Council hears first reading of flood damage prevention updates to retain National Flood Insurance Program eligibility

Director Penny asked the council to approve amendments to the city—s flood damage prevention ordinance as a first reading to align local code with Washington State Department of Ecology model ordinance and federal floodplain-management requirements. Penny described the changes as primarily technical and clarifying, stating they would not expand mapped flood hazard areas, rezone property, or introduce new local policy decisions.

"The proposed amendments in front of you today are intended to align the city's regulations with the state's current model ordinance and federal flood plain management requirements," Penny said, stressing that the updates are necessary to ensure continued eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program. Council members asked whether the changes require additional communications to property owners; Penny said the changes mostly affect permitting processes and record-keeping and have limited practical implications for current floodplain property owners.

Council approved the amendments as a first reading by voice vote. Staff said the changes originated from a state compliance review and that the City had coordinated with the Planning Advisory Board and advertised a public comment period earlier this year.