Rogue River delays floodplain code vote after residents raise concerns about FEMA maps

City staff presented Ordinance 24-433-O to amend Rogue River’s Flood Damage Prevention Code so the city can meet updated FEMA requirements tied to the Endangered Species Act. City Administrator Ryan Nolan and Rowan Fairfield of the Rogue Valley Council of Governments explained the proposed language would affect properties located in FEMA-designated special flood hazard areas and that noncompliance could jeopardize federal coverage for affected residents. "If we do not comply our residents will not be able to be covered federally if a flood damages their property," Nolan said during his presentation.

Several residents testified against adopting the amendment as presented, arguing FEMA maps are outdated and that adopting new restrictions before revised mapping could unfairly limit property use and development. Charlie Smith told the council that the maps are outdated and said, "They should update the maps before imposing rules like this." Other commenters raised concerns about potential loss of ability to build accessory dwelling units and asked who would compensate homeowners whose development options were curtailed. After discussion, Councilor Barb Hilty moved and Councilor Sherrie Moss seconded a motion to continue the public hearing to Feb. 27, 2025, directing staff to provide additional information to the Planning Commission; the roll-call vote was unanimous.