The Federal Emergency Management Agency advised Williamsburg officials that the Chesapeake Bay regulations and map will no longer count as floodplain policy, resulting in the city having to establish new regulations that denote those areas within city limits too low for buildings. If the new regulations aren't approved by Sept. 28, city residents won't be able to buy flood insurance and the city won't be eligible for federal funds for any natural disasters, flood or otherwise.
What’s more, insurance policies previously purchased by homeowners also won't be renewed if the city doesn't meet the new standard.
A public hearing is scheduled for the July 18 Planning Commission meeting. If commission members approve the new regulations, the City Council will vote in August.