LCRPC briefed commissioners on state-funded floodplain manager program and a possible regional code enforcement model

At the June 2 meeting the board received an update from Executive Director Emily Rabbe on a new floodplain assistance program the State is developing through LD1. Rabbe said the State has hired a Flood Plain Manager who will work with staff at regional planning organizations and that each regional planning organization is expected to receive roughly $125,000 annually to support floodplain management work—helping municipalities update ordinances, improve permitting understanding, access mitigation funding and participate in FEMA’s Community Rating System to potentially lower flood insurance costs.

Rabbe told commissioners that Lincoln County plans to hire or contract a staff person whose work would focus on local municipalities while the employee completes state-supported online training and certification during the first six months. She said the role could help towns implement projects identified in the county’s updated hazard mitigation plan and that a contract is expected to be received in July.

Rabbe also described preliminary discussions with municipalities about exploring a regional code enforcement program tied to the new funding. She proposed that the county could house code enforcement staff and contract with towns—similar to the animal control model—to provide technical assistance, permitting support, floodplain compliance and backup coverage for part-time municipal code officers. Rabbe cited the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments as an existing example and said LCRPC will continue assessing interest, costs and funding and will return with a more defined proposal in the coming months.

Rabbe introduced Erin Quetell as the LCRPC’s new Land Use and Transportation Planner and Lydia Pease as a summer intern who will assist on community engagement and climate resiliency tasks.