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FEMA flood map changes will add some Worcester properties and remove others; city schedules public sessions and direct mailings
Summary
City officials told the council the proposed FEMA flood map update results in a net reduction of structures requiring flood insurance but will add roughly 300 properties that may now be covered; the city announced public information sessions and direct mailings to affected owners.
City staff briefed the council on proposed FEMA flood map updates that will take effect after the federal process concludes, saying the change would remove roughly 400 structures from the flood insurance requirement while adding approximately 300 others.
City outreach: staff said they have already mailed notices to impacted property owners, including a Spanish-language mailing, and will hold an in-person public session March 26 at 6 p.m. at the Worcester Senior Center and a virtual session April 23 at 6 p.m. Staff said the earliest possible effective date for the final map was summer 2026 after federal processing and the appeal resolution window.
Why it matters: the maps affect which properties must carry flood insurance when they have federally backed mortgages and affect development planning and individual insurance costs. Staff emphasized that some changes reflect improved topographic data rather than actual changes in local flood risk.
Council questions and next steps: councilors requested a color map and a searchable GIS layer; staff pointed to an online GIS layer that lets owners search by property to see current and proposed floodplain boundaries. The council asked staff to circulate clearer color maps and to post outreach materials and meeting details on the city website. No programmatic actions were adopted; staff will proceed with outreach and scheduled informational sessions.
