Floodplain Storage Code Update Memo

Recommended

Staff (Askew) presenting revised draft language for Section 24-89(d) based on March CDB feedback.

Debated

Following the March CDB meeting, staff was asked to develop code language to address the riverine vs. ICW distinction; a first reading occurred March 12, 2026, and the board recommended revisions. The April 21 draft proposes that for areas in a special flood hazard area where FEMA has defined a base flood elevation, there shall be no net loss of floodplain storage for development projects, **except** those discharging to the saltmarsh directly adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway. The revised draft tightens the prior confusing "drainage ditches or canals" clause that tripped up members in March. This code change, if ultimately adopted, would prospectively moot variance requests like ZVAR26-0009.

Decided

discussion/report item only; no vote scheduled.