2021-06-28-minutes-public-works-study-session

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3. Placement of woody debris or other instream structures that benefit naturally reproducing fish stocks; or 4. Actions taken to restore or promote the growth of riparian vegetation; or 5. A project identified in a watershed restoration plan developed or sponsored by the Washington State Departments of Fish and Wildlife, Ecology, Natural Resources, and Transportation (WSDOT); a federally recognized Indian tribe acting within and pursuant to its authority; a city; a county; or a conservation district." The Floodplain Administrator would determine if a proposed project meets the fish habitat restoration project definition and qualifies for the fee waiver. DISCUSSION: FEMA's rescinded Policy on Fish Enhancement Structures in the Floodway provided important flexibility for local communities to permit fish habitat restoration projects that had undergone hydraulic and hydrologic analysis and would have only minuscule impacts on flood elevations, which would have no effect on structures. Without this flexibility, Kittitas County will need to require that some restoration project undergo a formal FEMA map revision process. The FEMA Region 10 FAQ: Rescinded Policy on Fish Enhancement Structures in the Floodway (Exhibit 1) is clear that local jurisdictions must ensure that projects that qualify for the Fish Habitat Enhancement Projects streamlined permitting process still obtain a floodplain development permit. FISCAL IMPACTS: PW is currently charging $120 (simple project) and $970 (standard project) for a Floodplain Development Permit. Each year the Flood Control Zone District budget includes funding for coordination and technical assistance for agency and partner projects. The majority of these projects are fish habitat restoration projects. ATTACHMENTS: Exhibit 1: FEMA Region 10 FAQ: Rescinded Policy on Fish Enhancement Structures in the Floodway Page 2 of 3 PUBLIC WORKS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT