Coos Bay City Council report, March 21

From the Coos Bay City Council meeting Tuesday, March 18 – Council Action Taken:  Adopted an updated Food Insurance Rate Report, Maps, and Zone Text Amendments to the Coos Bay Municipal Code for flood damage prevention to go into effect immediately.  Discussion of Issues:  Eric Day presented a report prepared by City Planner Debbie Erler regarding proposed text amendments to the Coos Bay Municipal Code involving newly adopted FEMA Flood Plain maps.  “The map updates and text amendments insure that the City of Coos Bay remains in compliance with the National Flood Insurance Act,” said Eric Day, Community Development Planner for the City.  The City is required to adopt the maps provided by FEMA, and the wording in the ordinance that the Council adopted for residents and businesses to be able to get the national flood insurance, said Mayor Shoji.  Council Action Taken:  Unanimously approved the appointment of Tom Leahy to fill the Council seat that has been held by Gene Melton, who resigned due to health issues.   Tom Leahy was appointed to fulfill the position temporarily last month, but the resignation of Gene Melton on March 13 necessitated that the Council act to fulfill the position at this time.  The Council seat will be filled in the November election.  Gene was involved in everything,” said Council President Stephanie Kramer.  “We will miss him.”  “It is a loss.  His commitment has been of benefit to the City, veterans groups, and the entire community for many decades,” said Mayor Shoji.