Cape Coral Mayor speaks on FEMA’s decision to maintain Current CRS rating

The City of Cape Coral received positive news from FEMA, confirming the city’s current Community Rating System (CRS) classification of 5 will be maintained. FEMA documented their decision in a letter received today, which states:

“Our team has completed its review of the city’s compliance with the minimum floodplain management standards and everything that has been done to correct any deficiencies and violations. We acknowledge the work invested by you and your team has resulted in some improvements to meet minimum floodplain management standards, and I appreciate your leadership in this area. However, as the City of Cape Coral continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, FEMA finds that outstanding compliance issues remain. FEMA will not retrograde the City of Cape Coral‘s class rating at this time.”

This decision ensures that residents will continue to benefit from discounts on National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) premiums, saving them up to 25%. City staff remains committed to working with FEMA to meet and exceed NFIP regulations and correct or remedy any additional outstanding compliance issues.

“We are pleased with FEMA’s decision as it aligns with the city’s goal of helping keep policy premiums as low as possible,” said Cape Coral City Mayor John Gunter. “This ensures our residents and their homes are properly protected. Their safety and well-being remain our top priority, and this decision is a significant step to achieving that.”

City staff worked diligently to provide proof of NFIP compliance in an effort to avoid a potential downgrade to a CRS classification of 10, which would have removed the current NFIP premium discounts for properties located in special flood hazard areas.

“We are grateful that FEMA has acknowledged our ongoing efforts and commitment to floodplain management regulations,” Mayor Gunter added. “In the end, FEMA has proven they may not be a villain.”

“We are delighted that FEMA has recognized the diligence of our city staff, and maintaining the CRS rating of 5 underscores Cape Coral‘s commitment to resilience and safety,” said City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn. “Our staff’s tireless efforts, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, have been crucial in safeguarding our community and preserving these vital insurance discounts for our residents. The City will continue to work closely with FEMA to address any remaining concerns and ensure transparency in our floodplain management practices.”