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FEMA approves Dewey Beach freeboard ordinance; town told to prepare for Jan. implementation
Summary
The town’s floodplain ordinance raising the residential freeboard was approved by FEMA’s regional floodplain specialist; town staff said the change could go into effect in January and noted a separate Army Corps‑backed Reed Street pumping‑station project that will require a town share of roughly $300,000.
Mayor Maryville Stevens and town staff told the Dewey Beach Town Council on July 18 that federal reviewers have approved the town’s ordinance increasing the residential freeboard standard, clearing a long‑running step in local floodplain policy.
Why it matters: The approval from FEMA lets the town schedule implementation of the ordinance to raise the required freeboard (the elevation above base flood elevation) from 1 to 2 feet, with an option for 3 feet in some cases. Town staff said the change will affect building standards, permitting and insurance considerations and gave commissioners a prospective timeline for enactment.
Town floodplain manager Jim Deedis told the council that FEMA’s Region 3 floodplain management specialist, Jamie Carpenter, had “approved our ordinance,” which means the town can now set an implementation timetable. “So we are able now to, at least start a timetable for, beginning the freeboard from 2 with the option of 3,” Deedis said, adding a draft six‑month grace period would make the ordinance effective in January 2026.
The manager and finance staff also flagged near‑term capital needs related to stormwater and pumping infrastructure. The manager said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has signed off on a Reed Street pumping‑station project estimated at roughly $1.2 million; the town’s share was described in discussion as about 25 percent, or approximately $300,000. Finance staff noted the infrastructure fund balance is roughly $900,000 and that commissioners should ensure funds are available in 2026–2028 as the Corps‑led project proceeds.
Council members asked staff how the implementation timing and project costs would affect budgets and permitting. Finance staff said that grant reimbursements and previously committed infrastructure funds are part of the projected balances and that the town will continue reviewing funding options as the Corps project moves forward.
What’s next: Staff will return with a proposed effective date and details about how the freeboard change will be phased into building permit and zoning reviews. The Reed Street project will proceed under Army Corps oversight and the town will continue to track its share of costs and schedule.
