During a recent Lane County Commission meeting, two commissioners voted to waive a county regulation that bars construction in the McKenzie River flood zone. The decision also included a waiver of a federal setback requirement that normally ensures residents can obtain federally subsidized flood insurance.
Donor influence at the center of the vote
The waiver came after developer Kathy Jones‑McCann contributed sizable sums to the two commissioners who supported the change. A letter to the editor in Lookout Eugene‑Springfield highlighted the connection between the campaign contributions and the vote, suggesting the waivers were granted to satisfy a campaign donor.
Federal compliance concerns
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials later warned the county that the waiver could place Lane County out of compliance with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) rules. In response, the commission back‑pedaled on the federal waiver but left the county‑level setback waiver in place.
FEMA’s warning raises the question of whether homeowners in the newly approved construction area will remain eligible for federal flood insurance. The agency typically requires local jurisdictions to maintain setback standards to protect the integrity of the NFIP.
Potential consequences for residents
If FEMA determines the county’s actions violate NFIP requirements, it could deny flood‑insurance reimbursements for affected property owners. Such a denial would place the financial burden of flood damage squarely on residents, many of whom rely on the subsidized program to protect their homes.
Local officials have not yet indicated whether they will repeal the county waiver. Critics, including the letter’s author Tom Barkin of Eugene, argue the commissioners should reverse the decision before it leads to serious consequences for other county residents.
What this means for Lane County
The episode underscores the importance of transparent decision‑making in local government, especially when public safety programs like the NFIP are involved. It also highlights the ongoing debate over the influence of campaign contributions on policy outcomes.
County residents and stakeholders are encouraged to monitor upcoming commission meetings for any further action on the waiver and to voice concerns through the public comment process.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
