Herriman Council authorizes detailed Rose Creek flood plain study estimated at $32,000

Herriman City Council on April 9 voted unanimously to proceed with a detailed study of the Rose Creek flood plain that staff said could remap the area from FEMA Zone A to Zone AE and remove roughly 58 parcels from the regulated flood plain.

Jonathan (staff) and Blake (floodplain administrator, identified in the presentation) explained the project would use detailed hydrologic and topographic analysis to more accurately delineate the flood plain. "Back in 02/2014, we did a tentative study... we estimated it would remove 58, well around 60 parcels or so out of the flood plain," staff said. The consultants' detailed study is estimated to cost about $32,000; staff recommended option 1 to proceed with the study.

Staff emphasized that remapping would not change the physical risk to properties but would change regulatory status and permit requirements: structures in a regulated flood plain face special building and permitting rules and, in some cases, mandatory flood insurance if lenders require it. When asked about insurance, staff noted mortgage companies exercise discretion and that Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac requirements depend on whether a structure touches the floodplain: "If it touches the structure, that's when it's not an option," staff said.

Council moved to approve the study and recorded unanimous support in the roll call. Councilmembers and staff said the study would allow more accurate notification to property owners about their regulatory obligations; staff said they would return to council if the analysis indicates parcels would be added to the flood plain.

The city will fund the study and notify affected residents after the study is completed. Staff estimated the work would remove about 58 parcels from the regulated flood plain and reduce regulatory burden for affected owners, but emphasized the study is to provide a more accurate mapping rather than alter risk.