City Officials Unhappy about Flood Plain Changes

03/8/2010

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will soon conclude its efforts to modernize its flood-plain maps.

But many city officials are unhappy about what they could mean for their communities.

According to a report by the Seattle Times, the agency spent $1 billion to predict where floods would occur through laser imaging, hydrology studies, storm records, construction activity and more. Maps will be released for Snohomish County and Green River Valley during the coming months. Earlier versions of the maps did not take into account recent repairs and shoring up on levees, according to the report.

Prospective builders in these areas may be discouraged by restrictions and flood-protection requirements, according to one city official.

"We're talking about 87,000 jobs that they're putting at risk," Ben Wolters, director of economic and community development in Kent, told the newspaper.

Flood insurance may cost as little as $119 each year, according to FEMA. Coverage can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program and is effective after 30 days.

In addition to levee classifications, environmental changes and new developments can lead to flood plain changes. Those mapped into a high-risk area will be required to purchase flood insurance, but can save money through the program's grandfathering rule.

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