FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                             January 12, 2023

 

Contact: 

Kinsey Miller

Public Information Officer

(850) 926-0919 Ext. 712

 

WAKULLA COUNTY, Fla – The Wakulla County Planning & Community Development Department recently submitted its annual progress report detailing mitigation efforts in the Floodplain Management Plan and Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS) to the Insurance Services Office. The report outlines the county’s approach to reducing floodplain hazards and is part of the annual review process for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS). Wakulla’s participation in this voluntary incentive program currently allows a 15% discount on flood insurance premiums for eligible citizens.

 

“Each year, we work hard to meet and exceed the requirements of the CRS. These efforts save eligible residents money on their flood insurance and help prevent damage from flooding county-wide,” said Planning & Community Development Director Somer Pell. “We are dedicated to expanding and improving our strategies to enhance the resilience of our community.”

 

The current LMS was adopted by the City of St. Marks Council and approved by the Wakulla County Board of County Commissioners in 2021. The LMS contains a list of projects that can assist Wakulla County and the City of St. Marks in reducing their risk and vulnerability to known hazards. Currently, the LMS list contains 69 projects and is frequently updated by the LMS Working Group. Strategies outlined in the plan involve enforcement of the Wakulla County Code, zoning ordinances, and Florida Building Code, citizen outreach and education, and infrastructure projects that address drainage, water egress, and coastal storm resilience.

 

Citizens can verify receipt of the discount through their flood insurance provider. For more information or to access the report, visit the Planning & Community Development website at MyWakulla.com, or call 850-926-3695.