Henry Fiscal Court adopts first reading to amend flood damage prevention ordinance to stay in NFIP

The Henry County Fiscal Court held a first reading Tuesday on an amendment to its flood damage prevention ordinance to remain eligible for the National Flood Insurance Program. The ordinance language revises the county’s definition of “substantial improvement” to clarify that the cumulative improvements during a five‑year period that equal or exceed 50% of a structure’s pre‑improvement market value constitute substantial improvement. The amendment also reiterates exclusions for projects that correct code violations and for alterations to designated historic structures. A magistrate read the amendment aloud and the court moved to accept the first reading; a motion to accept passed on a voice vote. Court members described the change as a state recommendation required to keep Henry County eligible for the NFIP, which enables county property owners to qualify for federal flood insurance. The amendment requires a second reading before final adoption and the court said the change will be published as required by law once adopted.