The Parsons City Commission holds a public discussion on the City's flood plain map.

At this week's meeting, commissioners discussed expected changes to the map and held a public hearing to allow citizens to comment on the matter. Parsons Public Works Director Darrell Moyer says the update is a recurring requirement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

City Attorney Ross Albertini says FEMA requires municipalities to update floodplain maps to reflect changing physical conditions, new development, and climate impacts.

. Accurate maps ensure proper building codes, set fair flood insurance rates under the National Flood Insurance Program , and help protect communities from unexpected disaster losses. Communities must maintain up-to-date Flood Insurance Rate Maps to legally enforce local floodplain ordinances and keep residents eligible for federal flood insurance.