Loebsack, local officials help in flood aftermath

In February, my northwest neighborhood was informed by FEMA that we had been reclassified into the 100-year flood plain. The agency rationale for reclassification was the assumed risk posed by the adjacent Vinton ditch. Simply stated, the drainage ditch was not a problem in 1993, 2008, nor is it now.

The outcome of

FEMA's reclassification of our neighborhood would have had serious consequences. First, we would have been required to buy flood insurance with premiums reaching $1,200 per year. More importantly, our property values would have been greatly diminished.

FEMA had broken all its own rules by which it communicated our reclassification, including due process of law.

My neighborhood was determined not to be bullied. We contacted Congressman Dave Loebsack's office, whose staff immediately went to work to obtain extra time to appeal FEMA's decision. Loebsack then partnered with Mayor Ron Corbett and Councilmen Don Karr and Chuck Wieneke, who worked tirelessly on our behalf. It was determined FEMA's reclassification assessment was flawed and our homes were removed from the 100-year flood plain.

Loebsack offered and the House passed a bipartisan amendment to the Flood Insurance Reform Priorities Act of 2010. His amendment ensures that homeowners can fully participate and make informed decisions that affect their home values.

Mike Olson

Cedar Rapids