By Ryan Lewis
Correspondent
JASPER, Tenn. – A public hearing on the revised flood maps in Marion County is sure to bring debate.
Jasper Mayor Billy Simpson encouraged everyone to attend the public hearing because there have been some major changes made to the latest maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
In Jasper alone, all of Betsy Pack Drive has apparently been removed from the flood zone, according to initial reports that have been received by city administrators.
However, other areas around Jasper have been newly added to the flood zones, officials said.
“These maps are not etched in stone, but if no one shows up to complain, I’m sure these will be the final ones,” Mr. Simpson said. “I have a feeling there’s going to be some complaints and protesters, though.”
Many Jasper residents have already paid approximately $1,300 because their property was listed in the flood zone on the initial maps that were finalized in 2008.
“People had to pay to have it surveyed and to have flood insurance added on,” Alderman Paul Evans said. “Some of them are six and half feet above the flood stage.”
Mr. Simpson said it’s likely many of those properties have now been removed from the maps, but it is doubtful the owners will get a refund.
“You know the government isn’t going to give them a dime of that money back,” he said.
Officials said disputing the flood maps is the only way to be removed from them.
“Everybody who had the survey done and objected (last year) was removed to my knowledge,” Mr. Simpson said. “I’m anxious to see how this goes.”
The public hearing will begin with a general discussion, and then groups will be separated by city to address individual issues, officials said.
Mr. Simpson said the revised maps will not be available to the public before the meeting, so it’s critical to attend.
“If they have been put in the flood zone, they will have a voice at this meeting,” he said. “They won’t show anybody anything until then.”
Ryan Lewis is based in Marion County. Contact him at ryanlewis34@gmail.com.
Continue reading by following these links to related stories:
Article: Jasper fights FEMA flood maps
Article: Marion flood plains to be remapped
Article: Hamilton, Bradley, Rhea designated as primary natural disaster areas