HomeMy WebLinkAboutPACKET JUL 09 2002 ��
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City of Beaumont
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS JULY 9, 2002 1:30 P.M.
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
* Invocation Pledge Roll Call
* Presentations and Recognition
Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items
Consent Agenda
GENERAL BUSINESS
1. Consider approving an application requesting FY 2002 Local Law Enforcement
Block Grant funds from the Department of Justice
2. Consider a request to adopt a new floodplain ordinance
WORK SESSION
* FY 2003 Budget
Review revised proposal from the Metropolitan YMCA
COMMENTS
Councilmembers comment on various matters
k City Manager's Report
* Public Comment (Persons are limited to 3 minutes)
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids
or services are requested to contact Kyle Hayes at 880-3716 a day prior to the meeting.
1
July 9, 2002
Council consider approving an application requesting FY 2002 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant
funds from the Department of Justice
I
City o f Beaumont
Le g
Council Agenda Item
' ' K
TO: City Council
FROM: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager
MEETING DATE: July 9, 2002
AGENDA MEMO DATE: July 3, 2002
REQUESTED ACTION: Council approval of an application requesting FY2002 Local Law
Enforcement Block Grant program for submittal to the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice
Assistance allocating funds among City of Beaumont, Port Arthur and Jefferson County
RECOMMENDATION
The Administration request approval of an application requesting LLEBG funds, providing an
allocation of 10% to Jefferson County with the remaining 90% of funds allocated by formula to
Beaumont and Port Arthur.
BACKGROUND
The City of Beaumont has received funds from the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG)
program since 1976 to address important community law enforcement needs. LLEBG funds are
allocated based on the incidence ofpart one-violent crimes in the jurisdiction. Previously, Jefferson
County has not challenged the funding allocation from the LLEBG program.
Attached is a listing of how the LLEBG funds were utilized in fiscal year 2001. The City received
$315,252 with the City's match of$35,028 resulted in total funds of$350,280. The money was used
for equipment, programs and overtime for police. There is a listing of all the various programs and
equipment that was purchased including D.A.R.E,Domestic Violence Task Force, Public Housing,
Citizens on Patrol, Police Activities League, Citizens Police Academy, Police Explorers and also
mobile video units,computer hardware,MDC replacements,cellular phones,SWAT equipment and
overtime for bicycle,park and targeted patrols throughout the year. These funds are very important
to the efficient operation of the Beaumont Police Department in meeting its mission to protect and
serve our community from all potential threats.
For Fiscal Year 2002, the Attorney General for the State of Texas has certified the disparity and
funding for entities in Jefferson County. The certification requires that the cities of Beaumont, Port
Arthur collaborate with Jefferson County on apportionment of the grant funds. The process permits
but does not require a joint application from all three entities. If no agreement is reached,then none
of the jurisdictions may apply for funding which would result in significant loss of program and
equipment resources for the Beaumont Police Department.
For Fiscal Year 2002 there's a total of $380,794 allocated with $276,288, 73% of the funds
designated to Beaumont based on a population of 113,866 or 46%of the county's population. Port
Arthur with a population of 57,755, or 23% of the county's population is scheduled to receive
$104,506,which is 27%of the funds. Jefferson County is concerned that if this allocation continues
that 31%of the county's population,living either in other cities or in the unincorporated county will
not directly benefit from the use of funds allocated to Beaumont and Port Arthur.
After telephone discussions and meetings between the City Managers of Beaumont and Port Arthur
and the County Judge Assistant, the two cities have offered to share 10% of the funding allocation
with Jefferson County, which is approximately$38,000 based on the current formula. The position
of Jefferson County is that they receive 15 to 20%and have recommended 18%which is$68,543 or
$30,000 more which was offered by the cities. If the cities agree to the $68,543, that would leave
$312,251 remaining to be disbursed with Beaumont receiving $227,943 and Port Arthur receiving
$84,308, which results in a loss to the City of Beaumont of$48,345 or(18%). In analysis of prior
year allocations and proposed allocations show a large variation in the percentage amount shared
among cities and the county of jurisdiction.
There has been a disparity in the funding appropriation among Jefferson County, the cities of
Beaumont and Port Arthur since 1996 when the funds became available. The County has not
challenged the disparity of funding until Fiscal year 2002. In Fiscal year 2000, the allocation of
LLEBG Funds was Jefferson County,$11,090,Beaumont$290,874 and Port Arthur, $247,000 for
the total allocation of$449,211. In Fiscal Year 2001,Jefferson County received$10,244,Beaumont,
$315,252 and Port Arthur, $138,450 of the total allocation of$464,146.
If you average Jefferson County's LLEBG allocation for the past two years, it is approximately
$10,767. If the administration's recommendation of 10% is approved, Jefferson County would
realize an additional $27,312 which is a 254% increase. If the County's proposal is accepted, this
would reflect an increase of$57,776 or 537 % increase over fiscal year 2001. The City's offer of
sharing 10%will provide a significant increase in Jefferson County's funding and is fair based on prior
years allocations. If there is to be any increased sharing with the county among the cities,that could
occur after discussion and review in future years. This comes at a time when proposed budgets and
programs are being finalized. The City is facing a $2.5 million deficit and needs to be diligent in
preserving all federal and state funding sources.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
The Administration proposal results in a loss of$27,623 in FY2002 LLEBG funds for City law
enforcement services.
PREVIOUS ACTION
None.
SUBSEQUENT ACTION
None.
RECOMMENDED BY
City Manager and Chief of Police.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Approve/Deny submitting an application requesting LLEBG funds,providing an allocation of 10%
to Jefferson County with the remaining 90% of funds allocated by formula to Beaumont and Port
Arthur.
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.tune 25, 2002 via facsimile 880-31121982-6743
Steve Bonczek, City Manager Steve Fitzgibbons, City Manager
City of Beaumont City of Port Arthur
P. O. Box 3708 P. O. Box 1089
Beaumont, Texas 77704 Port Arthur, Texas 77641
Dear Steve and Steve:
I am writing to follow up on our conversations regarding the Local Law Enforcement Block
Grant Program.
As you know, block grant funds are allocated based on the incidence of Part I violent Crimes in a
given jurisdiction. Jefferson County challenged this formula as far back as 1996 on the basis that
the cost of incarceration and prosecution of Part I violent offenders is a burden shared equally by
all of the taxpayers of Jefferson County, those living in the cities of Beaumont and Port Arthur
and those living either in other incorporated cities or the unincorporated county.
As we have discussed, the Attorney General has certified that the disparity in funding for entities
in Jefferson County,which based on Part I violent crimes, "is likely to threaten the efficient
administration of justice."This certification requires that the cities of Beaumont and Port Arthur
collaborate with Jefferson County on apportioning the grant funds. The process permits but does
not require a joint application from all three entities. If no agreement is reached,none of the
jurisdictions may apply for funding.
There is a total of$380,794 allocated, with $276,288 (73 percent of the funds) allocated to
Beaumont (which has a population of 113,866, or 46 percent of the county's population). Port
Arthur(with a population of 57,755,or 23 percent of the county's population) is scheduled to
receive $104,506 (27 percent of the funds). If this allocation stands, the 80,430 people(31
percent of the county's population)living either in other cities or in the unincorporated county
will not benefit from the grant funds.
Steve Bonczek and Steve Fitzgibbons
June 25, 2002
Page 2,
We believe the most equitable division of the funds would be based on population, or 46 percent
to Beaumont, 23 percent to Port Arthur and 31 percent to the county and/or the other
incorporated cities in Jefferson County. As a compromise, I suggested 15 to 20 percent.
Steve Bonczek suggested 10 percent,while Steve Fitzgibbons suggested that two percent was
more in line with what other counties were receiving. I researched the issue and have come to a
different conclusion.
First, it is important to recognize that the numbers provided by the Attorney General are the
allocations proposed by the Justice Department. Each of these counties and the cities in them are
in the same situation Jefferson County and the cities of Beaumont and Port Arthur are in; that is,
they are required to negotiate a split.
I contacted the Justice Department and learned that many cities and counties split the funding
equally. These include Bexar,Dallas, Harris, Lubbock and others. In other cases,the cities and
counties alternate; that is, one year the county takes all the funding and in the next year the city
takes it. In light of this, we will likely have to revisit this issue next year.
Even with the amounts proposed by the Justice Department, I calculated the split for every
county scheduled to receive funds and found that the average is not two percent,but 18 percent.
Keep in mind, however, that in almost every case, the cities and counties are negotiating splits
that send significantly greater amounts to the counties.
I am prepared to recommend to the Commissioners Court that, for this year only,we agree to 18
percent of the total, or$68,543. This would leave $312,251. If the percentage split remains the
same, Beaumont would receive $227,943 and Port Arthur would receive$84,308.
I would remind you that the deadline for submitting our application(s) is July 17. Please call me
if you would like to discuss this issue further.
Sincerely,
J 4 Jo n
AssistanE Lo the County Judge
cc: Commissioners Court
County Auditor
Beaumont Police Department Local Law Enforcement Block Grant FY 2001
Funds Amount
Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Award $315,252
City Match $35,028
Total Funds $350,280
Purpose Area Allocations
Overtime $45,000
Equipment/ Programs $305,280
Total Purpose Areas $350,280
Program Allocation
Chicken Club $2,000
Dare/Adopt A Cop $20,000
Domestic Violence Task Force/ Public Housing $10,000
Citizens on Patrol $10,000
Police Activities League $15,000
YALE (Youth Academy of Law Enforcement) $2,000
Citizens Police Academy $2,000
Police Explorers $2,000
Total Programs $63,000
Equipment/ Program Costs Include: Overtime Costs Include:
Mobile Video Units Holiday Bicycle Patrols
Computer Hardware Park Patrols
Computer Software Targeted Patrols ( High Crime Areas; Robbery
MDC Replacement/Repairs Task Force etc.)
Office Equipment( Fax Machines; Copiers;
Typewriters etc.)
Cellular Phones
SWAT Equipment
SRT Equipment
Traffic Radar Units and Radar Trailers
Firearms Range Equipment and Improvements
2
July 9, 2002
Council consider a request to adopt a new floodplain ordinance
Cit y of Beaumont
•�• Council Agenda Item
TO: City Council
FROM: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Stephen C. Richardson, Planning Manager
MEETING DATE: July 9, 2002
AGENDA MEMO DATE: June 28, 2002
REQUESTED ACTION: Council consider a request to repeal the existing floodplain ordinance,
and adopt a new floodplain ordinance.
RECOMMENDATION
The Administration recommends approval of a request to repeal the existing floodplain ordinance,
and adopt a new floodplain ordinance.
BACKGROUND
The City of Beaumont will have a new FIRM (Federal Insurance Rate Map), effective August 6,
2002. To remain a participant in the NFIP(National Flood Insurance Program), FEMA is requiring
that the city revise its floodplain ordinance to include specific information.
Changes to the ordinance include a new elevation requirement for the lowest floor of a new or
substantially improved structure. The existing requirement is one foot(P) above BFE (Base Flood
Elevation). Research shows that a substantial insurance benefit is available with an additional six
inches(6"). Savings in insurance costs by the property owners, due to an increase in elevation will
outweigh any initial anguish it may cause.
Recreational vehicles have not been addressed in the past. This new ordinance requires that if they
are in a flood hazard area they either be licensed, road ready and on site for fewer than 180
consecutive days, or, elevated and anchored as a manufactured home.
Other changes include specifics for enclosures below BFE, standards for manufactured homes,
additional definitions, required information for permits, and a penalty clause. Much of the new
ordinance includes the same information,but is reworded or reorganized. FEMA suggested that we
use their model ordinance, as they have successfully defended it in courts of law several times over.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
None.
PREVIOUS ACTION
The existing ordinance was adopted on December 12, 1984.
SUBSEQUENT ACTION
None.
RECOMMENDED BY
City Manager, Executive Assistant to City Manager/Economic Development Director, Planning
Manager and the Floodplain Administrator.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Approve/Deny a request to repeal the existing floodplain ordinance, and adopt a new fl000dplain
ordinance.
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 6, ARTICLE III, DIVISION I
STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDINGS OF FACT, PURPOSE AND METHODS
SECTION 60.25 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION
The Legislature of the State of Texas has in Sections 16.3145 & 16.315 of the Texas Water Code,
delegated the responsibility of local governmental units to adopt regulations designed to minimize
flood losses. Therefore,the City Council of The City of Beaumont, Texas, does ordain as follows:
SECTION 60.26 FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The flood hazard areas of The City of Beaumont are subject to periodic inundation which
results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and
governmental services, and extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief, all of
which adversely affect the public health, safety and general welfare.
2. These flood loses are created by the cumulative effect of obstructions in floodplains which
cause an increase in flood heights and velocities, and by the occupancy of flood hazards areas by
uses vulnerable to floods and hazardous to other lands because they are inadequately elevated,
floodproofed or otherwise protected from flood damage.
SECTION 60.27 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
It is the purpose of this ordinance to promote the public health, safety and general welfare and to
minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by provisions designed
to:
1. Protect human life and health;
2. Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
3. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally
undertaken at the expense of the general public;
4. Minimize prolonged business interruptions;
5. Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains, electric,
telephone and sewer lines, streets and bridges located in floodplains;
6. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of
flood-prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood blight areas; and
7. Insure that potential buyers are notified that property is in a flood area.
SECTION 60.28 METHODS OF REDUCING FLOOD LOSSES
In order to accomplish its purposes, this ordinance uses the following methods:
1. Restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health,safety or property in times of flood,
or cause excessive increases in flood heights or velocities;
2. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be
protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
3. Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective
barriers, which are involved in the accommodation of flood waters;
4. Control filling, grading, dredging and other development which may increase flood
damage;
5. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert flood
waters or which may increase flood hazards to other lands.
SECTION 60.29 DEFINITIONS
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this ordinance shall be interpreted to
give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this ordinance its most reasonable
application.
ALLUVIAL FAN FLOODING - means flooding occurring on the surface of an alluvial fan or
similar landform which originates at the apex and is characterized by high-velocity flows; active
processes of erosion, sediment transport, and deposition; and unpredictable flow paths.
APEX-means a point on an alluvial fan or similar landform below which the flow path of the major
stream that formed the fan becomes unpredictable and alluvial fan flooding can occur.
APPEAL - means a request for a review of the Floodplain Administrator's interpretation of any
provisions of this article or a request for a variance as defined in the Section.
AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING-means a designated AO,AH,or VO zone on a community's
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) with a one percent chance or greater annual chance of flooding
to an average depth of one to three feet where a clearly defined channel does not exist, where the
path of flooding is unpredictable and where velocity flow may be evident. Such flooding is
characterized by ponding or sheet flow.
AREA OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD - is the land in the floodplain within a community
subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. The area may be designated
as Zone A on the Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM). After detailed rate making has been
completed in preparation for publication of the FIRM,Zone A usually is refined into Zones A, AE,
AH, AO, Al-99, VO, V1-30,VE or V.
BASE FLOOD-means the flood having a one percent chance of being equalled or exceeded in any
given year.
BASEMENT - means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on
all sides.
CRITICAL FEATURE - means an integral and readily identifiable part of a flood protection
system, without which the flood protection provided by the entire system would be compromised.
DEVELOPMENT - means any man-made change in improved and unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining,dredging, filling, grading,paving,
excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.
ELEVATED BUILDING - means a non-basement building (i) built, in the case of a building in
Zones Al-30, AE,A, A99, AO, AH,B, C,X,and D,to have the top of the elevated floor, or in the
case of a building in Zones V1-30, VE, or V,to have the bottom of the lowest horizontal structure
member of the elevated floor elevated above the ground level by means of pilings, columns(posts
and piers), or shear walls parallel to the floor of the water and(ii)adequately anchored so as not to
impair the structural integrity of the building during a flood of up to the magnitude of the base flood.
In the case of Zones Al-30,AE,A,A99,AO,AH,B, C,X,and D, "elevated building"also includes
a building elevated by means of fill or solid foundation perimeter walls with openings sufficient to
facilitate the unimpeded movement of flood waters. In the case ofZones V 1-30,VE,or V,"elevated
building" also includes a building otherwise meeting the definition of "elevated building," even
though the lower area is enclosed by means of breakaway walls if the breakaway walls met the
standards of Section 60.3(e)(5)of the National Flood Insurance Program regulations.
EXISTING CONSTRUCTION-means for the purposes of determining rates,structures for which
the "start of construction" commenced before the effective date of the FIRM or before January 1,
1975, for FIRMS effective before that date. "Existing construction" may also be referred to as
"existing structures."
EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION - means a manufactured
home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the
construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed
before the effective date of the floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
EXPANSION TO AN EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION-
means the preparation of additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on
which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the
construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads).
FLOOD OR FLOODING - means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete
inundation of normally dry land areas from:
1. the overflow of inland or tidal waters.
2. the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM) -means an official map of a community, on which
the Federal Emergency Management Agency has delineated both the areas of special flood hazards
and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY - is the official report provided by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The report contains flood profiles,water surface elevation of the base flood,
as well as the Flood Boundary-Floodway Map.
FLOODPLAIN OR FLOOD-PRONE AREA-means any land area susceptible to being inundated
by water from any source(see definition of flooding).
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT-means the operation of an overall program of corrective and
preventive measures for reducing flood damage, including but not limited to emergency
preparedness plans, flood control works and floodplain management regulations.
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS - means zoning ordinances, subdivision
regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as a floodplain
ordinance,grading ordinance and erosion control ordinance)and other applications of police power.
The term describes such state or local regulations, in any combination thereof, which provide
standards for the purpose of flood damage prevention and reduction.
FLOOD PROTECTION SYSTEM -means those physical structural works for which funds have
been authorized, appropriated, and expended and which have been constructed specifically to
modify flooding in order to reduce the extent of the areas within a community subject to a "special
flood hazard" and the extent of the depths of associated flooding. Such a system typically includes
hurricane tidal barriers, dams,reservoirs, levees or dikes. These specialized flood modifying works
are those constructed in conformance with sound engineering standards.
FLOOD PROOFING-means any combination of structural and non-structural additions,changes,
or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real
property, water and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents.
FLOODWAY (REGULATORY FLOODWAY) - means the channel of a river or other
watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood
without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than a designated height.
FUNCTIONALLY DEPENDENT USE-means a use which cannot perform its intended purpose
unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The term includes only docking
facilities,port facilities that are necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers,and
ship building and ship repair facilities, but does not include long-term storage or related
manufacturing facilities.
HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE-means the highest natural elevation ofthe ground surface prior
to construction next to the proposed wails of a structure.
HISTORIC STRUCTURE - means any structure that is:
I. Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing maintained by
the Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior
as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the National Register;
2. Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to
the historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily
determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district;
3. Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic
preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of Interior; or
4. Individually listed on a local inventory or historic places in communities with historic
preservation programs that have been certified either:
a) By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior or;
b) Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs.
LEVEE -means a man-made structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and constructed
in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, control, or divert the flow of water so
as to provide protection from temporary flooding.
LEVEE SYSTEM - means a flood protection system which consists of a levee, or levees, and
associated structures, such as closure and drainage devices, which are constructed and operated in
accordance with sound engineering practices.
LOWEST FLOOR-means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area(including basement). An
unfinished or flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking or vehicles, building access or
storage in an area other than a basement area is not considered a building's lowest floor; provided
that such enclosure is not built so as to render the structure in violation of the applicable non-
elevation design requirement of Section 60.3 of the National Flood insurance Program regulations.
MANUFACTURED HOME - means a structure transportable in one or more sections, which is
built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when
connected to the required utilities. The term"manufactured home" does not include a"recreational
vehicle".
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION-means a parcel(or contiguous parcels)
of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
MEAN SEA LEVEL-means,for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program,the National
Geodetic Vertical Datum(NGVD) of 1929 or other datum, to which base flood elevations shown
on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced.
NEW CONSTRUCTION - means, for the purpose of determining insurance rates, structures for
which the"start of construction"commenced on or after the effective date of an initial FIRM or after
December 31, 1974, whichever is later, and includes any subsequent improvements to such
structures. For floodplain management purposes, "new construction" means structures for which
the "start of construction" commenced on or after the effective date of a floodplain management
regulation adopted by a community and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.
NEW MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION - means a manufactured home
park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the
construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed
on or after the effective date of floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE - means a vehicle which is (i) built on a single chassis; (ii) 400
square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projections; (iii) designed to be self-
propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and (iv) designed primarily not for use as
a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational,camping,travel,or seasonal
use.
START OF CONSTRUCTION - (for other than new construction or substantial improvements
under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (Pub. L. 97-348)), includes substantial improvement and
means the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair,
reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other improvement was within 180 days of
the permit date. The actual start means either the first placement of permanent construction of a
structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings,the installation of piles,the construction
of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation;or the placement of a manufactured home
on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing,
grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it
include excavation for basement, footings, piers or foundations or the erection of temporary forms;
nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds
not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement,the
actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural
part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
STRUCTURE - means a walled and roofed building, including a gas or liquid storage tank,that is
principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE - means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the
cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of
the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT-means any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other
improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of
the structure before"start of construction"of the improvement. This includes structures which have
incurred "substantial damage",regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not,
however, include either:
1. Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of state or local
health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified by the local
code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary conditions or
2. Any alteration of a"historic structure",provided that the alteration will not preclude the
structure's continued designation as a"historic structure."
VARIANCE - is a grant of relief to a person from the requirement of this ordinance when specific
enforcement would result in unnecessary hardship. A variance, therefore, permits construction or
development in a manner otherwise prohibited by this ordinance. (For full requirements see Section
60.6 of the National Flood Insurance Program regulations.)
VIOLATION-means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the
community's floodplain management regulations. A structure or other development without the
elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in Section
60.3(b)(5), (c)(4), (c)(10), (d)(3), (e)(2), (e)(4), or (e)(5) is presumed to be in violation until such
time as that documentation is provided.
WATER SURFACE ELEVATION - means the height, in relation to the National Geodetic
Vertical Datum(NGVD)of 1929(or other datum,where specified),of floods of various magnitudes
and frequencies in the floodplains of coastal or riverine areas.
DIVISION 2
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 60.30 LANDS TO WHICH THIS ORDINANCE APPLIES
The ordinance shall apply to all areas of special flood hazard within the jurisdiction of the City of
Beaumont.
SECTION 60.31 BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE AREAS OF SPECIAL FLOOD
HAZARD
The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in a
scientific and engineering report entitled, "The Flood Insurance Study for the City of Beaumont,"
dated August 6, 2002, with accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Boundary-
Floodway Maps(FIRM and FBFM)and any revisions thereto are hereby adopted by reference and
declared to be a part of this ordinance.
SECTION 60.32 ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
A Development Permit shall be required to ensure conformance with the provisions of this
ordinance.
SECTION 60.33 COMPLIANCE
No structure or land shall hereafter be located, altered, or have its use changed without full
compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable regulations.
SECTION 60.34 ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS
This ordinance is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, or
deed restrictions. However, where this ordinance and another ordinance, easement, covenant, or
deed restriction conflict or overlap,whichever imposes the more stringent restrictions shall prevail.
SECTION 60.35 INTERPRETATION
In the interpretation and application of this ordinance, all provisions shall be;
1. considered as minimum requirements;
2. liberally construed in favor of the governing body;and
3. deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under State statutes.
SECTION 60.36 WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
The degree of flood protection required by this ordinance is considered reasonable for regulatory
purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. On raze occasions greater floods
can and will occur and flood heights may be increased by man-made or natural causes. This
ordinance does not imply that land outside the areas of special flood hazards or uses permitted
within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. This ordinance shall not create
liability on the part of the community or any official or employee thereof for any flood damages that
result from reliance on this ordinance or any administrative decision lawfully made thereunder.
DIVISION 3
ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 60.37 DESIGNATION OF THE FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR
The Planning Manager, or his appointee, is hereby appointed the Floodplain Administrator to
administer and implement the provisions of this ordinance and other appropriate sections of 44 CFR
(National Flood Insurance Program Regulations)pertaining to floodplain management.
SECTION 60.38 DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FLOODPLAIN
ADMINISTRATOR
Duties and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator shall include, but not be limited to, the
following:
1. Maintain and hold open for public inspection all records pertaining to the provisions of
this ordinance.
2. Review permit application to determine whether proposed building site, including the
placement of manufactured homes, will be reasonably safe from flooding.
3. Review, approve or deny all applications for development permits required by adoption
of this ordinance.
4. Review permits for proposed development to assure that all necessary permits have been
obtained from those Federal, State or local governmental agencies (including Section
404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, 33 U.S.C. 1334)
from which prior approval is required.
5. Where interpretation is needed as to the exact location of the boundaries of the areas of
special flood hazards (for example, where there appears to be a conflict between a
mapped boundary and actual field conditions) the Floodplain Administrator shall make
the necessary interpretation.
6. Notify, in riverine situations,adjacent communities and the Texas Department of Water
Resources, prior to any alteration or relocation of a watercourse, and submit evidence
of such notification to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
7. Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of any
watercourse is maintained.
8. When base flood elevation data has not been provided in accordance with Article 3,
Section B, the Floodplain Administrator shall obtain, review and reasonably utilize any
base flood elevation data and floodway data available from a Federal, State or other
source, in order to administer the provisions of Article 5.
9. When a regulatory floodway has not been designated,the Floodplain Administrator must
require that no new construction, substantial improvements, or other development
(including fill) shall be permitted within Zones Al-30 and AE on the community's
FIRM,unless it is demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development,
when combined with all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase
the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point within the
community.
10. Under the provisions of 44 CFR Chapter 1, Section 65.12, of the National Flood
Insurance Program regulations,a community may approve certain development in Zones
Al-30,AE, AH, on the community's FIRM which increases the water surface elevation
of the base flood by more than one foot, provided that the community first applies for
a conditional FIRM revision through FEMA.
SECTION 60.39 PERMIT PROCEDURES
Application for a Development Permit, in the floodplain, shall be presented to the Floodplain
Administrator on forms furnished by him/her and may include, but not be limited to, plans in
duplicate drawn to scale showing the location, dimensions, and elevation of proposed landscape
alterations, existing and proposed structures, including the placement of manufactured homes, and
the location of the foregoing in relation to areas of special flood hazard. Additionally,the following
information is required:
1. Elevation(in relation to mean sea level), of the lowest floor (including basement)of all
new and substantially improved structures;
2. Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any nonresidential structure shall be
floodproofed;
3. A certificate from a registered professional engineer or architect that the nonresidential
floodproofed structure shall meet the floodproofing criteria of Article 5, Section B(2);
4. Description of the extent to which any watercourse or natural drainage will be altered or
relocated as a result of proposed development.
5. Maintain a record of all such information in accordance with Article 4, Section (13)(1).
Approval or denial of a Development Permit by the Floodplain Administrator shall be based on all
of the provisions of this ordinance and the following relevant factors:
1. The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
2. The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the effect
of such damage on the individual owner;
3. The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others;
4. The compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated development;
5. The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency
vehicles;
6. The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions including
maintenance and repair of streets and bridges, and public utilities and facilities such as
sewer, gas, electrical and water systems;
7. The expected heights, velocity,duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the flood
waters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at the site;
8. The necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, where applicable;
9. The availability of alternative locations, not subject to flooding or erosion damage, for
the proposed use;
10. The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan for that area.
SECTION 60.40 VARIANCE PROCEDURES
1. The Board of Adjustment shall hear and render judgement on requests for variances from
the requirements of this ordinance.
2. The Board of Adjustment shall hear and render judgement on an appeal only when it is
alleged there is an error in any requirement, decision, or determination made by the
Floodplain Administrator in the enforcement or administration of this ordinance.
3. Any person or persons aggrieved by the decision of the Board of Adjustment may appeal
such decision in the courts of competent jurisdiction.
4. The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain a record of all actions involving an appeal
and shall report variances to the Federal Emergency Management Agency upon request.
5. Variances may be issued for the reconstruction,rehabilitation or restoration of structures
listed on the National Register of Historic Places or the State Inventory of Historic
Places, without regard to the procedures set forth in the remainder of this ordinance.
6. Variances may be issued for new construction and substantial improvements to be
erected on a lot of one-half acre or less in size contiguous to and surrounded by lots with
existing structures constructed below the base flood level,providing the relevant factors
in Section C(2) of this Article have been fully considered. As the lot size increases
beyond the one-half acre, the technical justification required for issuing the variance
increases.
7. Upon consideration of the factors noted above and the intent of this ordinance,the Board
of Adjustment may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it deems
necessary to further the purpose and objectives of this ordinance (Article 1, Section Q.
8. Variances shall not be issued within any designated floodway if any increase in flood
levels during the base flood discharge would result.
9. Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of historic structures upon a
determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure's
continued designation as a historic structure and the variance is the minimum necessary
to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
10. Prerequisites for granting variances:
a) Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the
minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
b) Variances shall only be issued upon,
1) showing a good and sufficient cause;
2) a determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional
hardship to the applicant, and
3) a determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased
flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public
expense, create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or
conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.
c) Any application to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice that the
structure will be permitted to be built with the lowest floor elevation below the base
flood elevation, and that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the
increased risk resulting from the reduced lowest floor elevation.
11. Variances may be issued by a community for new construction and substantial
improvements and for other development necessary for the conduct of a functionally
dependent use provided that:
a) the criteria outlined in Article 4, Section D(1)-(9) are met, and
b) the structure or other development is protected by methods that minimize flood
damages during the base flood and create no additional threats to public safety.
DIVISION 4
PROVISIONS FOR FLOOD HAZARD REDUCTION
SECTION 60.41 GENERAL STANDARDS
In all areas of special flood hazards the following provisions are required for all new construction
and substantial improvements.
1. All new construction or substantial improvements shall be designed (or modified) and
adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the structure
resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy;
2. All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed by methods and
practices that minimize flood damage;
3. All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed with materials
resistant to flood damage;
4. All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed with electrical,
heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and other service
facilities that are designed and/or located a minimum of one foot six inches(1'6")above
the base flood elevation, so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the
components during conditions of flooding. Tanks shall be vented a minimum of one foot
six inches(1'6") above the base flood elevation.
5. All new and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or
eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system;
6. New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or
eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system and discharge from the systems into
flood waters; and,
7. On-site waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them or
contamination from them during flooding,
SECTION 60.42 SPECIFIC STANDARDS
In all areas of special flood hazards where base flood elevation data has been provided as set forth
in(i)Article 3, Section B, (ii)Article 4, Section B(8), or(iii) Article 5, Section C(3), the following
provisions are required:
1. Residential Construction - new construction and substantial improvement of any
residential structure shall have the lowest floor (including basement), elevated a
minimum of one foot six inches (1' 6") above the base flood elevation. A registered
professional engineer, architect, or land surveyor shall submit a certification to the
Floodplain Administrator that the standard of this subsection as proposed in Article 4,
Section C(1)a., is satisfied.
2. Nonresidential Construction -new construction and substantial improvements of any
commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall either have the lowest floor
(including basement) elevated a minimum of one foot six inches (1' 6") above the base
flood level or together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, be designed so that
a minimum of one foot six inches (1' 6") above and below the base flood level the
structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and
with structural components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and
hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy. A registered professional engineer or
architect shall develop and/or review structural design, specifications, and plans for the
construction, and shall certify that the design and methods of construction are in
accordance with accepted standards of practice as outlined in this subsection. A record
of such certification which includes the specific elevation(in relation to mean sea level)
to which such structures are floodproofed shall be maintained by the Floodplain
Administrator.
I Enclosures- new construction and substantial improvements, with fully enclosed areas
below the lowest floor that are usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or
storage in an area other than a basement and which are subject to flooding shall be
designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing
for the entry and exit of floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either
be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect or meet or exceed the
following minimum criteria:
a) A minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch
for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided.
b) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade.
c) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or
devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
4. Manufactured Homes -
a) Require that all manufactured homes to be placed within Zone A on a community's
FHBM or FIRM shall be installed using methods and practices which minimize flood
damage. For the purposes ofthis requirement,manufactured homes must be elevated
and anchored to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. Methods of
anchoring may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to
ground anchors. This requirement is in addition to applicable State and local
anchoring requirements for resisting wind forces.
b) Require that manufactured homes that are placed or substantially improved within
Zones Al-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM on sites (i) outside of a
manufactured home park or subdivision, (ii) in a new manufactured home park or
subdivision, (iii) in an expansion to an existing manufactured home park or
subdivision, or(iv) in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision on which
a manufactured home has incurred "substantial damage" as a result of a flood, be
elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured
home is elevated to or above the base flood elevation and be securely anchored to an
adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral
movement.
c) Require that manufactured homes be placed or substantially improved on sites in an
existing manufactured home park or subdivision with Zones Al-30, AH and AE on
the community's FIRM that are not subject to the provisions of paragraph(4)of this
section be elevated so that:
1) the lowest floor of the manufactured home is a minimum of one foot six
inches(1'6") above the base flood elevation, and
2) the manufactured home chassis is supported by reinforced piers or other
foundation elements of at least equivalent strength that are no less than 36
inches in height above grade and be securely anchored to an adequately
anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral
movement.
5. Recreational Vehicles-Require that recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zones
Al-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM either:
a) be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days,
b) be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or
c) meet the permit requirements of Article 4, Section C(1), and the elevation and
anchoring requirements for "manufactured homes" in paragraph(4) of this section.
A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking
system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security
devices, and has no permanently attached additions.
SECTION 60.43 STANDARDS FOR SUBDIVISION PROPOSALS
1. All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks and
subdivisions shall be consistent with Article 1, Sections B, C, and D of this ordinance.
2. All proposals for the development of subdivisions including the placement of
manufactured home parks and subdivisions shall meet Development Permit requirements
of Article 3, Section C; Article 4, Section C; and the provisions of Article 5 of this
ordinance.
3. Base flood elevation data shall be generated for subdivision proposals and other
proposed development including the placement of manufactured home parks and
subdivisions which is greater than 50 lots or 5 acres,whichever is lesser,if not otherwise
provided pursuant to Article 3, Section B or Article 4, Section B (8) of this ordinance.
4. All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks and
subdivisions shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
5. All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks and
subdivisions shall have public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and
water systems located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage.
SECTION 60.44 STANDARDS FOR AREAS OF SHALLOW FLOODING(AO/AH ZONES)
Located within the areas of special flood hazard established in Article 3, Section B, are areas
designated as shallow flooding. These areas have special flood hazards associated with base flood
depths of 1 to 3 feet where a clearly defined channel does not exist and where the path of flooding
is unpredictable and where velocity flow may be evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding
or sheet flow; therefore, the following provisions apply:
I. All new construction and substantial improvements of residential structures have the
lowest floor (including basement) elevated above the highest adjacent grade at least as
high as the depth number specified in feet on the community's FIRM (at least two feet
if no depth number is specified).
2. All new construction and substantial improvements of non-residential structures;
a) have the lowest floor(including basement)elevated above the highest adjacent grade
at least as high as the depth number specified in feet on the community's FIRM (at
least two feet if no depth number is specified), or;
b) together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities be designed so that below the
base flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to
the passage of water and with structural components having the capability of
resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads of effects of buoyancy.
3. A registered professional engineer or architect shall submit a certification to the
Floodplain Administrator that the standards of this Section, as proposed in Article 4,
Section C (I)a., are satisfied.
4. Require within Zones AH or AO adequate drainage paths around structures on slopes,
to guide flood waters around and away from proposed structures.
SECTION 60.45 FLOODWAYS
Floodways - located within areas of special flood hazard established in Article 3, Section B, are
areas designated as floodways. Since the floodway is an extremely hazardous area due to the
velocity of flood waters which carry debris,potential projectiles and erosion potential,the following
provisions shall apply:
1. Encroachments are prohibited, including fill, new construction, substantial
improvements and other development within the adopted regulatory floodway unless it
has been demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses performed in
accordance with standard engineering practice that the proposed encroachment would
not result in any increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of
the base flood discharge.
2. If Article 5, Section E (1) above is satisfied, all new construction and substantial
improvements shall comply with all applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of
Article 5.
3. Under the provisions of 44 CFR Chapter 1, Section 65.12, of the National Flood
Insurance Regulations, a community may permit encroachments within the adopted
regulatory floodway that would result in an increase in base flood elevations, provided
that the community first applies for a conditional FIRM and floodway revision through
FEMA.
SECTION 60.46 PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPIANCE
No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed,located,extended,converted,or altered without
full compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable regulations. Violation of the
provisions of the ordinance by failure to comply with any of its requirements (including violations
of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions) shall constitute a
misdemeanor. Any person who violates this ordinance or fails to comply with any of its
requirements shall upon conviction thereof be fined not more than$500.00, for each violation, and
in addition shall pay all costs and expenses involved in the case. Each day any violation of the
ordinance shall continue shall constitute a separate offense. Nothing herein shall prevent the City
of Beaumont from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any
violation.
SECTION 60.47 CONFLICT OF LAWS
Within a flood hazard area, the provisions of this article shall take precedence over any conflicting
municiple laws, ordinances, or codes.
18
CERTIFICATION
It is hereby found and declared by the City of Beaumont that severe flooding has occurred in the past
within its jurisdiction and will certainly occur within the future; that flooding is likely to result in
infliction of serious personal injury or death, and is likely to result in substantial injury or
destruction of property within its jurisdiction; in order to effectively comply with minimum
standards for coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program; and in order to effectively
remedy the situation described herein, it is necessary that this ordinance become effective
immediately.
Therefore, an emergency is hereby declared to exist, and this ordinance, being necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety, shall be in full force and effect from
and after its passage and approval.
APPROVED;
(community officiao
PASSED:
(date)
I,the undersigned, , do hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy
of an ordinance duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Beaumont,at a regular meeting duly
convened on
(Secretary or responsible person)
(SEAL)
19
ORDINANCE NO.
ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 6 BY
REPEALING ARTICLE III, FLOOD HAZARD AREAS,
SECTIONS 6-30 THROUGH 6-49.1 AND ADDING A NEW
ARTICLE III, FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION, SECTIONS 6-
25 THROUGH 6-47; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR REPEAL; AND PROVIDING A PENALTY.
Section 1.
THAT Chapter 6, Article III, Flood Hazard Areas, Sections 6-30 through 6-49.1 of
the Code of Ordinances of the City of Beaumont be and the same is hereby repealed.
Section 2.
THAT Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Beaumont be and the
same is hereby amended by adding a new Article III entitled Flood Damage Prevention,
Sections 6-25 through 6-47, as follows:
ARTICLE Ill. FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION
DIVISION I. STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION,
FINDINGS OF FACT, PURPOSE AND METHODS
Sec. 6-25. STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION.
The Legislature of the State of Texas has in Sections 16.3145 & 16.315 of the Texas
Water Code, delegated the responsibility of local governmental units to adopt regulations
designed to minimize flood losses. Therefore, the City Council of The City of Beaumont,
Texas, does ordain as follows:
Sec. 6-26. FINDINGS OF FACT.
(1) The flood hazard areas of The City of Beaumont are subject to periodic inundation
which results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of
commerce and governmental services, and extraordinary public expenditures for flood
protection and relief, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety and general
welfare.
(2) These flood loses are created by the cumulative effect of obstructions in
floodplains which cause an increase in flood heights and velocities, and by the occupancy
GAMORDINANCWMENMflood plain ch 6 art iii
of flood hazards areas by uses vulnerable to floods and hazardous to other lands because
they are inadequately elevated, floodproofed or otherwise protected from flood damage.
Sec. 6-27. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
It is the purpose of this ordinance to promote the public health, safety and general
welfare and to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas
by provisions designed to:
(1) Protect human life and health;
(2) Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
(3) Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and
generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;
(4) Minimize prolonged business interruptions;
(5) Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains,
electric, telephone and sewer lines, streets and bridges located in floodplains;
(6) Help maintain a stable tax base by providing forthe sound use and development
of flood-prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood blight areas;
and
(7) Insure that potential buyers are notified that property is in a flood area.
Sec. 6-28. METHODS OF REDUCING FLOOD LOSSES.
In order to accomplish its purposes, this ordinance uses the following methods:
(1) Restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health, safety or property in times
of flood, or cause excessive increases in flood heights or velocities;
(2) Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses,
be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
(3) Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural
protective barriers, which are involved in the accommodation of flood waters;
(4) Control filling, grading, dredging and other development which may increase
flood damage;
GAMORDINANMAMENDIflood plain ch 6 art iii
(5) Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert
flood waters or which may increase flood hazards to other lands.
Sec. 6-29. DEFINITIONS.
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this ordinance shall be
interpreted to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this
ordinance its most reasonable application.
Alluvial Fan Flooding means flooding occurring on the surface of an alluvial fan or
similar landform which originates at the apex and is characterized by high-velocity flows;
active processes of erosion, sediment transport, and deposition; and unpredictable flow
paths.
Apex means a point on an alluvial fan or similar landform below which the flow path
of the major stream that formed the fan becomes unpredictable and alluvial fan flooding
can occur.
Appeal means a request for a review of the Floodplain Administrator's interpretation
of any provisions of this article or a request for a variance as defined in the Section.
Area of Shallow Flooding means a designated AO, AH, or VO zone on a
community's Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) with a one percent chance or greater
annual chance of flooding to an average depth of one to three feet where a clearly defined
channel does not exist, where the path of flooding is unpredictable and where velocity flow
may be evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet flow.
Area of Special Flood Hazard is the land in the floodplain within a community subject
to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. The area may be
designated as Zone A on the Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM). After detailed rate
making has been completed in preparation for publication of the FIRM, Zone A usually is
refined into Zones A, AE, AH, AO, Al-99, VO, V1-30, VE or V.
Base Flood means the flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year.
Basement means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground
level) on all sides.
Critical Feature means an integral and readily identifiable part of a flood protection
system, without which the flood protection provided by the entire system would be
compromised.
G:\CG\ORDINANCWMEN Mood plain ch 6 art iii
Development means any man-made change in improved and unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading,
paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.
Elevated Building means a non-basement building (i) built, in the case of a building
in Zones Al-30, AE, A, A99, AO, AH, B, C, X, and D, to have the top of the elevated floor,
or in the case of a building in Zones V1-30, VE, or V, to have the bottom of the lowest
horizontal structure member of the elevated floor elevated above the ground level by
means of pilings, columns (posts and piers), or shear walls parallel to the floor of the water
and (ii) adequately anchored so as not to impair the structural integrity of the building
during a flood of up to the magnitude of the base flood. In the case of Zones Al-30, AE,
A, A99, AO, AH, B, C, X, and D, "elevated building" also includes a building elevated by
means of fill or solid foundation perimeter walls with openings sufficient to facilitate the
unimpeded movement of flood waters. in the case of Zones V1-30, VE, or V, "elevated
building" also includes a building otherwise meeting the definition of"elevated building,"
even though the lower area is enclosed by means of breakaway walls if the breakaway
walls met the standards of Section 60.3(e)(5) of the National Flood Insurance Program
regulations.
Existing Construction means for the purposes of determining rates, structures for
which the "start of construction" commenced before the effective date of the FIRM or
before January 1, 1975, for FIRMs effective before that date. "Existing construction" may
also be referred to as "existing structures."
Existing Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision means a manufactured home
park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is
completed before the effective date of the floodplain management regulations adopted by
a community.
Expansion to an Existing Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision means the
preparation of additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which
the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the
construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads).
Flood or Flooding means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete
inundation of normally dry land areas from:
(1) the overflow of inland or tidal waters.
(2) the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.
GACG\ORDINANCWMEND\flood plain ch 6 art iii
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) means an official map of a community, on which
the Federal Emergency Management Agency has delineated both the areas of special
flood hazards and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
Flood Insurance Study is the official report provided by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The report contains flood profiles, water surface elevation of the
base flood, as well as the Flood Boundary-Floodway Map.
Floodplain orFlood-prone Area means any land area susceptible to being inundated
by water from any source (see definition of flooding).
Floodplain Management means the operation of an overall program of corrective and
preventive measures for reducing flood damage, including but not limited to emergency
preparedness plans, flood control works and floodplain management regulations.
Floodplain Management Regulations means zoning ordinances, subdivision
regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as a
floodplain ordinance, grading ordinance and erosion control ordinance) and other
applications of police power. The term describes such state or local regulations, in any
combination thereof, which provide standards for the purpose of flood damage prevention
and reduction.
Flood Protection System means those physical structural works forwhich funds have
been authorized, appropriated, and expended and which have been constructed
specifically to modify flooding in order to reduce the extent of the areas within a community
subject to a "special flood hazard" and the extent of the depths of associated flooding.
Such a system typically includes hurricane tidal barriers, dams, reservoirs, levees or dikes.
These specialized flood modifying works are those constructed in conformance with sound
engineering standards.
Flood Proofing means any combination of structural and non-structural additions,
changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real
estate or improved real property,waterand sanitary facilities, structures and their contents.
Floodway(Regulatory Floodway)means the channel of a river or other watercourse
and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood
without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than a designated height.
Functionally Dependent Use means a use which cannot perform its intended
purpose unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The term includes
only docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the loading and unloading of
cargo or passengers, and ship building and ship repair facilities, but does not include long-
term storage or related manufacturing facilities.
GAMORDINANMAMENMflood plain ch 6 art iii
Highest Adjacent Grade means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface
prior to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.
Historic Structure means any structure that is:
(1) Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing
maintained by the Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by the
Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the
National Register;
(2) Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as
contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a
district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered
historic district;
(3) Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic
preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of Interior;
or
(4) Individually listed on a local inventory or historic places in communities with
historic preservation programs that have been certified either:
a) By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior
or;
b) Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs.
Levee means a man-made structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and
constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, control, or divert
the flow of water so as to provide protection from temporary flooding.
Levee System means a flood protection system which consists of a levee, or levees,
and associated structures, such as closure and drainage devices, which are constructed
and operated in accordance with sound engineering practices.
Lowest Floor means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including
basement). An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking or
vehicles, building access or storage in an area other than a basement area is not
considered a building's lowest floor; provided that such enclosure is not built so as to
render the structure in violation of the applicable non-elevation design requirement of
Section 60.3 of the National Flood insurance Program regulations.
Manufactured Home means a structure transportable in one or more sections,which
is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent
GAMORDINANCWMENDVIood plain ch 6 art iii
foundation when connected to the required utilities. The term "manufactured home" does
not include a "recreational vehicle".
Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision means a parcel (or contiguous parcels)
of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
Mean Sea Level means, for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 1929 or other datum, to which base flood
elevations shown on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced.
New Construction means, for the purpose of determining insurance rates, structures
for which the "start of construction" commenced on or after the effective date of an initial
FIRM or after December 31, 1974, whichever is later, and includes any subsequent
improvements to such structures. For floodplain management purposes, "new
construction"means structures forwhich the"start of construction"commenced on or after
the effective date of a floodplain management regulation adopted by a community and
includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.
New Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision means a manufactured home park
or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is
completed on or after the effective date of floodplain management regulations adopted by
a community.
Recreational Vehicle means a vehicle which is (i) built on a single chassis; (ii) 400
square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projections; (iii) designed to
be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and (iv) designed primarily
not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational,
camping, travel, or seasonal use.
Start of Construction (for other than new construction or substantial improvements
under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (Pub. L. 97-348)), includes substantial
improvement and means the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start
of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other
improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual start means either the
first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of
slab or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond
the stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation.
Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading and
filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include
excavation for basement, footings, piers or foundations or the erection of temporary forms;
nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages
or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial
improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling,
G1CG\ORDINANC\AMEND\flood plain ch 6 art iii
floor, or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external
dimensions of the building.
Structure means a walled and roofed building, including a gas or liquid storage tank,
that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
Substantial Damage means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby
the cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed
50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
Substantial Improvement means any reconstruction, rehabilitation,addition,or other
improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market
value of the structure before "start of construction" of the improvement. This includes
structures which have incurred "substantial damage", regardless of the actual repair work
performed. The term does not, however, include either:
(1) Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of state
or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified
by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary
conditions or
(2) Any alteration of a "historic structure", provided that the alteration will not
preclude the structure's continued designation as a "historic structure."
Variance is a grant of relief to a person from the requirement of this ordinance when
specific enforcement would result in unnecessary hardship. Avariance,therefore, permits
construction or development in a manner otherwise prohibited by this ordinance. (For full
requirements see Section 60.6 of the National Flood Insurance Program regulations.)
Violation means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant
with the community's floodplain management regulations. A structure or other
development without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of
compliance required in Section 60.3(b)(5), (c)(4), (c)(10), (d)(3), (e)(2), (e)(4), or (e)(5) is
presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.
Water Surface Elevation means the height, in relation to the National Geodetic
Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 1929 (or other datum, where specified), of floods of various
magnitudes and frequencies in the floodplains of coastal or riverine areas.
DIVISION 2. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 6-30. LANDS TO WHICH THIS ORDINANCE APPLIES.
The ordinance shall apply to all areas of special flood hazard within the jurisdiction of
the City of Beaumont.
GAMORDINANMAMENDTood plain ch 6 art iii
Sec. 6-31. BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE AREAS OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD.
The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency in a scientific and engineering report entitled, "The Flood Insurance Study for the
City of Beaumont,"dated August 6, 2002,with accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps
and Flood Boundary-Floodway Maps (FIRM and FBFM) and any revisions thereto are
hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this ordinance.
Sec. 6-32. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT.
A Development Permit shall be required to ensure conformance with the provisions
of this ordinance.
Sec. 6-33. COMPLIANCE.
No structure or land shall hereafter be located, altered, or have its use changed
without full compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable regulations.
Sec. 6-34. ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS.
This ordinance is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements,
covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this ordinance and another ordinance,
easement, covenant, or deed restriction conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the more
stringent restrictions shall prevail.
Sec. 6-35. INTERPRETATION.
In the interpretation and application of this ordinance, all provisions shall be;
(1) considered as minimum requirements;
(2) liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and
(3) deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under State
statutes.
Sec. 6-36. WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY.
The degree of flood protection required by this ordinance is considered reasonable for
regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. On rare
occasions greater floods can and will occur and flood heights may be increased by man-
made or natural causes. This ordinance does not imply that land outside the areas of
GAMORDINANCVIMENWood plain ch 6 art iii
special flood hazards or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood
damages. This ordinance shall not create liability on the part of the community or any
official or employee thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on this
ordinance or any administrative decision lawfully made thereunder.
DIVISION 3. ADMINISTRATION.
Sec. 6-37. DESIGNATION OF THE FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR.
The Planning Manager, or his appointee, is hereby appointed the Floodplain
Administrator to administer and implement the provisions of this ordinance and other
appropriate sections of 44 CFR(National Flood Insurance Program Regulations)pertaining
to floodplain management.
Sec.6-38. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR.
Duties and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator shall include, but not be
limited to, the following:
(1) Maintain and hold open for public inspection all records pertaining to the
provisions of this ordinance.
(2) Review permit application to determine whether proposed building site, including
the placement of manufactured homes, will be reasonably safe from flooding.
(3) Review, approve or deny all applications for development permits required by
adoption of this ordinance.
(4) Review permits for proposed development to assure that all necessary permits
have been obtained from those Federal, State or local governmental agencies
(including Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments
of 1972, 33 U.S.C. 1334) from which prior approval is required.
(5) Where interpretation is needed as to the exact location of the boundaries of the
areas of special flood hazards(for example,where there appears to be a conflict
between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions) the Floodplain
Administrator shall make the necessary interpretation.
(6) Notify, in riverine situations, adjacent communities and the Texas Department
of Water Resources, prior to any alteration or relocation of a watercourse, and
submit evidence of such notification to the Federal Emergency Management
Agency.
GAMORDINANMAMENWood plain ch 6 art iii
(7) Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of
any watercourse is maintained.
(8) When base flood elevation data has not been provided in accordance with
Division 2, section 6-31, the Floodplain Administrator shall obtain, review and
reasonably utilize any base flood elevation data and floodway data available
from a Federal, State or other source, in order to administer the provisions of
Division 4.
(9) When a regulatory floodway has not been designated, the Floodplain
Administrator must require that no new construction, substantial improvements,
or other development (including fill) shall be permitted within Zones Al-30 and
AE on the community's FIRM, unless it is demonstrated that the cumulative
effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and
anticipated development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the
base flood more than one foot at any point within the community.
(10) Under the provisions of 44 CFR Chapter 1, Section 65.12, of the National Flood
Insurance Program regulations, a community may approve certain development
in Zones A1-30, AE, AH, on the community's FIRM which increases the water
surface elevation of the base flood by more than one foot, provided that the
community first applies for a conditional FIRM revision through FEMA.
Sec. 6-39. PERMIT PROCEDURES.
Application for a Development Permit, in the floodplain, shall be presented to the
Floodplain Administrator on forms furnished by him/her and may include, but not be limited
to, plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the location, dimensions, and elevation of
proposed landscape alterations,existing and proposed structures, including the placement
of manufactured homes, and the location of the foregoing in relation to areas of special
flood hazard. Additionally, the following information is required:
(1) Elevation (in relation to mean sea level), of the lowest floor(including basement)
of all new and substantially improved structures;
(2) Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any nonresidential structure shall
be floodproofed;
(3) A certificate from a registered professional engineer or architect that the
nonresidential floodproofed structure shall meet the floodproofing criteria of
Division 4, section 6-42(2);
(4) Description of the extent to which any watercourse or natural drainage will be
altered or relocated as a result of proposed development.
GAMORDINANCMENDTood plain ch 6 art iii
(5) Maintain a record of all such information in accordance with Division 3, section
6-38(1).
Approval or denial of a Development Permit by the Floodplain Administrator shall be
based on all of the provisions of this ordinance and the following relevant factors:
(1) The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
(2) The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and
the effect of such damage on the individual owner;
(3) The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others;
(4) The compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated development;
(5) The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and
emergency vehicles;
(6) The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions
including maintenance and repair of streets and bridges, and public utilities and
facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems;
(7) The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of
the flood waters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at the
site;
(8) The necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, where applicable;
(9) The availability of alternative locations, not subject to flooding or erosion
damage, for the proposed use;
(10) The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan for that area.
Sec. 6-40. VARIANCE PROCEDURES.
(1) The Board of Adjustment shall hear and render judgement on requests for
variances from the requirements of this ordinance.
(2) The Board of Adjustment shall hear and render judgement on an appeal only
when it is alleged there is an error in any requirement, decision, or determination
made by the Floodplain Administrator in the enforcement or administration of
this ordinance.
(3) Any person or persons aggrieved by the decision of the Board of Adjustment
may appeal such decision in the courts of competent jurisdiction.
GAGG\ORDINANC\AMEND\flood plain ch 6 art iii
(4) The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain a record of all actions involving an
appeal and shall report variances to the Federal Emergency Management
Agency upon request.
(5) Variances may be issued for the reconstruction, rehabilitation or restoration of
structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places or the State
Inventory of Historic Places, without regard to the procedures set forth in the
remainder of this ordinance.
(6) Variances may be issued for new construction and substantial improvements to
be erected on a lot of one-half acre or less in size contiguous to and surrounded
by lots with existing structures constructed below the base flood level, providing
the relevant factors in section 6-39(2) of this Article have been fully considered.
As the lot size increases beyond the one-half acre, the technical justification
required for issuing the variance increases.
(7) Upon consideration of the factors noted above and the intent of this ordinance,
the Board of Adjustment may attach such conditions to the granting of variances
as it deems necessary to further the purpose and objectives of this ordinance
(Division 1, section 6-27).
(8) Variances shall not be issued within any designated floodway if any increase in
flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.
(9) Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of historic structures
upon a determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude
the structure's continued designation as a historic structure and the variance is
the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the
structure.
(10) Prerequisites for granting variances:
a) Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the
minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
b) Variances shall only be issued upon,
1) showing a good and sufficient cause;
2) a determination that failure to grant the variance would result in
exceptional hardship to the applicant, and
3) a determination that the granting of a variance will not result in
increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety,
G:1CG\ORDINANCWMENDV1ood plain ch 6 art iii
extraordinary public expense, create nuisances, cause fraud on or
victimization of the public, or conflict with existing local laws or
ordinances.
c) Any application to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice
that the structure will be permitted to be built with the lowest floor elevation
below the base flood elevation, and that the cost of flood insurance will be
commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced lowestfloor
elevation.
(11) Variances may be issued by a community for new construction and substantial
improvements and for other development necessary for the conduct of a
functionally dependent use provided that:
a) the criteria outlined in Division 3, section 6-40(1)-(9) are met, and
b) the structure or other development is protected by methods that minimize
flood damages during the base flood and create no additional threats to
public safety.
DIVISION 4. PROVISIONS FOR FLOOD HAZARD REDUCTION
Sec. 6-41. GENERAL STANDARDS.
In all areas of special flood hazards the following provisions are required for all new
construction and substantial improvements.
(1) All new construction or substantial improvements shall be designed(or modified)
and adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of
the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the
effects of buoyancy;
(2) All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed by
methods and practices that minimize flood damage;
(3) All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed with
materials resistant to flood damage;
(4) All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed with
electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and
other service facilities that are designed and/or located a minimum of one foot
six inches (1' 6") above the base flood elevation, so as to prevent water from
entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding.
Tanks shall be vented a minimum of one foot six inches (1' 6") above the base
flood elevation.
GAMORDINANMAMENDViood plain ch 6 art iii
(5) All new and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system;
(6) New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system and discharge from the
systems into flood waters; and,
(7) On-site waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them or
contamination from them during flooding.
Sec. 6-42. SPECIFIC STANDARDS.
In all areas of special flood hazards where base flood elevation data has been
provided as set forth in (i) Division 2, section 6-31, (ii) Division 3, section 6-30(8), or (iii)
Division 4, section 6-43(3), the following provisions are required:
(1) Residential Construction - new construction and substantial improvement of
any residential structure shall have the lowest floor (including basement),
elevated a minimum of one foot six inches(1'6")above the base flood elevation.
A registered professional engineer, architect, or land surveyor shall submit a
certification to the Floodplain Administrator that the standard of this subsection
as proposed in Division 3, section 6-39(1)a is satisfied.
(2) Nonresidential Construction-new construction and substantial improvements
of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall either have
the lowest floor(including basement) elevated a minimum of one foot six inches
(1' 6") above the base flood level or together with attendant utility and sanitary
facilities, be designed so that a minimum of one foot six inches (1'6") above and
below the base flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially
impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components having the
capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of
buoyancy. A registered professional engineer or architect shall develop and/or
review structural design, specifications, and plans for the construction, and shall
certify that the design and methods of construction are in accordance with
accepted standards of practice as outlined in this subsection. A record of such
certification which includes the specific elevation (in relation to mean sea level)
to which such structures are floodproofed shall be maintained by the Floodplain
Administrator.
(3) Enclosures - new construction and substantial improvements, with fully
enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are usable solely for parking of
vehicles, building access or storage in an area other than a basement and which
are subject to flooding shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic
flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters.
Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a registered
GACG\ORDINANC\AMEND\flood plain ch 6 art iii
professional engineer or architect or meet or exceed the following minimum
criteria:
a) A minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one
square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall
be provided.
b) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade.
c) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings
or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of
floodwaters.
(4) Manufactured Homes -
a) Require that all manufactured homes to be placed within Zone A on a
community's FHBM or FIRM shall be installed using methods and practices
which minimize flood damage. For the purposes of this requirement,
manufactured homes must be elevated and anchored to resist flotation,
collapse, or lateral movement. Methods of anchoring may include, but are
not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground anchors. This
requirement is in addition to applicable State and local anchoring
requirements for resisting wind forces.
b) Require that manufactured homes that are placed or substantially improved
within Zones Al-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM on sites (i)
outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision, (ii) in a new
manufactured home park or subdivision, (iii) in an expansion to an existing
manufactured home park or subdivision, or (iv) in an existing manufactured
home park or subdivision on which a manufactured home has incurred
"substantial damage" as a result of a flood, be elevated on a permanent
foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated
to or above the base flood elevation and be securely anchored to an
adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and
lateral movement.
c) Require that manufactured homes be placed or substantially improved on
sites in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision with Zones A1-
30, AH and AE on the community's FIRM that are not subject to the
provisions of paragraph (4) of this section be elevated so that:
1) the lowest floor of the manufactured home is a minimum of one foot
six inches (1' 6") above the base flood elevation, and
GAMORDINANMAMENWood plain ch 6 art iii
2) the manufactured home chassis is supported by reinforced piers or
other foundation elements of at least equivalent strength that are no
less than 36 inches in height above grade and be securely anchored
to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation,
collapse, and lateral movement.
(5) Recreational Vehicles - Require that recreational vehicles placed on sites
within Zones Al-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM either:
a) be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days,
b) be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or
c) meet the permit requirements of Division 3, section 6-39(1)and the elevation
and anchoring requirements for "manufactured homes" in paragraph (4) of
this section. A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its
wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect
type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached
additions.
Sec. 6-43. STANDARDS FOR SUBDIVISION PROPOSALS.
(1) All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks
and subdivisions shall be consistent with Division 1, sections 6-29, 6-27 and 6-
28 of this ordinance.
(2) All proposals for the development of subdivisions including the placement of
manufactured home parks and subdivisions shall meet Development Permit
requirements of Division 2, section 6-32; Division 3, section 6-29; and the
provisions of Division 4 of this ordinance.
(3) Base flood elevation data shall be generated for subdivision proposals and other
proposed development including the placement of manufactured home parks
and subdivisions which is greater than 50 lots or 5 acres, whichever is lesser, if
not otherwise provided pursuant to Division 2, section 6-31 or Division 3, section
6-38(8) of this ordinance.
(4) All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks
and subdivisions shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to
flood hazards.
(5) All subdivision proposals including the placement of manufactured home parks
and subdivisions shall have public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas,
electrical and water systems located and constructed to minimize or eliminate
flood damage.
GACGNORDINANCIAMENDTood plain ch 6 art iii
Sec. 6-44. STANDARDS FOR AREAS OF SHALLOW FLOODING (AO/AH ZONES).
Located within the areas of special flood hazard established in Division 2, section 6-
31, are areas designated as shallow flooding. These areas have special flood hazards
associated with base flood depths of 1 to 3 feet where a clearly defined channel does not
exist and where the path of flooding is unpredictable and where velocity flow may be
evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet flow; therefore, the following
provisions apply:
(1) All new construction and substantial improvements of residential structures
have the lowest floor(including basement) elevated above the highest adjacent
grade at least as high as the depth number specified in feet on the community's
FIRM (at least two feet if no depth number is specified).
(2) All new construction and substantial improvements of non-residential
structures;
a) have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated above the highest
adjacent grade at least as high as the depth number specified in feet on the
community's FIRM (at least two feet if no depth number is specified), or;
b) together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities be designed so that
below the base flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially
impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components having
the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads of effects of
buoyancy.
(3) A registered professional engineer or architect shall submit a certification to the
Floodplain Administrator that the standards of this Section, as proposed in
Division 3, section 6-39(1)a, are satisfied.
(4) Require within Zones AH or AO adequate drainage paths around structures on
slopes, to guide flood waters around and away from proposed structures.
Sec. 6-45. FLOODWAYS.
Floodways - located within areas of special flood hazard established in Division 2,
section 6-31, are areas designated as floodways. Since the floodway is an extremely
hazardous area due to the velocity of flood waters which carry debris, potential projectiles
and erosion potential, the following provisions shall apply:
(1) Encroachments are prohibited, including fill, new construction, substantial
improvements and other development within the adopted regulatory floodway
unless it has been demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses
performed in accordance with standard engineering practice that the proposed
G:\CG\ORDINANCWMENDV1ood plain ch 6 art iii
encroachment would not result in any increase in flood levels within the
community during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(2) If Division 4, section 6-45(1), above is satisfied, all new construction and
substantial improvements shall comply with all applicable flood hazard reduction
provisions of Division 4.
(3) Under the provisions of 44 CFR Chapter 1, Section 65.12, of the National Flood
Insurance Regulations, a community may permit encroachments within the
adopted regulatory floodway that would result in an increase in base flood
elevations, provided that the community first applies for a conditional FIRM and
floodway revision through FEMA.
Sec. 6-46. PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE.
No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed, located, extended, converted, or
altered without full compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable
regulations. Violation of the provisions of the ordinance by failure to comply with any of its
requirements (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection
with conditions) shall constitute a misdemeanor. Any person who violates this ordinance
or fails to comply with any of its requirements shall upon conviction thereof be fined not
more than $500.00, for each violation, and in addition shall pay all costs and expenses
involved in the case. Each day any violation of the ordinance shall continue shall constitute
a separate offense. Nothing herein shall prevent the City of Beaumont from taking such
other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation.
Sec. 6-47. CONFLICT OF LAWS.
Within a flood hazard area, the provisions of this article shall take precedence over
any conflicting municipal laws, ordinances, or codes.
Section 3.
That if any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance, or the
application of same to a particular set of persons or circumstances, should for any reason
be held to be invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining portions of this
ordinance, and to such end the various portions and provisions of this ordinance are
declared to be severable.
GAMORDINANCWMENMflood plain ch 6 art iii
Section 4.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith, including conflicting
portions of the City Budget, are repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 5.
That any person who violates any provision of this ordinance shall, upon conviction,
be punished as provided in Section 1-8 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Beaumont,
Texas.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL of the City of Beaumont this the 9th day of July,
2002.
- Mayor-
GACG\ORDINANCWMEND\flood plain ch 6 art iii 20
WORK SESSION
* FY 2003 Budget
* Review revised proposal from the Metropolitan
YMCA
Proposal to the City of Beaumont
Dear Mayor Lord, Manager Bonczek, and City Council persons; Patterson, Samuel, Smith, Goodson, Ames
and Cokinos,
Following our workshop session, meetings with each of you individually, meetings with over 60 other
concerned community leaders, I have listened hard and learned much about the proud character of the diverse
and good people that make up this fine community. I have learned that there is overwhelming support to re-
establish quality YMCA facilities, programs and services to address the present and growing needs of
thousands of youth, families, adults and seniors in this area. I have learned that while the city is to be
commended for the efforts it has made in some sectors of the community, other areas are in need of such
opportunities that are within our grasp with a bit of creativity and commitment on your part. Although the
original proposed partnership would have produced a stronger organizational structure and financial position
and not quite as big a challenge for the community branches, I realize the city has its own challenges at this
time and cannot take on this task alone.
Therefore, I would like to seek your support for a partnership that would allow for facility or program support
dollars totaling $8,333.34/month or $100,000/yr that would be partnered with a matching amount of
$100,000/yr from United Way and a community responsibility to produce $300,000/yr in membership,
programs, and contributions to meet its $500,000 operating budget. These funds could come from CDBG
dollars to begin with and eventually be worked into the operating budget at $25,000/yr. over 4 years. This
commitment on the part of the city and the United Way would allow the YMCA in this community to
experience a rebirth with enthusiasm and excitement that would bring significant benefits to thousands of
families for many future generations. It would challenge the community to step up in both membership and
program support and develop quality youth and adult leadership programs to benefit the total area.
The Metropolitan YMCA is in the process of re-establishing it's Board of Directors, adopting new by-laws,
bringing its annual audit up to date, forging a relationship with Houston for staff training and development
services and other management assistance, negotiating its debt issues, putting the downtown property on the
market and putting plans in place fora new and improved West End Family Branch to better serve that sector
of the community. We are taking on significant challenges and responsibilities to save and re-establish a
quality organization with a long proud history in this community but we cannot do it alone. We have cut our
original operating budget by $50,000 in expenses and increased revenues and we have a business plan in
place. We need the partnerships of the City of Beaumont, the United Way, community leaders and other
healthy YMCA's to put us on the path to recovery and a promising future.
Because we are in danger of our contract prices to increase on our proposed plan, in danger of losing support
from the National YMCA, United Way and in danger of losing community support, we need a very quick
decision on this issue with a long awaited ground breaking ceremony as soon as possible. There will never be
another time or opportunity to provide so much for such a modest investment over time than we can
accomplish through such a strategic partnership. Please give this your prayerful consideration and vote on it at
your next council meeting even if it requires some details to be worked out by management. "Thank you so
much for your consideration.
Sincerely J;.
Brian T. Cormier "� ^`
YMCA of the USA ' �'` )✓ // y `" /
On behalf of the Youth and Families of Beaumont l l' L� ','�`` ��'''" 'y ✓✓✓
enc. L.L. Melton Family YMCA '`'Jv � ' �! A
Pro-forma Operating Budget ' w L1 ?
L. L. Melton Pro Forma Budget Projections
Membership,Type Annual Dues Monthly Draft Year I
Family $300 $25 250
Adult (25-64) $240 $20 100
Young Adult(19-24) $180 $15 50
Sr.Citizen (65+)
Youth( 6-18) $120 $10 50
Total 450
Income Year
Sustaining (Partners with Youth) $ 10,000
Special Event Gala (Achievers Banquet) $ 30,000
United Wav $100,000
Misc. Revenue (Vending La) $250/mo) $ 3,000
I_acility.Rental (5500/mo) $ _6.000
r outh menioership u,v�
Your-/Adult— Sr. Citz. Membership $ 9,000
Adult Membership $ 24,000
Family Membership $ 75,000
Program Fees $137,000
City of Beaumont (Not to Exceed Cost) $100,000
Total 5500,000
• Corporate or Group Membership=category less 10%
• Set up a very tough policy on membership discounts with a more generous policy on program
financial assistance.
• Membership includes services(aerobics classes, water aerobic classes,weight training instruction,
facility use, 50%discount on most programs).
Expense Year 1
Salaries $230,000
Benefits 35,000
Contract Services 5,000
Supplies 35,000
Telephone 3,000
Postage 2,000
Utilities 75,000
Insurance 7,000
Maintenance/Repair 30,000
PR/Printing/Advertising 5,000
Vehicle Expense/Mileage 10,000
Special Events 6.000
Bank Charges/ Misc. Expense 2,000
Management Allocation & Overhead 55,000
(includes Natl. dues,staff training, fees, permits, leases, etc.)
Total $500,000
Net 0
7/3/02
�tt_y of Beaumont
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS JULY 9, 2002 1:30 P.M.
CONSENT AGENDA
k Approval of minutes
* Confirmation of committee appointments
A) Accept maintenance of the improvements constructed in Washington West, Section Two,
Phase One
CONSENT AGENDA JULY 9, 2002
A) Accept maintenance of the improvements constructed in Washington West, Section
Two, Phase One
The Administration recommends accepting maintenance of the street, storm sewer, water and
sanitary sewer improvements in Washington West, Section Two, Phase One. The improvements in
the subdivision passed final inspection from all entities involved on July 1, 2002. A copy of the
staff memorandum is attached for your review.
A
City of Beaumont
Council Agenda Item
� K g
TO: City Council
FROM: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Joris P. Colbert, City Engineer
MEETING DATE: July 9, 2002
AGENDA MEMO DATE: July 1, 2002
REQUESTED ACTION: Council consider a resolution accepting maintenance of the street,
storm sewer,water and sanitary sewer improvements in Washington
West, Section Two, Phase One.
RECOMMENDATION
Administration recommends approval of New York Boulevard from existing New York Boulevard
approximately 202 feet south to the centerline of Montana Avenue and continuing south
approximately 157 feet to 3-OM-4P end of roadway markers,Montana Avenue from proposed East
Nevada Avenue approximately 454 feet west to proposed New York Boulevard and continuing west
approximately 146 feet to 3-OM-4P end of roadway markers, East Nevada Avenue from existing
East Nevada Avenue approximately 157 feet south to the centerline of Montana Avenue and
continuing south approximately 143 feet to 3-OM-4P end of roadway markers. Also,recommended
for approval are the Water and Sanitary Sewer Improvements for Lots 12-15, Block 2, Lots 6-10,
Block 4, Lots 12 and 13, Block 5, Lots 1 and 2, Block 6 and Lots 1-5, Block 7.
BACKGROUND
The aforementioned improvements in the subdivision passed final inspection from all entities
involved on July 1, 2002.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
None.
PREVIOUS ACTION
None.
SUBSEQUENT ACTION
None.
RECOMMENDED BY
City Manager, Public Works Director and City Engineer.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Approve/Deny the resolution accepting maintenance of the street, storm sewer, water and sanitary
sewer improvements in Washington West, Section Two, Phase One.
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WASHINGTON WEST,
SECTION TWO , PHASE ONE