§ 38-102. Plan preparation process.

Preparation of the FMP is primarily a joint effort between the consultant (Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc.) and the city engineer. Input and information has been solicited throughout the planning process from a number of sources, including the city's staff, the public, other agencies involved in floodplain management, the planning and zoning commission, and the city council. The following is an outline of the planning process:

(1)

Compilation of existing data. The city has already developed several documents that are directly related to the preparation of the FMP. They include a flood damage prevention ordinance and the subdivision ordinance. FIRM maps were obtained and reviewed, along with city topographic maps. The city staff provided input in an interview format, based on their experience in Haltom City in severe weather conditions. Discussion included known drainage problems as well as any regulatory and operational floodplain management measures currently being implemented by the city.

(2)

Notification of other floodplain management agencies. Early in the planning process, the following agencies have been notified of the intent of the city to develop a flood mitigation plan. They have been offered the opportunity to make any suggestions or provide any input they may have related to floodplain management in the city.

Tarrant County

Transportation and Public Works Dept.
100 E. Weatherford
Fort Worth, TX 76102

North Central Texas Council of Governments

Mr. Jack Tidwell
Environmental Resources Dept.
616 Six Flags Drive
Arlington, TX 76005

Trinity River Authority

Dr. Richard Browning, Ph.D.
5300 S. Collins
Arlington, TX 76004

(3)

Public involvement. An advertisement was placed in the April-May 2001 issue of the city's bimonthly newsletter, the Proud and Progressive, providing general information to the public and soliciting information and feedback, especially related to existing flooding problems. Points of contact have been provided for interested citizens to call or write with suggestions, existing flooding information, or for further information. Mr. Gregory Van Nieuwenhuize, the city engineer and floodplain administrator, was identified as a point of contact, along with Gary L. Vickery of Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc. A copy of this advertisement is attached. A public notice was also placed in the Star-Telegram with similar information. A copy of this notice is attached as well.

In addition, on August 23, 2001 a public meeting was held at the Haltom City Public Library to provide information to citizens and to provide them an opportunity to have input into the planning process. A notice of this public meeting was placed in the August-September 2001 issue of the Proud and Progressive newsletter, as well as an advertisement in the Northeast Tarrant County edition of the Star-Telegram. Citizens were briefed on the flood mitigation plan, were updated on the status of several drainage related issues pertinent to them (including the bond election scheduled for Nov. 6), and were given an opportunity to provide input into the process. Citizens shared information regarding known areas of flooding, as well as commented on existing floodplain management practices, particularly their perception of the lack of drainage maintenance. A number of citizens took the opportunity to ask about the Little Fossil Creek Project and the upcoming bond election.

Finally, prior to approval of the plan by the city council a public hearing was held on April 8, 2002, during which citizens were afforded an opportunity to provide input and comment. The local public access cable channel televised the public hearing, as part of a regular city council meeting. In addition, CBS Channel 11 and NBC Channel 5 aired a portion of the public hearing as a follow-up to a recent story about flooding in the Skyline Mobile Home Park. In order to advise citizens of the public hearing, notices will be placed in the Proud and Progressive newsletter, the city's local cable television channel, and on the City of Haltom City web site.

(4)

Analysis of existing problems and preparation of a draft FMP. Using input and information from the sources outlined above, an evaluation of existing flooding hazards and problems was undertaken. These were evaluated to assess their effectiveness, and numerous other possible activities have been considered. From the list of existing and potential mitigation activities a draft plan has been developed.

(5)

Review of draft FMP by city staff. The draft FMP has been reviewed by the city staff, including the city engineer, public works director and the city manager. In addition, a copy of the draft plan has been made available for public review and comment.

(6)

Revisions to draft plan. Based on comments by the staff, the public and the city council, the draft FMP has been revised to its present form.

(7)

Review and adoption of the FMP by city council. The FMP was presented to the city council on April 8, 2002 in a public hearing. The FMP was approved by the city council on May 13, 2002.

(8)

Implementation of plan by city staff. Implementation of the FMP will be primarily the responsibility of the city's engineering department.

(Ord. No. O-2002-017-16, § 1, Exh. A, 5-13-02)