Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has expressed his concern over the proposed flood maps for the Teton River in Choteau, Montana. In a letter addressed to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Daines highlighted the negative economic impacts that these maps could have on the community.

The provisional maps, which were presented to the public for comment in November, showed significant expansions of the floodplain, including an increase in the number of structures within the area. As a result, homes, businesses, and development in these areas would be subject to costly flood insurance requirements, local floodplain regulations, and a lengthy permit process for construction or renovation.

Daines emphasized the importance of economic development in Choteau and expressed concern that these proposed flood maps could hinder such progress. He also pointed out that efforts are already underway to protect the city from potential floods, such as the improvement project for U.S. Highway 89. This project aims to raise the highway's elevation and implement better mitigation measures to reduce the risk of another major flood like the devastating one in 1964.

While acknowledging FEMA's efforts to ensure public safety, Daines urged the agency to engage with the local community and take into consideration the ongoing flood risk mitigation initiatives. He called for necessary changes to be made to the proposed flood maps to minimize their economic impact on Choteau.

In his letter, Daines stated, "While I appreciate your efforts to keep people and their property safe from flooding, I urge you to engage with the local community, consider the ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risk, and make the necessary changes to the proposed flood maps to limit their economic impact on the community of Choteau."

It remains to be seen how FEMA will respond to Senator Daines' concerns and whether any adjustments will be made to the proposed flood maps. The full letter sent by Senator Daines to FEMA Region VIII Administrator Nancy Dragani can be read [here](link).

Choteau residents and stakeholders will undoubtedly be closely following this issue as they strive to protect their homes, businesses, and the economic future of their community.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.daines.senate.gov/2023/12/19/daines-expresses-concern-over-proposed-flood-maps-for-choteau/