§ 82-28.204. Findings of fact.

(1)

The special flood hazard areas (SFHA) of Contra Costa County are areas subject to periodic inundation which results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare.

(2)

These flood losses are caused by inadequate drainage facilities and the cumulative effect of obstructions in areas of special flood hazards, which increase flood heights and velocities. These losses may result when structures are inadequately anchored, elevated, floodproofed or protected from flood damage.

(3)

Contra Costa County has experienced serious flooding, which has resulted in substantial property damage and the potential for loss of life. Adoption of a legally enforceable floodplain management ordinance which fully complies with the recently revised rules of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will allow Contra Costa County to continue its participation in the NFIP. The continued participation of the county in the NFIP is desirable and promotes the public health, safety and welfare in that it provides insurance and federal assistance in the event of flood(s) within the county's jurisdiction. In the absence of such insurance, the county's vulnerability to damage and loss resulting from flood events may be substantial and potential flood damage represents an immediate threat to the public health, safety and welfare.

(Ords. 2000-33, 99-35, 96-11, 90-118, 88-50, 87-45).