HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-09-24 Meeting Minutes Engineering Services Committee Meeting Commission Chamber - 9/24/2019
ATTENDANCE:
Present: Hons. Hardie Davis, Jr., Mayor; M. Williams, Chairman;
Hasan, Vice Chairman; Garrett and Frantom, members.
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1. Presentation by Mr. Brian Green regarding traffic and safety in the downtown
area.
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve
receiving this item as
information. Mr.
Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Commissioner
Ben Hasan Passes
2. Request adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations within
Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of Blythe and Hephzibah) issued by the
Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA). The effective date of the most recent Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) for
Augusta, GA is November 15, 2019. In keeping with the City of Augusta’s
participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the
Community Rating System (CRS), adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps
(FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard
determinations within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of Blythe and
Hephzibah) issued by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type
Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve.
Mr. Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Commissioner
Ben Hasan Passes
3. Request to approve an Ordinance to amend Title Eight, Chapter 1, Article 1 of
the Augusta GA Code entitled “Flood Damage Prevention” to provide for
revisions as required by the State Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance,
additions to clarify language in the text, and additional revisions to reduce
flood risk, in keeping with the City of Augusta’s participation in the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS).
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve.
Mr. Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Ben Hasan
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett Passes
4. Motion to approve the minutes of the Engineering Services Committee held
on September 10, 2019.
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve.
Mr. Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Ben Hasan
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett Passes
5. Request that Army Corps of Engineers perform a drawdown of the Savannah
River at Augusta to demonstrate the effects that plan "2-6A" would have on
the river pool as replacement for the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam.
(Requested by Commissioner Sammie Sias)
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve Motion to approve
receiving this item as
information. Mr.
Commissioner
Ben Hasan
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Passes
Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
6. Update from the Fire Department regarding the status of the road on
the Regency Mall Property. (Referred from September 10 Engineering
Services Committee)
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve
receiving this item as
information. Mr.
Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Commissioner
Ben Hasan Passes
7. Use Previously Awarded Bid Item 19-127 to Purchase an Additional Lift
Station Power House from Border States Industries at the Previously
Approved Price of $367,675.00.
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve
Motion to approve.
Mr. Frantom out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
Commissioner
Ben Hasan
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett Passes
8. Discuss Environmental Services Department's process
for emptying overflowing/capacity filled commercial trash dumpsters.
(Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams )
Item
Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion
Result
Approve Motion to approve
directing Planning &
Development to identify
in their 2019 budget the
funding to purchase 12
MDTs for use by Code
Enforcement and bring
Commissioner
Brandon
Garrett
Commissioner
Marion
Williams
Passes
this information back to
the Commission on
October 1. Mr. Frantom
out.
Motion Passes 3-0.
www.augustaga.gov
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Attendance 9/24/19
Department:
Presenter:
Caption:
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Brian Green < briangreen200g@gmail.com >
Wednesday, September 18, 2019 3:38 PM
Nancy Morawski
IEXTERNAL]
Hello Ms Morawski,
I am requesting to appear before the county commission- committee mtg , on traffic and safety in the downtown
afea.
B Green
[NOTICE: This message originated outside of the City of Augusta's mail system -- DO NOTCLICK on links, open attachments or respond to requests for information unless you are sure the content is
safe.l
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Brian Green
Department:
Presenter:
Caption:Presentation by Mr. Brian Green regarding traffic and safety in
the downtown area.
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs)
Department:Planning and Development
Presenter:Robert Sherman, Director
Caption:Request adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and
Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard
determinations within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of
Blythe and Hephzibah) issued by the Department of Homeland
Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). The effective date of the most recent Flood Insurance
Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) for
Augusta, GA is November 15, 2019. In keeping with the City of
Augusta’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS), adoption of
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations
within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of Blythe and
Hephzibah) issued by the Department of Homeland Security’s
(DHS’s) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Background:The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued updated
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Studies (FISs) reflecting updated flood hazard determinations
within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of Blythe and
Hephzibah). The updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) are due to become effective
November 15, 2019. These flood hazard determinations may
include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations
(BFEs), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)
boundaries or zone designations, or additions or modifications to
the regulatory floodway. A companion agenda item is
requesting adoption of the updated Augusta’s Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance which also must be adopted prior to the
effective date of the updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps
(FIRMs), which is November 15, 2019. The update to the
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance include: revisions as
required by the State Model Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance, additions to clarify language in the text, and
additional revisions to reduce flood risk, in keeping with the
City of Augusta’s participation in the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS).
Analysis:The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established
with the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968.
The NFIP is a Federal program enabling property owners in
participating communities to purchase insurance as a protection
against flood losses in exchange for State and community
floodplain management regulations that reduce future flood
damages. Adoption of a local Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance and adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) issued from the Department
of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) is required for participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program and the Community Rating
System (CRS).
Financial Impact:There is no financial impact associated with adopting updated
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for Augusta.
Alternatives:If Augusta’s does not adopt the Flood Insurance Rate Maps
(FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed
flood hazard determinations within Augusta, GA (and the
jurisdictions of Blythe and Hephzibah) issued by the Department
of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) and the updated Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance is not adopted prior to the effective date of
the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Studies (FISs), Augusta will be suspended from the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The following sanctions apply
if Augusta is suspended from the NFIP: • Property owners will
not be able to purchase National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) flood insurance policies and existing policies will not be
renewed. • Federal grants or loans for development will not be
available in identified flood hazard areas under programs
administered by Federal agencies such as the Department of
Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), and the Small Business
Administration (SBA). • Federal disaster assistance will not be
provided to repair insurable buildings located in identified flood
hazard areas for damage caused by a flood. • Federal mortgage
insurance or loan guarantees will not be provided in identified
flood hazard areas such as those written by the Federal Housing
Administration (FHA) and the Department of Veteran Affairs
(VA). • Federally insured or regulated lending institutions, such
as banks and credit unions, are allowed to make conventional
loans for insurable buildings in flood hazard areas of non-
participating communities, which included communities on
suspension from the NFIP. However, the lender must notify
applicants that the property is in a flood hazard area and that the
property is not eligible for Federal disaster assistance. Some
lenders may voluntarily choose not to make these loans. If
Augusta is suspended from the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP), it may regain its eligibility in the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), by enacting the floodplain
management measures established in 44 CFR Section 60.3 of the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) regulations. If
development takes place in Augusta during suspension that does
not meet the minimum National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) requirements, Augusta will be asked to take actions to
reduce the increased flood hazard prior to reinstatement.
Recommendation:Approve Adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and
Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard
determinations within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of
Blythe and Hephzibah) issued by the Department of Homeland
Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), in keeping with the City of Augusta’s participation in
the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the
Community Rating System (CRS).
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
1
ORDINANCE NO._______
An Ordinance to amend Title Eight, Chapter 1, Article 1 of the Augusta GA Code entitled
“Flood Damage Prevention” to provide for revisions as required by the State Model Flood
Damage Prevention Ordinance, additions to clarify language in the text, and additional
revisions to reduce flood risk, in keeping with the City of Augusta’s participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS)
TITLE EIGHT
PLANNING & ZONING
CHAPTER 1
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION
ARTICLE 1
STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDINGS OF FACT, PURPOSE, AND OBJECTIVES
§ 8-1-1. STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION.
Article IX, Section II of the Constitution of the State of Georgia and Section 36-1-20(a) of the
Official Code of Georgia Annotated have delegated the responsibility to local governmental units
to adopt regulations designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its
citizenry. Therefore, the Augusta Commission of Augusta, Georgia does ordain the provisions of
this Chapter:
§ 8-1-2. FINDINGS OF FACT.
(a) The flood hazard areas of Augusta, Georgia are subject to periodic inundation which
results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and
governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood relief and protection,
and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety, and
general welfare.
(b) These flood losses are caused by the occupancy in flood hazard areas of uses vulnerable
to floods, which are inadequately elevated, floodproofed, or otherwise unprotected from
flood damages, and by the cumulative effect of obstructions in floodplains causing
increases in flood heights and velocities.
2
§ 8-1-3. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
It is the purpose of this Chapter to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to
minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by provisions designed
to:
(a) restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water
or erosion hazards, or which increase flood heights, velocities, or erosion;
(b) require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be
protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
(c) control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective
barriers which are involved in the accommodation of flood waters;
(d) control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood
damage or erosion, and;
(e) prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert flood
waters or which may increase flood hazards to other lands.
§ 8-1-4. OBJECTIVES.
The objectives of this Chapter are:
(a) to protect human life and health;
(b) to minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
(c) to minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally
undertaken at the expense of the general public;
(d) to minimize prolonged business interruptions;
(e) to minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains, electric,
telephone and sewer lines, streets, and bridges located in floodplains;
(f) to help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of
flood-prone areas in such a manner as to minimize flood blight areas; and
(g) to insure that potential home buyers are notified that property is in a flood area.
§ 8-1-5. - - 8-1-9. RESERVED.
3
ARTICLE 2
DEFINITIONS
§ 8-1-10. SPECIFIC DEFINITIONS.
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this Chapter shall be interpreted so as
to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this Chapter its most reasonable
application:
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Elevation. The water surface elevation resulting from a
flood that has a 0.2 percent change of equaling or exceeding that level in any given year.
0.2% Annual Chance Floodplain. The land within a community subject to a 0.2 percent
or greater chance of flooding in any given year
Accessory Structure. A structure which is on the same parcel of property as the
principal structure and the use of which is incidental to the use of the primary structure.
Addition (to an existing building structure). Any walled and roofed expansion to the
perimeter of a building structure in which the addition is connected by a common load-
bearing wall other than a fire wall. Any walled and roofed addition which is connected by
a fire wall or is separated by an independent perimeter load-bearing wall shall be
considered "New Construction".
Anchored. Adequately secured to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement.
Appeal. A request for a review of the Director's interpretation of any provision of this
Chapter or a request for a variance.
Areas hydraulically adjacent to the Area of Special Flood Hazard means those areas
that are at or below three (3) feet above the base flood elevation, also known as the “flood
protection elevation” unless the area is hydraulically independent (meaning absolutely no
connection to the flooding source such as through pipes, sewer laterals, down drains,
foundation drains, ground seepage, overland flow, gated or valved pipes, excavated and
backfilled trenches, etc. with no fill or other manmade barriers creating the separation).
Area of shallow flooding. A designated AO or AH Zone on a community's Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) with base flood depths from one (1) to three (3) feet, and/or
where a clearly defined channel does not exist, where the path of flooding is
unpredictable and indeterminate, and where velocity flow may be evident.
Area of Special Flood Hazard. The land in the floodplain within a community subject
to a one (1) percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. In the absence of
official designation by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Area of Special
Flood Hazard shall be those designated by the local community and referenced in Article
3, Section 8-1-17.
Base flood. A flood having a one (1) percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any
given year.
4
Base Flood Elevation (BFE). The elevation shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM) for Zones AE, AH, A1-A30, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/A1-A30, AR/AH, AR/AO,
V1-V30, and VE that indicates the water surface elevation resulting from a flood that has
a one (1) percent change of equaling or exceeding that level in any given year.
Basement. That portion of a building structure having its floor subgrade (below ground
level) on all sides.
Building. Any structure built for support, shelter, or enclosure for any occupancy or
storage. See “Structure”
City Engineer. The City Engineer for Augusta, GA.
Commission. The Augusta Commission
Crawlspace. An under-floor space that has its interior floor area (finished or not) no
more than five (5) feet below the top of the next-higher floor. Crawlspaces generally have
solid foundation walls.
Critical Facilities. Any public or private facility, which, if flooded, would create an
added dimension to the disaster or would increase the hazard to life and health. Critical
facilities include, but are not limited to:
(1) structures or facilities that produce, use, or store highly volatile, flammable,
explosive, toxic, or water-reactive materials;
(2) medical facilities, including hospitals, and nursing homes, health care facilities,
and housing for the elderly, which are likely to contain occupants who may not
be sufficiently mobile to avoid the loss of life or injury during flood and storm
events;
(3) emergency operation centers, police stations, fire stations, and similar facilities
that are needed for flood response activities before, during, and after a flood or
storm event; municipal vehicle and equipment storage facilities; municipal data
storage center(s) which contain records or services that may become lost or
inoperative during flood and storm events;
(4) schools and day care centers and any area designated as a shelter or evacuation
center;
(5) drinking water and wastewater treatment plants; and
(6) power generating stations and plants, and other principal points of utility lines.
public and private utility facilities that are vital to maintaining or restoring
normal services to flooded areas before, during, and after a flood event
Development. Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including,
but not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving,
excavating, drilling operations, and storage of materials or equipment (both temporary
and permanent storage of materials or equipment).
Director. The Director of the Augusta Planning & Development Department.
Director of Engineering. The Director of the Engineering Department for Augusta, GA.
5
Elevated building. A non-basement building structure built to have the lowest floor of
the lowest enclosed area elevated above the ground level by means of fill, solid
foundation perimeter walls, posts, pilings, columns, piers, or shear walls adequately
anchored so as not to impair the structural integrity of the building structure during a base
flood event.
Enclosure. That portion of an elevated building below the lowest elevated floor that is
either partially or fully shut in by rigid walls.
Existing Construction. Any structure for which the "start of construction" commenced
before February 15, 1978 for the City of Augusta prior to consolidation and March 4,
1980 for the unincorporated areas of Richmond County prior to consolidation - the
effective date of the FIRST Floodplain Management Ordinance adopted by Augusta, GA
as a basis for Augusta's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Existing manufactured home park or subdivision. A manufactured home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is
completed before February 15, 1978 for the City of Augusta prior to consolidation and
March 4, 1980 for the unincorporated areas of Richmond County prior to consolidation -
the effective date of the FIRST Floodplain Management Ordinance adopted by Augusta
as a basis for Augusta's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision. The preparation of
additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed, including the installation of utilities, the
construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads.
FEMA. The Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Flood or flooding. A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation
of normally dry land areas from:
(1) the overflow of inland or tidal waters; or
(2) the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.
Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM). An official map of a community, issued by
the Federal Insurance Administration, where the boundaries of the Area of Special Flood
Hazard have been defined as Zone A.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). An official map of a community, issued by the
Federal Insurance Administration, delineating the Area of Special Flood Hazard and/or
risk premium zones applicable to the community.
Flood Insurance Study (FIS). The official report by the Federal Insurance
Administration evaluating flood hazards and containing flood profiles and water surface
elevations of the base flood.
Flood Protection Elevation. The elevation of the Base Flood Elevation plus Freeboard.
Floodplain or flood-prone area. Any land area susceptible to flooding from any source.
6
Floodproofing. Any combination of structural and non-structural additions, changes, or
adjustments to structures, which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or
improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents.
Floodway or regulatory floodway. The channel of a river or other watercourse and the
adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without
cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than a designated height one
foot.
Floodway fringe, lower. The portion of the Area of Special Flood Hazard that is located
between the limit of the floodway and a line connecting all points half the distance
between the floodway and the limit of the Area of Special Flood Hazard.
Floodway fringe, upper. The portion of the Area of Special Flood Hazard that is
located between the lower floodway fringe and the boundary of the Area of Special Flood
Hazard.
Floor. The top surface of an enclosed area in a building structure (including basement),
i.e. top of slab in concrete slab construction or top of wood flooring in wood frame
construction. The term does not include the floor of a garage used solely for parking
vehicles.
Foundation walls. Masonry walls, poured concrete walls or precast concrete walls,
regardless of height, that extend above grade and support the weight of a structure.
Freeboard. An additional amount of height above the Base Flood Elevation used as a
factor of safety in determining the level at which a structure's lowest floor must be
elevated or floodproofed to be in accordance with State or community floodplain
management regulations. Augusta’s freeboard requirement is three (3) feet above Base
Flood Elevation (BFE).
Functionally dependent facility. A facility which cannot be used for its intended
purpose unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water, such as a docking or
port facility necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, shipbuilding,
ship repair, or seafood processing facilities. The term does not include long-term storage,
manufacturing, sales, or service facilities.
Grade (elevation). The lowest or highest finished ground level that is immediately
adjacent to the walls of the structure.
Highest adjacent grade (HAG). The highest natural elevation of the ground surface,
prior to construction, adjacent to the proposed foundation of a building structure.
Historic Structure. Any structure that is:
(1) listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing
maintained by the U.S. Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by
the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on
the National Register;
(2) certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as
contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a
district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered
historic district;
7
(3) individually listed on a state inventory of historic places and determined as
eligible by states with historic preservation programs which have been approved
by the Secretary of the Interior; or
(4) individually listed on a local inventory of historic places and determined as
eligible by communities with historic preservation programs that have been
certified either:
a) By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the
Interior; or
b) directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved
programs.
Lowest adjacent grade (LAG). The lowest point of the ground level immediately next
to a structure.
Lowest floor. The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement. An
unfinished or flood damage-resistant enclosure, used solely for parking of vehicles,
building access, or storage, in an area other than a basement, is not considered a
building’s structure's lowest floor, provided that such enclosure is not built so as to render
the structure in violation of other provisions of this Chapter.
Lowest floor elevation. The measured distance of a structure's lowest floor above the
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) or other datum specified on the FIRM for
that location.
Manufactured home. A building structure, transportable in one or more sections, built
on a permanent chassis, and designed to be used with or without a permanent foundation
when connected to the required utilities. The term “manufactured home” does not include
a “recreational vehicle”. The term also includes park trailers, travel trailers, and similar
transportable structures placed on a site for one hundred and eighty (180) consecutive
days or longer and intended to be improved property.
Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision. A parcel (or adjacent parcels) of land
containing two (2) or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale and which contain
facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed and
which also contain internal roads or streets for access to the manufactured homes.
Mean Sea Level (MSL). The average height of the sea for all stages of the tide. It is
used as a reference for establishing various elevations within the floodplain. For purposes
of this Chapter, the term is synonymous with National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD).
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD). As corrected in 1929, is a vertical control
used as a reference for establishing varying elevations within the floodplain.
New construction. (for purposes of determining insurance rates and for floodplain
management purposes) ANY structure (see definition) for which the "start of
construction" commenced after February 15, 1978 for the City of Augusta prior to
consolidation and March 4, 1980 for the unincorporated areas of Richmond County prior
to consolidation - the effective date of the FIRST Floodplain Management Ordinance
adopted by Augusta, GA as a basis for Augusta's participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) - and includes any subsequent improvements to such structure.
8
New manufactured home park or subdivision. A manufactured home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of
utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete
pads) is completed on or after February 15, 1978 for the City of Augusta prior to
consolidation and March 4, 1980 for the unincorporated areas of Richmond County prior
to consolidation - the effective date of the FIRST Floodplain Management Ordinance
adopted by Augusta, GA as a basis for Augusta's participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP).
No-Rise Certification. Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with
standard engineering practice that any encroachment into the Area of Special Flood
Hazard shall not result in any increase in flood levels (flood heights) or floodway widths
during a base flood discharge. A registered professional engineer must provide
supporting technical data and his / her certification thereof (signature). The supporting
technical data should be based on the standard step-backwater computer model used to
develop the regulatory floodway shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
Permit / Development Permit / Flood Permit. The permit issued by Augusta, Georgia
prior to the applicant undertaking any development activity.
Recreational vehicle (the term also includes park trailers, travel trailers, and similar
transportable structures) means a vehicle which is:
(1) built on a single chassis;
(2) 400 square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection;
(3) designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and
(4) designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living
quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
Repetitive Loss. For purposes of this Chapter, flood related damage sustained by a
structure on two (2) separate occasions during a ten (10) year period for which the cost of
repairs at the time of each such flood event, on the average, equals or exceeds twenty-five
(25) percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
Site. The parcel of land being developed, or the portion thereof on which the
development project is located.
Start of construction. The date the Development Permit was issued, provided the actual
start of construction, repair, reconstruction, or improvement was within one hundred and
eighty (180) days of the permit date. The actual start means the first placement of
permanent construction of the structure such as the pouring of slabs or footings,
installation of piles, construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation,
and includes the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. (Permanent
construction does not include initial land preparation, such as clearing, grading and
filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include
excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary
forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of buildings structures
appurtenant to the permitted structure, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling
units or part of the main structure. (NOTE: Accessory structures are NOT exempt from
any ordinance requirements of this Chapter) For a substantial improvement, the actual
start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other
9
structural part of a building structure, whether or not that alteration affects the external
dimensions of the building structure.
Structure. A walled and roofed building that is principally above ground, a
manufactured home, or a gas or liquid storage tank.
Subdivision. The division of a tract or parcel of land resulting in one (1) or more new lots
or building sites for the purpose, whether immediately or in the future, of sale, other
transfer of ownership, or land development, and includes divisions of land resulting from
or made in connection with the layout or development of a new street or roadway, or a
change in an existing street or roadway.
Substantial damage. Damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of
restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed fifty (50)
percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
Substantial improvement. Any combination of repairs, reconstruction, alteration, or
improvements to a building structure, taking place during a five (5) ten (10) year period,
in which the cumulative cost equals or exceeds fifty percent of the market value of the
structure prior to the improvement. This term also includes any expansion to a structure
which entails more than twenty-five (25) percent of the square footage of the structure’s
lowest floor before the expansion took place. The market value of the building structure
should be:
(1) the appraised value of the structure prior to the start of the initial repair or
improvement; or
(2) in the case of damage, the value of the structure prior to the damage occurring. This
term includes structures which have incurred "substantial damage", regardless of the
actual amount of repair work performed.
For the purposes of this definition, "substantial improvement" is considered to occur
when the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of the building
structure commences, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the
building structure. The term does not, however, include those improvements of a building
structure required to comply with existing health, sanitary, or safety code specifications
which are solely necessary to assure safe living conditions, which have been pre-
identified by the Code Enforcement Official, and not solely triggered by an improvement
or repair project.
Substantially improved existing manufactured home parks or subdivisions. Where
the repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation or improvement of the streets, utilities and pads
equals or exceeds fifty (50) percent of the value of the streets, utilities and pads before the
repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or improvement commenced.
Unfinished (area). An enclosed area that is used for the parking of vehicles, building
access, or storage purposes only and that does not meet the definition of a finished
(habitable) area.
Variance. A grant of relief from the requirements of this Chapter which permits
construction in a manner otherwise prohibited by this Chapter. by a community from the
terms of its floodplain management regulations (this Chapter).
Violation. The failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with this
Chapter (the community’s floodplain management regulations or what is commonly
10
referred to as the Augusta Flood Ordinance). A structure or other development without
the elevation certificate, or other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required
by this ordinance is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is
provided.
Walled and roofed. A structure that has 2 or more exterior rigid walls and a fully
secured roof and that is affixed to a permanent site.
Zone. A geographical area shown on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) that reflects
the severity or type of flooding in the area.
§ 8-1-11. - - 8-1-15. RESERVED.
Changed “permanent storage” to “storage” in definition of Development per State Model Flood
Ordinance – June 2017
Changed “Executive Director” to “Director” throughout the entire Ordinance – June 2017
Changed numbering of definitions to correct typo – duplicate number – June 2017
**********
Added and updated multiple definitions in Section 8-1-10 – April 2019
Changed numbering of definitions due to added definitions – April 2019
11
ARTICLE 3
GENERAL PROVISIONS
§ 8-1-16. LANDS TO WHICH THIS CHAPTER APPLIES.
This Chapter shall apply to all areas of Special Flood Hazard within the jurisdiction of Augusta,
Georgia.
§ 8-1-17. BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE AREA OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD.
The Area of Special Flood Hazard, identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in
its Flood Insurance Study (FIS), dated September 25, 2009, with accompanying maps and other
supporting data and any revision thereto, are adopted by reference and declared a part of this
Chapter.
Area of Special Flood Hazard may also include those areas known to have flooded historically or
defined through standard engineering analysis by governmental agencies or private parties but not
yet incorporated in a FIS.
The Repository for public inspection of the Flood Insurance Study (FIS), accompanying maps and
other supporting data is located at 535 Telfair Street, Suite 300, Augusta, GA.
§ 8-1-18. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT / FLOOD PERMIT
A Development Permit / Flood Permit shall be required, in conformance with the provisions of this
Chapter, PRIOR to the commencement of any development activities in the Area of Special Flood
Hazard or on parcels of land containing the Area of Special Flood Hazard.
§ 8-1-19. COMPLIANCE.
No structure or land shall hereafter be located, extended, converted, or altered without full
compliance with the terms of this Chapter and other applicable regulations.
§ 8-1-20. ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS.
This Chapter is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing ordinance, easements,
covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this Chapter and another conflict or overlap,
whichever imposes the more stringent restrictions shall prevail.
§ 8-1-21. INTERPRETATION.
In the interpretation and application of this Chapter all provisions shall be:
(a) considered as minimum requirements;
(b) liberally construed in favor of the Governing Body, and;
12
(c) deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under State statutes.
§ 8-1-22. WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY.
The degree of flood protection required by this Chapter is considered reasonable for regulatory
purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger floods can and will
occur; flood heights may be increased by man-made or natural causes. This Chapter does not
imply that land outside the Area of Special Flood Hazard or uses permitted within such areas will
be free from flooding or flood damages. This Chapter shall not create liability on the part of
Augusta, GA, the Augusta Commission, and/or the Augusta Planning & Development Department
or by any officer or employee thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on this
Chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made thereunder.
§ 8-1-23. ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION
Violation of the provisions of this Chapter or failure to comply with any of its requirements,
including violation of conditions and safeguards established in connection with grants of variance
or Special Exceptions shall be reported to the City Engineer Director. Once a violation is evident,
the City Engineer Director., acting on behalf of the Augusta Commission, shall be empowered to
notify the owner in writing of the apparent violation of this Chapter. The written notice shall direct
the owner to cease the development activity until such time as the requirements and procedures of
this Chapter have been met. Upon failure of the owner to comply with this notice, the City
Engineer Director shall notify the City Attorney of the violation; and the City Attorney shall
immediately begin legal procedures in the Superior Court of Richmond County to prevent, enjoin,
abate, or remove such violations in addition to injunctive relief. All persons, firms, or
corporations failing to comply with the mandatory provisions hereof or doing any act prohibited
hereby shall be guilty of an offense and, upon conviction thereof, be fined not more than one
thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisoned for not more than sixty (60) days, or both, and, in
addition, shall pay all costs and expenses involved in the case. Each day such violation continues
shall be considered a separate offense. Nothing contained herein shall prevent the Commission
from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation.
§ 8-1-24 - - 8-1-28. RESERVED.
Revised 8-1-17 to conform to State Model Flood Ordinance – June 2017
Updated Planning and Development Department / Map Repository address in 8-1-17 – June 2017
**********
Revised 8-1-16 to clarify to what areas this Chapter applies – April 2019
Revised 8-1-17 so that Ordinance would not have to be readopted after adoption of the flood maps – April
2019
Revised 8-1-18 to clarify to what areas are required to have a Development Permit per this Chapter –
April 2019
13
ARTICLE 4
ADMINISTRATION
§ 8-1-29. DESIGNATION OF DIRECTOR.
The Director of the Augusta Planning & Development Department, or his / her designee, is hereby
appointed to administer and implement the provisions of this Chapter.
§ 8-1-30. PERMIT PROCEDURES.
Application for a Development Permit shall be made to the Director on forms furnished by the
community PRIOR to any development activities, and may include, but not be limited to the
following: plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the elevations of the area in question and the
nature, location, dimensions, of existing or proposed structures, earthen fill placement, storage of
materials or equipment, and drainage facilities.
Specifically, the following information is required:
(a) Application Stage -
(1) Elevation in relation to mean sea level (or highest adjacent grade) of the lowest
floor, including basement, of all proposed structures;
(2) Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any non-residential structure will
be floodproofed;
(3) Design certification from a registered professional engineer or architect that any
proposed non-residential floodproofed structure will meet the floodproofing
criteria of Article 5, Section 8-1-44(b);
(4) Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as
a result of a proposed development, and;
(b) Construction Stage -
For all new construction or substantial improvements, the permit holder shall provide to
the Administrator a certified as-built FEMA Elevation Certificate or FEMA
Floodproofing Certificate of the regulatory floor elevation or floodproofing level
immediately after the lowest floor or floodproofing is completed. Any lowest floor
certification made relative to mean sea level shall be prepared by or under the direct
supervision of a registered land surveyor or professional engineer and certified by same.
When floodproofing is utilized for non-residential structures, said certification shall be
prepared by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer or architect and
certified by same.
Any work undertaken prior to submission of these certifications shall be at the permit
holder's risk.
The Director shall review the above referenced certification data submitted. Deficiencies
detected by such review shall be corrected by the permit holder immediately and prior to
further progressive work being allowed to proceed. Failure to submit certification or
14
failure to make said corrections required hereby, shall be cause to issue a Stop-Work
Order for the project.
§ 8-1-31. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIRECTOR
Duties of the Director, or his / her designee, shall include, but shall not be limited to:
(a) Review all Development Permits to assure that the permit requirements of this Chapter
have been satisfied;
(b) Review proposed development to assure that all necessary permits have been received
from governmental agencies from which approval is required by Federal or State law,
including Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972,
33 U.S.C. 1334. Require that copies of such permits be provided and maintained on file.
(c) Review all permit applications to determine whether proposed building sites will be
reasonably safe from flooding.
(d) When Base Flood Elevation data or floodway data have not been provided in accordance
with Article 3, Section 8-1-17, then the Director shall obtain, review, and reasonably
utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from a Federal, State, or
other sources in order to administer the provisions of Article 5.
(e) Review and record the actual elevation in relation to mean sea level (or highest adjacent
grade) of the lowest floor, including basement, of all new or substantially improved
structures in accordance with Article 4, Section 8-1-30(b).
(f) Review and record the actual elevation, in relation to mean sea level to which any new or
substantially improved structures have been floodproofed, in accordance with Article 4,
Section 8-1-30(b).
(g) When floodproofing is utilized for a structure, the Director shall obtain certification of
design criteria from a registered professional engineer or architect in accordance with
Article 4, Section 8-1-30(a)(3) and Article 5, Section 8-1-44(b) or Article 5, Section 8-1-
48(b).
(h) Make substantial damage determinations following a flood event or any other event that
causes damage to structures in flood hazard areas. the Area of Special Flood Hazard.
(i) Notify adjacent communities and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources prior to
any alteration or relocation of a watercourse and submit evidence of such notification to
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
(j) For any altered or relocated watercourse, submit engineering data/analysis within six (6)
months to the FEMA to ensure accuracy of community flood maps through the Letter of
Map Revision process. Assure flood carrying capacity of any altered or relocated
watercourse is maintained.
(k) Where interpretation is needed as to the exact location of boundaries of the Area of
Special Flood Hazard (for example, where there appears to be a conflict between a
mapped boundary and actual field conditions) the Director shall make the necessary
interpretation. Any person contesting the location of the boundary shall be given a
reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation as provided in this Chapter.
15
(l) All records pertaining to the provisions of this Chapter shall be maintained in the office of
the Director and shall be open for public inspection.
§ 8-1-32. VARIANCE PROCEDURES
(a) The Zoning Board of Appeals as established by the Augusta Commission shall hear and
decide requests for appeals or variance from the requirements of this Chapter.
(b) The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear and decide appeals when it is alleged an error in
any requirement, decision, or determination is made by the Director in the enforcement or
administration of this Chapter.
(c) Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals may appeal such
decision to the Superior Court of Richmond County, Georgia, as provided in O.C.G.A.
Sec. 5-4-1; however all appeals shall be on record and shall not be de novo.
(d) Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of Historic Structures upon a
determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure's
continued designation as a Historic Structure and the variance is the minimum to preserve
the historic character and design of the structure.
(e) In reviewing such requests, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall consider all technical
evaluations, relevant factors, and all standards specified in this and other sections of this
Chapter, and:
(1) The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others;
(2) The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
(3) The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and
the effect of such damage on the individual owner;
(4) The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the
community;
(5) The necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, in the case of a functionally
dependent facility;
(6) The availability of alternative locations, not subject to flooding or erosion
damage, for the proposed use;
(7) The compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated
development;
(8) The relationship of the proposed use to the Comprehensive Plan and Floodplain
Management Program for that area;
(9) The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency
vehicles;
(10) The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise, and sediment transport of
floodwaters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at the site; and
16
(11) The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions,
including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities such as sewer,
gas, electrical, and water systems, and streets and bridges.
(f) Upon consideration of the factors listed above and the purposes of this Chapter, the
Zoning Board of Appeals may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it
deems necessary to further the purposes of this Chapter.
(g) Variances shall not be issued within any designated floodway, or the lower floodway
fringe, if ANY increase in flood levels (flood heights) during the base flood discharge
would result.
(h) Conditions for Variances:
(1) The provisions of this Chapter are minimum standards for flood loss reduction,
therefore any deviation from the standards must be weighed carefully. Variances
shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the minimum
necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief; and, in the instance of a
Historic Structure, a determination that the variance is the minimum necessary so
as not to destroy the historic character and design of the building structure.
(2) A variance shall be issued ONLY when there is:
(a) a finding of good and sufficient cause,
(b) a determination that failure to grant the variance would result in
exceptional hardship, and;
(c) a determination that the granting of a variance will not result in
increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety,
extraordinary public expense, create nuisance, cause fraud on or
victimization of the public, or conflict with existing local laws or
ordinances. At the discretion of the Zoning Board of Appeals, a No-
Rise Certification, with supporting technical data and signed by a
registered professional engineer, may be required to ensure that there is
no rise in flood heights with the proposed development.
(3) Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice
specifying the difference between the base flood elevation and the elevation of
the proposed lowest floor and stating that the cost of flood insurance will be
commensurate with the increased risk to life and property resulting from the
reduced lowest floor elevation.
(i) The Director shall maintain the records of all appeal actions and report any variances to
the Federal Emergency Management Agency upon request.
(j) Variances may be issued for development necessary for the conduct of a functionally
dependent use, provided the criteria of this Article are met, no reasonable alternative
exists, and the development is protected by methods that minimize flood damage during
the base flood and create no additional threats to public safety.
17
§ 8-1-33 - - 8-1-42. RESERVED.
Revisions to 8-1-29 to add a designee (at the Director’s discretion) to aide in administration and
implementation of this Chapter – April 2019
Added clarifying language to Section 8-1-30-(b) requiring an Elevation Certificate or Floodproofing
Certificate after the lowest floor or floodproofing is completed. – April 2019
Revisions to 8-1-31 to add a designee (at the Director’s discretion) and outline duties and responsibilities
of both the Director and the Director’s designee – April 2019
Additions to 8-1-32-(h)-(c) to state that the Zoning Board of Appeals may require a No Rise Certification to
aide in their determination of reviewing and granting of a variance – April 2019
18
ARTICLE 5
PROVISIONS FOR FLOOD HAZARD REDUCTION
§ 8-1-43. GENERAL STANDARDS
In ALL of the Area of Special Flood Hazard the following provisions are required:
(a) New construction and substantial improvements of existing structures shall be anchored to
prevent flotation, collapse, or and lateral movement of the structure;
(b) Manufactured homes shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or and lateral
movement. Methods of anchoring may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top
or frame ties to ground anchors. This standard shall be in addition to and consistent with
applicable State requirements for resisting wind forces;
(c) New construction and substantial improvements of existing structures shall be constructed
with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage;
(d) New construction or and substantial improvements of existing structures shall be
constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage;
(e) All heating and air conditioning equipment and components, all electrical, ventilation,
plumbing, and other service facilities shall be designed and/or located so as to prevent
water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of
flooding;
(f) New and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate
infiltration of flood waters into the system;
(g) Replacement New and replacement s sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to
minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the
systems into flood waters;
(h) New on-site waste disposal systems shall be located within the Area of Special Flood
Hazard Area per the provisions of the Georgia Onsite Wastewater Regulations;
(i) Any alteration, repair, reconstruction or improvement to a structure which is not
compliant with the provisions of this Chapter, shall be undertaken only if the non-
conformity is not furthered, extended, or replaced; and
(j) Elevated Buildings Structures - All new construction or and substantial improvements of
existing structures that include ANY fully enclosed area located below the lowest floor
formed by foundation and other exterior walls shall be designed so as to be an unfinished
or a flood damage-resistant enclosure.
For any unfinished or flood-resistant enclosed area below the regulatory flood protection
elevation with a height greater than or equal to four (4) feet, the owner must sign
Augusta’s Non-Conversion Agreement stating that enclosed area shall not be converted to
habitable space without obtaining a permit and allowing the Director, or his / her
designee, access (at any time) to ensure the enclosed area is not in violation to this
Chapter. The owner must record the Non-Conversion Agreement with the deed for use by
19
future owners. The enclosure shall be designed to equalize hydrostatic flood forces on
exterior walls by allowing for the automatic entry and exit of floodwater.
(1) A minimum of two (2) openings that are installed no more than twelve (12)
inches above the higher of the final interior or exterior grade, and that are
installed in at least two different sides (preferably the sides in the direction of the
flow of floodwater) of each enclosed area, must be provided, where the
openings:
(a) Have a total open net area of not less than one square inch for every square
foot of enclosed area Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers,
valves or other coverings or devices provided they are disabled in the open
position and also permit the automatic flow of floodwater in both
directions.; or
(b) Are individually certified by a design professional licensed to do design
work in the State of Georgia stating that the openings are designed to
automatically equalize hydrostatic flood loads on exterior walls by allowing
the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters in accordance with the American
Society of Civil Engineers – Flood Resistant Design and Construction
(ASCE 24) and that an appropriate number of vents are provided. A copy
of the Engineer’s Certification (signed and sealed) along with the applicable
section from the Flood Ordinance this Chapter (this section) allowing for the
use of these engineered openings must be attached to the Elevation
Certificate; or
(c) Are ICC-ES accepted engineered flood vents, and the appropriate number of
such vents are provided and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications. A copy of the ICC-ES Evaluation Report along with the
applicable section from the Flood Ordinance this Chapter (this section)
allowing for the use of these engineered flood vents must be attached to the
Elevation Certificate.
(2) So as not to violate the "Lowest Floor" criteria of this Chapter, the unfinished or
flood damage-resistant enclosure shall only be used for parking of vehicles,
limited storage of maintenance equipment used in connection with the premises,
or entry to the elevated area; and
(3) The interior portion of such enclosed area shall not be partitioned or finished
into separate rooms.
(4) An attached garage may have its flood floor below the BFE provided the garage
meets all of the requirements for an enclosed area below the BFE, including, but
not limited to, the installation of openings that meet Section 8-1-43-(j)-(1)
above. Opens Openings may be installed in garage doors; however, garage
doors without openings do not meet the requirement for openings. The use of the
garage space must be limited to parking of vehicles, building access and storage.
Section 8-1-43-(j)-(3), above, must be strictly adhered to. Flood damage-
resistant materials must be used below the BFE and all utilities must be elevated
to be three (3) feet above the BFE.
(5) Crawlspaces that are below-grade on all sides (basements) are not allowed.
(6) Detached garages and detached storage building are allowed, without the
requirement to elevate to three (3) feet above the BFE in AE zones, or three (3)
20
feet above the highest adjacent grade in A zones, if they comply with all of the
requirements for enclosures:
(a) must be used for parking of vehicles and storage only;
(b) must be constructed of flood damage-resistant materials below the area
that is three (3) feet above the BFE;
(c) all utilities must be elevated to be three (3) feet above the BFE;
(d) the requirements for flood openings that meet Section 8-1-43-(j)-(1)
above must be satisfied;
(e) must be anchored to resist floatation flotation, collapse, and lateral
movement under flood conditions.
§ 8-1-44. SPECIFIC STANDARDS
In ALL the Area of Special Flood Hazard the following provisions are required:
(a) New construction and substantial improvements. Where base flood elevation data are
available, new construction or and substantial improvement of any structure, or including
manufactured homes, shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower
than three (3) feet above the base flood elevation (also known as the “flood protection
elevation”). Should solid foundation perimeter walls be used to elevate a structure,
openings sufficient to facilitate the unimpeded movements of flood waters shall be
provided in accordance with standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-43(j), "Elevated
Buildings Structures".
(1) All heating and air conditioning equipment and components (including
ductwork), all electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and other service facilities shall
be elevated at or above three (3) feet above the base flood elevation.
(b) Non-Residential Construction. New construction or the and substantial improvements of
any structure located in A1-30, AE, or AH zones, non-residential structures may be
floodproofed in lieu of elevation. The structure, together with attendant utility and
sanitary facilities, must be designed to be water tight to three (3) feet above the base flood
elevation (also known as the “flood protection elevation”), with walls substantially
impermeable to the passage of water, and structural components having the capability of
resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the effect of buoyancy. A registered
professional engineer or architect shall certify that the design and methods of construction
are in accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting the provisions above,
and shall provide such certification to the official Director as set forth above and in
Article 4, Section 8-1-31(g).
(1) All heating and air conditioning equipment and components (including
ductwork), all electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and other service facilities shall
be elevated at or above three (3) feet above the base flood elevation or
floodproofed to at or above three (3) feet above the base flood elevation.
(c) Standards for Manufactured Homes and Recreational Vehicles. Where base flood
elevation data are available:
(1) All manufactured homes placed or substantially improved on: (1) individual lots
or parcels, (2) in new or substantially improved manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, (3) in expansions to existing manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, or (4) on a site in an existing manufactured home park or
subdivision where a manufactured home has incurred "substantial damage" as
21
the result of a flood, must have the lowest floor including basement, elevated no
lower than three (3) feet above the base flood elevation (also known as the
“flood protection elevation”).
(2) Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in an existing
manufactured home park or subdivision may be elevated so that either:
(a) The lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated no lower than
three (3) feet above the level of the base flood elevation (also known as
the “flood protection elevation”), or
(b) The manufactured home chassis is elevated and supported by reinforced
piers (or other foundation elements of at least an equivalent strength) of
no less than 36 inches in height above grade.
(3) All manufactured homes must be securely anchored to an adequately anchored
foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement. (ref. Article
5, Section 8-1-43(b) ).
(4) All recreational vehicles (the term also includes park trailers, travel trailers, and
similar transportable structures) placed on sites must either:
(a) Be on the site for fewer than 180 30 consecutive days.
(b) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, (a recreational vehicle is
ready for highway use if it is licensed, on its wheels or jacking system,
attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security
devices, and has no permanently attached structures or additions), or
(c) The recreational vehicle must meet all the requirements for "New
Construction", including the anchoring and elevation requirements of
Article 5, Section 8-1-44(c)(1) and (3).
(d) Floodway. Located within the Area of Special Flood Hazard established in Article 3,
Section 8-1-17, are areas designated as floodway. A floodway may be an extremely
hazardous area due to velocity flood waters, debris or erosion potential. In addition, the
area must remain free of encroachment in order to allow for the discharge of the base
flood without increased flood heights. Therefore, the following provisions shall apply:
(1) Encroachments are prohibited, including earthen fill, new construction, substantial
improvements, or other development within the regulatory floodway. Development
may be permitted however, provided it is demonstrated through hydrologic and
hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with standard engineering practice that
the encroachment shall not result in any increase in flood levels (flood heights) or
floodway widths during a base flood discharge (a No-Rise Certification). A
registered professional engineer must provide supporting technical data and his / her
certification thereof.
(2) ONLY if Article 5, Section 8-1-44(d)(1) above is satisfied, then any new construction
or and substantial improvement shall comply with all other applicable flood hazard
reduction provisions of Article 5. have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated
no lower than three (3) feet above the flood elevation based upon the floodway
encroachment, as given by the “With Floodway” column in the Flood Insurance
Study Floodway Data Table. Should solid foundation perimeter walls be used to
elevate a structure, openings sufficient to facilitate the unimpeded movements of
22
flood waters shall be provided in accordance with standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-
43(j), "Elevated Structures".
All heating and air conditioning equipment and components (including ductwork), all
electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and other service facilities shall be elevated no
lower than three (3) feet above the flood elevation based upon the floodway
encroachment, as given by the “With Floodway” column in the Flood Insurance
Study Floodway Data Table.
(3) The placement of manufactured homes, except in an existing manufactured home
park or subdivision, shall be prohibited. A replacement manufactured home may be
placed on a lot in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision provided the
anchoring standards of § 8-1-43 (b) are met, and the elevation standards of § 8-1-44
(a) and the encroachments standards of subsection (1) of this Section are met.
(4) Removal of trees and other vegetation may not be a consideration in calculating the
effect of proposed encroachments on flood levels (flood heights) during the
occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(e) Floodway fringe, lower. Within the lower floodway fringe is the area between the
floodway and the upper floodway fringe that is lower than a lines one-half (1/2) the
distance between the floodway and the boundary of the Area of Special Flood Hazard.
The lower floodway fringe is a transitional area that is hazardous due to its proximity to
the floodway and encroachment by fill or development within this area could have serious
impact on the entire floodplain. The following provisions shall apply with the lower
floodway fringe:
(1) Encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements and
other developments shall be prohibited unless certification by a registered
professional engineer, with supporting technical data, is provided to the Director
demonstrating that encroachments shall not result in any increase in flood levels
(flood heights) during occurrence of base flood discharge (a No-Rise
Certification).
(2) If Article 5, Section 8-1-44(d)(1) is satisfied, all new construction and
substantial improvements shall comply with all applicable flood hazard
reduction provisions of Article 5.
(3) The placements of manufactured homes, except in an existing manufactured
home park or subdivision, shall be prohibited. A replacement manufactured
home may be placed on a lot in an existing manufactured home park or
subdivision provided the anchoring standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-43(b),
and the elevation standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-44(a), and the
encroachment standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-44(d)(1) are met.
(4) Removal of trees and other vegetation may not be a consideration in calculating
the effect of proposed encroachments on flood levels (flood heights) during the
occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(f) Large Tracts. If a tract contains over one (1) acre located within the Area of Special
Flood Hazard, then development or land disturbance on that portion of the tract located
within the Area of Special Flood Hazard Area shall comply with the standards for lower
floodway fringe set forth in § 8-1-44 (e).
23
(g) Other area unsuitable for development. Land subject to flooding that is not located within
a mapped Area of Special Flood Hazard may, at the discretion of the Director or City
Engineer Director of Engineering, be required to comply with any or all standards set
forth in this Chapter.
(h) Grading in the Area of the Special Flood Hazard. Grading (including excavating, filling,
or any culmination thereof) shall be prohibited in the Area of the Special Flood Hazard
except for the following:
(1) Minimum land disturbing activities such as home gardens and individual home
landscaping, repairs, maintenance work and other related activities;
(2) Agricultural practices involving the establishment, cultivation, or harvesting of
products of the field or orchard, preparing and planting of pasture land, forestry
land management practices including harvesting (where stumps are not
removed), farm ponds, dairy operations, livestock and poultry management
practices and the construction of farm buildings.
(3) Projects permitted by or carried out under the technical supervision of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or any other agency
of the U.S. Government;
(4) Cemetery graves;
(5) Excavation for wells or tunnels or utilities;
(6) Approved mining, quarrying, stockpiling of rock, sand, gravel, aggregates, or
clay where established and provided for by law;
(7) Exploratory excavations under the direction of soils engineers or engineering
geologists;
(8) Where consistent with other provisions of this Chapter, minimum grading for
land development or construction which does not result in topographic changes
greater than two (2) feet at any location and which is not for the sole purpose of
elevating structures pursuant to Article 5, Section 8-1-44(a) and Article 5,
Section 8-1-44(b) of this Chapter. In no case, shall fill be transported into the
Area of Special Flood Hazard.
(a) Detention ponds and retention ponds are exempt from the provisions 8-
1-44-(h)-(8), provided it is demonstrated through hydrologic and
hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with standard engineering
practice that the encroachment by the detention pond or retention pond
shall not result in any increase in flood levels (flood heights) or
floodway widths during a base flood discharge (a No-Rise
Certification). A registered professional engineer must provide
supporting technical data and certification thereof.
(1) Under no circumstances shall a detention pond or a retention
pond be located in the Area of Special Flood Hazard.
(9) Construction activities at existing Industrial Sites which were developed before
the effective date of the FIRST Floodplain Management Ordinance adopted by
Augusta, GA as a basis for Augusta's participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP), such as dikes, ditches and ponds.
24
(i) As-built Drawings and Certification. Within the Area of the Special Flood Hazard, as-
built drawings and certifications shall be provided by a registered professional engineer
and/or a registered land surveyor pursuant to 8-1-30(b) and 8-1-44(b) of this Ordinance
Chapter and also when required by the Site Plan Regulations or the Subdivision
Regulations. As-built drawings and certifications may be required in other situations at
the discretion of the Director.
§ 8-1-45. BUILDING STANDARDS FOR STREAMS WITHOUT ESTABLISHED BASE
FLOOD ELEVATIONS AND/OR FLOODWAYS (A-ZONES).
Located within the Area of Special Flood Hazard established in Article 3, Section 8-1-17, where
streams exist but no base flood data have been provided (A-Zones), OR where base flood data
have been provided but a Floodway has not been delineated, the following provisions apply:
(a) No encroachments, including structures or fill material, shall be located within an area
equal to five (5) times the width of the stream or twenty (20) feet, whichever is greater,
measured from the top of the stream bank, unless certification by a registered professional
engineer is provided demonstrating that such encroachment shall not result in any
increase in flood levels (flood heights) during the occurrence of the base flood discharge
(a No-Rise Certification).
(b) In the Area of Special Flood Hazard Areas without base flood elevation data, new
construction and substantial improvements of existing structures shall have the lowest
floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement) elevated no less than three (3) feet
above the highest adjacent grade at the building site. Openings sufficient to facilitate the
unimpeded movements of flood waters shall be provided in accordance with standards of
Article 5, Section 8-1-43(j), "Elevated Buildings Structures".
(1) All heating and air conditioning equipment and components (including
ductwork), all electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and other service facilities shall
be elevated no less than three (3) feet above the highest adjacent grade at the
building site.
The Director shall certify the lowest floor elevation level and the record shall become a
permanent part of the permit file.
(c) When base flood elevation data or floodway data have not been provided in accordance
with Article 3, Section 8-1-17, then the Director shall obtain, review, and reasonably
utilize any scientific or historic base flood elevation and floodway data available from a
Federal, State, or other source, in order to administer the provisions of Article 5. ONLY
if data are not available from these sources, then the provisions of (a) and (b) of this
Section shall apply.
§ 8-1-46. STANDARDS FOR SUBDIVISIONS.
(a) All subdivision and/or development proposals, including manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, shall be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage and shall be
reasonably safe from flooding;
(b) All subdivision and/or development proposals, including manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, shall have public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, and
water systems located and constructed to minimize flood damage;
25
(c) All subdivision and/or development proposals, including manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards;
(d) For subdivisions and/or developments, including manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, greater than fifty lots or five acres, whichever is less, base flood elevation
data shall be provided for subdivision proposals and all other proposed development,
including manufactured home parks and subdivisions. Any changes or revisions to the
flood data adopted herein and shown on the FIRM shall be submitted to FEMA for review
as a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) or Conditional Letter of Map
Amendment (CLOMA), whichever is applicable. Upon completion of the project, the
developer is responsible for submitting the “as-built” data to FEMA in order to obtain the
final Letter of Map Revision (LOMR); and,
(e) All subdivision and/or development proposals, including manufactured home parks or
subdivisions, shall have access(es) that allow for safe ingress and egress, minimize flood
damage, and which have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposures to flood
hazards. and
§ 8-1-47. STANDARDS FOR AREAS OF SHALLOW FLOODING (AO ZONES).
The Area of Special Flood Hazard established in Article 3, Section 8-1-17, may include designated
"AO" shallow flooding areas. These areas have base flood depths of one (1) to three (3) feet (1'-3')
above ground, with no clearly defined channel. The following provisions apply:
(a) All new construction and substantial improvements of residential and non-residential
structures, including manufactured homes, shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, elevated to the flood depth number specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM), above the highest adjacent grade. If no flood depth number is specified, the
lowest floor, including basement, shall be elevated at least three (3) feet (3) above the
highest adjacent grade. Openings sufficient to facilitate the unimpeded movements of
flood waters shall be provided in accordance with standards of Article 5, Section 8-1-
43(j), "Elevated Buildings Structures".
The Director shall certify the lowest floor elevation level and the record shall become a
permanent part of the permit file.
(b) New construction or the substantial improvement of a non-residential structure:
(1) Shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to the flood depth
number specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), above the highest
adjacent grade. If no flood depth number is specified, the lowest floor, including
basement, shall be elevated at least three feet (3) above the highest adjacent
grade.
(2) May be floodproofed in lieu of elevation. The structure, together with attendant
utility and sanitary facilities, must be designed to be water tight to the specified
FIRM flood level plus one (1) foot, above highest adjacent grade, with walls
substantially impermeable to the passage of water, and structural components
having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the
effect of buoyancy. A registered professional engineer or architect shall certify
that the design and methods of construction are in accordance with accepted
standards of practice for meeting the provisions above, and shall provide such
26
certification to the official Director as set forth above and as required in Articles
4, Section 8-1-30(a)(3) and Article 4, Section 8-1-30(b).
(c) Drainage paths shall be provided to guide floodwater around and away from any proposed
structure.
§ 8-1-48 STANDARDS FOR THE AREA OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD (ZONES AE)
WITH ESTABLISHED BASE FLOOD ELEVATIONS WITHOUT DESIGNATED
FLOODWAYS
Located within the Area of Special Flood Hazard established in Article 3, Section 8-1-17, where
streams with base flood elevations are provided but no floodways have been designated, (Zone
AE) the following provisions apply:
(a) No encroachments, including fill material, new structures or substantial improvements
shall be located within the Area of Special Flood Hazard Areas, unless certification by a
registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that the cumulative effect of
the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated
development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than
one foot at any point within the community (a No-Rise Certification). The engineering
certification should be supported by technical data that conforms to standard hydraulic
engineering principles.
(b) New construction or and substantial improvements of buildings structures shall be
elevated or floodproofed to elevations established in accordance with Article 5, Section 8-
1-44.
§ 8-1-49 STANDARDS FOR CRITICAL FACILITIES
(a) Critical facilities shall not be located in the 100 year floodplain or the 500 year floodplain
No new critical facilities shall be located in the Area of Special Flood Hazard, the areas
hydraulically adjacent to the Area of Special Flood Hazard, or the 0.2% annual chance
floodplain.
(b) Any substantially improved critical facility must be protected to the base flood elevation
plus three (3) feet or the 0.2% annual chance flood elevation plus one (1) foot, whichever
is higher
(c) All ingress and egress from any critical facility must be protected to the 500 year flood
elevation.
All ingress and egress from any critical facility must be protected to the base flood
elevation plus three (3) feet or the 0.2% annual chance flood elevation plus one (1) foot,
whichever higher.
27
§ 8-1-50. RESERVED.
Corrected 8-1-46(d) typo – to read: For subdivisions and/or developments greater than fifty lots or five
acres…… - June 2017
**********
Added language to 8-1-43 (g) requiring new sanitary sewer systems to be designed to resist flood – April
2019
Added language to 8-1-43 (j) requiring a Non-Conversion Agreement for enclosures below the regulatory
flood protection elevation – April 2019
Revised 8-1-44 (a) to clarify that manufactured homes are also considered structures (see definition for
manufactured home in 8-1-10) – April 2019
Revised 8-1-44 (b) since it is not necessary to call out specific flood zones in non-coastal environments –
April 2019
Revised 8-1-44 (c) (4) to specify, for purposes of this Chapter, what is considered a recreational vehicle
(required to be consistent with the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance) – April 2019
Added language for 8-1-44-(d) (2) to utilize “with floodway” elevations from the Flood Insurance Study
(FIS) as a higher flood risk reduction measure – April 2019
Revised 8-1-44-(d) (3) to not allow replacement manufactured homes in the floodway (the current
language allows replacement manufactured homes in existing manufactured parks and subdivision) – April
2019
Revised language throughout the Chapter exists changing “City Engineer” to “Director of Engineering” –
currently there is not designated position / title of City Engineer – April 2019
Proposed language for 8-1-46-(e) required that subdivision access roads be “safe from flooding” – April
2019
Added language for 8-1-49 requiring that no new critical facility be in the area hydraulically adjacent to
the Area of the Special Flood Hazard (this is an added level of protection for critical facilities) – April
2019
Added language for 8-1-49 that all ingress and egress from any critical facility be protected to the BFE
plus three (3) feet or the 0.2% annual chance flood elevation plus one (1) foot, whichever higher (this is an
added level of protection for critical facilities) – April 2019
28
§ 8-1-51. SEVERABILITY
If any Section, clause, sentence, or phrase of this Chapter is held to be invalid or unconstitutional
by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall in no way effect the validity of the remaining
portions of this Chapter.
Section 2. This Chapter shall become effective upon adoption.
Section 3. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with this Chapter are hereby repealed.
Duly adopted by the Augusta Commission this __________ day of ____________________, 20____.
AUGUSTA COMMISSION
___________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Clerk of Commission
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Amendment of Title Eight, Chapter 1, Article 1 of the Augusta GA Code entitled “Flood Damage
Prevention”
Department:Planning and Development
Presenter:Robert Sherman, Director
Caption:Request to approve an Ordinance to amend Title Eight, Chapter
1, Article 1 of the Augusta GA Code entitled “Flood Damage
Prevention” to provide for revisions as required by the State
Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, additions to clarify
language in the text, and additional revisions to reduce flood
risk, in keeping with the City of Augusta’s participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community
Rating System (CRS).
Background:The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued updated
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Studies (FISs) reflecting updated flood hazard determinations
within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of Blythe and
Hephzibah). The updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) are due to become effective
November 15, 2019. As part of the map adoption process, a
review and update of Augusta’s Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance is required and the updated Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance must be adopted prior to the effective date of the
updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which is
November 15, 2019. Revisions as required by the State Model
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, additions to clarify
language in the text, and additional revisions to reduce flood
risk, in keeping with the City of Augusta’s participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community
Rating System (CRS) have been made to Augusta’s Flood
Damage Prevention Ordinance. A companion agenda item is
requesting adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and
Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) reflecting proposed flood hazard
determinations within Augusta, GA (and the jurisdictions of
Blythe and Hephzibah) issued by the Department of Homeland
Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). The effective date of the most recent Flood Insurance
Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) for
Augusta GA is November 15, 2019. The update to the Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies
(FISs) may include the addition or modification of Base Flood
Elevations (BFEs), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or additions or
modifications to the regulatory floodway. The State NFIP
office, along with ISO, and various local departments have
reviewed the proposed Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
Analysis:The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established
with the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968.
The NFIP is a Federal program enabling property owners in
participating communities to purchase insurance as a protection
against flood losses in exchange for State and community
floodplain management regulations that reduce future flood
damages. Adoption of a local Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance and adoption of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) issued from the Department
of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) is required for participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program and the Community Rating
System (CRS).
Financial Impact:There is no financial impact associated with adopting an updated
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance for Augusta.
Alternatives:If Augusta’s updated Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance is not
adopted prior to the effective date of the Flood Insurance Rate
Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) issued by the
Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Augusta will be
suspended from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The following sanctions apply if Augusta is suspended from the
NFIP: • Property owners will not be able to purchase National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance policies and
existing policies will not be renewed. • Federal grants or loans
for development will not be available in identified flood hazard
areas under programs administered by Federal agencies such as
the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Small
Business Administration (SBA). • Federal disaster assistance
will not be provided to repair insurable buildings located in
identified flood hazard areas for damage caused by a flood. •
Federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees will not be
provided in identified flood hazard areas such as those written
by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the
Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). • Federally insured or
regulated lending institutions, such as banks and credit unions,
are allowed to make conventional loans for insurable buildings
in flood hazard areas of non-participating communities, which
included communities on suspension from the NFIP. However,
the lender must notify applicants that the property is in a flood
hazard area and that the property is not eligible for Federal
disaster assistance. Some lenders may voluntarily choose not to
make these loans. If Augusta is suspended from the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), it may regain its eligibility in
the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), by enacting the
floodplain management measures established in 44 CFR Section
60.3 of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
regulations. If development takes place in Augusta during
suspension that does not meet the minimum National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements, Augusta will be asked
to take actions to reduce the increased flood hazard prior to
reinstatement.
Recommendation:Approve the amendment of Title Eight, Chapter 1, Article 1 of
the Augusta GA Code entitled “Flood Damage Prevention” to
provide for revisions as required by the State Model Flood
Damage Prevention Ordinance, additions to clarify language in
the text, and additional revisions to reduce flood risk, in keeping
with the City of Augusta’s participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System
(CRS).
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Engineering Services Committee Meeting Commission Chamber - 9ll0l20l9
ATTENDANCE:
Present: Hons. M. Williams, Chairman; Hasan, Vice Chairman; Garrett
and Frantom, members.
Absent: Hon. Hardie Davis, Jr., Mayor.
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1. Motion to approve the minutes of the Engineering Services Committee held ltem
on August27,20l9. Action:
Approved
Motions
Motion
Type
Approve
Motion Text Made By
Motion to
approve. Commissioner
Motion Passes Ben Hasan f;mmisioner
Sean passes
Seconded By Motion
Result
Motion
Result
4-0.
2. Update from the Engineering Department staff regarding the request from Ms. Item
Francine McCoy concerning the paving of Bussey Road. Action:
Approved
Motions
f#:"" Motion rext Made By Seconded By
Motion to approve
^ receiving this item as Commissioner CommisionerApprove inior-ution. Ben Hasan Sean Frantom Passes
Motion Passes 4-0.
3. Approve Professional Services Agreement for the Design of Sanitary Sewer Item
for the Belair Road East Area with Constantine Engineering in the Amount of Action:5877,630. Approved
Motions
Y:j*1"Il Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion
Type ''"'- -r ----"'-- -r Result
Motion to
Approve ffi5,',oo]r'rurr., ;:fH:":;*' F;--*toner
sean passes
4-0.
4. Approve Professional Services Agreement with W.K. Dickson in the Amount Item
of $95 1,200 for the Belair Road Area West Sanitary Sewer Design. Action:
Approved
Motions
X:]1" Morion Text Made By seconded By MotionType ''---- -'r *--"----- -r Result
Motion to
Approve i|liX],'ru,,., fi:fffi:};"' f;mmisioner
Sean passes
4-0.
5. Update from Engineering, Code Enforcement and Fire Departments regarding Item
the current evacuations, Stop Order and accessibility by public safety Action:
officials on the Regency Mall Property. (Requested by Commissioner Bill Approved
Fennoy)
Motions
Y:11" Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion'I.ype -----'--- -r Result
Motion to approve
Approve receiving this item commissioner commissioner.. Brandon Garrett Ben Hasanas rnlormauon.
No action is taken on this motion due to the passage of the substitute motion.
Motions
X:j]o Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion'l'ype - ----- -" --------- -r Result
Approve Substitute motion to Commissioner Commisioner Passes
approve receiving an Ben Hasan Sean Frantom
update from the Fire
Chief on the status of the
road at Regency Mall at
the next committee
meeting.
Motion Passes 4-0.
6. Approve continuing the process ofdeveloping proposal for Commission ltem
consideration for managed parking in downtown Augusta. RFQ 19-196 Action:
Approved
Motions
f#:" Motion Text Made By Seconded By
Motion to
^ aDDrove.APProve vtotion Passes
4-0.
Commisioner Commissioner
Sean Frantom Marion Williams Passes
Motion
Result
Motion
Result
Passes
Motion
Result
Passes
7. Approve Initial Phase funding for Drainage Study, Stormwater System Item
Assessment and Drainage Improvements Engineering Services Agreement to Action:
Cranston Engineering (Cranston) in the amount of $112,355.00 for National Approved
Hills Drainage Basin as requested by the AED. RFQ 19-148
8. Approve Initial Phase funding for Drainage Study, Stormwater System Item
Assessment and Drainage Improvements Engineering Services Agreement to Action:
Alfred Benesch & Company (Benesch) in the amount of $114,340.00 for Approved
Forrest Hills Drainage Area as requested by the AED. RFQ 19-148
Motions
Motion Motion Textr ype
Motion to. aDDrove.APProve uotion Passes
4-0.
Motions
Motion Motion TextI ype
Motion to
^ approve.APProve vtotion passes
4-0.
Seconded By
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Seconded By
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett
Made By
Commisioner
Sean Frantom
Made By
Commisioner
Sean Frantom
9.
Approve Initial Phase funding for Drainage Study, Stormwater System Item
Asiessment and Drainage Improvements Engineering Services Agreement to Action:
Constantine Engineering (Constantine) in the amount of $223,160.00 for Approved
Goshen and other Selected Drainage Basins as requested by the AED. RFQ
t9-r48
10. Approve Initial Phase funding for Drainage Study, Stormwater System Item
Assessment and Drainage Improvements Engineering Services Agreement to Action:
Goodwyn Mill Cawood (GMC) in the amount of $128,630.00 for Turpin Approved
Hills/Laney Walker Drainage Area as requested by the AED. RFQ 19-148
Motions
ryJ:" Motion Text Made By seconded BY
Motion to
. aDDrove.APProve vtotion Passes
4-0.
Motions
[,'J:" Motion Text Made By Seconded Bv
Motion to
. aDDrove.APProve vtotion Passes
4-0.
Commisioner Commissioner
Sean Frantom Brandon Garrett Passes
Seconded By
Motion
Result
Motion
Result
Motion
Result
Commisioner Commissioner
Sean Frantom Brandon Garrett Passes
11. Approve funds allocation revision in the amount of $49,000 for the ltem
Memorandum of Understanding with Phinizy Center (Nonprofit Action:
Organization) to assist in activities that are designed for stream restoration in Approved
local waterbodies. Requested by the Augusta Engineering Department.
Motions
Motion Motion Text'l'ype
Motion to
. aDDrove.APProve vtotion Passes
4-0.
Made By
Commisioner
Sean Frantom
Commissioner
Brandon Garrett Passes
12.
Consider Award of Bid #19-136 for Spirit Creek Interceptor Sewer Item
Rehabilitation Project No. I to Bio-Nomic Services, Inc. in the amount of Action:
$2,582,900.00. Approved
Motions
X:j1" Motion Text Made By Seconded By fffiir ype
Motion to
^ approve. Commisioner CommissionerApprove Motion Passes Sean Frantom Brandon Garrett rasses
4-0.
www.augustaqa.gov
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Minutes
Department:
Presenter:
Caption:Motion to approve the minutes of the Engineering Services
Committee held on September 10, 2019.
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subiect:
Ms Bonner,
Commissioner Sammie Sias
Thursday, September L9,20L9 8:45 AM
Lena Bonner
Nancy Morawski
New Savannah Lock and Dam
Please place the following agenda item on the Engineering Services Committee for 24 September 2019
Request that Army Corps of Engineers perform a drawdown of the Savannah River at Augusta to demonstrate
the effects that plan "2-6A" would have on the river pool as replacement for the New Savannah Bluff Lock and
Dam
The CSRA faces a very grave and imminent if the Lock and Dam is replaced with any structure that does notprovideall4.5pool levelfortheregion. ThecityofAugustastakedit'sfutureontheriverpool forsafety,
groMh, drinking water, industry, recreation, etc. We must fight to iave our pool by ensuring that
all government agencies and elected officials see and understand the dangers we face in losing the Augusta
Pool!
Sammie L. Sias
Commissioner,
Augusta Richmond County
"Failure is not on Option"
aresLrllo{lhee-uaii iransnrissior lfveniicalrcr;r::requireii.pleasereqL.!estaliardcopyversronAll) 't04 1
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam
Department:
Presenter:Commissioner Sammie Sias
Caption:Request that Army Corps of Engineers perform a drawdown of
the Savannah River at Augusta to demonstrate the effects that
plan "2-6A" would have on the river pool as replacement for the
New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. (Requested by
Commissioner Sammie Sias)
Background:The CSRA faces a very grave and imminent if the Lock and
Dam is replaced with any structure that does not provide a 114.5
pool level for the region. The City of Augusta staked its future
on the river pool for safety, growth, drinking water, industry,
recreation, etc. We must fight to save our pool by ensuring that
all government agencies and elected officials see and understand
the dangers we face in losing the Augusta Pool!
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Regency Mall property
Department:
Presenter:
Caption:Update from the Fire Department regarding the status of the road
on the Regency Mall Property. (Referred from September 10
Engineering Services Committee)
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
OFFICIAL
Page 1 of 2
VENDORS
Copper Construction
Co. Inc.
410 Newton Street
Vidalia, GA 30475
R.L. Wiles Electric
4144 Wheeler Road
Augusta, GA 30907
Alrich Electric
Contracting Co. Inc.
2110 Vandivere Rd.
Augusta, GA 30904
Mayer Electric
1259 Augusta West
Parkway
Augusta, GA 30909
Schneidon Electric
513 Church Street
Walh, SC 29691
Border States
Industries
105 25th St., N
Fargo, ND 58102
Capital City Electrical
Services, LLC
1346 Oakbrook Drive
Norcross GA 30093
Attachment B Yes Yes
E-Verify Number 154164 843796
SAVE Form Yes Yes
Cost $255,800.00 $246,022.00
Brand SQD SQUARE D
Model Model 6 LVMCC MODEL 6
Cost $122,875.00 $118,172.00
Brand SQD SQD
Model Power Zone for
MCC
Power Zone by
Schneider
Cost of Shipping Power Zone
House $3,439.02 $3,481.00
Cost of (3) User Department
Employees $3,600.00 $0.00
Startup cost for onsite testing
and programming of Power
Zone House
$9,800.00 $0.00
Bid Opening Item #19-127 Rocky Creek Power House
for Augusta, Georgia- Utilities Department
Bid Due: Thursday, January 17, 2019 @ 11:00 a.m.
Motor Center
Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21
Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): 5
Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): 22
Georgia Procurment Registry: 186
Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NA
Total packages submitted: 2
Total Non-Compliant: 0
Power Zone House (to include cost of mounting motor control center inside the Power Zone)
OFFICIAL
Page 2 of 2
VENDORS
Copper Construction
Co. Inc.
410 Newton Street
Vidalia, GA 30475
R.L. Wiles Electric
4144 Wheeler Road
Augusta, GA 30907
Alrich Electric
Contracting Co. Inc.
2110 Vandivere Rd.
Augusta, GA 30904
Mayer Electric
1259 Augusta West
Parkway
Augusta, GA 30909
Schneidon Electric
513 Church Street
Walh, SC 29691
Border States
Industries
105 25th St., N
Fargo, ND 58102
Capital City Electrical
Services, LLC
1346 Oakbrook Drive
Norcross GA 30093
Bid Opening Item #19-127 Rocky Creek Power House
for Augusta, Georgia- Utilities Department
Bid Due: Thursday, January 17, 2019 @ 11:00 a.m.
Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21
Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): 5
Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): 22
Georgia Procurment Registry: 186
Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NA
Total packages submitted: 2
Total Non-Compliant: 0
Cost of Certified
Technician/hr.$200.00 $0.00
Invitation to Bid
Sealed bids will be received at this office until Thursday, January 17, 2019 @ 11:00 a.m. for furnishing:
Bid Item #19-127 Rocky Creek Power House - Augusta, GA Utilities Department
Bids will be received by Augusta, GA Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of:
Geri A. Sams, Director
Augusta Procurement Department
535 Telfair Street - Room 605
Augusta, Georgia 30901
Bid documents may be viewed on the Augusta, Georgia web site under the Procurement Department ARCbid. Bid documents may
be obtained at the office of the Augusta, GA Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street – Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901.
Documents may be examined during regular business hours at the offices of Augusta, GA Procurement Department.
A Mandatory Pre Bid Conference will be held on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 @ 3:00 p.m. in the Procurement Department, 535
Telfair Street, Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901.
All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office
of the Procurement Department by Thursday, January 3, 2019 @ 5:00 P.M. No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by
mail or hand delivered.
No bids may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after bids have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the
successful bidder.
Invitation for bids and specifications. An invitation for bids shall be issued by the Procurement Office and shall include specifications
prepared in accordance with Article 4 (Product Specifications), and all contractual terms and conditions, applicable to the
procurement. All specific requirements contained in the invitation to bid including, but not limited to, the number of copies
needed, the timing of the submission, the required financial data, and any other requirements designated by the Procurement
Department are considered material conditions of the bid which are not waiveable or modifiable by the Procurement Director.
All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Procurement Director to the appropriate
committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission. Please mark BID number on the
outside of the envelope.
Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of BID documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department
is not advisable. Acquisition of BID documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or
inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications.
Correspondence must be submitted via mail, fax or email as follows:
Augusta Procurement Department
Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement
535 Telfair Street, Room 605
Augusta, GA 30901
Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov
No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered.
GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director
Publish:
Augusta Chronicle December 6, 13, 20, 27, 2018
Metro Courier December 6, 2018
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
Tom Wiedmeier
Director
Augusta Utilities Administration
360 Bay Street – Suite 180 - Augusta, GA 30901
(706) 312-4154 – Fax (706) 312-4123
WWW.AUGUSTAGA.GOV
MEMORANDUM
TO: Geri Sams, Director – Procurement Department
Nancy Williams – Quality Assurance Analyst
Tywanna Scott – Bid Management Assistant
FROM: Tom Wiedmeier, Director --Utilities Department
Allen Saxon, Assistant Director – Water and Wastewater Production & Facilities
Steve Orton – Superintendent II, Facilities and Maintenance Department
SUBJECT: Rocky Creek Power House (Bid Item #19-127)
BID RECOMMENDATION (2019)
DATE: February 1, 2019
Attached is the Bid Tabulation Sheet for Bid Item #19-127, Rocky Creek Power House. It is our recommendation
that this bid be awarded to Border States Industries. Between the two compliant vendors, they had the lowest
prices on both the motor center and power zone house.
Thank you for your assistance regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
Tess Thompson forTess Thompson forTess Thompson forTess Thompson for
Tom WiedmeierTom WiedmeierTom WiedmeierTom Wiedmeier 2222----1111----2019201920192019
______________________________________ Date: ___________
Tom Wiedmeier, Director
cc: Tess Thompson, Finance Manager
Bobby Robinson, Superintendent I-Maintenance/Fiber Optic
John Goodenough – Maintenance Group Manager
Camethia West, Administrative Assistant, Facilities and Maintenance Department
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Use Bid Item 19-127 to Purchase an Additional Lift Station Power House from Border States
Industries at the Previously Approved Price
Department:Utilities
Presenter:Tom Wiedmeier
Caption:Use Previously Awarded Bid Item 19-127 to Purchase an
Additional Lift Station Power House from Border States
Industries at the Previously Approved Price of $367,675.00.
Background:Augusta has a project to install a new wastewater pumping
station and force main as part of our work to provide service to
new infrastructure at Fort Gordon. In order to expedite this
project and insure equipment compatibility with other upgraded
facilities, we are providing the electrical and control components
for the pumping station as a prefabricated structure. The
purpose of Bid Item 19-127 is to procure the prefabricated
structure and the components that will be installed by the
manufacturer during assembly.
Analysis:This bid was previously approved for the same type of structure
at a different location. The Procurement Department has been in
touch with Border States Industries (the selected bidder for this
item) and they have stated that they will honor their bid price for
the next 30 days. This will allow us to expedite our work and
will allow Fort Gordon to proceed with their projects in a timely
manner. The total for all bid items from Border States Industries
is $367,675.00 and is within the project budget.
Financial Impact:$367,675.00 from Budgeted Funds
Alternatives:None Recommended
Recommendation:We recommend procurement of a second package based on Bid
Item 19-127 from Border States Industries at a total amount of
$367,675.00.
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
507043420-5425210 88880190-5425210
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Procurement.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Engineering Services Committee Meeting
9/24/2019 1:15 PM
Commercial trash dumpsters.
Department:
Presenter:Commissioner Marion Williams
Caption:Discuss Environmental Services Department's process
for emptying overflowing/capacity filled commercial
trash dumpsters. (Requested by Commissioner Marion
Williams )
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are
Available in the
Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: