Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Three Month Appeals Period Begins for Updated Flood Maps

Three Month Appeals Period Begins for Updated Flood Maps
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 1, 2010

Three-Month Appeal Period Begins for Updated Hernando County Flood Maps

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has notified Hernando County that December 3rd is the beginning date for the three-month time period during which residents may file appeals and protests pertaining to the new digital flood hazard maps which were released last summer. The maps were developed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), in partnership with FEMA and Hernando County and show the extent to which areas throughout Hernando County are at risk for flooding. Used to help determine flood insurance and building requirements, the new maps replace maps that are approximately 25 years old.

The process included an extensive, multi-year review of the changes brought about by environmental, land use and other forces, the use of state-of-the-art aerial mapping and risk modeling techniques, and a comprehensive pre- and post-release review.

Residents and business owners can use the maps to obtain reliable information about their flood risk on a property-by-property basis. The maps also provide flood zone and elevation data to help community planners, engineers, builders and others decide where and how new structures, developments, and remodeling projects should be built.

The maps may be viewed online at www.hernandocounty.us/floodmap or in person at the Development Services Department, 789 Providence Blvd., Brooksville, Florida. The maps were displayed at two public workshops last August. Property owners are encouraged to check out the new flood maps and how their flood risk may have changed. Even though the maps are highly accurate, it is possible that owners may have more current or better data. If a property owner believes that the map is inaccurate regarding their property, they may file an appeal. Scientific or technical data must be submitted in support of the appeal. More information for filing an appeal is available at http://www.hernandocounty.us/floodmap/factsheets.asp or by calling the Flood Map Information Line at (352) 540-6300.

Residents can learn more about the new flood maps at a workshop on Friday, December 3, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the Hernando County Utilities Administration Building, 21010 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, Florida. Representatives from FEMA, Hernando County and SWFWMD will be on hand to explain the map updates and answer questions.

1 comment:

percoo said...

How do you represent Preston Hollow? Are you a member of the BOD? Why do you continue to make posts when you are no longer a Board member! You haven't shown up fot the last 5 important meetings!All Preston Hollow homeowners have been informed of the new website which gives daily up to date info concerning Preston Hollow. If you are so concerned with our neigbohood you would show up at meedings!