Communities receive technical assistance on Program for Public Information

Relevance:

In 2013, FEMA revised the eligible activities for points under the Community Rating System (CRS). User groups no longer receive points. Communities need new ways to recoup lost points, to maintain class ratings and associated discounts on flood insurance policies. Under the new CRS manual, communities gain points by participating in the newly created Program for Public Information (PPI). Because the PPI is complex and requires approval from local governments, communities requested technical assistance.

Response:

MASGC worked with partners, including national PPI experts, to develop a daylong intensive PPI training targeted to floodplain managers and CRS coordinators in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. The workshop was held Jan. 22, 2015 and attended by 42 individuals representing 7 organizations, 22 communities, and 6 counties. Following the workshop, MASGC provided individual technical assistance on the formation of a PPI to Mississippi coastal communities. To date, MASGC has met with the cities of Long Beach, Pass Christian, Biloxi and Harrison County. MASGC has facilitated Biloxi’s creation of a PPI by drafting documents, inventorying flood insurance outreach activities, and facilitating PPI committee meetings.

Results:

With facilitation from MASGC, Biloxi, MS has established a PPI committee that brings together local government officials and community stakeholders. Through the committee, Biloxi has developed a stronger dialogue with community stakeholders that will allow Biloxi to further refine flood insurance outreach strategies in the future.

Recap:

MASGC facilitates creation of Program for Public Information to assist communities with maintaining Community Rating Scores and associated discounts on flood insurance policies. (2015)