July 2, 2009 at 1:52PM
Representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, will be hosting a Flood Risk Information Open House on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Peoria Public Library (Auditorium), 107 N.E. Monroe Street, Peoria, Illinois. The Open House will provide county residents with an opportunity to review a recently completed preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).
The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood information, delineate areas subject to significant flood hazards within the county, and offer information public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain.
The Open House will be staffed with representatives from various local, state, and federal agencies who will provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process for floodplain mapping within Peoria County. The newly prepared preliminary floodplain maps will be on display. Once the maps become effective, these maps will be used by floodplain permit officials, builders and developers, lenders, realtors, insurance agents and the general public to determine flood risk, develop mitigation measures, and encourage wise and responsible risk management decision-making.
FEMA leads the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation. The agency is committed to reducing the loss of life and property and supporting a culture of readiness for all hazards, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism and other catastrophes.
Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. For more information on the Open House, contact the Planning & Zoning Department at (309) 672-6915.