| The Calhoun Commission covered a wide gamut of flood related issues yesterday
evening, from re-newed enforcement of the Flood Plain Ordinance of 1991 to
commencing the process where county residents can participate in FEMA's "buy
out" program for frequently flooded dwellings or businesses.
Larry McCallister, who was selected as the president of the commission for 2004,
said "We're going to try and do the best we can for our property holders."
A considerable number of residents attended the meeting, mostly to hear about
the possible buy-out of flooded property.
 Robert Perry (pictured left), coordinator of West Virginia's National Flood
Insurance Program, told the commissioner's that continued participation in the
FEMA flood insurance program hinges on continued enforcement of floodplain
management regulations that meet or exceed the program's minimal
requirements.
Perry said the program is based on common sense requirements that have been
designed to cut future flood-related losses.
He said the community's failure to enforce the regulations could result in
increased flood insurance rates, or the community could be placed on probation
for a period of one year with a surcharge of $50 added to every policy holder.
If the community fails to participate in the program, it could be suspended with
no flood insurance available, nor could the county receive other FEMA help in
times of disaster
The ordinance requires that a permit be obtained for all proposed construction or
development on the floodplain.
It also requires all new construction or land filling, including improvements,
comply with floodplain management regulations.
Construction or improvements which exceed 50% of the market value of property
on the floodplain requires special considerations. Such improvements cannot be
made without following floodplain construction guidelines, like raising the
building.
Perry indicated FEMA guidelines call for all property owners to "clear" their
construction plans with the county's Floodplain Officer, even if the property is
located above the 100-year flood plain.
While county commissions are compelled to enforce the ordinances, Perry said
"looking to future compliance" is essential. Property owners who fail to comply
are subject to fines, or in some cases, the construction or buildings being
removed.
Calhoun Clerk Richard Kirby, who had been submitting his resignation as the
Floodplain Officer, said he may change his mind and continue with the job. "It is a
job that no one wants, but it is necessary," he said.
Enforcement issues were brought to the forefront by Calhoun Chronicle reporter
Lisa Minney, who wrote that the county has been lax in their efforts, in addition to
the Town of Grantsville not issuing permits.
A special hearing was held yesterday evening regarding FEMAs Hazardous
Mitigation Program.
County residents who were interested in having their frequently flooded property
purchased through the federal buy-out program, had an opportunity to learn
about the process.
Fred Rader and Tim Meeks of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Development Council,
told county residents the process of selling their property hinges on the
availability of funds from year to year.
"This is a good start at the process," said Rader, who obtained names of several
property owners who were interested in selling their flood-prone property.
FURTHER DETAILS WILL FOLLOW
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