Laserfiche WebLink
problems result from water runoff or its accumulation in low-lying areas. Again, <br />development may make the situation worse. <br />Our ancestors did not have the information you have about where floods occur. <br />They settled along rivers and streams for reasons that were valid then — rivers <br />"The first time the floods came they were an Act of God. The next time provided fresh water, transportation, <br />the floods came they were my responsibility." — Pennsylvania official and energy. This pattern of develop <br />ment continued as communities <br />grew to their present form. As a result, a large portion of your community's tax base <br />and major economic centers may already be located in areas susceptible to flooding. <br />YOUR ROLE AS AN ELECTED OFFICIAL As a local official, you may now have to <br />deal with the consequences of those past decisions. You are likely the one who needs <br />"All local officials should take the time to familiarize themselves to provide leadership so that your <br />with the areas that are prone to flooding, their community's flood constituents do not make the same <br />protection program, and its emergency response plan. Your constituents mistakes in the future. <br />Unless there has been a recent <br />are counting on you to do your homework and be prepared." flood, you may not know much <br />— Christopher C. Johnson, Mayor, Agawam, Massachusetts about the actual flood risk in your <br />community. You may not realize that many community problems and needs are <br />closely connected to how its floodplain areas are used. <br />By recognizing the problems that floods can cause to your community and the <br />resources that floodplains can provide, you can create opportunities for finding far- <br />reaching solutions to flooding and other, related issues. You can do this by: <br />• Understanding where flooding occurs <br />in your community and why. <br />• Understanding the benefits that flood - <br />plains can provide to your community. <br />• Leading an investigation of the best <br />ways your community can avoid <br />flood damage and maximize the potential of your floodplains. <br />• Providing leadership in setting goals, implementing them, coping with a flood <br />disaster, and supporting wise flood recovery measures. <br />• Ensuring the public health and safety of your constituents — always your <br />primary concern. <br />page 8 <br />