Santa Rosa updates FEMA flood risk mapping project for Santa Rosa Creek Watershed

In the heart of Santa Rosa's city hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded on June 3, 2025, as city officials gathered to address the pressing issue of flood risk mapping in the Santa Rosa Creek Watershed. Flannery Banks, a supervising engineer in planning and economic development, along with Chief Building Official Jimmy Bliss, presented updates on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) flood mapping project, a critical initiative aimed at enhancing community safety and resilience.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to develop official flood maps for areas identified as having a high likelihood of flooding, known as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). These maps, which indicate locations with a 1% annual chance of flooding, are essential for informing property owners about potential risks and insurance requirements. As Banks explained, the updated flood maps could significantly impact local homeowners, some of whom may find their properties newly classified within high-risk zones, necessitating flood insurance for federally backed loans.

The city has been actively involved in the FEMA mapping process, which is a multi-year endeavor. After completing the initial discovery phase in 2023, the city provided valuable data from its own flood studies to assist FEMA in the mapping analysis. However, concerns were raised regarding certain properties that FEMA had included in the floodplain, particularly those where floodwaters historically remain within creek banks. The city has requested revisions to these mappings, and while FEMA has indicated a willingness to accommodate some of these requests, a revised map has yet to be seen.

As the meeting progressed, Bliss outlined the next steps, including the anticipated release of preliminary flood maps by the end of June. This will be followed by a 90-day public comment and appeal period, during which residents can contest their property’s flood risk designation. To facilitate community engagement, the city plans to conduct direct outreach, including mailings to affected property owners and a public meeting featuring representatives from FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program.

Public comments during the meeting underscored the community's concerns about the implications of flood insurance, particularly for vulnerable populations. Residents expressed worries about the financial burden of additional insurance costs, especially in light of previous challenges related to fire insurance in Sonoma County. The council members acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the importance of timely communication and support for residents navigating the complexities of flood insurance.

As the city moves forward with the FEMA flood mapping project, the discussions at this meeting reflect a broader commitment to enhancing public safety and resilience in the face of climate-related challenges. With the preliminary maps set to be released soon, Santa Rosa is poised to take significant steps toward safeguarding its community against future flooding risks.