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Commission recommends stricter floodplain standards to match FEMA guidance
Summary
Brentwood staff proposed and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended a text amendment to require improvements in floodplain areas to be elevated 2 feet above base flood elevation and to apply a cumulative 10‑year threshold for renovations; commissioners voted unanimously to forward the recommendation to the Board of Aldermen.
The Brentwood Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 14 recommended that the city update its flood hazard control provisions to align with FEMA and state emergency management guidance.
Whitney Kelly, presenting the text amendment to multiple sections of Chapter 400 (division 8), said agencies including FEMA and CEMA are recommending that properties within the floodplain raise improvements to 2 feet above the base flood elevation instead of the current 1 foot standard. Kelly said that agencies also recommend treating renovations cumulatively over a 10‑year period when determining whether floodproofing or other mitigation is required.
Kelly told commissioners this change is intended "for the long term protection of the residents, or equipment within the building," and that many other cities have adopted similar language. Commissioners asked about cost impacts; staff said costs for renovating existing structures can be significant and that impacts for new construction are harder to estimate. A staff demonstration of updated flood maps showed the areas affected in Brentwood are largely industrial along Deer Creek with only a few small residential parcels touched by the updated zones.
Commissioner Mark Fazza moved to recommend approval of the text amendments as presented; Commissioner Carlin seconded. The commission approved the recommendation by roll call with a unanimous vote. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Aldermen for consideration.
Staff said the amendments apply to main‑floor living areas and not garages, and that additional implementation guidance and mapping information will be provided as the item moves forward.
