Spencer County amends flood damage prevention ordinance to meet federal flood-insurance map update

Spencer County Fiscal Court on Oct. 14 adopted Ordinance No. 5 (FY2025-26 series), amending Article 2 (Definitions) of the Spencer County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance to revise the county’s definition of “Substantial Improvement.” The action was taken at a special called meeting held at the fiscal court meeting room.

The revision was presented by planning and zoning staff as necessary to align the county ordinance with the Salt River Watershed flood map update and to meet requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Planning documents in the public packet state the new flood maps take effect Oct. 16, 2025, and the county’s deadline to adopt the amendment to remain in good standing with the NFIP was Oct. 15, 2025.

Magistrate Will Eldridge moved to approve the ordinance amendment; Magistrate Mike Stump seconded the motion. The court approved the ordinance by voice vote with all members present voting “aye,” and Magistrate Zach Cotton was excused as absent. The ordinance record shows the measure had its first reading Oct. 6, 2025, and its second reading and adoption on Oct. 14, 2025. The ordinance text amended the five‑year, 50% cumulative threshold language used to define "Substantial Improvement" and clarified certain exceptions for safety-code corrections and historic structures.

County officials and planning staff framed the change as an administrative update required to retain NFIP participation and avoid the possible suspension of flood insurance availability for property owners in Spencer County. The court did not discuss alternative ordinance language on the record; discussion was limited to the staff recommendation and the motion to adopt.

The ordinance was recorded as adopted at the public meeting and will be effective following adoption and publication as required by law. The county’s planning office and county clerk will complete any required filings and public notices.