The BLUEbtv Program’s primary purpose is to support reductions in non-point sources of stormwater runoff from residential development in Burlington through the implementation of best management practices (BMPs), with a special focus on phosphorous and runoff reduction within both separate and combined sewer system areas. The Program also provides valuable water quality education and outreach to Burlington residents. The aim of the program is also to facilitate a more cost-effective and wide spread approach to stormwater mitigation on private property through collective action and increased engagement with residents. The BLUEbtv Program offers free stormwater assessments by the BLUEbtv team, which includes one full time staff member and engineering support. Following the assessment, the resident receives a BLUE evaluation which includes recommendations for stormwater treatment of impervious surfaces as well as a site plan and preliminary project design. If the resident is interested in installing one of the proposed treatment, the BLUEbtv team is on hand to support the homeowner via the installation process, including conducting a soil infiltration test, designing the practice. For complex sites, the team consults Fitzgerald Environmental Associate to provide detailed preliminary designs. All projects must be designed in accordance to BLUEbtv’s Basis of Design document and are inspected upon completion to ensure taxpayer funds are not issued for poorly designed or functioning stormwater practices. In the first two years, BLUEbtv conducted 120 stormwater property assessments, supported the installation of 17 projects – 6 permeable driveways, 4 rooftop disconnection and gutters, 4 infiltration trenches, 2 impervious surface removal, and 2 rain barrel- and issued over $12,000 in rebates. The Program hasn’t issued all of its budget for rebates and would like to increase its conversion rate of assessment to project installation. The program’s annual reports from the first two years are including as exhibits to this RFP. The selected organization will manage the day-to-day implementation of the program while exploring ways to expand the impact of the program on the City’s stormwater treatment obligations, including the possibility of obtaining credit towards their stormwater utility fees for implemented private projects. The City is interested in exploring the following expansion enhancements but is open to additional proposals: • Increasing financial incentives offered • Increasing eligibility to commercial properties • Offering new rebates • Partnering with contractors • Offering a certification program tied to reducing stormwater utility rates • Increasing financial incentives for low income communities • Exploring new outreach avenues
