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Clewiston approves first reading of flood‑plain amendments aimed at improving FEMA rating
Summary
On first reading the commission approved ordinance 2026‑04 to update floodplain management and building regulations; staff said adopting the changes could move the city to a more favorable FEMA flood‑insurance classification and deliver insurance discounts to residents and businesses.
The Clewiston City Commission on June 22 voted to approve first reading of ordinance 2026‑04, which amends the city’s floodplain management and building‑code provisions so the city will align with more recent FEMA requirements.
Staff said the revisions, which include updated elevation rules for manufactured homes in flood‑hazard areas and related building‑code clarifications, are intended to resolve a longstanding FEMA compliance matter and could move part of the community’s classification in the National Flood Insurance Program from a B to an A rating, improving flood‑insurance discounts for property owners.
Commissioners and staff discussed recent infrastructure work on the Herbert Hoover Dike and the timing of map updates; staff noted FEMA mapping and state wetland map processes run on long cycles and that some corrections will occur when the agencies complete their reviews. After a public hearing, the commission approved the ordinance on first reading and closed the hearing.
The ordinance will return for second reading and final adoption at a later meeting; staff said adopting the changes will allow FEMA to close the outstanding compliance case and that crews will proceed with the required procedural updates.
Key ordinance: Ordinance 2026‑04 — amendments to Chapter 98 Article 5 (flood plain management) and Chapter 18 (building and building regulations).
