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Council gives first reading to floodplain standards update to align with FEMA and ESA guidance
Summary
Assistant Planner Rowan Maiorano summarized a text amendment to implement updated floodplain standards and FEMA 'no net loss' guidance tied to endangered‑species protections; Planning Commission recommended approval and council approved the first reading unanimously.
Assistant Planner Rowan Maiorano presented Ordinance No. 499, a text amendment to the city's floodplain overlay district, at the Sept. 2 meeting. Maiorano traced the history in which FEMA’s implementation of the National Flood Insurance Program prompted litigation and consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service, and explained that FEMA introduced Pre‑Implementation Compliance Measures (PICM) in 2024 as interim guidance for local communities to better protect ESA‑listed species.
The proposed amendment combines the 2020 Oregon floodplain model hazard ordinance with FEMA model language and would implement "no net loss" standards in the city code. Under the proposal, applicants would need to demonstrate ESA compliance by submitting a habitat assessment or showing coverage under another federal action; several activities would be exempted, including habitat restoration and normal replacement and repair of structures. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amendment.
No public testimony was offered during the hearing. The council moved for first reading of Ordinance No. 499 by title only and then voted to approve the first reading; both actions were approved unanimously.
