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Council reviews new FEMA floodplain maps; first reading of flood ordinance entered into record
Summary
City staff showed updated FEMA floodplain maps that change which properties fall in the 100-year, floodway and 500-year zones; council entered the floodplain ordinance (Ordinance 2025-3) first reading into the record ahead of the maps' April 23 effective date.
South Lebanon City Councilors reviewed updated FEMA floodplain maps and held a first reading of a proposed ordinance to adopt the maps and revise local floodplain regulations.
A city staff member told council the new flood maps, prepared by FEMA and under a state review process, will become effective April 23. The maps shift several areas of the city: some parcels currently in the 100-year floodplain would move to the 500-year floodplain, removing them from the higher-risk designation; other areasincluding parts of Rogers Park and sections along Dry Runwould see increases in floodplain and floodway designations.
"This is the new one. Yes. These will be effective in April," a city staff member said while showing the maps. The staff member emphasized the city is required to adopt the updated maps and that downstream effects include changes to flood insurance requirements for homeowners with mortgages.
Nut graf: The maps are federal products; the city must adopt an updated local ordinance to remain in compliance. Council members noted the maps will reduce floodplain status for some residents while expanding it for others, and asked for copies of the map details so residents can check specific parcels.
Council discussion and clarifications: Councilors asked whether adopting the ordinance constitutes adopting the maps themselves; staff responded the federal government controls the map product and that the ordinance updates city code to align with FEMA's effective maps. Several council members noted they and some residents will be removed from the higher-rated floodplain under the new maps, which the staff said could lower insurance costs for homeowners with mortgages. The staff also said certain areas already in a floodplain would be reclassified as floodway, which imposes stricter development limits.
Ending: The first reading was entered into the record and the staff said they would provide maps to council members and make them available to the public before the effective date.
