Decision comes after 8 months of effort by Estero demonstrating decisions rooted in adherence to FEMA requirements and guidelines
The Village of Estero was notified today, November 21, 2024, that FEMA will maintain the Village of Estero’s rating and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholder discounts following 8 months of diligent work by the Village to provide all requested and required documentation.
Estero residents with policies issued under the NFIP will maintain the discount rate of 20%.
Estero has enjoyed an exemplary working relationship with FEMA. The Village joined the NFIP following incorporation in 2015, and in 2017, received a CRS rating of 6. Since that time, the Village has taken an aggressive approach to mitigate impacts from flooding and initiated a land purchase program intended to reduce future risks.
In March 2024, FEMA initially announced plans to retrograde that discount, prompting months of work by Estero to submit documentation requested by FEMA. The Village worked collaboratively with FEMA to submit a corrective action plan and substantial damage administrative procedures prior to the Nov. 18 deadline.
During Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, the Village illustrated its proactive response to adhere to FEMA’s NFIP and CRS requirements and guidelines.
The Village of Estero Council had prioritized the FEMA response and remained committed throughout this process to retaining the CRS rating of 6 to maintain the discount available to Estero residents with NFIP policies