Flood Control in Sacramento CountyBecause of a combination of unique geographic factors, the threat of flooding in the Sacramento area is greater than in any other major river basin in the country. Over the past 80 years, various public agencies have developed dam, levee and bypass systems incrementally to prevent a major flood from devastating the Sacramento metropolitan area. More than 84,000 parcels in the city and county of Sacramento are still regarded as high-risk flood zone properties. By virtue of being in a flood zone that has less than a 100-year level of flood protection, many property owners are required to carry flood insurance, which averages $450 a year in this area. The floods of 1986 and 1997 underscored the urgency of pursuing additional measures to protect these properties from a catastrophic flood. In recognition of this serious threat, Congress passed legislation last year to authorize the most significant package of improvements to our flood control system since the construction of Folsom Dam in 1956. When completed, these improvements would move these 84,000 parcels to a moderate-risk status (140-year protection), thus eliminating the requirement for flood insurance. These projects are estimated to cost approximately $235 million. To match what the federal and state governments will put up, the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA) must generate approximately $35 million (or 15 percent of the total cost). To do so, a benefit assessment district must be formed. In May property owners of the area voted to approve the assessment district. September 2002 |
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