Austin City Council will hold three public meetings this month to discuss anticipated changes that would affect the water drainage fee charged to utility customers each month.

The existing drainage charge is a flat rate of $9.80 for most residents. The money collected from this charge pays for solutions to flooding, erosion and water pollution, according to information released Feb. 9 by the city. The proposed changes, which could become official by this fall, involve charging customers based on the amount and percent of impervious cover on their property. Impervious area includes any ground that is something other than soil, according to the city. Commercial and residential customers will have their charge calculated the same way, according to a statement from the city, in an effort to make charges more equitable. For tenants in apartment complexes or multifamily buildings, the charge will be reflected on the property owner's bill. For commercial businesses, the city of Austin is proposing to eliminate the 20 percent discount for a well-maintained stormwater pond, according to a release issued by the city. Some businesses may still pay less due to changes in how the drainage charge will soon be calculated. Some residents will have a lower bill as a result of the changes. In some cases, the change may be significantly higher or lower, according to the city, depending on various factors.