Phoenix seeks public input on 2025 floodplain management plan; residents reminded of 25% NFIP discount

City of Phoenix floodplain staff on Wednesday presented a draft 2025 Floodplain Management Plan to the public, described hazards and proposed actions intended to preserve the city’s Community Rating System (CRS) benefits, and encouraged residents to review the draft ahead of expected City Council adoption in August or September 2025.

The plan update, the city said, supports Phoenix’s continued CRS Class 5 standing — a designation that grants a 25% reduction on National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) premiums for policyholders in qualifying areas. Nazar Nabadi, the city’s floodplain administrator, told attendees, “When you are applying for that flood insurance, automatically should appear that 25% discount.”

Why this matters: floodplain maps and CRS classification affect whether homeowners must buy flood insurance and how much they pay. At the meeting, staff described how map revisions, development upstream and new hydraulic analyses can change flood-zone designations and base flood elevations (BFEs), which in turn influence insurance requirements and premiums.

Eric Froberg, City Engineer, opened the session by stressing the city’s role in protecting residents: “What most people don't realize is that homeowners insurance does not automatically protect your home, or property from flooding.” Froberg and the consulting team described the plan’s goals, the timeline for public review, and…