Town develops hazard mitigation and flood management plan with community input
November 14, 2024 | Scituate, Providence County, Rhode Island
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The Scituate Town Council meeting on November 14, 2024, spotlighted the town's proactive approach to disaster preparedness with a significant focus on the Hazard Mitigation and Flood Management Plan. This initiative aims to reduce long-term risks to life and property from natural hazards, particularly as flood risks are projected to increase in the coming decades.
Kim Jacobs, the project consultant, presented an overview of the plan, emphasizing its importance in making the town eligible for federal funding assistance from FEMA. "Planning ahead allows us to be proactive rather than reactive," Jacobs stated, highlighting the community's goals and the potential for reduced flood insurance premiums for residents through the National Flood Insurance Program's Community Rating System.
The plan's development has involved a diverse advisory committee, chaired by Chief Robinson, which includes representatives from various local organizations and agencies. Jacobs praised the committee's efforts, noting their collaboration in integrating existing town plans and policies into the new strategy.
Community engagement has been a priority, with efforts including a public opinion survey that garnered 267 responses, informational meetings, and outreach through social media and local publications. Jacobs detailed the plan's comprehensive approach, which profiles multiple hazards, including flooding, wind, and infectious diseases, while also addressing the impacts of climate change.
As the town moves forward with this critical initiative, the Hazard Mitigation and Flood Management Plan stands as a testament to Scituate's commitment to safeguarding its residents and infrastructure against future hazards. The next steps include disseminating the draft plan for public review, ensuring that community input continues to shape this vital project.
Kim Jacobs, the project consultant, presented an overview of the plan, emphasizing its importance in making the town eligible for federal funding assistance from FEMA. "Planning ahead allows us to be proactive rather than reactive," Jacobs stated, highlighting the community's goals and the potential for reduced flood insurance premiums for residents through the National Flood Insurance Program's Community Rating System.
The plan's development has involved a diverse advisory committee, chaired by Chief Robinson, which includes representatives from various local organizations and agencies. Jacobs praised the committee's efforts, noting their collaboration in integrating existing town plans and policies into the new strategy.
Community engagement has been a priority, with efforts including a public opinion survey that garnered 267 responses, informational meetings, and outreach through social media and local publications. Jacobs detailed the plan's comprehensive approach, which profiles multiple hazards, including flooding, wind, and infectious diseases, while also addressing the impacts of climate change.
As the town moves forward with this critical initiative, the Hazard Mitigation and Flood Management Plan stands as a testament to Scituate's commitment to safeguarding its residents and infrastructure against future hazards. The next steps include disseminating the draft plan for public review, ensuring that community input continues to shape this vital project.
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