New Floodplain Map Released

The latest version of the proposed federal flood insurance rate maps in Lutherville have been released, raising concerns among some local residents. Patch obtained a copy of the changes, which should take effect Aug. 2. (See attached PDF.) 

After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, a national overhaul of local floodplain maps was ordered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  The floodplain map indicates how susceptible a property may be to flooding and, as a result, helps dictate whether a property requires flood insurance.

The new flood insurance rating option could effect as many as 55 homes in the Lutherville area, according to Greater Timonium Community Council president Eric Rockel. The area most effected by the redrawing falls in the Roland Run area. 

Homeowners who have existing flood insurance could see increases while others may have to purchase it for the first time if their home falls within the boundaries of the newly revised plan. 

While such changes may be common in some areas of the country, some Lutherville residents are frustrated after noting inconsistencies among four re-draftings of the floodplain map since 1980, Rockel said in an conversation with Patch Thursday afternoon. 

The question community leaders want answered is simple: Why the disparity among the maps? 

"All this has caused a lot of consternation and confusion,” Rockel continued.

Some residents have contacted local legislators in attempts to better understand the changes. Multiple meetings, aimed at getting answers, have been fruitless.  However, some homeowners may be spared increases in flood insurance premiums, depending on the circumstances of their home's floodplain history.

Stay with Patch as we continue to investigate this story.