Regular 2.
Regular City Council Meeting
- Meeting Date:
- 10/15/2013
- TITLE
- Public Hearing and First Reading Ordinance - Floodplain Regulations
- PRESENTED BY:
- Candi Millar
- Department:
- Planning & Community Services
Presentation:
Information
PROBLEM/ISSUE STATEMENT
| The City adopted Floodplain Regulations as published in the City Code, Article 6-1600. The regulations are necessary for the City to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Periodically, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informs the City that it must update its regulations. Additionally, Floodplain Maps have been updated by FEMA for the City of Billings and Yellowstone County. The adoption of a modified ordinance is necessary for the City to remain in the NFIP. The proposed ordinance has been reviewed by FEMA and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The process began over three years ago when an open house was held for the public to explain the NFIP and for viewing the preliminary maps. The timeline and process for appeals was also explained. FEMA and DNRC took the lead role while local communities provided assistance. On May 6, 2013 the City received formal notification from FEMA that the City must adopt the new maps and updated regulations. The new maps more precisely identify the Base Flood Elevations as they currently exist. Portions of some properties are now identified as being in the floodplain, while others have shifted out. These areas were noticed at the early stages of the process. While substantial wording has been added and sections have been rearranged, the main objective of the ordinance has not changed. The purpose is to regulate construction in the 100-year floodplain so as to minimize damage to life, health, and property. |
ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED
City Council may approve or not approve the ordinance amending BMCC Article 6-1600, Floodplain Regulations.
• Approving the ordinance will modify and update Article 6-1600 of the BMCC to be in compliance with FEMA requirements for regulating construction and uses in the floodplain.
• Not approving the ordinance may cause the City of Billings to be removed from the NFIP program and may result in increased insurance premiums for properties located within a floodplain.
• Approving the ordinance will modify and update Article 6-1600 of the BMCC to be in compliance with FEMA requirements for regulating construction and uses in the floodplain.
• Not approving the ordinance may cause the City of Billings to be removed from the NFIP program and may result in increased insurance premiums for properties located within a floodplain.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no direct budget/financial impact from this action.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that Council approve this ordinance on first reading which amends City Code Article 6-1600, Floodplain Regulations.