[StBernard] FEMA Advisory and Public Meeting

[Westley Annis]

Editor's note: There is no detailed map, this is just an advisory on how
FEMA is expecting to calculate the new base flood elevation.

In a nutshell - Inside the levee protection system homes/businesses need to
be raised to the highest of current BFE or highest existing adjacent grade
elevation (HEAG) + 3 feet. Using FEMA's example, you are at the current BFE
of 5 feet.  Your neighbor is at 4 feet.  4 + 3 = 7 which is greater than 5,
both you and your neighbor need to raise up to 7 feet.  You go up 2 feet,
your neighbor goes up 3 feet.

Outside of the levee protection system, the formula is a little more
complicated since it also depends on the location in relation to the MRGO.
FEMA is counting on the Corps of Engineers to complete repairs and scheduled
upgrades to the levees.  If this fails to occur, they are estimating
everyone would have a minimum BFE of 14 feet.

------------------

A public meeting sponsored by FEMA for April 26th, time to be determine,
regarding new regulations imposed / suggested by FEMA. Location TBA.
 
------------------ 
 
Dear Parish Officials:
 
Information related to the Advisory Base Flood Elevations for the levied
parishes (Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St Bernard, and St Charles) has
been posted to the FEMA website.  The published information can be found by
clicking on the following link:

 
<http://www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/recoverydata/katrina/katrina_la_resources.
shtm#guidance>
< http://tinyurl.com/h7bwp>
 
A printout of this information has been sent to the parishes by fax and by
email, and may be released to your constituents.
 
If you have any questions please call at any time.
 
 
John Saggese
FEMA
Intergovernmental Affairs