2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, April 2024

Environmental Protection

Policy EP 4.3 Development in the Floodplain Pursue regulatory approaches that avoid the future expansion of the floodplain. Floodplain refers to all city-regulated floodplain, which includes FEMA floodplain, future conditions floodplain, and flood hazard soils. Floodplain development should not abridge the natural role of floodplains to absorb water, recharge the groundwater, improve water quality, and avoid flooding downstream. Policy EP 4.4 Acquisition of Flood-prone Land Pursue city acquisition of properties, easements and/or development rights located within the 100-year floodplain to protect public safety, reduce economic damages from floods, and preserve sensitive natural areas.

Policy EP 4.7 No Adverse Impact

The city shall follow the principles of No Adverse Impact (NAI) as outlined by the Association of State Floodplain Managers. NAI floodplain management takes place when the actions of one property owner are not allowed to adversely affect the rights of other property owners. Adverse effects or impacts can be measured in terms of increased flood peaks, increased flood stages, higher flood velocities, increased erosion and sedimentation, or other impacts the community considers important. Policy EP 4.8 Stream Crossing Infrastructure Install bridge systems instead of culverts for stream crossings where feasible in order to maintain the natural ecosystem associated with the stream.

Policy EP 4.5 Watercourse Protection

Policy EP 4.9 Watershed Master Plans

Minimize encroachment into natural watercourse areas and preserve the natural character of watercourses to protect water quality and reduce the potential for flooding and erosion damage.

Complete and periodically update watershed studies to identify existing and future flooding hazards, water quality needs, and erosion concerns along with prioritized actions, measures, and capital improvement projects to improve conditions.

See also ‘5.3 Water Quality and Conservation.’

Policy EP 4.6 Community Rating System

Action EP 4.1 Completed 2015

Continue to participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) to help monitor hazard mitigation efforts and to improve the affordability of flood insurance for residents. The CRS is part of the National Flood Insurance Program that provides flood insurance discounts for communities that go beyond the minimum standards for floodplain management.

Action EP 4.2 Completed 2015

5-20