Resolution 2025-075 – Resolution Setting as Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of an Updated Floodplain Management Ordinance for the City of Tiffin, Iowa.

AGENDA ITEM # I-1 AGENDA INFORMATION TIFFIN CITY COUNCIL COMMUNICATION DATE: September 12, 2025 AGENDA ITEM: Resolution 2025-075 - Resolution Setting as Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of an Updated Floodplain Management Ordinance for the City of Tiffin, Iowa. ACTION: Approval Background: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has provided an updated model floodplain ordinance designed to meet the minimum requirements for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The ordinance is tailored for cities with detailed Flood Insurance Studies (FIS) issued by FEMA. The proposed ordinance establishes a comprehensive framework for floodplain management within the City of Tiffin, including definitions, general provisions, administrative procedures, development standards, variance procedures, and penalties for violations. Purpose and Need: The adoption of this ordinance is necessary to: • Ensure continued eligibility for NFIP participation, allowing residents to obtain flood insurance. • Minimize flood-related risks to life, property, and infrastructure. • Comply with FEMA and Iowa DNR regulations. • Provide clear standards for development within flood hazard areas. Key Provisions: • Floodplain Development Permit System: Requires permits for all development within designated flood hazard areas. • Floodplain Management Standards: Includes elevation and floodproofing requirements for residential, nonresidential, and factory-built structures. • Special Flood Hazard Areas: Defined using the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) for Johnson County and the City of Tiffin, effective December 26, 2025. • Administration: The Mayor is designated as the Floodplain Administrator responsible for enforcement and recordkeeping. • Variance Procedures: Allows for relief in specific cases where strict enforcement would result in hardship, subject to DNR approval. • Penalties: Violations are classified as misdemeanors, with fines up to $500 or imprisonment up to 30 days. ATTACHMENTS: -Resolution -Draft Floodplain Ordinance 1