The Reno City Council meeting on March 26, 2025, focused on significant updates regarding regional flood mapping activities mandated by FEMA. The presentation, led by city officials, aimed to inform council members about ongoing mapping efforts that are crucial for community safety and compliance with federal regulations.

Three key FEMA mapping activities are currently underway in Reno. These updates are necessary due to outdated floodplain maps that have not been revised since the 1980s and 1990s. The city is supporting these updates to ensure compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is essential for providing federally backed flood insurance and recovery loans to the community.

The first activity involves a Letter of Map Revision (LOMAR) for Swan and Silver Lakes in Lemon Valley, initiated by Washoe County following significant flooding events in 2017 and 2019. This mapping update is expected to be finalized later this year after a public outreach process that has already begun.

The second activity is a Physical Map Revision (PMR) for the Truckee River and its tributaries, which aims to reflect the true flood risk in the area. This update is being supported by the Truckee River Flood Management Authority (TRFMA) and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2025.

The third activity is the FEMA Risk Map, which focuses on various water bodies in Washoe County, particularly tributaries to Steamboat Creek in South Reno. This mapping update is also expected to be finalized in 2026.

During the meeting, council members expressed their concerns about the implications of these updates for local residents and businesses, particularly regarding flood insurance requirements. City officials assured that comprehensive public outreach will be conducted to inform affected property owners about any changes to their floodplain status.

The council also discussed the need for additional funding to complete the necessary analyses and ensure accurate mapping. The city is working with HDR Engineering to finalize these updates, which are critical for enhancing community safety and preparedness against future flooding events.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving flood risk management and ensuring that residents are informed and protected as mapping updates progress.