Point Boro Backs U.S flood Insurance Affordability Plan

With some neighborhoods still reeling from Hurricane Sandy, Point Pleasant Boro's Council unanimously supported the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act, which is before Congress.

U.S. Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced the bill late last year to "protect millions of homeowners from facing huge flood insurance premium rate hikes."

The legislation would require FEMA to complete an affordability study, propose solutions to address affordability, and certify that flood maps are accurate before flood insurance premiums can be increased.

"We need to do something to keep homeowners' insurance rates lower going forward," Councilwoman Antoinette DePaola said said prior to the 6-0 vote showing the Council's support for the bill.

Hurricane Sandy flooded many Jersey Shore communities, affecting Point Boro's neighborhoods along Beaver Dam Creek, such as Bayhead Shores and Sunshine Harbor.  Many residents have not been able to return to their homes, while others have elevated their homes, fearing substantial flood insurance premium increases.

FEMA proposed changes in the flood maps that can have significant changes in flood zones, but many Ocean County officials have disputed the accuracy of proposed changes.