Memorandum 19-016 Planning Commission Review of Regulatory Requirement for Flood Elevation

Memorandum ID: 
19-016
Memorandum Status: 
Approved

Related Meetings

Details

Memorandum 19-016

TO: HOMER ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION 

FROM: COUNCILMEMBERS SMITH AND ERICKSON 

THROUGH: HOMER CITY COUNCIL 

DATE: JANUARY 28, 2019

SUBJECT: PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW OF REGULATORY REQUIREMENT FOR FLOOD ELEVATION ON HOMER SPIT

It has come to our attention that structures subject to increasing regulatory requirements for flood elevation may become noncompliant with height requirements due to circumstances out of their control. 

Homer’s participation in Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) Flood Insurance Program requires that new and rebuilt structures must elevate the bottom floor. This elevation is subject to change and is subject to increases in the future. Compliance with FEMA’s Flood Insurance Program is critical for area wide insurance ratings and eligibility for FEMA funding. 

The purpose of this memo is to request that the Planning Commission review the topic and consider a height allowance based on FEMA elevation requirements and prepare a draft Ordinance for review by City Council.