.1 Public Information Program The storm water utility concept will succeed if it has broad public understanding and support. Additionally, the decision makers and the public must understand the benefits to be derived from such a program. 5.1.1.1 Articles Articles in existing utility billings and in the local newspaper can help explain the program. This "spreading the word" aspect cannot be over emphasized. SEH has prepared a Storm Water Utility information sheet (1 page, 2 sided) that can be used to help educate the public. Unless overwhelming community acceptance of such a program exists, ample time should be set aside for the public information program. 5.1.1.2 Special Mailings Most communities have developed special promotional mailings to introduce the utility concept to the community. These procedures vary from simple to elaborately printed documents. Typically, the mailings outline the need for the program and typical charges by property classifications. In some cases, these promotional materials have also been used to announce upcoming informational meetings. 5.1.1.3 Informational Meetings Community leaders can interface with the general public at informational meetings designed to explain the reason behind the utility and how the utility Feasibility Study 112316 City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota Page 22