The city's Storm Water Master Plan, more than two years in the making, will get a full public hearing next week. Consultants will present information and then allow time for public input.

It's a long-term, multi-million dollar plan which will address storm runoff, drainage channels, greenbelts, water quality enhancements and ultimately how to pay for improvements.

The funding discussion to date has been for property owners to pay for the improvements based on how much of their land is covered by impervious surface.

The debate has already begun in the development community. Developers have already been required to provide for detention in neighborhoods and commercial developments. We've seen no provision giving credit for past detention expenses.

Copies of the Storm Water Master Plan and the Greenway Master Plan are available at city hall, the library and the chamber of commerce. The hearing 6:30 p.m. Nov. 10 at city hall will be an opportunity for the public to be brought up to date on the plan.