The ordinance, which follows a one-size-fits-all model, sparked interest and concern among residents due to its inclusion of irrelevant references for specific local conditions, such as sand dunes and coastal flooding, that do not apply to Pequannock. Despite these inaccuracies, the council was informed by FEMA that adherence to the ordinance is non-negotiable for continued NFIP participation. The township engineer and another official sought modifications to tailor the ordinance more closely to local needs. They succeeded in one significant area: ensuring that permits for development in floodplains do not cumulatively count towards the substantial damage limit, which would otherwise necessitate property elevation.

The ordinance’s introduction is a procedural step, with a public hearing and potential adoption scheduled for August 12th. The governing body emphasized that this meeting was not conducted to obscure the ordinance’s implications but was a necessary step in a tight timeline imposed by federal requirements.

Public comments highlighted concerns about the necessity of additional permits and the potential costs involved. The ordinance requires a permit for certain developments within floodplains, which could affect residents planning property improvements. However, officials reassured residents that any additional permit fees would likely be minimal and bundled with existing zoning applications to reduce bureaucratic burden.

Residents also questioned the status of existing Letters of Map Amendment (LOMA) and Letters of Map Revision (LOMR). They were advised to consult the township’s flood resilience officer for precise guidance, emphasizing the township’s unique position in New Jersey as one of the few with a dedicated officer for such issues.