The City of Johns Creek is hosting an open house Jan. 18, 2012, in which federal and state officials will explain new flood maps and how they affect flood insurance or use of specific parcels within the City.
Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Natural Resources officials have redrawn flood maps to reflect changes in water flow. The new maps may affect flood insurance rates for residents and businesses that find themselves in the newly drawn flood zones.
Owners of property along rivers and streams are encouraged to attend the open house Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at City Council 3rd floor chambers at 12000 Findley Road. In the open house, property owners can determine their flood risk and learn about financial and physical options to protect against damage and loss. The open house is informal, and FEMA and DNR representatives will be prepared to answer questions.
City of Johns Creek Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis shows that more than 700 properties are considered in high-risk areas for the first time; more than 100 parcels went from high risk to low risk.
Insurance companies rely on flood maps to set flood insurance rates. Planners, local officials, engineers and builders use the maps to determine where and how to build new structures and developments. Flood maps must be updated periodically because areas that in the past weren't susceptible to flooding may be vulnerable to rising water in the future.
The maps will become effective in the Fall 2012. To see the new maps, visit http://map.georgiadfirm.com.
FEMA and DNR conducted the remapping project. The meeting is a public service by the City of Johns Creek to keep its citizens informed.
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