A. Statutory Authorization: The Legislature of the State of Minnesota has in Minnesota Statutes chapter 103F and chapter 462, delegated the responsibility to local government units to adopt regulations designed to minimize flood losses. Therefore, the City Council of the City of Little Falls, Minnesota, does ordain as follows.
B. Purpose:
1. Regulations: Floodplain management regulations regulate development in the flood hazard areas of the City. These flood hazard areas are subject to periodic inundation, which may result in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base. It is the purpose of these regulations to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare by minimizing these losses and disruptions.
2. National Flood Insurance Program Compliance: Floodplain management regulations are adopted to comply with the rules and regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program codified as 44 Code of Federal Regulations parts 59-78, as amended, so as to maintain the City's eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program.
3. Preservation: Floodplain management regulations are also intended to preserve the natural characteristics and functions of watercourses and floodplains in order to moderate flood and stormwater impacts, improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, protect aquatic and riparian habitat, provide recreational opportunities, provide aesthetic benefits and enhance community and economic development. (Ord. 10, 7th Series, eff. 7-2-2018)