Flood Map Modernization Flood Map Modernization Mapping the Risk Editorial Board Meeting October 2005 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FLOOD MAP MODERNIZATION V101105

Flood Map Modernization  A nationwide effort to create updated, modernized, digital flood hazard maps  Evolved as a national coalition of industries were increasingly affected by out-of-date flood maps  Built on partnerships with and support from state and local governments and key stakeholder groups

Flood Map Modernization Flood Risks Have Changed  Flooding is the County’s most costly natural disaster  Water flow and drainage patterns have changed due to erosion, land-use, natural forces  El Nino storms showed the need for new maps; more than 50 percent of flooded properties in low/moderate risk areas  At 25 years old, county flood maps no longer reflect current flood risks  New digital mapping technologies produce more detailed, reliable data (Internet accessible)

Flood Map Modernization National Flood Ins Program  Established in 1968 by Congress  Basic Components Identifies and maps flood-prone communities Requires that communities adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations Provides Flood Insurance  Over 20,000 participating communities nationwide  4.8 million policyholders nationwide  $695 Billion in insurance policies in-force

Flood Map Modernization Hillsborough Flood Facts  Joined NFIP June 1980 Joined NFIP’s Community Rating System (CRS) in 1992 Policyholders now receive up to 20 percent premium discount due to county’s additional efforts  Over 30,000 properties* insured  Nearly $5.5 Billion of property* covered  More than $20 Million in losses* paid by the NFIP  First Flood Map: 1980  Last Map Update: 1992  Some areas not re-mapped for 25 years *Excludes City of Tampa, Plant City and Temple Terrace

Flood Map Modernization Hillsborough’s Floodplains  County’s flooding occurs not only along the coast, but in riverine and inland areas too  County’s 17 watersheds are complex; 300 additional stream miles included  Entire county re-mapped, except for coastal and incorporated areas  Flood risk can vary neighborhood to neighborhood; property to property

Flood Map Modernization Benefits of Map Modernization  Ensures safety of individuals and property  Improved data allows for more informed decisions for key stakeholders Builders, Developers, Surveyors, Engineers Community officials Real Estate Agents, Lenders Insurance Agents & Companies Business Owners Home Owners and Renters

Flood Map Modernization Estimated Impact  13,000 parcels mapped out of high-risk zone  24,400 parcels mapped into high risk zone  66,300 parcels remain in high risk zone  270,000 parcels remain in low/moderate risk zone

Flood Map Modernization Changes Affect Insurance IF MAPS SHOW… THESE INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS, OPTIONS AND SAVINGS APPLY Change from low or moderate flood risk to high risk Flood insurance is mandatory. Flood insurance will be federally required for most mortgage holders. Insurance costs may rise to reflect the true (high) risk. Grandfathering offers savings. Insurance costs may rise for some to reflect heightened risk. However, property owners may be able to save money by purchasing insurance prior to final map adoption. Change from high flood risk to low or moderate risk Flood insurance is optional, but recommended. The risk has only been reduced, not removed. Flood insurance can still be obtained, at lower rates % of all flood insurance claims come from low- to moderate-risk areas. Conversion offers savings. An existing policy can be converted to a lower-cost Preferred Risk Policy. No change in risk level No change in insurance rates. Property owners should talk to their insurance agent to learn their specific risk and take steps to protect their property and assets.

Flood Map Modernization Timeline  Milestones Official presentation of preliminary maps – October 19, 2005  Media briefing is held Public Outreach November - December  Digital maps go up on website  Affected residents mailed letters  Eight Public Meetings; nearby public libraries set up to answer questions 90-day Public Comment Period  Begins December 1, 2005  Ends February 28, 2006 Review and compliance period – begins Spring/Summer 2006 Maps adopted – (anticipated) Fall 2006

Flood Map Modernization Advice to Property Owners  Everyone is at risk of flooding  Know and understand your flood risk  Contact your insurance agent to learn your options  Visit Hillsborough website to learn specific information about possible changes to your property  Attend Public Meetings and Library Open Houses to ask questions

Flood Map Modernization Increasing Public Awareness  Launched county-wide outreach and education effort Active participation of stakeholder advisory group Hosting public meetings Conducting informational mailing Developed multiple information/assistance resources Created public Service Announcements Engaging news media

Flood Map Modernization Public Information Resources  Hillsboroughcounty.org  County Citizen Action Center Open 7am-11pm 7 days a week General information  FEMA.gov/fhm (FEMA mapping site)  FloodSmart.gov (flood insurance information)  FEMA Mapping Assistance Center FEMA-MAP Specific mapping questions

Flood Map Modernization Summary  New flood hazard maps = safer Hillsborough County  Current flood risk data allows for more informed decisions County  County’s proactive outreach means the public will know where to go for more information and what their options are  Enrolled community partners in a collaborative approach to educate the public