Dexter Village Council Approves Floodplain Protection Ordinance

Homeowners and businesses within the village of Dexter's floodplain area will have an easier time protecting their property from floods following a decision by the Dexter Village Council to move forward and join the National Flood Insurance Program.

The council voted 6-0 to adopt a floodplain protection ordinance at its meeting Monday. The action is the first step required to join the program, which allows residents to purchase flood insurance for a home or business located in the floodplain.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recently completed its 2006 mapping of the Mill Creek and Huron River floodplain area in the village, according to the council. The Dexter Wastewater Treatment Plant, Dexter Cider Mill and three other buildings located on Huron River Street are affected by the map.

Trustee Paul Cousins said he was hesitant to participate in the vote, citing insurance costs to building owners in the floodplain.

"I've heard insurance could go up 150 percent for those affected by the map," Cousins said.

Courtney Nicholls, assistant village manager, said approving the ordinance is standard practice once FEMA designates a floodplain in a municipality.

"Properties located within the floodplain could be required to purchase flood insurance by their mortgage companies or volunteer to purchase insurance," Nicholls said.

According to information provided by the village, the next step in the process will be the adoption of an interlocal agreement with Washtenaw County and a resolution of intent to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program, which will be on the council's Jan. 23 meeting agenda.

"All this does is reiterate to FEMA that we're following certain building codes that we're already in compliance with," Nicholl said.

Cousins requested the council send out a information sheet to residents affected by the floodplain.

In other action:

• A public hearing with the State Boundary Commission will take place at the at 4 p.m. Jan. 17. The purpose of the meeting is to express opinions about Dexter's proposed cityhood boundaries.