BEDFORD— The Lawrence County Commissioners passed an updated Flood Damage Prevention ordinance this morning.
No one spoke for or against the updated ordinance.
“This ordinance will help facilitate relief for people who own and qualify for relief if they find themselves in a flood when they have built in a floodplain,” said Attorney David Smith. “They must meet certain standards for insurance and other benefits.”
The updated ordinance spells out the requirements for building in a floodplain.
Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer told the commissioners she updated the Lawrence County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and submitted the Floodplain Development Permit Applications to the state. The ordinance was updated to meet state guidelines.
According to Luchauer, the National Flood Insurance Program provides flood insurance to individuals at much lower premiums than could be purchased through private insurers. It also ensures that federal funds are available to local communities.
Currently, the county has 20 policies worth more than $3,688,000.
“For citizens to be eligible for the national flood insurance rates or for communities to receive federal funds, the community must agree to meet minimum floodplain standards,” she added. “These permits ensure we are meeting the minimum standards. We will be kicked out of the program if we violate the requirements.
