Ocean City Council Takes Step On FEMA Flood Maps

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City Council took a step to bring its FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps in line with updated maps issued by the agency last week. City Council approved a proposed ordinance on introduction to revise its maps during its meeting on Thursday night, Aug. 22. Ocean City officials advise residents that the change won’t have a substantial impact on insurance premiums.

The city’s current maps are from 1984. Since then, FEMA has issued updated advisory maps that apply to new construction and substantially renovated homes in Ocean City, according to Mayor Jay Gillian.

“Substantially renovated homes” are defined as renovations that cost more than 50 percent of the value of the home. These homes, as well as new construction, in the “Coastal A” zone of Ocean City will be the only homes that are impacted, according to officials.

Homes classified as “Coastal A” are homes built using techniques designed to limit damage caused by “wave action.”

The new maps available for the public to review online at www.ocnj.us/flood-Hazards-Maps/ and at the Knight Building at 12th Street and Haven Avenue.

City council approved the measure on introduction with a 6-0 vote. The public hearing and final vote is scheduled for the Sept. 14 meeting at City Hall, 7 p.m.

Patch file photo