Memorandum 16-102 Flood Maps

Memorandum 16-102

TO:                       MAYOR WYTHE AND HOMER CITY COUNCIL

THROUGH:       KATIE KOESTER, CITY MANAGER

FROM:                 RICK ABBOUD, CITY PLANNER

DATE:                  June 2, 2016

SUBJECT:         HOMER FLOOD CODE

Introduction: The flood maps and accompanying code regarding regulation of the floodplain allow citizens of Homer to qualify for federally guaranteed flood insurance. Additionally, Homer’s participation allows the city qualify for federal funds for disaster assistance and hazard mitigation. The adoption of the maps and code is a requirement for participation in the flood insurance program.

Maps: FEMA initiated a new study of the lands northward of the Homer Spit, as these lands were not updated in the last study in 2013. As a result of the study, new maps have been produced that more accurately portray the actual flood risks. The draft maps nearly always show a new risk that is less than that of the previous maps, which is a more accurate measure of the current conditions.

Several notices to the property owners in the areas subject to change have gone out with invitations to attend a workshop with FEMA and to attend a public hearing at the Planning Commission. The Planning website has dedicated space to provide information about the proposed maps and process.  All feedback we have had with land owners has been positive.

Code: The flood regulations have been recently updated to meet current FEMA standards, so the only proposed changes to the code involve the reference to the new maps with effective date of October 20, 2016. The effective date is prescribed by FEMA. Adoption of the code amendments are to be made prior to the effective date as a requirement for continued participation in the flood program.

The requirements for adopting title 21 have been addressed as follows.

Per HCC 21.95.040, the Planning Department shall review each amendment to title 21. This review is complete and addressed in memorandum to the Planning Commission.

Additionally, Per HCC 21.95.060, the Planning Commission shall review each proposed amendment to title 21. This review is now complete. At the June 1st Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission, a motion was approved to forward the changes to the flood code to the City Council.

Recommendation:
The Homer Advisory Planning Commission and Planning Department recommend adoption of the amended Flood Prone Areas.

Attachments:

Draft Ordinance
HAPC minutes 6.1.16 w/laydown
Staff Report 16-29 w/attachments