FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
- October 24, 2006 -



STEARNS URGES FEMA TO RECONSIDER DECISION ON ALACHUA COUNTY FLOOD PLAIN

LITTLE-KNOWN DECISION ADVERSELY IMPACTS UP TO 3,000 RESIDENTS


 WASHINGTON, OCT. 24, 2006 - Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala) today wrote to the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) E. David Paulison regarding a decision that adversely impacts Alachua County residents.

Explained Stearns, "FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to determine flood plain areas in Alachua County.  The 90-day public period for Alachua County to appeal inclusion in the flood plain ended December 16, 2005.  Although FEMA did publish a notice of the proposed changes, this notification was insufficient in that up to 3,000 affected residents were unaware that their property had been included in the flood plain.  These property owners face devalued property, resale difficulties and insurance rate increases from around $450 to $1,600 per household."

Stearns letter reads, "I request that the Alachua County Commission be granted an additional 90 day appeal period to allow them the opportunity to provide sufficient maps according to FEMA guidelines, that will correctly reflect the true flood plain areas in Alachua County."  In addition, Stearns wrote, "I will do whatever I can to assist with publicity, and will join with the county and municipalities to do whatever necessary to provide the required maps.  Further, I will assist the county in securing funding towards getting their flood plain maps updated.  (Some of the maps FEMA used to determine this plain date back to the mid-1970s and 1980's, preceding many of the developments/homes now affected.)"

For Further Information Please Contact Paul Flusche at 202-225-5744 or Email.

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