During the December 5, 2024 meeting of The Dalles Planning Commission, significant discussions centered on the long-awaited updates to the city's floodplain maps. The current maps, which date back to 1984, have been deemed outdated and inadequate for accurately assessing flood risks in the area. This issue has gained urgency as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working on updating these maps since 2014.

The Planning Commission highlighted the importance of adopting new floodplain maps to ensure the safety and preparedness of the community. The outdated maps do not reflect current conditions, which can lead to misinformed decisions regarding property development and flood management. The city has been actively involved in this process, recently completing a 90-day appeal period during which community members could review preliminary maps and submit comments or appeals.

In a proactive step, the city’s department submitted feedback to FEMA, requesting a closer examination of specific waterways, including Mill Creek and Chenoweth Creek. This request underscores the city's commitment to ensuring that the updated floodplain maps accurately represent the flood risks associated with these streams, particularly at critical points like the Second Street Bridge.

As the city moves forward with this process, the implications of adopting new floodplain maps are significant. Updated maps will not only enhance public safety but also inform future development plans, ensuring that The Dalles is better prepared for potential flooding events. The community's engagement in this process will be crucial as the city continues to work with FEMA to finalize the new floodplain designations.