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Plan commission updates floodplain ordinance to reflect FEMA map revisions for South Branch of Pike River
Summary
Commissioners approved a zoning text amendment adding a reference to FEMA's Letter of Map Revision for the South Branch of the Pike River, establishing base flood elevations and altering mapped floodplain boundaries in parts of the village.
The Pleasant Prairie Plan Commission approved an amendment to the village floodplain zoning ordinance to reference a FEMA Letter of Map Revision (LOMR/LOMAR) for the South Branch of the Pike River.
Village staff told commissioners that FEMA issued a map revision establishing base flood elevations for the river as a result of updated river models developed by Kenosha County and other municipalities. Staff said the mapping work will establish a base flood elevation for the area and that in some places the mapped floodplain will shrink. The amendment updates the village's official maps and related ordinance references to incorporate FEMA's approval.
A commissioner made a motion to approve the ordinance amendment to section 4.301.5(b)(1) as presented; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote.
Why it matters: The LOMAR establishes base flood elevations used to determine which parcels are regulated as floodplain and to guide development, permitting, and floodplain management. Staff noted the LOMAR was the outcome of a countywide river-modeling program.
Next steps: The ordinance amendment updates Village records to align with the FEMA-approved map; affected property owners and staff will rely on the revised map and elevations for future permitting decisions.
