Dear Friends:
Last October, we became aware of just how vulnerable New York is to flooding. Given the reality of more frequent severe weather and floods, it is critical that homeowners know whether their property is at risk and needs to be insured.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) prepares flood-risk maps and runs the National Flood Insurance Program in order to prepare and protect homes and businesses against floods. The maps for the New York City area are being updated and preliminary flood maps should be released early this summer.
Given that many communities in New York's 14th District are on or close to the water, I have asked FEMA and the New York City Department of Buildings to join Councilman Jimmy Vacca and I for a town hall meeting. At the meeting, agencies will explain how the new flood maps may affect residents and business owners. The officials will explain the timeline for the new maps and outline changes to the National Flood Insurance Program. They will also take any questions you have about the flood maps, flood insurance and any changes to building requirements.
The town hall meeting will be held on Thursday, May 2 at 7:00 p.m. at the City Island Civic Center, located at 190 Fordham Street in the Bronx. I invite you to come learn about the program and have your questions answered. Please RSVP to crowley.events@mail.house.gov with your name and phone number, or call 718.779.1400.
I look forward to seeing you there! And, as always, please feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Joe Crowley