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Staff from FEMA and the Department of Ecology have reviewed our ordinance and <br />provided required and suggested code revisions. One of the required code changes would <br />be to update the date of the effective Flood Insurance Rate Maps, so that we adopt and <br />utilize the newest maps adopted by FEMA. <br />Kittitas County must update Kittitas County Code Chapter 14.08 by September 24, 2021, <br />so that it meets minimum federal and state standards and must adopt and utilize <br />floodplain hazard maps provided by FEMA. The next step to meet this requirement <br />would be to set a public hearing. <br />DISCUSSION: <br />Since it is critical that we update our ordinance by mid-September, staff recommends <br />making those revisions that are required in order to remain in the National Flood <br />Insurance Program or to maintain our current standing in the Community Rating System <br />(which provides up to a 20 percent discount on flood insurance), or reflect current <br />practices and should be reflected in code. Recommended revisions include: <br />• utilizing the most recent set of flood maps adopted by FEMA <br />• refencing Title 18 KCC for penalties for non-compliance; <br />• updating the variance procedure to reflect current county procedures and to add <br />language required by FEMA; <br />• identifying code requirements for the storage of materials and equipment in the <br />100 -year floodplain; <br />• referencing FEMA minimum standards to identify when flood elevation data <br />needs to be developed for subdivision proposals; <br />• identifying FEMA -notification requirements when a project will change flood <br />risk; <br />• clarifying permitting requirements for detached accessory buildings; <br />• clearly stating that livestock sanctuary areas (elevated pads) are allowed in the <br />100 -year floodplain; and <br />• utilizing consistent language about requirements to elevate building mechanical <br />and utility equipment so that we will meet CRS requirements. <br />FISCAL IMPACTS: <br />Costs associated with new map adoption and associated ordinance update are <br />contemplated in the adopted Flood Control Zone District 2021 budget. <br />Attachment: <br />Exhibit 1: Track version of Kittitas County Code Chapter 14.08 showing proposed <br />changes. <br />Page 2 of 3 <br />PUBLIC WORKS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT <br />