Board approves first reading of Floodplain Ordinance No. 25 to align with FEMA maps

BURLINGTON, Iowa — The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors opened a public hearing and approved the first reading of Floodplain Ordinance No. 25 on April 7, a housekeeping update intended to align county floodplain rules with recent FEMA flood‑insurance maps.

Jared, a county staff member, told the board the ordinance updates come after FEMA mapping changes that primarily affect the south end of the county along the Skunk River and are intended to ensure consistency with Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) standards. "Anytime we update the ordinance, it's an opportunity for the DNR to review and for any issues of consistency with the regulations," Jared said.

He and other staff said the revisions are generally technical and "not going to really change anything significantly in terms of enforcement," but will maintain eligibility and compliance with the national flood insurance program.

After taking public comment and closing the hearing, the board voted to approve first reading. The chair directed staff to proceed with the statutory steps required for additional readings and final adoption.

What happens next: The ordinance will return for additional readings as required by county ordinance procedures before any final adoption. Residents with questions about map changes or specific properties were advised to contact county planning staff or the regional DNR office for details.

(Reporting based on April 7 Des Moines County Board of Supervisors meeting transcript.)