On October 15, the City Council approved first reading of amendments to the 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 of the need to update these regulations.  Additionally, Floodplain Maps have been updated by FEMA for the City of Billings and Yellowstone County.  The adoption of the new 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).
 
If Council approves the ordinance on second reading, it will go into effect 30 days after adoption.

City Council may approve or not approve the ordinance repealing BMCC Article 6-1600 and enacting a new BMCC Article 6-1600 on second reading.  Disapproval will retain the current ordinance, but the City will be denied participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

There is no direct budget/financial impact from this action.

Staff recommends Council approve the ordinance on second reading, which repeals current City Code Article 6-1600, The Billings, Montana, Floodplain Regulations, and enacts a new BMCC Article 6-1600 to be known as The City of Billings Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations.