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Medford council advances floodplain ordinance changes to match updated FEMA maps
Summary
The council approved first reading on April 9 to update the city’s floodplain ordinance to align with new FEMA flood insurance rate maps effective July 8; staff said some properties will be added to and others removed from mapped flood zones.
The Medford City Council approved first reading of amendments to the city’s floodplain ordinance on April 9 to align local code with updated FEMA flood insurance rate maps and clarifying state-model language. The new FEMA maps go into effect July 8.
The city’s floodplain manager told the council that the National Flood Insurance Program updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and that the ordinance change is necessary for compliance. The update mainly replaces references to older map panels and clarifies definitions used locally.
Councilor Callahan asked whether the change affects homeowners’ ability to obtain flood insurance. The floodplain manager said the update follows improved topographical data and that some parcels will be added to the mapped floodplain and some removed; the changes will affect insurance requirements for properties newly placed inside flood zones and may reduce requirements for those removed.
Councilor Lozaro asked whether the city would notify homeowners about changes. The floodplain manager said the maps are viewable online and staff will consider publishing guidance and outreach after the new maps take effect.
The council approved the ordinance amendments for first reading by roll call vote; the item will return for subsequent readings as required by the council’s rules.
