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Planning board to continue review of updated floodplain overlay ordinance ahead of new FEMA maps
Summary
Staff presented a draft update to the city's floodplain overlay zoning ordinance to align with revised FEMA FIRM maps. Board and staff discussed permitting clarity (building permit vs. special permit), potential homeowner insurance impacts and a July effective date; board scheduled a public hearing and continuation to the May meeting.
City staff brought a proposed update to the Floodplain Overlay District zoning ordinance to the Gardner City Planning Board on April 8 to conform local language with state and FEMA model provisions ahead of new flood insurance rate maps (FIRMs).
Planning Director (staff) explained the update is largely language and definitional changes recommended by the state Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and FEMA to preserve the city's standing in the National Flood Insurance Program. The director said the new digital FIRM maps become effective in July and the ordinance must be updated to remain in compliance with the NFIP.
Eric (staff) and other…
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