HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-2013-12 opposing Biggert-Waters ActRESOLUTION NO.,)D1i- I-�_,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS, OPPOSING THE BIGGERT WATERS FLOOD
INSURANCE REFORM ACT OF 2012 RECENTLY PASSED BY U.S. CONGRESS, AND
PROVIDING FOR THE DELIVERY OF SUCH RESOLUTION TO STATE AND FEDERAL
LEGISLATORS THAT REPRESENT LA PORTE.
WHEREAS, the City of La Porte, Texas is a coastal community with 3.1 miles of sea level frontage on
Galveston Bay and a significant population of residents that could be affected by storm
surge and subtropical coastal rain events, and
WHEREAS, Biggert Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, in its current form requires that
primary residences within the Special Hazard Flood Areas (SFHA) will lose their current
rate status if the property is sold; the policy lapses, or if new policy is purchased, and,
WHEREAS, Biggert Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, in its current form requires the
phasing out of grandfathered rates beginning in 2014 so that actuarial rates will be
effective within five years thereafter, and
WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently proposing a change to
the Floodplain maps that will not only expand the geographical boundary of the SHFA,
but also will increase the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) by multiple feet thereby
reclassifying numerous currently compliant properties into a non-compliant condition,
and
WHEREAS, The City of La Porte has a significant low and moderate income population within the
draft surge zone that may not be able to afford to continue residing in their homes if the
proposed rate increases occur over the phase out period.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE,
TEXAS THAT:
Section 1. The La Porte City Council finds that the recitals above are true and correct.
Section 2. The La Porte City Council hereby opposes the Biggert Waters Flood Insurance Reform
Act of 2012 in its current form due to impacts that will disproportionately affect coastal
homeowners' ability to remain in their homes due to substantial increases in flood
insurance costs.
Section 3. The La Porte City Council hereby directs the City Secretary to send this Resolution to all
State of Texas Legislators and members of U.S. Congress that represent La Porte,
Texas.
PASSED AND APPROVED, this 2 day of , 2013.
CITY OF L , TEXAS
Mayor Id
s R. Ri y
Attest:
City Secretary Ci Attorney