HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

Transcription

1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (Update 2010) LINCOLN COUNTY CITY OF LINCOLNTON Recommended by the Lincoln County Planning Board by the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners (October 4th, 2010) Recommended by the Lincolnton Planning Board by the Lincolnton City Council (October 7th, 2010) Prepared by the Lincoln County Planning & Inspections Department Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan i

2 U.S. Department of Homeland Security FEMA Region IV 3003 Chamblee Tucker Road Atlanta, GA November 24, 2010 Mr. Doug Hoell, Director North Carolina Division of Emergency Management 4713 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina Attention: Mr. Chris Crew Reference: Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan: Lincoln County Dear Mr. Hoell: We are pleased to inform you that the revisions to the Lincoln County Multi-jurisdictional Plan are in compliance with the Federal hazard mitigation planning standards resulting from the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, as contained in 44 CFR The plan is approved for a period of five (5) years, to November 24, This plan approval extends to the following participating jurisdictions that provided copies of their resolutions adopting the plan: Lincoln County City of Lincolnton The approved participating jurisdictions are hereby-eligible applicants through the State for the following mitigation grant programs administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA A fifth program, Repetitive Flood Claims (RFC), does not have a requirement for a local Hazard Mitigation Plan. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) participation is required for some programs. We commend Lincoln County for development of a solid, workable plan that will guide hazard mitigation activities over the coming years. Please note, all requests for funding will be evaluated individually according to the specific eligibility and other requirements of the particular program under which the application is submitted. For example, a specific mitigation activity or project identified in the plan may not meet the eligibility requirements for FEMA funding, and even eligible mitigation activities are not automatically approved for FEMA funding under any of the aforementioned programs. We strongly encourage each community to perform an annual review and assessment of the effectiveness of their hazard mitigation plan; however, a formal plan update is required at least every five (5) years. We also encourage each community to conduct a plan update process within one (1) year of being

3 included within a Presidential Disaster Declaration or of the adoption of major modifications to their local Comprehensive Land Use Plan or other plans that affect hazard mitigation or land use and development. When the plan is amended or revised, it must be resubmitted through the State as a plan update and is subject to a formal review and approval process by our office. If the plan is not updated prior to the required five (5) year update, please ensure that the Draft update is submitted at least six (6) months prior to expiration of this plan approval. The State and Lincoln County should be commended for their close coordination and communications with our office in the review and subsequent approval of the plan. If you or Lincoln County have any questions or need any additional information please do not hesitate to contact Mary Margaret Jackson, of the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Branch, at (770) or Linda L. Byers of my staff at Sincerely, Robert E. Lowe, Chief Risk Analysis Branch Mitigation Division 2

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5 CITY OF LINCOLNTON PLANNING DEPARTMENT 114W. SYCAMORE ST. RO.BOX 617 LINCOLNTON, NC TELEPHONE FAX planning ci.iincolnton.nc.us City of Lincolnton Formal Letter of Adoption Lincoln County and City of Lincolnton Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2009 October 7, 2010 On this day the 7th of October, the City of Lincolnton City Council has formally adopted the 2009 update to the Lincoln County and City of Lincolnton Hazard Mitigation Plan, and all recommendations contained therein. Over the course of the next 5 years Lincoln County staff will document hazards that occur within the county, as well as implement recommendations that are outlined within the Hazard Mitigation Plan. As the 2014 required update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan approaches, the county will begin the process of preparing to revise the plan as required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM ). Sign~0 x~x John 0. Gilleland, Jr., Mayor, City of LCHazard Mitigation Plan Update 2009 Formal Letter of Adoption

6 Lincoln County and City of Lincolnton Hazard Mitigation Plan Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Alex E. Patton, Chair Bruce Carlton, Vice-Chair George Arena James A. Klein Carrol D. Mitchem Lincolnton City Council David Black, Mayor Fred Houser, Ward I John Les Cloninger, Ward II, Mayor Pro-Temp Carrol Heavner, Ward III Larry Mac Hovis, Ward IV Lincoln County Planning Board Jerry Geymont, Chair Louis E. McConnell, Vice-Chair Clyde Brown Tom Campbell Karl Dearnley Jeff Frushtick Gary Garlow Keith Johnson James H. Mauney, IILincolnton Planning Board Ed Hatley, Chair Betty Helms, Vice-Chair Bo Abernethy Rondel Burke Renee Coulter Jill Eaddy Siegfried Hegewald Suzanne Peeler Lincoln County Planning Staff Kelly Atkins, Director R.S. Williams, Principal Planner Randy Hawkins, Zoning Administrator Andrew C. Bryant, Planner Robert Carson, Planner Hazard Mitigation Committee George Arena, Lincoln County Commissioner Mark Carpenter, Lincolnton Zoning Administrator Jill Eaddy, Lincolnton Planning Board Member Jeff Emory, Lincolnton City Manager Mike Futrell, Lincoln County Fire Marshall Steve Gurley, Director Lincolnton Planning Erma Deen Hoyle, Director of Lincoln County Parks & Recreation Angela Huss, GIS IT/System Analyst Keith Johnson, Lincoln County Planning Board Barry McKinnon, Engineer, Lincoln County Public Works Rick McSwain, Director of Lincoln County Soil & Water Conservation District Tom Waryold, GIS Specialist Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan ii

7 Table of Contents Section 1: Introduction and Executive Summary..1-1 Executive Summary Introduction Why Implement a Hazard Mitigation Plan? Document Organization.1-3 Section 2: Hazard Mitigation Strategies Introduction Natural Hazard Response Planning Goals Public Education and Integration of New Policies and Ordinances Plan Objectives and Hazard Mitigation Activities Plan Objectives Mitigation Activities Flood Mitigation Activities Procedure for Amending the Hazard Mitigation Plan Initiation of Amendments Planning Board Review and Recommendation Public Hearing Requirements City Council Board of Commissioners Review and Adoption Community Rating System Public Information (Series 300) Mapping and Regulations (Series 400) Flood Damage Reduction (Series 500) Flood Preparedness (Series 600) Hazard Mitigation Goals and Strategies Cost Benefit Analysis Project Prioritization Previous Mitigation Actions 2-20 Appendix A: Hazard Identification and Analysis A-1 Introduction A-1 Hazard Identification A-1 Hurricanes A-1 Floods A-2 Tornadoes A-3 Thunderstorms A-4 Severe Winter Storms A-4 Wildfires A-5 Earthquakes A-5 Landslides A-7 Drought.A-7 Hazard identification Overview Summary...A-7 Natural Hazard Summary Assessment for Lincoln County A-8 Natural Hazards Potential Impact Data for Lincoln County A-8 Hazard Index for Lincoln County A-9 Hazard Location/Geography for Lincoln County..A-10 Jurisdictional Risk Assessment A-11 Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan iii

8 Appendix B: Assessment of Vulnerability... B-1 Introduction... B-1 Critical Facilities B-1 Present Vulnerability... B-2 Future Vulnerability... B-3 Redevelopment..B-4 Appendix C: City/County Capability Assessment... C-1 Introduction... C-1 Legal Authority of Local Governments in North Carolina... C-1 Regulation... C-1 General Police Power... C-1 Plan of Action...C-2 Building Codes and Building Inspection... C-2 Land Use... C-3 Zoning... C-3 Floodplain Regulation... C-3 Planning... C-5 Subdivision Regulation... C-5 Acquisition... C-6 Taxation... C-6 Spending... C-7 Fiscal Capability... C-7 Local Funds...C-7 Non-Governmental Funds... C-7 State and Federal Funds...C-8 Ability to Pay...C-8 Technical Capability...C-9 Lincoln County...C-9 State and Federal C-9 Statewide Floodplain Mapping Initiative...C-9 Community Goals... C-10 Appendix D: Evaluation of Local Policies and Ordinances... D-1 Introduction... D-1 City Policies and Ordinances..D-1 Unified Development Ordinance..D-1 Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance.D-1 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.D-1 Minimum Housing Ordinance D-1 Abandoned Structure Ordinance.....D-2 Fire Prevention Code.....D-2 County Policies and Ordinances... D-2 Zoning... D-2 Planning... D-2 Comprehensive Land Use Plan... D-2 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance... D-5 Subdivision Ordinance... D-6 Building Code... D-7 Water Supply Watershed Protection Ordinance... D-7 Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance..D-7 Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan iv

9 Streamside Buffer Regulations.. D-8 Effectiveness for Hazard Mitigation... D-8 Policies that Hinder Hazard Mitigation... D-9 Public Input.D-9 Amending the Hazard Mitigation Plan D-10 Appendix E: Hazard Mitigation Plan Project Schedule... E-1 Appendix F: Update Methodology...F-1 Appendix G: Maps G-1 Lincoln County Future Land Use... G-1 City of Lincolnton Future Land Use... G-2 Lincoln County Land Cover... G-3 Lincoln County Special Flood Hazard Areas... G-4 Lincoln County Slopes.G-5 Lincoln County Water Supply Watersheds...G-6 Lincoln County Critical Facilities... G-7 Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan v

10 1: Introduction and Executive Summary Executive Summary The City of Lincolnton and Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan was developed with the Lincolnton City Council, Lincoln County Board of Commissioners, Lincoln County Planning Board, Lincolnton City Planning, Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Committee and the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management. A public hearing was held before both the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Lincolnton Mayor and City Council for public input. Lincoln County spent five months preparing the plan. In all, four Hazard Mitigation Committee meetings were held, including one formal public hearing. (appendix E project schedule) The 2009 Updated Hazard Mitigation Plan includes all previous participating jurisdictions from the original drafting of the Hazard Mitigation Plan in This includes both the City of Lincolnton and Lincoln County. There are no other jurisdictions located within the confines of Lincoln County, to be included in the planning process. The plan takes a comprehensive view by identifying and analyzing all nine natural hazards that could impact western North Carolina. The bulk of the plan document is contained in the appendices that cover hazard identification and analysis, an assessment of the County s vulnerability to natural hazards, an assessment of the County s capability to address natural hazards and an evaluation of current Lincoln County and City of Lincolnton policies and ordinances that influence hazard mitigation planning. The essence of the plan is contained in Section 2 Hazard Mitigation Strategies, which outlines activities that can be implemented to reduce or eliminate exposure to natural hazards. The emphasis of the strategies section is on reducing exposure to flood damages. Flooding was identified as the natural hazard most likely to impact the greatest number of citizens and the greatest land area. Flooding is also the only natural hazard where the area of impact can be predicted given the rainfall event and the characteristics of the drainage basin. Thus, flood damage prevention has the most potential to reduce citizen exposure to natural hazards. Over the next several years, the City and County will be implementing the identified hazard mitigation strategies to ensure that the public benefits from this planning effort. Through implementation, City and County leaders, elected and appointed boards as well as County staff will be promoting public health, safety, and welfare. Introduction The built environment is not always resilient to natural hazards. Natural disasters occur when human activities, in the form of buildings, infrastructure, agriculture and other land uses are located in the path of the destructive forces of nature. Since the built environment is more susceptible to natural hazards and cannot recuperate like the natural environment, communities impacted by a natural hazard often recover only over a long period of time and at great social and economic cost. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 1-1

11 In recent years, the impact of natural disasters has increased. This is not because natural hazards occur more frequently but because more people are choosing to live and work in locations that put them and their property at risk. While natural hazards cannot be prevented, local communities can use various means to reduce the vulnerability of people and property to damage. Communities can reduce exposure to future natural hazards by managing the location and characteristics of both the existing and future built environment. By utilizing location and construction techniques, a community can mitigate negative impacts and reduce future damage to both human lives and property. Preparing for natural hazards involves establishing a comprehensive emergency management system consisting of the following four component activities: 1. Preparedness activities undertaken to improve a community s ability to respond immediately after a disaster. Preparedness activities include the development of response procedures, design and installation of warning systems, exercises to test emergency operational procedures and training of emergency personnel. 2. Response activities designed to meet the urgent needs of disaster victims. Response activities occur during the disaster and include rescue operations, evacuation, emergency medical care and shelter programs. 3. Recovery activities designed to rebuild after a disaster. These activities include repairs to damaged public facilities such as roads and bridges, restoration of public services such as power and water and other activities that help restore normal services to a community. 4. Hazard mitigation activities designed to reduce or eliminate damages from future hazardous events. These activities can occur before, during, and after a disaster; also may overlap all phases of emergency management. Hazard mitigation is defined as any action taken to eliminate or reduce the long-term risk to human life and property from natural and technological hazards. Hazard mitigation includes three types of activities: 1. Structural mitigation constructing dam and levee projects to protect against flooding, constructing disaster-resistant structures and retrofitting existing structures to withstand future hazardous events; 2. Non-structural mitigation - development of land use plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and tax incentives along with disincentives to discourage development in high-hazard risk areas; and 3. Educational programs educating the public about potential natural hazards, the importance of mitigation, and how to prepare to withstand a disaster. The concept of sustainable development has emerged in recent years as a means to emphasize the need to regain a balance between the built and natural environment. Sustainable development is defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 1-2

12 Why Implement a Hazard Mitigation Plan? Lincoln County created a hazard mitigation plan for two primary reasons. First, the State of North Carolina has mandated that all counties adopt a Hazard Mitigation Plan. Second, a mitigation plan will help reduce the potential loss of life and property in the event of a disaster. Planning is the key to making mitigation a proactive rather than reactive process and to ensuring that land subject to hazards is identified and managed appropriately to reduce future exposure. Planning ensures individual mitigation projects and initiatives are carried out in a cooperative manner such that all local activities work together and no single action or project detracts from the overall goal of creating a safer community. Planning also plays an important part in generating community understanding of and support for hazard mitigation. The hazard mitigation planning process serves to consolidate hazard information and create a forum for discussion of how best to balance the public interest and private property rights. Document Organization Section 1 Section 2 Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Appendix F Introduction and Executive Summary Hazard Mitigation Strategies Development of new goals/objectives and new policies/programs; task responsibility and schedule; procedures to evaluate and update the hazard mitigation plan. Hazard Identification and Analysis Identification and analysis of each type of hazard that could impact Lincoln County. Assessment of Vulnerability/ Inventory of critical facilities. County Capability Assessment Inventory of existing and proposed hazard mitigation and flood damage prevention programs; evaluation of effectiveness of current programs and of the County s technical and fiscal capabilities to implement hazard mitigation objectives. Evaluation of County Policies and Ordinances Identification of current hazard mitigation goals/objectives including any existing goals that may hinder hazard mitigation; determination of need to modify current goals and objectives. Project Schedule Update Methodology Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 1-3

13 2: Hazard Mitigation Strategies Introduction Hazard mitigation helps to reduce the loss of life and property from natural disasters and serves as an essential component in emergency management. After natural disasters occur, repairs and reconstruction are often completed in such a way as to simply restore damaged property to pre-disaster conditions. Replication of pre-disaster conditions results in a repetitive cycle of damage and reconstruction. Hazard mitigation is needed to ensure that such cycles are broken, damages are analyzed, repairs and reconstruction take place, and sounder less vulnerable conditions are produced. The hazard mitigation plan required under Section 409 of Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (PL , as amended), is typically developed in a post disaster situation; however, the plan developed after a disaster is essentially a pre-disaster plan for the next disaster. Hazard mitigation is the only phase of emergency management that can break the cycle of damage and reconstruction. Development of a hazard mitigation plan has the potential to educate the community of natural hazards and also to ensure mitigation opportunities are not lost in the hasty effort to rebuild and recover after the next disaster. The intent of the hazard mitigation plan is to develop, over time, a community that is as disaster resistant as possible. Natural Hazard Response Other sections of the hazard mitigation plan outline Lincoln County's vulnerability to natural hazards and the capability of the County to respond to a natural disaster. With limited financial and staff resources to dedicate to hazard mitigation, it is essential that those hazards with the highest likelihood of occurrence and the greatest potential impact receive immediate attention. Based on the analysis of potential hazard impacts in Appendix A (see Table A-7), the natural hazards with the highest rated index for Lincoln County are Thunderstorms, Severe Winter Storms, Drought and Flooding. Wildfires and Tornados are rated as moderate. Earthquakes, Landslides and Hurricanes are rated as low to moderate hazard probability. Planning Goals Planning goals set community priorities for reducing susceptibility to natural hazards. The goals serve as a basis for development of more specific plan objectives and hazard mitigation activities. Some general planning goals are: 1. Decrease the community's vulnerability to future hazard events. 2. Increase the community's resiliency so that recovery can be quicker and less costly. 3. Decrease the likelihood that a future natural hazard becomes a natural disaster. 4. Ensure that future development contributes to the community's sustainability over time. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-1

14 More specifically, additional local goals include: 5. Reduce hazard risks to citizens' lives and property. 6. Restore and protect the natural carrying capacity of floodways/floodplains to prevent future disasters, improve public health, restore degraded ecosystems, and make communities more livable. Mitigation goals can only be accomplished within the planning context of providing a sustainable environment that meets the needs of today while protecting the needs of future generations. Sustainable development along with smart growth principles; land stewardship, protection of the natural environment, and preservation of natural resources have all been considered during the development of mitigation activities. The real challenge will come in the future as the citizens and leaders of Lincoln County implement the Hazard Mitigation Plan in its entirety. Public Education and Integration of New Policies and Ordinances In developing the plan, the County will seek to educate the public through implementation of the plan and by integrating any proposed new policies and ordinances into the County's existing regulatory environment. The leaders of Lincoln County realize that education plays a vital role in both the development and implementation of the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The hazard mitigation planning process has been an opportunity to encourage and promote public awareness and participation. The Plan will be used as an educational tool to convey to County citizens the danger of natural hazards, and to outline strategies for mitigating potential risks to lives and damage to property within the County. A major goal of the hazard mitigation process will be to continue to offer support and information to County residents. After adoption of the Plan, Lincoln County Planning and Inspections Department, the City of Lincolnton Planning Department and Lincoln County Emergency Management will play the lead role in seeking to educate citizens on the findings and strategies of the Plan. The development of the Hazard Mitigation Plan involves reviewing and updating existing land use policies and regulatory ordinances while considering new policies and ordinances that improve and extend protection of the public health, safety and welfare. Since the State mandated the creation of local Hazard Mitigation Plans, Lincoln County adopted a Land Use Plan in 2004, which underwent a major update in The hazard mitigation planning process has provided the opportunity to ensure that all planning efforts work collectively in order to achieve mitigation goals for existing and future development. Integration into the existing regulatory framework will ensure that the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be utilized to its fullest potential. The 2004 hazard mitigation plan was referenced in many planning documents including the 2007 Lincoln County Land Use Plan. References to the 2010 hazard mitigation plan will continue to be made in planning documents. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-2

15 Plan Objectives and Hazard Mitigation Activities Hazard mitigation includes three types of activities: 1. Structural mitigation - constructing dam and levee projects to protect against flooding, constructing disaster-resistant structures and retrofitting existing structures to withstand future hazardous events; 2. Non-structural mitigation - development of land use plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations and tax incentives along with disincentives to discourage development in high-hazard risk areas; and 3. Educational programs - educating the public about potential natural hazards, the importance of mitigation and how to prepare to withstand a disaster. The mitigation objectives described in the text below and the mitigation activities outlined in Table 2-1 cover aspects of all three types of mitigation activities. These objectives and activities have been developed as specific ways in which to reach the plan's stated goals. Plan Objectives 1. Implement a public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the possible hazards associated with locating in floodplains and measures that can be taken to lessen impacts of future floods. 2. Participate in the Community Rating System to help monitor hazard mitigation efforts and to improve the affordability of flood insurance for County citizens. 3. Ensure that emergency services are adequate to protect public health and safety. 4. Encourage growth in areas suitable for development while discouraging growth in environmentally sensitive or flood prone areas. 5. Continue control over development in the floodplain to prevent increases in flood velocities and levels that endanger both people and property. 6. Adopt stricter building codes to ensure that structures are being built in a way that minimizes damage from natural hazards. Hazard Mitigation Activities This section addresses specific ways the County can lessen and, eventually prevent future loss and eliminate repetitive flood losses. The primary impetus for the development of this section has been to reiterate that Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton are not members of the Community Rating System (CRS) but are participating members of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Communities that regulate development in floodplains are able to join the NFIP. In return, the NFIP provides federally backed flood insurance for properties within the community. Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton participate in the NFIP; however, the CRS provides opportunities to reduce flood insurance premiums if the County goes above and beyond the NFIP's minimum standards for floodplain regulation. The reduction in the insurance premiums is in the form of a CRS classification. There are 10 classes, each providing an additional 5% premium rate reduction for properties in the regulated floodplain. A community's class is based on the number of credit points it receives for floodplain management activities. A community that does not Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-3

16 apply for the CRS is a Class 10 community. The CRS has three major goals: to reduce flood losses, to facilitate accurate insurance ratings and to promote awareness of flood insurance. There are four mitigation categories (Series 300, 400, 500 and 600) with a total of eighteen creditable floodplain management activities. Participation in the program may provide the citizens of Lincoln County with lower flood insurance premium rates. A detailed explanation of the four CRS mitigation categories is included at the end of this section. Reference to the applicable CRS mitigation category is included in Table 2-1. Table 2-1: Flood Mitigation Activities Note: Abbreviations used in Table 2-1: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR); North Carolina Division of Emergency Management (NCEM); Management Information Systems (MIS); Emergency Management Services (EMS); Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS); Planning & Inspections Department (P&ID) Short Range (1-2 year) Activities Responsible Support Schedule (CRS Activity Code) Parties Parties I. Review/Update Flood Damage Prevention Planning Board P&ID Ordinance to ensure maximum protection from Board of Engineering Ongoing flood hazard events (CRS 430). Commissioners A. Consider adopting temporary moratorium on Board of P&ID new construction and new subdivisions within Commissioners flood hazard areas until Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance has been updated. B. Maintain minimum flood protection level from Planning Board P&ID base flood elevation (BFE) at minimum 3' Board of above BFE. All substantially damaged Commissioners buildings should be elevated to this level. (CRS 430). Continue prohibiting construction or substantial improvement of buildings within the 100 -year floodplain. C. Review rebuilding activities in wake of floods Planning Board P&ID and consider policies/ procedures for Board of minimizing repetitive losses. Commissioners D. Prohibit enclosures to the lower areas of P&ID elevated buildings, including breakaway walls. (CRS 430). E. Continue to require and maintain FEMA P&ID Ongoing elevation certificates for all perm its for new buildings or improvements to buildings on lots including any portion of 100-year floodplain (CRS 310) (See Section VIII. A.). F. Advise/assist property owners in retrofitting P&ID Ongoing their homes and businesses. Retrofitting means modifying an existing building or yard to protect the property from flood damage. II. Revise/update regulatory floodplain maps (CRS FEMA P&ID ). NCDENR Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-4

17 NCEM III. Complete Community Rating System Application. P&ID Ongoing IV. Adopt countywide zoning or, at a minimum, adopt Planning Board P&ID Ongoing zoning in floodplain areas to better control future Board of ( development in these hazard susceptible areas. Commissioners 1994) V. Acquire destroyed or substantially damaged Emergency HM Grants properties and relocate households (voluntary Management Crisis program) (CRS 520/420). Housing Short Range (1-2 year) Activities Responsible Support Schedule (CRS Activity Code) Parties Parties VI. Update 2007 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Planning Board P&ID A. Delineate preferred growth areas and develop Board of area plans for target locations. Commissioners Lincoln Soil Ongoing B. Develop an open space plan; target properties and Water Current for acquisition/fund acquisition program. C. Consider amending subdivision ordinance to allow clustering to maximize density while Current preserving flood hazard areas. D. Adopt policies that discourage growth in flood Board of hazard areas, including policy on not Commissioners extending public services and utilities into flood hazard zones E. Work through Lincoln County Public Works P&ID P&ID Department to ensure the public is fully 2010 informed of and the building permit process incorporates restrictions on providing service within the 100-vear floodplain. Completed Public Works VII. Better educate staff for more effective IT P&ID filing/permitting system to ensure compliance with floodplain regulations. Count building Environmental improvements cumulatively (maintain permit Health history so when cumulative improvements equal EMS 50% of building value (substantial improvement), building must be brought up to flood protection standards for new construction}. Goal to eventually have all flood hazard endangered buildings brought up to flood protection standards (CRS 430) (Section I. E.). VIII. Review Capital Improvement Plan to ensure no Board of All public facilities proposed for flood hazard areas; Commissioners Departments 2010 amend as necessary. Protect new critical facilities Management (e.g., schools, hospitals, fire stations, emergency shelters) to 2' above the 500-year flood elevation (5' above BFE) (CRS 430). IX. Maintain library on retrofitting techniques/publicize P&ID FEMA, Corps through bulletins/newsletters (CRS 330/350/360). of Engineers, Ongoing County Library X. Continuation and upgrade of E-911 E-911 EMS Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-5

18 P&ID XI. Drainage Systems Maintenance {CRS 540), A. Establish coordinating committee to ensure Lincoln Soil that responsible parties communicate to P&ID And Water ensure maximum cooperation in developing Districts and maintaining the county's drainage systems. NRCS Environmental Health Short Range (1-2 year) Activities (CRS Activity Code) Responsible Parties Support Parties Schedule B. Establish/maintain coordinated inspection Ongoing program. C. Debris removal program/problem site NRCS corrections. Lincoln Soil and Water D. Prepare countywide storm water NCDENR plan covering South Fork River and Lake NRCS a Norman Watersupply Watersheds Lincoln Soil and Water XII. Early Warning System. A. Ensure adequate evacuation time in case of EMS NCDOT Ongoing major hazard event. P&ID B. Evaluate areas with limited evacuation and pursue methods for improving capacity. Mid Range (3-5 year) Activities Responsible Support Schedule (CRS Activity Code) Parties Parties XIII. Acquisition of properties susceptible to flood P&ID NCDENR Per CIP damage (involuntary program) (CRS Charitable Private nondonation by profit property organizations, Parks e.g., Land Lincoln Soil Conservancy, A. Identify properties for public acquisition. Water P&ID etc. FEMA Lincoln Soil Water NCDENR Ongoing B. Establish list of priority properties for P&ID FEMA acquisition in the event of another natural Lincoln Soil NCDENR 2010 disaster. C. Amend Recreation Plan to provide for Water P&ID FEMA integration of publicly acquired land into City Recreation NC Parks & 2011 greenway system so hazardous areas Co. Recreation Recreation undeveloped in perpetuity (much more Lincoln Soil effective than removing structures from and Water isolated parcels). XIV. Capital Improvements Program. Board of Management Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-6

19 Commissioner Engineering Ongoing A. Develop plan for relocating public Engineering out of flood hazard areas. B. Establish reserve fund for relocating Board of Management infrastructure after next natural disaster. Commissioner Engineering C. Establish program for evaluation and Emergency improvement of critical services (public Lincoln County Services private) - roads, bridges, water, sewer, Public Works Power & Gas electricity, etc. - and critical facilities - fire, Companies rescue, medical, etc. Hospital NCDOT Mid Range (3-5 year) Activities Responsible Support Schedule (CRS Activity Code) Parties Parties D. Evaluate flood or access problems for Emergency EMS/Sheriff facilities; develop recommendations for Management 2010 protecting critical parts, e.g., police and fire command centers. Identify alternate posts, if necessary. XV. Establish program for purchase of Board of P&ID rights for floodplain properties. (Possible partial Commissioners full tax deduction for charitable donation by 2011 property owner(s).) (CRS 420). XVI. Develop and implement hazard awareness Banks program (elevation certificates, FIRM data, Real estate 2011 on property protection measures and flood P&ID agents insurance, etc.) (CRS 310/320/330/340/440). Insurance agents Chamber of Commerce A. Establish a Flood Awareness Week to Board of P&ID publicize hazard and protection measures Commissioners Emergency (CRS 610). Management Media B. Request that the real estate Multiple Listing Board of P&ID Ongoing Service (MLS) be amended to include flood hazard and the requirement to Commissioners Real estate agents obtain flood insurance. C. Establish locations for flood awareness P&ID FEMA Signs should be surveyed to serve as Engineering NCDENR 2011 reference marks. EMS Lincoln Natural Resources D. Improve Hazard Warning and Response Emergency Ongoing - warning and evacuating critical facilities, Management getting persons out of flood prone or areas, controlling vehicles on evacuation routes. evacuation of hazard materials. 610). Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-7

20 XVII. Plan Implementation. P&ID Ongoing A. Monitor Plan to ensure schedules are met. B. Develop tracking system to evaluate EMS and revise mitigation activities as C. Track benefits in flood loss reduction. XVIII. Produce annual progress report on how plan P&ID Annual is being implemented - send with annual CRS Engineering certification. EMS Procedure for Amending the Hazard Mitigation Plan Periodic evaluation and revision of the Hazard Mitigation Plan will help ensure that local mitigation efforts include the latest and most effective mitigation techniques. Periodic revisions may also be necessary to keep the County plan in compliance with federal and state statutes and regulations. Additional development, implementation of mitigation efforts, and development of new mitigation processes may all affect the local hazard mitigation plan. The Hazard Mitigation Committee shall meet once a year in order to discuss any possible amendments. As directed by both FEMA and NCEM the Hazard Mitigation Plan shall be updated every five years. In the context of a Federal disaster declaration, state and local governments are allowed to update or expand an existing plan to reflect circumstances arising out of the disaster. An updated plan in this circumstance might include a re-evaluation of the hazards and the jurisdiction's exposure to them, a re-assessment of existing mitigation capabilities and new or additional mitigation recommendations. Initiation of Amendments Any person or organization, "including any city or county agency or department" may petition the Board of Commissioners and City Council to amend the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The petition shall be filed with the Planning and Inspections Department and shall include a description of the proposed text change amendment, along with an explanation of the changing circumstances that necessitate consideration of the amendment. Upon initiation of a text amendment, Planning and Inspections Department shall forward the proposed amendment to all interested parties, including, but not limited to, all affected City and County departments and other interested agencies such as the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management, the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Natural Resource Conservation Service for a 30-day review and comment period. At the end of the comment period, the proposed amendment shall be forwarded along with all review comments to the Planning Boards for their consideration. If no comments are received from the reviewing departments or agencies within the specified review period, such shall be noted in the recommendations to the Planning Boards. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-8

21 Planning Board Review and Recommendation The Lincoln County and City of Lincolnton Planning Boards shall review the proposed amendment, along with the Planning and Inspections Department's recommendations and any comments received from other departments and agencies. The Planning Boards shall submit their recommendations on the proposed amendment to their respective governing bodies within forty-five (45) days. Failure of the Planning Boards to submit their recommendations within this time period shall constitute a favorable recommendation. Public Hearing Requirements No amendment to the Hazard Mitigation Plan may be adopted until a public hearing has been held. Upon receipt of a recommendation from the Planning Boards, the Lincoln County Planning and Inspections Department or the City of Lincolnton Planning Department shall, after consultation with the Clerk to the Board, schedule a public hearing before the Board of Commissioners and City Council on the petition. The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and The Lincolnton City Council shall then adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan taking into consideration all comments received at the public hearing. The public notice shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper having general circulation within the County at least ten days prior to the scheduled public hearing date. In computing this period, the date of publication shall not be counted but the date of the public hearing shall be. City Council and Board of Commissioners Review and Adoption The Hazard Mitigation Plan, once approved by both North Carolina Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be adopted within one calendar year by both the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Lincolnton City Council. Upon receipt of a recommendation from the Planning Board, the Lincoln County Planning and Inspections Department and The City of Lincolnton Planning Department shall take the recommendation before the Board of Commissioners and City Council respectively on the petition according to the procedure outlined in the Section "Public Hearing Requirements". Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-9

22 Community Rating System Public Information (Series 300) This series credits programs that advise people about flood hazards, flood insurance and ways to reduce flood damage. These activities also provide data for insurance agents for accurate flood insurance rating. These programs serve all members of the community and work toward all three goals of the CRS. Activities for which credit is given, are described in Table 2-3. Table 2-3: Public Information (Series 300) Code Activity Description 310 Elevation 1. Maintain on all new construction and improvements; 2. Use FEMA form; 3. Make copies available to public 320 Map Information 1. Consult Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) in response to public; 2. Advise of requirement for flood insurance; 3. Maintain copies of FIRMs; 4. Update maps to reflect new subdivisions, corporate limits, and all new FIRM data from insurance restudies, map revisions, map amendments, and Letters of Map Amendment (LOMA) and Map Revision (LORM); 5. Publicize service annually, keep record of 330 Outreach Projects Annually advise public of: 1. Flood hazards; 2 Availability of flood insurance; and 3 Flood protection methods. 340 Hazard Disclosure Disclosure information 1. Must be volunteered (not in response to a 2 Appear on a document, e.g., Multiple Listing printout or offer to purchase contract that see before committing to purchase or buy 350 Flood Protection Local public library Library 1. Available to all branches; 2. Maintain flood-related documents; 3. No credit for keeping in planning office. 360 Flood Protection Annually publicize flood hazard information Assistance 1. Newsletter; 2. Telephone book or 3. Other outreach project. Mapping and Regulations (Series 400) This series credits programs that provide increased protection to new development. These activities include mapping areas not shown on the FIRM, preserving open space, enforcing Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-10

23 higher regulatory standards and managing stormwater. The credit is increased for growing communities. These activities work toward the first and second goals of the CRS - damage reduction and accurate insurance rating. Activities for which credit is given are described in Table 2-4. Table 2-4: Mapping and Regulations (Series 400) Code Activity Description 410 Additional Flood 1. Credit for studies conducted outside the Special Hazard Area (SFHA); 2. Studies conducted in the SFHA where base elevations (BFEs) were not shown on FIRM, 3. Re-studying an area shown on the FIRM where study produced higher BFEs, 4. Studies that were conducted to higher the normal FEMA mapping 420 Open Space 1. Credit for preserving land in the floodplain as Preservation space through a) public ownership; or b) by development regulations that prohibit building and filling. 2. Can be used for public parks, private preserves, playing fields, golf courses, etc. 430 Higher Regulatory Regulations that require new development to be Standards to one or more standards stricter than the NFIP's minimum requirements. 430 Low-Density Zoning 1. Credit for having at least 5 acres of floodplain in or more zoning districts that requires a minimum size of 1 acre. 2. Available for undeveloped land within low - zoning districts as well as for areas developed accordance with the density requirements. 440 Flood Data Credit for keeping floodplain maps and elevation Maintenance marks current, useful and accurate in order to local regulations, planning, disclosures and appraisals. 450 Stormwater Credits regulation of new development within the Management watershed (not just the floodplain) to minimize impacts of storm water runoff on downstream, water quality. 400 SH Special Hazard SH Additional Flood Data in Special Hazard SH Open Space Preservation in Special Areas SH Higher Regulatory Standards in Special Hazard Areas. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-11

24 Flood Damage Reduction (Series 500) This series credits programs for areas in which existing development is at risk. Credit is provided for a comprehensive floodplain management plan, relocating or retrofitting flood prone structures, and maintaining drainage systems. These activities work toward the first goal of the CRS - damage reduction. Activities for which credit is given are described in Table 2-5. Table 2-5: Flood Damage Reduction (Series 500) Code Activity Description. 500 Repetitive Loss Areas Create outreach project to inform property owner of flood damage prevention methods and flood insurance options. 510 Floodplain Management Expand Hazard Mitigation Planning to meet Section Planning 511 standards if there are repetitive loss areas 520 Acquisition and Relocation Credit provided for acquiring, relocating or otherwise clearing buildings out of floodplains. credit provided only if community also receives credit for vacant lot under Activity 420 Open Space preservation. 530 Retrofitting Credit provided for buildings that have been floodproofed, elevated or otherwise modified to protect them from flood damage. 540 Drainage System Credit for inspecting drainage system, removing Maintenance debris, correcting drainage problem sites and regulating dumping into the system. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-12

25 Flood Preparedness (Series 600) This series credits flood for flood warning, levee safety and dam safety programs. These activities work toward the first and third goals of the CRS - damage reduction and hazard awareness. Activities for which credit is given are described in Table 2-6. Table 2-6: Flood Preparedness (Series 600) Code Activity Description 610 Flood Warning Credit for program that provides timely identification Program impeding flood threats, disseminates warnings to appropriate floodplain occupants and coordinates response activities. 620 Levee Safety Credit to communities protected by levees that are maintained and operated. 630 Dam Safety Credit for any community in a state with a dam safety Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-13

26 GOAL I: To protect persons and property, and reduce future damage and losses to the community. Hazard Wildfire Flood Flood Flood Flood All Severe Winter Weather Mitigation Strategies Enforce forestry laws, regulations and programs Encourage developers not to modify flood plain and the work with the natural yield of the land Post areas in parks that are subject to the inundation of flood water that warn people of the potential dangers Purchase property located in repetitively flooded areas Repave, re-grade or reconstruct stream crossings that are repetitively submerged under flood water Develop working relationship with local, state and federal agencies with interests related to emergency management and hazard mitigation, with technologies from which we can all benefit Promote a policy that encourages business create inclement weather policies that allow telecommuting Responsible Party County Forester Time Frame Funding Source Priority (Low, Medium, High) Cost Benefit Ongoing State High High P&ID Ongoing Local High High Recreation 2011 Local Medium High County As funds are made available Grants Low Medium NCDOT Ongoing State Medium Medium Emergency Management Ongoing Local High High LEDA Ongoing Local High High Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-14

27 GOAL II: To identify and protect critical services, buildings, facilities and infrastructure at risk to natural hazards and undertake cost-effective mitigation measures. Hazard All Flood, Landslide Thunderstorm, Severe Winter Storm, Hurricane Severe Winter Weather, Tornado, Hurricane, Thunderstorm All Severe Winter Weather, Tornado, Hurricane, Thunderstorm All Mitigation Strategies Identify and map critical facilities and locations and determine their proximity to hazard areas. Locate future facilities outside of identified hazard areas Initiate road clearing efforts early in storms. Especially near critical facilities. Assist in development of plans for backup fuel and power generation Maintain inventory of all water and sewer facilities Designate sites for the disposal of debris Annual meetings with critical services, agencies and utilities Responsible Party Time Frame Funding Source Priority (Low, Medium, High) Cost Benefit GIS Ongoing Local High High All Departments Ongoing Local High High NCDOT Ongoing Local High High Emergency Management Public Works Public Work, Emergency Management Emergency Management Ongoing Local High High Ongoing Local High High Ongoing Local High High Ongoing Local High High Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-15

28 GOAL III: To increase public awareness of natural hazards and mitigation measures and to foster support and knowledge of efforts reduce future potential losses. Hazard Flood Flood All Flood Drought Mitigation Strategies Educate property owners whose property lies within Special Flood Hazard Areas of the dangers of modification of those areas. Notify all property owners with structures located in the 100-year flood plain of the importance of flood insurance Encourage purchase of Weather Alert Radios. Educate citizens of the dangers of flash flooding on their property and along roadways. Educate citizens about the importance of water conservation and the methods which are most effective Responsible Party Time Frame P&ID 2011 P&ID 2012 Emergency Management Emergency Management Public Works Ongoing Funding Source Local Funding, Grants Local funding, grants Local funding, Grants Priority (Low, Medium, High) Medium Low Medium Cost Benefit High Medium High Ongoing Local Medium High Ongoing Local High High Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-16

29 GOAL III: To increase public awareness of natural hazards and mitigation measures and to foster support and knowledge of efforts reduce future potential losses. Hazard Severe Winter Weather, Tornado, Hurricane, Thunderstorm Severe Winter Weather, Tornado, Hurricane, Thunderstorm Severe Winter Weather Mitigation Strategies Encourage the removal or trees and branches that could down power lines Publicize and properly sign the location of emergency shelters Educate public of road clearing priorities through use of a map Responsible Party Emergency Management Emergency Management Time Frame Funding Source Priority (Low, Medium, High) Cost Benefit Ongoing Local High High Ongoing Local High High NCDOT 2010 State Medium High Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-17

30 GOAL IV: To enhance the capabilities of local government to lessen the impacts of future disasters. Hazard Severe Winter Weather, Tornado, Hurricane, Thunderstorm Drought Mitigation Strategies Require underground utilities be installed in all new subdivisions Maintain interconnected water systems with other local municipalities for transfer of water resources Responsible Party Time Frame Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-18 Funding Source Priority (Low, Medium, High) Cost Benefit P&ID Ongoing Local High High Public Works Ongoing Local High High Drought Determine alternative water sources Public Local, Ongoing Works Grants High High Earthquake Enforce building codes P&ID Ongoing Local High High Flood Continue to prohibit construction in the 100-year flood plain P&ID Ongoing Local High High Landslide Identify and map areas of steep slopes in the county GIS 2011 Local High High Landslide Considers adoption of regulations that would restrict development on or near steep slopes P&ID 2011 Local High High All Flood Flood, Landslide Coordinate the mapping and tracking of data associated with hazard events Participate in FEMA s Community Rating System to further flood mitigation strategies and to help lower Flood Insurance rates for residents Encourage the dedication areas that are a part of subdivisions and located in Special Flood Hazard Areas or contain steep slopes to be dedicated as Common Open Space Emergency Management, GIS 2001 Local, Grants High High P&ID 2012 Local Medium High P&ID Ongoing Local High High

31 GOAL IV: To enhance the capabilities of local government to lessen the impacts of future disasters. Hazard Wildfire All Flood Drought Drought Mitigation Strategies Organize regular meetings with local fire officials and the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources Include references to hazard mitigation strategies in relevant public policy documents and plans Increase the number of USGS streamflow gages in the county Increase monitoring of precipitation and ground/surface water supplies. Solicit the support of local representatives to advocate for the support of the General Assembly to include drought as a declarable natural hazard under that Stafford Act Responsible Party Emergency Management, County Forester Time Frame Funding Source Priority (Low, Medium, High) Cost Benefit Ongoing Local High High County Ongoing Local High High USGS Public Works Ongoing Ongoing Grants, Federal Local, Grants Medium Medium Medium Medium County Ongoing Local Medium Medium Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-19

32 Cost Benefit Analysis A cost benefit analysis has been conducted on a very low level of detail since firm cost estimates are not available for each strategy due to the amount of time and cost that would go into each estimate. Many cost estimates can only be computed through in depth analysis. Due to this technical limitation the cost benefit analysis present in this plan uses broad based and generalized assumptions about the correlation between costs and benefits. The scale used ranges through low, medium and high. A high cost benefit ranking could indicate various factors such as a high cost but a very high rate of return or a low cost with returns equaling or exceeding the investment. Low rankings would indicate high cost items with little or no return on the investment. A medium ranking would indicate marginal cost and returns. Project Prioritization Due to shrinking budget line items during the preparation of this plan the mitigation goals that will be addressed first will be no or no cost solutions. Low or no cost solutions all have high cost benefits. These items include ordinance amendments and posting of educational material on the county web site. Higher cost items that also have a high cost benefit will have to be implemented as a part of an upcoming budget. When the economy begins to turn around and larger scope projects can be assembled they will be on a highest cost benefit available. Previous Mitigation Activities The only mitigation activities contained in the 2004 Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan were those related to flood. Many of the short range goals contained in the 2004 Plan were addressed in the past five years. A large part of the 2004 Plan was to update the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and update floodplain mapping across the county. Both of these actions were taken in 2007 with the adoption of the state model ordinance and through the state of North Carolina operating as a Cooperating Technical State along with FEMA in updating the flood maps. The updated ordinance and much more accurate maps give staff a much better tool to work with when trying to prevent damage related to floods. One of the short range goals that was not completed was completion of the Community Rating System application. This goal was not completed due to budgetary, technical and staffing deficiencies along with all of the mid-range goals. Staff feels that all of the realistic goals from the 2004 Plan were completed. As staff, technical and budgetary limitations are lifted in the future staff feels that many broader and longer range goals can be completed through cooperation of multiple county departments. The county will continue to do its best to protect the public health, safety and welfare by completing the actions that it feels are the most beneficial to its citizenry. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2-20

33 Appendix A: Hazard Identification and Analysis Introduction North Carolina has an abundance of natural resources. North Carolina s beaches, mountains, rivers and climate are all amenities that provide the States residents with a wonderful place to call home. However, these perceived amenities can also become inherent dangers. Periodically, hurricanes ravage the coast, ice storms immobilize the mountain areas, and heavy rains cause the waterways to flood the surrounding countryside. Storms, floods, earthquakes and wildfires are a part of the natural balance of the environment. A storm that levels dunes displaces the sand to another part of the beach system. A wildfire that blackens a forest allows new growth to flourish. But when such events occur where people have made their homes and built their businesses, these results can be devastating. Weather and geology-related phenomena can wreak havoc in towns and communities, disrupting the flow of goods and services, destroying property and unsettling people's lives. Hazard Identification The foundation for a Hazard Mitigation Plan is based upon the determination of which specific hazards present the greatest potential for natural disaster. Factors such as geography, topography, climate and natural features must all be considered. Lincoln County is vulnerable to a number of natural hazards including hurricanes, floods, tornadoes,, thunderstorms, severe winter storms, wildfires, earthquakes, drought and landslides. Each hazard is unique to Lincoln County in terms of impact, frequency and likelihood of occurrence. Each natural hazard is re-examined with each successive update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan. As conditions and data change some hazards can become less prevalent while others may increase in likelihood and/or intensity. As more recent data becomes available, this can be included in updates to provide the most relevant information available. Below is a listing of the Hazards identified within the confines of The City of Lincolnton s and Lincoln Counties jurisdictions. Following the individual hazard description is an overview summary of changes that have occurred through the update process. Hurricanes Hurricanes frequently threaten the North Carolina coastal plain, and less frequently impact areas further inland. Hurricanes are cyclonic storms originating in tropical ocean waters and fueled by latent heat from the condensation of warm water. Heavy precipitation, high winds and tornadoes are all typically associated with hurricanes. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-1

34 The economic and human impact a hurricane has on a community depends greatly on how development has occurred within that community. Development in areas of high risk or vulnerability greatly increases the potential for property damage and loss of life. Lincoln County has experienced development in high-risk areas such as river and stream floodplains that are vulnerable to flooding caused by hurricanes. Lincoln County also has a number of manufactured homes that are vulnerable to the damaging effects of high winds produced by hurricanes. A major landfall hurricane can have tremendous adverse impact on Lincoln County in terms of property damage, loss of life, and economic impacts from business closures. In September 1989, Hurricane Hugo left behind damages in excess of $3.5 million. Lincoln County is sufficiently inland and can avoid being impacted by the highest winds produced by hurricanes. With that said Lincoln County experienced maximum sustained winds of 85 mph during Hurricane Hugo, winds of that strength still possesses the ability to cripple the infrastructure of the county. Hurricane intensity is measured using the Saffir-Simpson Scale, ranging from 1 (minimal) to 5 (catastrophic) based on wind speeds, surface pressure and height of storm surge as shown in Table A-1. Major hurricanes are categorized as 3, 4, or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Scale. While hurricanes within this range comprise only 20% of total tropical cyclone landfalls, they account for over 70% of the damage in the United States. Maximum sustained winds of category 3,4 and 5 hurricanes range from 112 mph to over 156 mph. This wind intensity topples trees and causes severe damage to structures. The worst hurricane on record that impacted North Carolina was Hurricane Hazel, a Category 4, in In comparison Hurricane Floyd, which caused severe flood damage within eastern North Carolina, was a Category 2 hurricane. Table A-1: Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale (Simpson and Reihl, 1981) Saffir- Simpson Maximum Sustained Minimum Surface Height of Storm Category Winds (mph) Pressure (mb) Surge (in feet) > < Source: NOAA/weather service/national hurricane center Floods Flooding is normally the result of a larger event such as a hurricane or thunderstorm. Flooding is caused by excessive precipitation and can be generally considered in two categories: flash floods and general floods. Flash floods are the product of localized, high-intensity precipitation over a short time period in small drainage basins. General Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-2

35 floods are caused by steady precipitation over a longer time period in a given river basin. A combination of river basin physiography, local thunderstorm movements, past soil moisture conditions and the degree of vegetative clearing and amount of impervious surfaces determine the severity of a flooding event. Flooding is typically most severe in areas of the floodplain immediately adjacent to confluences of major streams and rivers. Flooding can be as frequent as the occurrence of a spring rain or summer thunderstorm. The amount of precipitation produced by storm events determines the type of flooding. Flash floods, which typically occur more frequently than general floods, occur along the types of small streams and creeks that are widely present throughout Lincoln County. The undermining or washing out of roads is typically associated with flash floods. General flooding occurs less frequently and is often the result of much larger storm events such as hurricanes. These larger storm events occur along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States most often in the late summer and fall. General flooding often occurs on a much broader scale, has greater impact, and takes longer for its waters to recede. The total economic impacts and loss of life depend greatly on the density of development within the impacted area. Currently, Lincoln County has a low amount of development, which is mostly residential, along the floodplains of major water bodies. There are no known repetitive loss properties within Lincoln County. The County will make every attempt to track any new repetitive loss properties should they occur. The County currently does not allow development within the 100-year floodplain. Tornadoes Many times severe storms, such as large thunderstorms and hurricanes, can produce areas of greater intensity that have a tendency to produce tornadic activity. Tornadoes, typically the by-product of a larger storm, are violently rotating columns of air that come in contact with the ground. Tornadoes have a more localized impact than a hurricane. Tornadoes generally produce a path of concentrated destruction from 0.01 mile wide to greater than 1 mile wide. Tornadoes may also produce paths of destruction from less than 1 mile in length to greater than 100 miles in length. The destruction caused by tornadoes may range from light to severe depending on the path of travel. Typically, structures of light construction, such as manufactured homes, suffer the greatest damage from tornadoes. Tornadoes are generally rated according to the Fujita-Pearson Scale as shown in Table A-4. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-3

36 Table A-4: The Fujita-Pearson Tornado Scale F-Scale Damage Winds (mph) Path Length Mean Width (miles) (miles) F0 Light <1.0 <0.01 F1 Moderate F2 Considerable F3 Severe F4 Devastating F5 Incredible Source: NOAA/National Climatic Data Center Because tornadoes are typically a by-product of thunderstorms, they can have a higher likelihood of occurrence in Lincoln County. Tornadoes and thunderstorms most often occur during the spring months, March through June. Tornadoes during these months are typically the strongest, resulting in the greatest amount of harm or damage. Lincoln County has experienced several tornadoes. In May 1989, one of worst tornadoes in Lincoln County to date, caused four fatalities and damage in excess of $900,000 in and around Toluca. Thunderstorms Severe thunderstorms frequently occur in the spring and summer in the piedmont of North Carolina. These usually occur in the late afternoon or early evening. Spring and summer thunderstorms often involve lightning, strong winds, heavy rains and hail that can result in wildfires, localized wind damage, flash flooding, or hail impact damage. The impact of thunderstorms could be expected to be low due to the localized nature of the storms. Lincoln County experiences many thunderstorms each year. The damage is usually minimal, but occasionally wind and hail damage do occur. Severe Winter Storms Severe winter weather is typically associated with higher elevations in North Carolina. On occasion, Lincoln County has had moderate winter weather as a result of storms originating in the Gulf Stream and producing frozen precipitation. The impact of a winter storm in Lincoln County could be paralyzing. Winter storms produce an accumulation of snow and ice on trees and utility lines resulting in loss of electricity and blocked transportation routes. Frequently, especially in rural areas, Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-4

37 loss of electric power means loss of heat for residential customers, which poses an immediate threat to human life. Lincoln County has experienced several severe winter storms. In January 1996, Lincoln County experienced a severe ice storm that caused more than $100,000 in damages. The most recent severe winter storm occurred in March of 2004 with snow accumulation of greater than one foot across the county. This accumulation caused many to lose electrical service and multiple road closures. Wildfires Wildfires occur in North Carolina during the dry spring and summer months of the year. The potential for wildfires depends upon recent climate conditions, surface fuel characteristics, and fire behavior. Increased development in Lincoln County in the past decade has increased the potential impact of wildfires as structures that locate near vulnerable woodlands become vulnerable themselves. Since wind fuels wildfires, structures in moderate proximity to potential wildfire fuels are at risk of damage if wind direction and velocity were to change. According to data provided by the North Carolina Division of Forest Services, the frequency of small scale wildfires in Lincoln County is relatively moderate. Earthquakes Earthquakes are geological events that involve movement or shaking of the crust of the earth. Earthquakes are measured in terms of their magnitude and intensity as shown in Table A-6. Earthquakes can cause devastating destruction to the manmade environment. Lincoln County is on the border between the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone and the Piedmont-Coastal Plain Seismic Source Zone (Appendix 10 to Annex B of NC Emergency Operations Plan, p. B-10-1, NC Emergency Operations Center, April 2009). Historically, Lincoln County has had at least architectural damage (Intensity VI on the Modified Mercalli (MM) Intensity Scale) from the 1811 and 1812 New Madrid, Missouri/Arkansas earthquakes (Magnitudes 8.0 to 8.7), the 1886 Charleston, SC earthquake (Magnitude 7.3) and the 1916 Asheville earthquake (Magnitude 5.5.) The 1913 Union County, SC earthquake (Magnitude 5.0) could have generated MM intensity of VI in Lincoln County. No recorded earthquakes have been centered in Lincoln County and the surrounding area (Kenneth Taylor, NC Geological Survey, correspondence, June 29, 2009). Two US Geological Survey principal earthquake hazard maps show national earthquake severity probabilities. Maps for the southeast central portion of the country are shown in the NC Emergency Operations Plan. One shows ten percent (10%) probabilities in a 50 year period and the other shows two percent (2%) probabilities in a 50 year period. Interpolating the first map shows that there is a 90% probability the level of earthquake shaking in Lincoln County in a 50 year period will be no more than the threshold for architectural damage (walls and chimneys crack). Interpolating the second map shows that there is a 98% probability the level of Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-5

38 earthquake shaking in the county in a 50 year period will be no more than the complete ranges of architectural damage (walls and chimneys crack) and architectural failure (chimneys, unsecured items fall) to the lower end of the threshold of structural damage (load bearing walls crack) (Appendix 10 to Annex B of NC Emergency Operations Plan, p. B-10-2, 3 and 4, NC Emergency Operations Center, April 2009). No earthquakes have been centered on Lincoln County and surrounding areas in recorded history. However, Lincoln County has had at least architectural damage from earthquakes as close as Asheville, NC and as far away as southeastern Missouri and northeastern Arkansas (Kenneth Taylor, NC Geological Survey, correspondence, June 29, 2009). (Note: The strongest of the SE Missouri/NE Arkansas quakes was more than 1,000 times (magnitude 8.7) stronger than the Asheville, NC quake.) In Lincoln County, the chances for an earthquake causing structural damage are less than 2% during a 50 year period. For Lincoln County, the best mitigation to architectural damage and failure is to retrofit existing facilities such as schools, hospitals and government buildings by securing computers, air and ventilation systems, expensive equipment, bookcases, file cabinets, lockers and the like (Kenneth Taylor, NC Geological Survey, correspondence, June 29, 2009). Table A-6: Modified Mercalli Scale of Earthquake Intensity Scale Intensity Description of Effects Maximum Richter Acceleration Scale (mm/sec) I Instrumental Detected only on seismographs <10 II Feeble Some people feel it <25 <4.2 III Slight Felt by people resting; like a truck <50 rumbling IV Moderate Felt by people walking <100 V Slightly Strong Sleepers awake; church bells ring <250 <4.8 VI Strong Trees sway; suspended objects <500 <5.4 swinq, objects fall off shelves VII Very Strong Mild alarm; walls crack; plaster falls <1000 <6.1 VIII Destructive Moving cars uncontrollable; masonry <2500 fractures, poorly constructed buildings damaqed IX Ruinous Some houses collapse; ground <5000 <6.9 cracks; pipes break open X Disastrous Ground cracks profusely; many <7500 <7.3 buildings destroyed; liquefaction and landslides widespread XI Very Most buildings and bridges collapse; <9800 <8.1 Disastrous roads, railways, pipes and cables destroyed; general triggering of other hazards XII Catastrophic Total destruction; trees fall; ground >9800 >8.1 rises and falls in waves Source: USGS Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-6

39 Landslides According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), landslides are major geologic hazards that occur in all 50 states and often occur with other natural hazards such as earthquakes and floods. Landslides cause $1-2 billion in damages and result in an average of more than 25 fatalities each year. (USGS, 1997) Landslides are not a serious risk in Lincoln County due to the moderately sloping topography. Limited areas of steep slopes associated with the banks of major watercourses in the County could collapse under heavy rainfall to produce a localized landslide. The potential of damage to lives or property from this type of natural hazard is low. Drought As defined by the North Carolina State Hazard Mitigation Plan drought refers to an extended period of deficient rainfall relative to the statistical mean established for a region. Drought can be measured in many ways including meteorologically, hydrologically and agriculturally. Drought is a normal and recurrent feature of a climate system. Over the past ten years, in Lincoln County, more than ten separate periods have met the conditions of being considered drought-like. The most common response by local governments to drought conditions is to implement various levels of water restrictions on public water supply users. The occurrence of drought can also affect the water supply of shallow wells which can often force users to drill deeper wells. Hazard Identification Overview Summary The hazards listed above have been edited through successive updates to the Hazard Mitigation plan. Below is a listing of the hazards as well as information on revisions made to each hazard through the update process. Hurricanes: Grammatical revisions were made throughout the description. Data on the severity of Hurricane Hugo was added as more in-depth data surfaced through research. Floods: Grammatical revisions were made throughout the description. More descriptive terms were used to add clarity. It was noted that there are no repetitive lost properties within the floodplain, and the county as of 2007 does not allow development within the 100-year floodplain. Tornados: Grammatical revisions were made throughout the description. More descriptive terms were used to add clarity and accuracy. (example: manufactured home vs. residential home) Thunderstorms: Grammatical revisions were made throughout the description. More descriptive terms were used to add clarity. Information on hail as a potential characteristic was added. Sever Winter Storms: More descriptive terms were used to add clarity. Information on the most recent severe winter storm to hit Lincoln County was added. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-7

40 Wildfires: Grammatical revisions were made throughout the description. More descriptive terms were used to add clarity. Earthquakes: This section was completely revised with in-depth information into the geologic makeup of the jurisdictional area. Information on past and future likelihood of occurrence was given. As well as the best option for mitigation. Landslides: No revisions were made. The information contained was the most relevant data, and no occurrences of landslides have occurred in the jurisdictional area. Drought: This was a new addition to the Hazard Identification list. The jurisdictions of the City of Lincolnton and Lincoln County have experienced drought status in recent years, so the future threat of drought is a likely occurrence. Information is provided about past droughts, and possible mitigation strategies. Natural Hazard Summary Assessment for Lincoln County North Carolina experiences different types of hazards with some more likely than others to impact different regions of the State. The North Carolina Division of Emergency Management has assessed the State's vulnerability to natural hazards by county. Table A-7 shows the State's summary assessment for Lincoln County for the nine natural hazards identified as affecting North Carolina. Table A-7: Natural Hazard Summary Assessment for Lincoln County Natural Hazard Vulnerability of Lincoln County Hurricane Low Flood High Tornado Moderate Thunderstorm Hiqh Severe Winter Storm High Wildfire Moderate Earthquake Low Landslide Low Drought Moderate Source: Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Manual, NCEM, 1998, p The North Carolina Division of Emergency Management Methodology: Each of the one hundred counties in North Carolina was categorized into one of three levels of natural hazard likelihood "Low", "Moderate", or "High" for eight natural hazards. Some assignments were made, in part, using the Climate Division (formulated by the National Climatic Data Center (Guttman and Quayle, 1995) to which each county was assigned. The Climate Division number for Lincoln County is 7. For additional information on how ratings were developed, see "Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Manual, North Carolina Division of Emergency Management, November Natural Hazards Potential Impact Data for Lincoln County The State of North Carolina has estimated the potential impact of various natural hazards for Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-8

41 Lincoln County as shown in Table A-8. Table A-8: Natural Hazards Potential Impact Data for Lincoln County Natural Hazard Range Low = 1 to High = 6 Earthquake Vulnerability 1 Landslide Vulnerability 1 Frequency of All Hurricanes Saffir-Simpson Class Frequency of Minor Hurricanes Saffir-Simpson Class Frequency of Major Hurricanes Saffir-Simpson Class Frequency of Tornadoes, Severe Snowstorm/Ice Storm 3 Wild Fire 2 Number of Acres Burned 2 Drought 3 Source: Hazard Mitigation Committee/Lincoln County Emergency Management Hazard Index for Lincoln County Certain parts of the County, such as floodplains and steep slopes, are more prone to hazards. In addition, certain types of hazards are likely to produce only localized effects while others have wide spread effects. Some natural hazards have extraordinary impacts but occur infrequently. Other hazards occur annually or several times a decade, but cause less damage. The total potential impact of each type of hazard can be projected using a combination of likely strength of the event, the size of the area(s) affected and the density of human activity within the likely path of the hazard. Table A-9 gives each natural hazard a "hazard index" rating based on a combination of three factors - likelihood of occurrence, size of potential area affected and the potential impact of the event. Table A-9: Hazard Index for Lincoln County Hazard Type Likelihood of Potential Area Potential Hazard Index Occurrence Affected Impacts (combined ranking) Hurricane Low Large High Moderate Flood High Medium Moderate High Tornado High Medium High High Thunderstorm High Medium Moderate High Severe Winter Storm Hiqh Large High High Wildfire Moderate Small Moderate Moderate Earthquake Low Large Moderate Low Landslide Low Small Very Low Low Drought Moderate Large Moderate Moderate Source: Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Committee/Lincoln County Emergency Management Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-9

42 Hazard Location/Geography for Lincoln County Natural Hazards are prone to affect different areas for Lincoln County dependent upon the type of natural hazard. The following bullets label specific natural hazards that have been identified as having a potential impact on Lincoln County, as displayed through the Hazard Index. Specific geographic regions are identified for each type of hazard, and the accompanying information follows the bulleted hazard. Hurricane: Hurricanes with accompanying winds and rainfall would affect all of Lincoln County. Of particular importance is the increased chance of flooding which may cause greater effects to low lying and flood prone areas as well as steep slopes due to the increased chance of landslides. Flood: Flooding is most noteworthy geographically in low lying and flood prone areas; although flooding can occur throughout the County in the event of a quickly massing significant rainfall. Areas that are not normally prone to flooding can experience problems if storm drains become inundated with water causing overflows, as well as areas where drainage does not allow rainwater to infiltrate or flow off site quickly enough. Tornado: Tornados are not bounded by certain geographic constraints within Lincoln County. They have an even likelihood of occurrence throughout all of Lincoln County. Thunderstorm: Thunderstorms are a far reaching hazard that affects all of Lincoln County as a whole, without regard to certain geographic perimeters. Severe Winter Storm: Severe Winter Storms affect all of Lincoln County. Geography does not play a factor in determining specific areas with which this hazard would affect. Wildfire: Wildfires are more prone to affect areas with forested or grassland type land cover within Lincoln County. This hazard is also prone to affect structures located within close proximity to these types of land cover. Large areas of urban development, agriculture fields and pastures are less likely to be prone to the affects of wildfires. Earthquake: Earthquakes are not restrained to a particular geographic region within Lincoln County. All areas of the County are equally prone to this hazard. Landslide: Landslides are commonly found along steep slopes; thus areas of steep slopes within the County are more prone to experience a landslide natural hazard. Drought: Drought is not constrained within certain geographic areas. All of Lincoln County is susceptible to the affects of drought equally. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-10

43 Table A-10: Jurisdictional Risk Assessment Table A-10 displays each type of Natural Hazard and whether it affects the Jurisdiction of Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton. Hazard Type Lincoln County City of Lincolnton Hurricane X X Flood X X Tornado X X Thunderstorm X X Severe Winter Storm X X Wildfire X X Earthquake X X Landslide X X Drought X X Footnotes A-1 Preventing Disasters through Hazard Mitigation, Ana K. Schwab, Popular Government, Spring 2000, pa. A-2 Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Manual, NC Division of Emergency Management, 1998, p.73. A-3 North Carolina Natural Hazards Mitigation (Section 409) Plan, North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 1998, p. 14. A-4lbid, p. 14. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan A-11

44 Appendix B: Assessment of Vulnerability Introduction Vulnerability to a natural hazard measures the extent to which people are expected to experience physical harm and the likelihood of property damage both at the present and in the future. Present levels of development and growth generate conditions that expose people and property to some degree of vulnerability to natural hazards. As an area experiences an increase or decrease in development and growth, that degree of vulnerability will change. Critical Facilities Critical facilities include those amenities that are necessary in the daily operation and function of a community.. Many of the facilities listed could create hazardous situations if damaged. Certain critical facilities are vital to the response and recovery efforts in the wake of a disaster resulting from a natural or technological hazard. These include fire and rescue facilities, schools, hospitals, major thoroughfares and communication facilities. Lincoln County has an extensive inventory of critical facilities as indicated in Table B-2. The ability to protect these facilities from damage is critical to the welfare of communities in Lincoln County in the wake of a future natural hazard event. Anyone interested to learn more about the location of the critical facilities should contact the Lincoln County Mapping Department. Table B-2: Critical Facilities in Lincoln County Type of Critical Facility Number of Facilities Countywide County Planning Jurisdiction Lincolnton Planning Jurisdiction Repetively Damaged Facilities Fire/Rescue Facility Schools Hazardous Waste Facilities Water Treatment Plants Sewer Treatment Plants Pump/Lift Stations Railroads Major Thoroughfares Major Collector Bridges Source: Lincoln County GIS Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan B-1

45 Present Vulnerability There are many considerations in determining the overall vulnerability of a community or area. These include vulnerable populations, high-risk areas and vulnerable structures and facilities. Vulnerable populations are identified as those highly populated areas that are most susceptible to natural or technological hazards. Lincoln County has some areas of vulnerable populations, most of which are located in the 100-year floodplains of various bodies of water. In 2002, there were approximately 1746 structures located in the 100-year floodplain. Of these 1746 structures only 195 of them are habitable residences. Most of these structures were either placed or built prior to the Lincoln County Flood Ordinance. Since 1989 Lincoln County has made great strides deterring structures being built inside the floodplain. Approximately 12 structures have been permitted inside the 100-year floodplain since These structures were subject to the Lincoln County Flood Ordinance requirements. Most of these structures were engineered and built 2' above the adjacent grade. The most recent storm to cause a moderate flooding event was in December of Table B-3: Building Permits for Lincoln County Permitting Structure Type Outside Inside Approx. Floodplain Floodplain Total Pre- Via GIS Via GIS 1995 Inside or near Floodplain Single-Family Manufactured Multi-Family Modular Accessory Structure Non-Residential (church, school, office, etc.) Total Source: Lincoln County Planning & Inspections Department and GIS. As indicated in Table B-3, of the total building permits issued in the past seven Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan B-2

46 years, 12 or (<0.1%) were issued for structures constructed or placed within the 100-year floodplain. Lincoln County has a 2009 estimated population of 76,000 and approximately 159 or (0.1%) of the population is located within the floodplain. The approximate value of structures inside the floodplain after 1995 is $352, and the total approximate value of the structures in or near the floodplain before 1995 is $49,000, according to the Lincoln County Tax Department. This number is derived from approximate tax values of structures, and querying them against floodplain data. The County has received approximately $4 million in federal and state relief since In 1987 Lincoln County experienced severe flooding causing $50,000 in damages. In 1989 Lincoln County experienced a Tornado causing $121,000 in damages and Hurricane Hugo, which caused $3.5 million in damages. In 1996 Lincoln County experienced an ice storm causing $100,000 in damages and a tornado that caused $900,000 in damages and four fatalities. Future Vulnerability Future vulnerability is defined as the extent to which people are expected to experience harm and property damage by a hazard event if projected development were to occur. Indeed, vulnerability will increase significantly if development occurs in areas susceptible to adverse impacts from natural hazards. In order to reduce these impacts to public facilities Lincoln County has not included in its capital improvement plan the construction of facilities in known hazard areas. According to the 2000 US Census, the population growth rate for Lincoln County from was 26.8%. Lincoln County nor the City of Lincolnton promotes or allows the construction of buildings or facilities in known hazard areas, but with certain types of hazards which are not restricted to specific geographic or landscape locations such as hurricanes, wildfire, and severe storms; it is difficult or impossible to completely mitigate for potential loss of property. Two types of methodology can be used to prepare estimates for potential loss or actual loss of property. The first methodology could be used prior to a natural disaster occurring throughout the jurisdictions where all areas may be affected equally, a resource could be put together describing the likely cost of damage at different cost estimates determined by the severity of the hazard. This ranking system could be placed against the tax values of structures in the county to get a determination of estimates for the cost of property loss at each storm severity level. The second methodology could be used in the event of a natural disaster. GIS based data gathering and ground truthing would provide all the information needed to match up with property tax value data kept by the jurisdictions. This would allow for preparation of a quick estimate of total property loss in the event of a natural disaster. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan B-3

47 Table B-5: Lincoln County Population 1990 Census 2000 Census 2009 Estimate Increase from Percent Increase 2000 from ,319 63,780 76,000 12, % According to the Planning & Inspections Department statistics, Lincoln County increased in population over five decades 163%. In 1960 the population was 28,814, in ,682, in ,372, in ,319,in ,780 and the 2009 estimate is 76,000. If the next ten years results in a similar rate and pattern of growth from the past decade, the population could approach 95,000. It is imperative that Lincoln County continue to plan for future growth. Lincoln County is fortunate to have few structures and people in floodplains; however we must strive to mitigate those that are most vulnerable and continue prohibiting structures being built or placed in floodplains. Table B-6: Future Flood Vulnerability - Current Residential Growth Patterns Number of Residential Number of Residential Number of Persons Exposed Building Permits Building Permits in Floodplain to Flood Hazard Estimated Projected Projected Projected Increase 11,743 11, ,215 0 Source: Planning & Inspections Department and GIS. - - Redevelopment Planning for redevelopment in the wake of a natural disaster also serves to reduce future vulnerability. Redevelopment should be encouraged in a manner, that will result in lower vulnerability by restricting re-building within high-risk areas, and requiring, where rebuilding does occur, the use of mitigation measures such as higher finished floor elevations and flood proofing. Using the above projections it's estimated that the potential loss of all 25 structures would exceed $700, This estimate is determined through the gathering of available tax values for each of these 25 structures, then summing up the values to obtain a total loss estimate. This is the only available data pertaining to property values that the county has available, thus this is the only means that county staff has at it s disposal currently to determine potential property loss. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan B-4

48 Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan B-5

49 Appendix C: City/County Capability Assessment/Community Goals Introduction The ability of a community to develop an effective hazard mitigation plan depends upon its capability to implement policy and programs. This is accomplished through the legal, technical and fiscal capabilities of the local government. Lincoln County is a local government body with a Board-Manager form of government. The elected Board of Commissioners is the decision making body for the County. The appointed Planning Board serves as an advisory body to the elected Board on planning matters. The County has a number of professional staff departments to serve the citizens of the County and to carry out day-to-day administrative activities. The City of Lincolnton is a local government body a council-mayor form of government. The four elected council members are the decision making body for the city. The elected mayor votes in the case of a tie. The planning board is appointed by the city council and serves as an advisory body to the council on planning matters. The City has a number of professional staff departments to serve the citizens of the City and to carry out day-to-day administrative activities Legal Authority of Local Governments in North Carolina Lincoln County has a wide array of regulatory powers as a result of North Carolina legislation. This enables the County to adopt and implement policies and ordinances that may be used to mitigate the potential harmful effects of natural hazards. Below is a summary of the legal authority and powers that North Carolina has conferred on local governments within the state. These powers fall into four broad categories: regulation, acquisition, taxation and spending. Regulation General Police Power Local governments in North Carolina have been granted broad regulatory powers in their jurisdictions. North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) bestow general police power on local governments, allowing them to enact and enforce ordinances which define, prohibit, regulate or abate acts, omissions, or conditions detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the people and to define and abate nuisances (including public health nuisances). Since hazard mitigation can be included under the police power (as protection of public health, safety and welfare), towns, cities and counties may include requirements for hazard mitigation in local ordinances. Local governments may also use their ordinance-making power to abate nuisances, which could include, by local definition, any activity or condition making people or property more vulnerable to any hazard (NCGS 160A Art. 8 (Delegation Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-1

50 and Exercise of the General Police Power to Cities and Towns); 153A, Art. 6 (Delegation and Exercise of the General Police Power to Counties). A Plan of Action In support of local mitigation action, and to address the rising costs associated with natural disasters, Lincoln County has become more proactive in reducing the potential for losses before a disaster occurs. Lincoln County received a Hazard Mitigation Grant and this funding has added additional equipment that will assist various departments with Hazard Mitigation education efforts. In an effort to warn motorists of low lying areas that are subject to flooding, Lincoln County will install signage along such areas. Brochures have been created and will be handed out to everyone who obtains a building permit. Lincoln County will draw up a proclamation designating one week a year as Hazard Mitigation Education Week and we will educate the public via the newspaper and radio as to the effects of natural disasters and what the public can do to sustain and reduce those effects. Lincoln County will continue to promote public participation. Prior to a disaster, the hazard mitigation committee will promote public input and coordination among various response teams to help generate ideas for solutions and ensure recognition of potential problems. Lincoln County will amend several ordinances so they proactively correspond with the Hazard Mitigation Plan, thus minimizing the potential impact of a natural disaster. Lincoln County will explore the feasibility of creating a line item in the capital improvement plan that will further reduce vulnerabilities by moving, altering or demolishing structures that are vulnerable. Lincoln County Government has a vision of where we want to go and of things we value in our county, and a plan that reflects these values. Building Codes and Building Inspection Many structural mitigation measures involve constructing and retrofitting homes, businesses and other structures according to standards designed to make the buildings more resilient to the impacts of natural hazards. Many of these standards are imposed through the building code. North Carolina has a compulsory state building code, which applies throughout the state (NCGS (c)). However, municipalities and counties may adopt codes for their respective areas if approved by the state as providing adequate minimum standards (NCGS (e)). Local regulations cannot be less restrictive than the state code. Exempted from the state code are: public utility facilities other than buildings; liquefied petroleum gas and liquid fertilizer installations and certain farm buildings outside municipal jurisdictions. Local governments in North Carolina are also empowered to carry out building inspection. NCGS 160A, Art. 19. Part 5; and 153A Art. 18, Part 4 empowers cities and counties to create an inspection department, and enumerates its duties and responsibilities, which include enforcing state and local laws relating to the Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-2

51 construction of buildings, installation of plumbing, electrical, heating systems, etc., building maintenance and other matters. Land Use Regulatory powers granted by the state to local governments are the most basic manner in which a local government can guide the use of land within its jurisdiction. Through various land use regulatory powers, a local government can regulate the amount, timing, density, quality, and location of new development. All these characteristics of growth can determine the level of vulnerability of the community in the event of a natural hazard. Land use regulatory powers include the ability to engage in planning, enact and enforce zoning ordinances, floodplain ordinances and subdivision regulations. Zoning Zoning is the traditional and nearly universal tool available to local governments to regulate the use of land. Broad enabling authority for municipalities in North Carolina to engage in zoning is granted in NCGS 160A-381; and for counties in NCGS 153A-340 (counties may also regulate inside municipal jurisdiction at the request of a municipality (NCGS 160A- 360(d)). The statutory purpose for the grant of power is to promote health, safety, and the general welfare of the community. Land uses recognized by zoning include the type of use (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial) as well as minimum specifications for use such as lot size, building height and set backs, density of population and the like. The local government is authorized to divide its territorial jurisdiction into districts and to regulate and restrict the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair or use of buildings, structures, or land within those districts (NCGS 160A-382). Districts may include general use districts, overlay districts, and special use or conditional use districts. Zoning ordinances consist of maps and written text. Floodplain Regulation In the summer of 2000, the North Carolina General Assembly adopted an act entitled An Act to Prevent Inappropriate Development in the One Hundred- Year Floodplain and to Reduce Flood Hazards. By this act, the North Carolina statutes regulating development within floodways were rewritten to include floodplain regulation (NCGS ). The purpose of the new law is to: (1) Minimize the extent of floods by preventing obstructions that inhibit water flow and increase flood height and damage. (2) Prevent and minimize loss of life, injuries, property damage and other losses in flood hazard areas. (3) Promote the public health, safety and welfare of citizens of North Carolina in flood hazard areas. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-3

52 The new statute authorizes local governments to adopt a flood hazard prevention ordinance to regulate uses in flood hazard areas and to grant permits for the use of flood hazard areas that are consistent with the requirements of the statute. The statute provides for certain uses within flood hazard areas without a permit consistent with local land use ordinances (NCGS ). The statute establishes minimum standards for local ordinances and provides for variances for prohibited uses as follows: (a) A flood hazard prevention ordinance adopted by a county or city pursuant to this Part shall, at a minimum: (1) Meet the requirements for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program and of this section. (2) Prohibit new solid waste disposal facilities, hazardous waste management facilities, salvage yards and chemical storage facilities in the 100-year floodplain except as noted in section (b) below. (3) Provide that a structure or tank for chemical or fuel storage incidental to a use that is allowed under this section or to the operation of a water treatment plant or wastewater treatment facility may be located in a 100-year floodplain only if the structure or tank is either elevated above base flood elevation or designed to be watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the effects of buoyancy. (b) A flood hazard prevention ordinance may include a procedure for granting variances for uses prohibited under G.S (c). A county or city shall notify the Secretary (of Crime Control and Public Safety) of its intention to grant a variance at least 30 days prior to granting the variance. A county or city may grant a variance upon finding that all of the following apply: (1) The use serves a critical need in the community. (2) No feasible location exists for the location of the use outside the 100-year floodplain. (3) The lowest floor of any structure is elevated above the base flood elevation or is designed to be watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the effects of buoyancy; and (4) The use complies with all other applicable laws and regulations. The statute authorizes priority ratings for local government applications for revolving loans or grants based on adoption of a local comprehensive land use plan, a zoning ordinance, or other measure that significantly contributes to the implementation of the comprehensive land use plan and a flood hazard ordinance. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-4

53 The Floodplain Act also instructed the Environmental Review Commission to study and reports its findings to the 2001 General Assembly on the need to: (1) Increase the minimum elevation requirements; (2) Increase the authority of the Secretary of Crime Control and Public Safety to enforce the new statute; (3) Increase protection against the potential recurrence of damage to public and private property that resulted from the hurricanes of 1999, and other measures to reduce the likelihood that public assistance will be needed in response to future hurricanes and other storm events. Planning In order to exercise the regulatory powers conferred by the General Statutes, local governments in North Carolina are required to create or designate a planning agency (NCGS 160A-3 87 and NCGS 153A). The planning agency may perform a number of duties, including: make studies of the area; determine objectives; prepare and adopt plans for achieving those objectives; develop and recommend policies, ordinances and administrative means to implement plans; and perform other related duties (NCGS 160A- 361). The importance of the planning powers of local governments is emphasized in NCGS 160A-383, which requires that zoning regulations be made in accordance with a comprehensive plan. While the ordinance itself may provide evidence that zoning is being conducted in accordance with a plan, the existence of a separate planning document ensures that the government is developing regulations and ordinances that are consistent with the overall goals of the community. Subdivision Regulation The Subdivision Ordinance regulates the division of land into parcels for the purpose of building development or sale. Flood-related subdivision regulations typically require that subdividers install adequate drainage facilities and design water and sewer systems to minimize flood damage and contamination. They prohibit the subdivision of land subject to flooding unless flood hazards are overcome through filling or other measures and prohibit filling of floodway areas. They require that subdivision plans be approved prior to the sale of land. Subdivision regulations are a more limited tool than zoning and only indirectly affect the type of use made of land or minimum specifications for structures. Broad subdivision control enabling authority for municipalities is granted in NCGS and in for counties outside of municipalities and municipal extraterritorial areas. Subdivision is Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-5

54 defined as all divisions of a tract or parcel of land into two or more lots and all divisions involving a new street. (NCGS 160A-376). The definition of subdivision does not include the division of land into parcels greater than 10 acres where no street right-of-way dedication is involved (NCGS 160A-376(2)). The community thus possesses great power (in theory, anyway) to prevent unsuitable development in hazard-prone areas. (NCGS 160A, Art. 8. (Delegation and Exercise of the General Police Powers to Cities and Towns); Art. 19 (Planning); Part 3 (Zoning); and 153A. Art. 6 (Delegation and Exercise of the General Police Power to Counties; Art. 18 (Planning and Regulation of Development); Part 2 (Subdivision Regulation); Part 3 (Zoning). Acquisition The power of acquisition can be a useful tool for pursuing mitigation goals. Local governments may find the most effective method for completely hazard-proofing a particular piece of property or area is to acquire the property (either in fee or a lesser interest, such as an easement), thus removing the property from the private market and eliminating or reducing the possibility of inappropriate development occurring. North Carolina legislation empowers cities, towns and counties to acquire property for public purpose by gift, grant, devise, bequest, exchange, purchase, lease or eminent domain (NCGS 153A. Art. 8; 160A. Art. 11). Taxation The power to levy taxes and special assessments is an important tool delegated to local governments by North Carolina law. The power of taxation extends beyond merely the collection of revenue, and can have a profound impact on the pattern of development in the community. Many communities set preferential tax rates for areas, which are unsuitable for development (e.g., agricultural land, wetlands), and can be used to discourage development in hazardous areas. Local units of government also have the authority to levy special assessments on property owners for all or part of the costs of acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, extending or otherwise building or improving beach erosion control or flood and hurricane protection works within a designated area (NCGS 160A-238). This can serve to increase the cost of building in such areas, thereby discouraging development. Because the usual methods of apportionment seem mechanical and arbitrary and because the tax burden on a particular piece of property is often quite large, the major constraint in using special assessments is political. Special assessments seem to offer little in terms of control over land use in developing areas. They can, however, be used to finance the provision of necessary services within municipal or county boundaries. In addition, they are useful in distributing to the new property owners the costs of the infrastructure required by new development. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-6

55 Spending The fourth major power that has been delegated from the North Carolina General Assembly to local governments is the power to make expenditures in the public interest. Hazard mitigation principles should be made a routine part of all spending decisions made by the local government, including annual budgets and a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). A CIP is a schedule for the provision of municipal or county services over a specified period of time. Capital programming, by itself, can be used as a growth management technique, with a view to hazard mitigation. By tentatively committing itself to a timetable for the provision of capital to extend services, a community can control its growth to some extent especially where the surrounding area is such that the provision of on-site sewage disposal and water supply are unusually expensive. In addition to formulating a timetable for the provision of services, a local community can regulate the extension of and access to services. A CIP that is coordinated with extension and access policies can provide a significant degree of control over the location and timing of growth. These tools can also influence the cost of growth. If the CIP is effective in directing growth away from environmentally sensitive or high hazard areas, for example, it can reduce environmental costs. Fiscal Capability Beyond legal authority and political willpower, fiscal capability is a key component to effectively developing and implementing a hazard mitigation plan. In addition to local tax funds, non-profits and other non-governmental organizations are often interested in helping to implement hazard mitigation projects. And fortunately, local governments can also apply for State and Federal funds to implement hazard mitigation initiatives. Local Funds In the State of North Carolina, property taxes provide the primary source of revenue for counties. These taxes are typically used primarily to finance services that must be available and delivered on a daily basis, such as schools, health and social services, planning, solid waste management and emergency services, leaving very little, if any, for additional services and projects. Fortunately, State and Federal funds are available to local governments for the development and implementation of hazard mitigation programs. Non-Governmental Funds Another potential source of revenue for local mitigation efforts are the contribution of nongovernmental organizations such as churches, charities, community relief funds, the Red Cross, hospitals, for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations. A variety of these local organizations can be utilized to help carry out local hazard mitigation initiatives. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-7

56 State and Federal Funds There are many sources of Federal and State funding available to local governments for the purpose of implementing hazard mitigation plans. These programs include Hazard Mitigation Grants, Flood Mitigation Assistance Programs, and the Community Development Block Grants. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides funding for mitigation measures following a Presidential disaster declaration. The HMGP is funded in most part by the Federal government and administered by respective State governments. HMGP funds can be used for such projects as acquisition or relocation, retrofitting, development of local mitigation standards and comprehensive mitigation plans, structural hazard control and the purchase of equipment to improve preparedness and response. In the early months of 2000, Lincoln County applied for HMGP funds for the purpose of acquiring structures inundated by floodwaters. The Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMAP) is a federally funded program for mitigation assistance to states, communities and individuals for cost-effective measures to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to the built environment and to real property. Unlike the HMGP, FMAP is available to eligible communities on an annual basis. An eligible community must be a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and must develop a flood mitigation plan. FMAP funds may be used for such projects as elevation and/or dry flood proofing of structures, acquisition of real property, relocation or demolition of structures, and minor structural projects. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is another source of funding for hazard mitigation initiatives. The objective of the CDBG program is to assist communities in rehabilitating substandard dwelling structures and to expand economic opportunities, primarily for low-to-moderate-income families. However, as a result of a Presidential declared disaster, CDBG funds may be used for long-term needs such as acquisition, reconstruction, and redevelopment of disaster-affected areas. Ability to Pay In recognition of the disparate economic prosperity of the State s one hundred counties, the North Carolina Department of Commerce ranks counties in an economic tier system. The impetus for this system was the William S. Lee Quality Jobs and Business Expansion Act of 1996 which provides for a sliding scale of state tax credits for economic investment. The Lee Act has become the state s main development tool in an effort to help smaller rural counties be more economically competitive. The most economically distressed counties are ranked in Tier 1 and the most economically prosperous in Tier 5. The rankings are evaluated annually using three factors population growth, unemployment rate, and per capita income. The 2007 County Tier Designation places Lincoln County in Tier 4. The tier ranking is now Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-8

57 widely used by the State as a measure of an individual county s ability to pay when applying for state and federal grants. Technical Capability Effective hazard mitigation requires analysis of data, both present and future, as well as quick response in emergency situations. The community s technical capability must be able to accommodate the analysis and response needs. Lincoln County Lincoln County operates a geographic information system (GIS) that provides the essential information and technology for effective hazard response and mitigation. Lincoln County prides itself in keeping up with technological trends and keeping equipment current and reliable. The GIS system provides detailed data on such items as property ownership, land use types, locations, as well as other valuable information. GIS offers the ability to create maps and data which can be used for support in an emergency situation. GIS databases are kept up-to-date as the land use of the County changes. This information can be readily available in an emergency situation. The available GIS information can provide fast access to data that can be used to assist in deployment of resources before, during and after a disaster. The GIS system also permits analysis using prior hazard information and the impacts that past hazards have had within the County. This type of resource can assist in future planning efforts for an improved response to natural disasters. State and Federal Agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) and the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management (NCEM) have made available numerous implementation manuals and other resource documents. These manuals provide information on mitigation techniques for various hazards including hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tornadoes and earthquakes. The manuals include information on engineering principles, construction methods, costs and suggestions for how techniques can be financed and implemented. Other Federal agencies such as, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Natural Resource Conservation Service also provide similar services. The North Carolina Division of Emergency Management works in concert with these various Federal agencies to ensure that the State and local governments are prepared to respond to natural disasters. A major effort to improve technical information available to local governments is being undertaken by the State of North Carolina and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Statewide Floodplain Mapping Initiative The State of North Carolina, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency s Cooperating Technical Community partnership initiative, has been designated as a Cooperating Technical State (CTS). As a CTS, the State will assume primary ownership and responsibility for Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for all North Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-9

58 Carolina communities. This project will include conducting flood hazard analysis and producing updated, digital FIRMs (DFIRMs). The updated flood hazard data will provide current, accurate information for communities and property owners to make sound siting and design decisions when building new structures and infrastructure and when retrofitting existing structures. If used by communities for floodplain management, this will dramatically reduce long-term flood losses in North Carolina. The last comprehensive update of Lincoln Counties FIRMS was Community Goals Reduce loss of life and personal injury from natural hazards. Minimize the damage to public infrastructure resulting from natural hazards. Manage future development so that vulnerability of private property to natural hazards is reduced. Expedite post-disaster reconstruction. Protect lakes, rivers and streams. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan C-10

59 Appendix D: Evaluation of Local Policies and Ordinances Introduction Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton have used their regulatory power to adopt and implement policies, programs, and ordinances that help to mitigate the potential harmful effects of natural hazards. These policies, programs and ordinances establish regulations for different types of land development. Each policy, ordinance or regulation has a unique and varying impact on hazard mitigation. These policies are not specifically oriented for mitigation purposes, but can be utilized to implement hazard mitigation initiatives. A summary of current ordinances and policies that may pertain to hazard mitigation for both the City and County are included below. City Policies and Ordinances Unified Development Ordinance The Unified Development Ordinance is a compilation of regulations for the City that can be found within one single document. This document contains all zoning and subdivision regulations for the City. Authority for municipal zoning falls under, (G.S. 160A). Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance On July 1 st, 2009 the City of Lincolnton gave the Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District the authority to begin enforcing the County Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance within the City of Lincolnton and its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ).The inclusion of the City in this regulatory measure will help to ensure that future development projects within the City will have lessoned negative affects on surrounding properties, storm water systems, creeks and streams. Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance The City of Lincolnton s Flood Hazard Ordinance is modeled after the North Carolina Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. For more information see the Lincoln County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance below. Minimum Housing Ordinance The city s minimum housing ordinance ensures the safety and structural well being of all residential buildings. Dangerous health and safety conditions from dilapidation, decay or unsanitary conditions; lack of electrical or plumbing facilities; inadequate ventilation, light and heating; fire hazards, etc., are subject to enforcement procedures. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-1

60 Abandoned Structure Ordinance An abandoned structure ordinance aims to remove the danger of blighted structures. Abandoned buildings pose a threat to public health, safety and welfare as they harbor many dangers. Abandoned structures are generally unfit for occupation and their vacancy can be an invitation to wildlife and crime. The city s removal of abandoned structures maintains a certain level of safety for the area once impacted by the structure. Fire Prevention Code The Lincolnton Fire Prevention Code fall in line with the North Carolina State Building Code s Fire section and pertain to all structures with the exception of one and two family dwellings. Fire Code inspections are performed as part of the building permit process as well as periodically after construction is complete to ensure compliance. The Fire Code ensures that adequate water supplies exist for the sprinkling of the structure to suppress fire, safe egress points are maintained and that safe handling of flammable materials is being practiced. County Policies and Ordinances Zoning Zoning, the traditional and nearly universal tool available to local governments to regulate the use of land, was adopted countywide in Lincoln County in The relevant strategies include: To secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers; to promote health and general welfare; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land (sensitive areas); to avoid undue concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public requirements. (G.S. 153A-341) Lincoln County is currently is the final steps of implementing a Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The UDO will consolidate all current county ordinances related to planning into one document. Planning Lincoln County has the statutory authority to plan for growth and development including the power to make studies of the county, to determine growth objectives, to prepare and adopt plans for achieving those objectives and to develop policies, ordinances, and the administrative means to implement plans. The Board of Commissioners has created and appointed a Planning Board to serve as an advisory body on planning matters. Local government enabling legislation requires that zoning regulations, when adopted by a county, be made in accordance with a comprehensive land use plan. The existence of a comprehensive plan ensures that the county boards and staff are developing regulations and ordinances that are consistent with the overall goals of the community. Comprehensive Land Use Plan Lincoln County adopted a Comprehensive Land Use Plan in 1990 with the purpose or outlining long-range growth and development policies for the unincorporated areas of the County. This plan was updated and approved by the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners in October 2001 and amended again in Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-2

61 2007. Outlined below are the guiding principles of the Lincoln County Land Use Plan: Principle 1. Infrastructure Directs Growth a) Identify areas where public utilities and transportation infrastructure will be provided in the County b) Review the County s standards for mandated connections to public utility systems. c) Focus infrastructure improvements in the near future in areas where the demand is the greatest in accordance with the County s Capital Improvement Plan. d) Do not place or promote denser development (i.e., residential development greater than 2 units per acre, employment centers, regional shopping facilities, etc.) in areas where infrastructure, either transportation or public utilities, are not projected or do not have capacity. Principle 2. Adequate Transportation Infrastructure a) Strengthen access management standards in the County s subdivision and zoning ordinances b) Plan for bikeways, as referenced in Lincoln County CTP, and ensure connectivity for new developments into any proposed bikeway or trail systems c) Connectivity and subdivision road standards should be codified to facilitate collector road networks as a part of new development and to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles d) Take steps to ensure that rights-of-way are provided and protected to facilitate logical transportation connections e) Include pedestrian and bicycle amenities in subdivisions Principle 3. Community Facilities (including schools, libraries and parks) Shall be Considered When Making Land Use Decisions a) Identify all proposed locations of public facilities b) Allow for higher residential densities in areas in close proximity to these facilities to encourage usage, and require pedestrian accessibility to such uses Encourage dedication or preservation of land for such sites, should the development impact potential sites for community facilities c) Mandate and/or provide incentives for direct transportation linkages from adjacent developments to such facilities d) Determine one or more appropriate sites for the location a new sanitary landfill and for a construction and demolition (i.e., C and D) landfill Principle 4. Prime Employment and Industrial Sites Are to be Preserved; Appropriate Economic Development is to be Encouraged a) Identify and protect (from competing land uses) prime employment centers b) Review land use regulations to ensure that desired (and undesired) industrialtype uses are addressed in the County s land use regulations c) Promote the inclusion of appropriate job-creating uses both in mixed-use areas and adjacent to larger residential areas to provide the potential of shorter commute times/reduced VMT d) Make provisions for stand-alone industrial type uses to develop in designated areas in the County without being subject to spot zoning considerations Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-3

62 Principle 5. The County s Natural Beauty and Resources are Preserved a) Preserve Viewsheds along the County s road network, especially in those portions of the County that are most likely to retain a rural character b) Work in concert with Lincolnton to expand current greenways and recreational facilities in greater Lincolnton and beyond c) Provide options in subdivision development (e.g., traditional, cluster, conservation, rural) with bonuses given for open space and land preservation. d) Utilize the County s master recreation plan when making future land use decisions e) Ensure that the integrity of the County s historic buildings is maintained as growth and development occur. f) Take necessary steps to preserve the County s tree canopy g) Ensure that the County s water resources, including Lake Norman and Mountain Island Lake, are not negatively impacted due to the growth in the County Principle 6. Well-designed and Integrated Developments Shall be Located Throughout the County a) Identify nodes/corridors where more intense developments can and should occur in the future b) Develop design criteria to ensure that new multi-family, mixed-use and nonresidential developments are integrated well with their surroundings Provide incentives/mandates for developments to access and integrate with each other c) Limit strip development; plan for more intensive developments (residential and non-residential) at identified nodes and development growth areas d) Identify development strategies and guidelines for the placement of isolated developments that are away from identified nodes and development growth areas e) Provide land use guideline incentives and possible relaxation of regulations for the redevelopment of older properties in those areas of the County that may be prone to disinvestment. f) Encourage the use of conservation subdivisions, buffering, and other tools in areas where rural character and/or Viewsheds are considered particularly important. g) Maintain viability of old NC 16 once new NC 16 opens h) Identify roads that are candidates for Scenic Byway designation take appropriate steps to encourage well-designed and integrated developments along such roads. i) Provide alternatives to suburban type commercial development at targeted locations (i.e., developments designed primarily for the automobile, rather than the pedestrian, in mind) Principle 7. Appropriate Regulations Guide Density for Both Single- and Multifamily Development a) Allow for a variety of residential type developments, consistent with the preferences and recommendations of the Steering Committee b) Allow for density variations within individual zoning districts based on a variety of factors including: availability of utilities; location along major or minor corridors; distance from identified nodes or corridors, mix of uses, etc. c) Apply urban design and development standards to those areas that currently are or are anticipated to be urban in nature. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-4

63 Principle 8. Mixed-use Development is Encouraged a) Amend zoning regulations to allow for appropriate and well-integrated residential and non-residential developments in designated portions of the County. Such developments could include both vertical and horizontal mixing of uses and take into considering transportation and infrastructure capacities and networks. b) Identify criteria for the placement of mixed-use developments in urban/ urbanizing areas and elsewhere in the County. c) Provide preferences/incentives in the County s land use regulations for mixeduse development where targeted in the County. Principle 9. Lincoln County Shall Be an Affordable Place in Which to Live and Build a) De-emphasize the segregation of residential land uses b) Allow for smaller lot sizes in urbanized/ urbanizing areas of the County that have public utilities with appropriate capacity. c) Establish criteria for the placement of multi-family and higher density developments to eliminate spot zoning concerns d) Allow for mixed-residential types of development (i.e., single-, two-, and multifamily) development in designated areas of the County. Address design and development standards to allow multi-family and higher density developments to better fit in with adjoining single-family development e) Provide incentives for the placement of affordable housing units i.e., units designed for families having incomes of 50-80% of the County s median income. Do not require affordable housing mandates in the County s land use regulations. Principle 10. The Land Use Plan Shall Be Kept Current and Shall Guide and Directs Zoning and Growth Decisions a) Develop an implementation schedule for recommendations contained in the LUP and follow through with implementation. b) Develop a scorecard to compare the appropriateness of a proposed development or rezoning with the recommendations contained in the LUP. c) Conduct periodic audits of the LUP to determine appropriateness of recommendations contained in the LUP. d) Create incentives to promote development that is in keeping with the LUP guidelines. Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance North Carolina General Statutes empower counties to regulate designated floodways for the purpose of controlling and minimizing the extent of floods by preventing obstructions which inhibit water flow, increase flood height, causing damage and other losses (both public and private) in flood hazard areas, and to promote the public health, safety and welfare of citizens of North Carolina in flood hazard areas. No permit is required for certain uses including agricultural, wildlife and related uses; ground level area uses such as parking areas, rotary aircraft ports; lawns, gardens, golf courses, tennis courts, parks, open space, and similar private and public recreational uses. Existing artificial obstructions in the floodway may not be enlarged or replaced without a permit. Local governments are empowered to acquire existing obstructions by purchase, exchange, or condemnation, if necessary, to avoid flood damages. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-5

64 The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This program makes flood insurance available to a local community which, in exchange, agrees to adopt and enforce a flood damage prevention ordinance to regulate flood-prone areas to help reduce future flood losses. In addition to the availability of flood insurance, the NFIP supports mitigation through floodplain management measures and the flooded property acquisition program. Enforcement of a local Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance is required for participation in the NFIP. The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance regulates development within floodplains by providing for issuance of development permits for construction, and for periodic inspections to ensure compliance with the permit. The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance also provides the authority to issue stop work orders until problems are resolved or corrective actions have been taken and for revocation of permits in extreme cases. The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance requires a local permit prior to development work to ensure development will not aggravate the effects of flooding and that structures are flood damage resistant. Again, the ultimate goal is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas. The Lincoln County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was last amended in August of This amendment was modeled after the state Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Subdivision Ordinance The Subdivision Ordinance regulates control the division of land into parcels for the purpose of building development or sale. The regulations require that subdivision plans be approved prior to the sale of land. Subdivision regulations are a more limited tool than zoning and only indirectly affect the type of use made of land or minimum specifications for structures. Flood-related subdivision controls typically require that developers install adequate drainage facilities, and design water and sewer systems to minimize flood damage and contamination. They prohibit the subdivision of land subject to flooding unless flood hazards are overcome through filling or other measures and prohibit filling of floodway areas. The Subdivision Ordinance provides for orderly growth and development by setting standards for street construction, vehicle and pedestrian connectivity, and for other improvements that ensure the appropriate design and layout of new development. These regulations also serve to protect natural features and resources by not allowing or reducing the density of development within sensitive environmental areas. The Subdivision Ordinance is also used to ensure that storm water drainage facilities in developments are properly installed to protect properties from flooding and to lessen development in areas of high risk. Although these regulations currently provide measures that support mitigation initiatives, the ordinance can be amended to include more restrictive standards to further mitigate the effects of Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-6

65 flooding. The Subdivision Ordinance is a crucial component for controlling the development pattern and protecting losses that result from natural hazards. Building Code The NC State Building Code came into effect on July 1, 1983 in Lincoln County. Since 2006 the North Carolina State Building code has been in line with the International Code Council. There are five trades that the inspectors enforce: Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing and Fire. The goal of the Building Code is to provide for public safety, health and general welfare. The relevant strategies include: reducing the effects of weather, natural occurrences and catastrophic events on structures through preventative construction measures; minimizing the risk of outbreak of fire and reduce its potential to spread; protecting building systems and structural elements from failure or collapse by using appropriate framing and/or fastening techniques. Lincoln County enforces the North Carolina State Building Code within city and county jurisdictions. Water Supply Watershed Protection Ordinance The Water Supply Watershed Ordinance was adopted in January 1994 and provides for the continuation of existing uses and the reconstruction of buildings and built-upon areas. The ordinance establishes development restrictions for different types of streets systems (with and without curb and gutter). The watershed regulations limit the amount of impervious coverage depending on the watershed classification. The five watershed classifications in Lincoln County includes: WS II critical (6% max coverage), WS II balance (12% max coverage), WS III (24% max coverage), WS IV critical (24% max coverage) and WS IV balance (24% with curb & gutter and 36% without curb & gutter max coverage.) Certain types of uses are also prohibited. Within the critical and protected areas, the storage of toxic and hazardous materials (unless a spill containment plan is implemented) is prohibited. Landfills and sites for land application of sludge/residuals or petroleum-contaminated soils are prohibited in the critical area. A minimum 30 vegetative buffer is required along each side of all perennial waters and no new development is allowed in the buffer area except for water dependent structures and public projects such as road crossings and greenways where no practical alternative exists. Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance In May of 2007 Lincoln County adopted a State modeled Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance. All land-disturbing activities, including those that disturb less than an acre, shall provide adequate erosion control measures, structures or devices to contain sediment. No person shall initiate, direct or conduct any land-disturbing activity on a tract that uncovers one acre or more without having a copy of an approved Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan on the job site. Any land disturbance less than one acre but greater than 1000 square feet requiring a building permit must complete an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Application. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-7

66 Streamside Buffer Regulations In May of 2007 Lincoln County adopted a State modeled Streamside Buffer Ordinance. The ordinance as written does not allow for any development to occur within 50 feet of the top bank measured horizontally from each side of the stream; or within the 100-year floodplain, whichever is greater. This ordinance ultimately restricts any building in flood prone areas within Lincoln County. These regulations also help to protect water quality through the preservation of riparian buffers which work to filter out sediment and prevent it from destroying aquatic habitat. Effectiveness for Hazard Mitigation The Lincoln County policies and ordinances are rated as to their effectiveness for hazard mitigation. Effectiveness of Current County Policies and Ordinances as they relate to Hazard Mitigation Policies and Programs Effectiveness for Mitigation (low, medium, high) Need forordinance Modification (low, medium, high) Future Land Use Plan Medium Medium Subdivision Ordinance Medium Medium Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance High Low Zoning Ordinance Medium Medium NC State Building Code High Low Water Supply Watershed Protection Medium Low Ordinance Streamside Buffer Regulations High Low Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance Medium Low Evaluation of Strategies in Various County Ordinances and Policies. Policy/Ordinance Current Implementation Responsible Priority Strategy Timeline Dept. Land Use Plan Needs Improvement Medium Within 3 years P&ID Subdivision Ord. Under Revision High Imminently P&ID Flood Damage Prevention Ord. Adequate N/A N/A P&ID Zoning Ord. Under Revision High Imminently P&ID Watershed Ord. Adequate N/A N/A P&ID Lincoln Soil & Erosion and Sediment Water Adequate N/A N/A Control Ordinance Conservation District Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-8

67 Effectiveness of Current City Policies and Ordinances as they Relate to Hazard Mitigation Policies and Programs Effectiveness for Mitigation (low, medium, high) Need for Ordinance Modification (low, medium, high) Land Use Plan Medium Medium Unified Development Ordinance Medium Medium Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance High Low Minimum Housing Ordinance Low Low Abandoned Structure Ordinance Medium Low Fire Prevention Code Medium Low Evaluation of Strategies in Various City Ordinances and Policies. Policy/Ordinance Land Use Plan Unified Development Ordinance Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Minimum Housing Ordinance Abandoned Structure Ordinance Current Strategy Priority Implementation Timeline Adequate N/A N/A Adequate N/A N/A Adequate N/A N/A Fire Prevention Code Adequate N/A N/A Responsible Dept. Lincolnton Planning Lincolnton Planning Lincolnton Planning Lincolnton Planning Lincolnton Planning Lincolnton Fire Dept. Policies That Hinder Hazard Mitigation Existing County policies and ordinances need to be thoroughly reviewed and, in some cases, amended to strengthen the County s capacity for mitigating damage to lives and property from future hazards. Public Input Lincoln County Government will continue to solicit public input from the citizens of Lincoln County by offering opportunities for the public to voice their opinions and/or suggestions concerning the plan annually. We will also continue our efforts to educate the public by way of newspapers, Internet, brochures and public presentations concerning the plan. Once the steering committee finalized the preliminary recommendations for the 2010 update of the Hazard Mitigation Plan a public forum was scheduled for July 29, 2009 to receive public comments concerns and suggestions regarding the update. The forum was duly advertised in the Lincoln Times News. Public comment was also possible during the public hearings held before the respective elected bodies of the city and county. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-9

68 Amending the Hazard Mitigation Plan Lincoln County Government will routinely evaluate the Hazard Mitigation plan. Any plan is subject to change from natural occurrence to natural occurrence however our plan shall be reviewed annually. Starting July 2004 and following every major disaster event an assessment of how effective implementation actions have been. Any changes to the plan will be will be resubmitted to the State Hazard Mitigation Office and FEMA for review and approval.) The Director of the Planning & Inspections Department or his/her designee shall meet annually with the Hazard Mitigation Committee to discuss whether the county s vulnerability has decreased as a result of the plan. Other issues that should be assessed include: (1) the adequacy of the county s resources to implement the mitigation strategies. (2) Any redundancy among strategies that can be eliminated to free-up resources. (3) Whether adequate funding is available. (4) Any technical, legal or coordination problems associated with implementation. (5) Whether mitigation actions are being implemented according to schedule. Additionally, the following will be used as indicators against which progress can be measured: (1) Number of building permits issued annually in County. When permits were turned down and why. (2) Track any new infrastructure (map) (3) Track new culverts and/or bridges installed at stream crossings. (4) Track the number of acres of wetlands lost per year. (5) Track the number of new housing units in relation to hazard areas. (6) Track the number and location of new mobile home units. (7) Monitor evacuation route capacity in terms of population growth. (8) Track the number of businesses that purchase flood insurance. (9) Track percent of vacant land and uninhabited structures in hazard areas. The Director of Building and Land Development or his/her designee will write an evaluation report that summarizes the directives from the Hazard Mitigation Committee. Once the evaluation from the committee is finalized, it will be forwarded to the Board of Commissioners and Planning Board. The Planning & Inspections Department will advertise the date, time, location and subject matter in the newspaper. Staff will make a presentation (at the Public Hearing) to the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners concerning proposed amendment(s). The public will be invited to share any comments concerning the plan. The Planning Board will make a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Commissioners will either vote to accept, deny or accept with modification. Any changes to the plan will be will be resubmitted to the State Hazard Mitigation Office and FEMA for review and approval (Not to exceed a five year period.) Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan D-10

69 Appendix E: Hazard Mitigation Plan Project Schedule (Revised 2009) Activity/Task Timeline Project Initiation Meeting/ Hazard Mitigation Committee Meeting May 28, Hazard Identification and Analysis 1.1 Identify hazards 1.2 Analyze each hazard 1.3 Develop multi-hazard map 2.0 Vulnerability Assessment/Hazard Mitigation Committee Meeting June 18, Inventory critical facilities 2.2 Estimate cost of potential damage 2.3 Identify and map highly vulnerable populations 2.4 Identify and map areas of greatest risk 2.5 Project future vulnerability based on current development trends and land use policies 3.0 County Capability Assessment/Hazard Mitigation Committee Meeting 3.1 Inventory existing and proposed hazard mitigation and flood damage prevention programs 3.2 Evaluate effectiveness of current programs 3.3 Evaluate technical and fiscal capabilities to implement hazard mitigation objectives June 18, County Goals/Hazard Mitigation Committee Meeting July 16, Identify current hazard mitigation goals/objectives 4.2 Identify any existing goals that may hinder hazard mitigation 4.3 Determine need to modify goals and objectives 5.0 Mitigation Strategy/Hazard Mitigation Committee Meeting July 16, Develop new goals/objectives 5.2 Develop new policies/programs 5.3 Establish responsibility/target dates 5.4 Establish schedule/develop procedures to evaluate/update plan 5.5 Staff Review 5.6 Draft Plan to North Carolina Emergency Management Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan E-1

70 6.0 Review and Public Input on Hazard Mitigation Plan/Haz.Mit.Com. 6.1 Public Forum July 29, Planning Board/Board of Commissioners (Public Hearing) August 3, Planning Board Recommendation 6.3 Board of Commissioners Decision 6.4 City Planning Board Public Hearing/Recommendation 6.5 City Council Public Hearing/Decision Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan E-2

71 Appendix F: Update Methodology Process: The 2010 Hazard Mitigation Update Process has been a joint effort of the City of Lincolnton and Lincoln County. Each jurisdiction contributed to the update through the inclusion of staff, appointees from planning boards, and elected officials from both the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Lincolnton City Council. These individuals comprised a steering committee which worked as a functional group throughout the update process. The process for the 2010 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update began with the formal appointment of a steering committee by both the Board of Commissioners and the City Council. The steering committee met over the course of a 3 month period in which 4 meetings were held. As noted in the timeline (see appendix E) the committee first began with an overview of the currently adopted 2005 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Each committee member reviewed the plan over a 2 week period, and initial issues were discussed. Upon recognition of the areas of the plan in need of revision by each committee member, a master list was compiled of potential revisions. The list was discussed in a committee meeting to be sure that all input was received from the committee members. This master list was then used by staff to provide the revisions to the 2010 Update. When placing the revisions within the Updated document track changes were used in Microsoft Word. The use of this software allowed for old text to be struck through while new text was placed into the document in red and underlined. Upon completion of the revisions to the 2005 plan, the steering committee was given a copy of the revised plan for review. In this same time frame, an advertisement was placed in the local newspaper notifying of a public forum for the 2010 update to the hazard mitigation plan. The use of an open public forum offered the opportunity for all residents and stakeholders in the County to express any comments, questions or concerns in regards to the Hazard Mitigation Plan. This public forum was held on July 20 th, 2009 and was advertised in the Local Newspaper the Lincoln Times News. This newspaper release outlined the importance of the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the need for citizens to meet with staff concerning the drafting of the plan. The invite was given to departments throughout the county and city as well as citizen organizations to attend the public forum. Attendance was low at the forum despite efforts to advertise through the use of newspaper releases, and marketing materials (window bulletins placed in various public locations). All public comments were accepted and reviewed to ensure the document met or exceeded expectations. The revised plan was placed on the Lincoln County website where it could be viewed by all residents in the County, and the option to contact staff would allow for hard copies of the revised plan to be obtained as well. Staff encouraged input from residents of the County, and was available throughout the update process to discuss any issues. Neighboring jurisdictions located outside of the county were given the opportunity to review the plan through accessing the draft on the Lincoln County website. These jurisdictions which include Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Mecklenburg and Iredell Counties, work with the Lincoln County Planning Department through various planning efforts. Although no representatives from neighboring jurisdictions met in person with county staff to discuss the draft plan, we were in contact with each other via , to Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan F-1

72 ensure that they were aware of the status of our hazard mitigation plan. Several of the neighboring jurisdictions were also in the process of updating their hazard mitigation plans, so familiarity with this particular planning process led to discussions on unique facets of the plan. No particular or deliberate comments were received on specific subsections of the draft plan from neighboring jurisdictions. General thoughts and ideas such as inclusion and/or expansion of certain sections were discussed, and edited. After all input was received on the revised 2010 Hazard Mitigation Plan, the document was taken before the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Lincolnton City Council for tentative approval before being sent to the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management. Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton were notified in August of 2010 that both NCEM and FEMA had approved of the 2010 update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan. A formal letter of tentative approval was received by the County and City that stated the final condition for formal final plan approval and adoption by FEMA and NCEM. Both the City and County were instructed to hold one final public hearing that must be advertised; as well as formally adopting the plan by each jurisdiction at each respective public hearing. Staff for the County and City advertised the public hearings for each jurisdiction in a local newspaper two weeks before the public hearing. Information was also placed on the jurisdictions official websites notifying the public of the public hearing and providing a brief summary of the plan update. Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton each held separate public hearings on the Hazard Mitigation Plan Update within the same week. These public hearings contained a brief presentation by staff to the respective governing bodies, department staff and residents. The floor was then opened for public comment. No further input or comments were received by the public and a formal letter of adoption was presented to each jurisdiction s respective governing boards. The letter was signed and then returned to staff. Having met the criteria provided by NCEM and FEMA, staff then mailed a copy of the formal adoption letters as well as the final adopted plan update to NCEM. Document Revisions: Strategies were outlined in the 2005 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Over the past 5 years efforts were directed to lessen risks associated to certain activities that could be impacted by Natural Hazards. Most notably the risks associated with flood damage can often be mitigated beforehand by the prevention of development within the floodplains of Lincoln County. A streamside buffer ordinance which came into effect in 2007 prohibits development within the floodplain, which helps to eliminate or lessen the chances of this natural hazard on residents throughout the County. During the last 5 years, major events associated with those hazards listed in the risk assessment were documented. There are very few instances of major hazards during the last 5 years; most notably was a winter storm which incapacitated portions of the County during the winter of Planning efforts over the past 5 years referenced the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the completion of planning documents and regulations were put together with public involvement in each instance. The Counties residents are provided the opportunity to become involved in and comment on various planning efforts. This looks to ensure that each person has a voice, and that every plan is constructed in the resident s best interest. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan F-2

73 The Hazard Mitigation Plan was reviewed by the Steering Committee made up of various county and city department staff, elected and appointed board members as well as representatives from citizen organizations in the county. The review process is outlined in the above section Process. During the process each section was analyzed individually by the steering committee members, research was conducted, and then at the steering committee meeting each section was discussed in a round table format. Ideas for revisions were presented, and then planning staff used this information to make the necessary adjustments to the plan. Once the entire update draft plan was revised the steering committee again reviewed it, as well as allowing the public ample time to comment on the draft plan through the use of a public forum and access to the draft on the counties website. Once all final comments were gathered the update draft plan was then put through a final revision. This is the revised plan that was sent to NCEM. After receiving comments from NCEM each section was again revised with steering committee input and sent back to NCEM for forwarding on to FEMA. Revisions were made to various sections throughout the document. What follows is a listing of document sections and the sub-sections which were revised throughout this plan update process. Section 1: Introduction and Executive Summary o Document Organization Section 2: Hazard Mitigation Strategies o Hazard Mitigation Goals and Strategies o Cost Benefit Analysis o Project Prioritization o Previous Mitigation Actions o City Council/Board of Commissioners Review and Adoption Appendix A: Hazard Mitigation and Analysis o Drought o Hazard Location/Geography for Lincoln County o Jurisdictional Risk Assessment Appendix B: Assessment of Vulnerability Appendix C: City/County Capability Assessment o Plan of Action o State and Federal Appendix D: Evaluation of Local Policies and Ordinances o City Policies and Ordinances Unified Development Ordinance Sediment and Erosion Control Ordinance Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Minimum Housing Ordinance Abandoned Structure Ordinance Fire Prevention Code o County Policies and Ordinances Sediment and Erosion Control Ordinance Streamside Buffer Ordinance Public Input Amending the Hazard Mitigation Plan Appendix F: Update Methodology Appendix G: Maps Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan F-3

74 Future Documentation/Revision: Over the course of the next 5 years as the revised 2010 Hazard Mitigation Plan is implemented, staff will continue to document natural hazards as they occur. Strategies laid out within the plan will be used in conjunction with future planning efforts to create cohesiveness throughout all County plans. This will help to revise existing regulations and shape new regulations that may provide some mitigation to the effects of Natural Hazards. Lincoln County Planning and Inspections department will also coordinate yearly meetings between affected departments to monitor progress of the plan, and to take note of any revisions that will be needed in the plan update. As the County moves forward it will be very important to continue to be aware of the update that will be needed to be completed in As we move towards that date, staff will take note of the individuals needed to comprise the next steering committee. Data, and relevant information will begin to be gathered, and opportunities for continued public involvement will be discussed. Efforts for further education of staff through State held workshops will also be considered, and most likely highly pursued to ensure that the most current and up-to-date information on Hazard Mitigation Planning can be obtained. Lincoln County Hazard Mitigation Plan F-4

75 Map: G-1a Future Land Use Plan (West) Legend County Line City Roads US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Land Use Rural Preservation Rural Residential Suburban Residential Residential Growth Area Mixed Residential Mixed Residential/Commercial Neighborhood Business Community Business Office/Employment Center Regional Business Industrial NC 16 Overlay Recreation/Open Space 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

76 Map: G-1b Future Land Use Plan (East) Legend Roads Land Use County Line City Lake Norman US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Rural Preservation Rural Residential Suburban Residential Residential Growth Area Mixed Residential Mixed Residential/Commercial Neighborhood Business Community Business Office/Employment Center Regional Business Industrial NC 16 Overlay Recreation/Open Space 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

77 Map: G-2 Lincolnton Land Use Plan Legend County Line landuse Central Business Central Business Transitional General Business Industrial Institutional Office Mixed Use Residential/Commercial Neighborhood Business Neighborhood Business Corridor Planned Business Residential High Density Recreation/Open Space Rural Residential Residential Suburban Traditional Single-Family Lake Norman Roads US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads 1 in = 3,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

78 Land Cover (West) Map: G-3a Legend County Line Land Cover Utility Swath - Herbaceous Successional Shrub/Scrub (Other) Southern Piedmont Small Floodplain & Riparian Forest Southern Piedmont Mesic Forest Southern Piedmont Large Floodplain Forest - Forest Modifier Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Mixed Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Loblolly Pine Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Hardwood Row Crop Pasture/Hay Other - Herbaceous Open Water (Fresh) Medium Intensity Developed Low Intensity Developed High Intensity Developed Evergreen Plantations or Managed Pine Developed Open Space Bare Soil 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

79 Land Cover (East) Map: G-3b Legend County Line Land Cover Utility Swath - Herbaceous Successional Shrub/Scrub (Other) Southern Piedmont Small Floodplain & Riparian Forest Southern Piedmont Mesic Forest Southern Piedmont Large Floodplain Forest - Forest Modifier Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Mixed Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Loblolly Pine Southern Piedmont Dry Oak-(Pine) Forest - Hardwood Row Crop Pasture/Hay Other - Herbaceous Open Water (Fresh) Medium Intensity Developed Low Intensity Developed High Intensity Developed Evergreen Plantations or Managed Pine Developed Open Space Bare Soil 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

80 Map: G-4a Special Flood Hazard Area (West) Legend Roads County Line City Water Bodies Streams US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Special Flood Hazard Area A AE AEFW SHADED X 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

81 Map: G-4b Special Flood Hazard Area (East) Legend Roads County Line City Lake Norman Water Bodies Streams US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Special Flood Hazard Area A AE AEFW SHADED X 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

82 Map: G-5a Slopes (West) Legend Roads US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Lake Norman City County Line Slope in Degrees in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

83 Map: G-5b Slopes (East) Legend Roads US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Lake Norman City County Line Slope in Degrees in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009

84 Map: G-6a Water Supply Watersheds (West) Jacob Fork WS-IIIP South Fork Catawba River WS-IVP Buffalo Creek WS-IIIP Indian Creek WS-IIP South Fork Catawba River WS-IVC Legend County Line City Water Bodies Streams Roads US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Water Supply Watersheds WS-IIC WS-IIIP WS-IIP WS-IVC WS-IVP 1 in = 6,000 feet Indian Creek WS-IIC South Fork Catawba River WS-IVP Miles 8/28/2009

85 Map: G-6b Allen Creek WS-IIP Water Supply Watershed (East) Lake Norman WS-IVC Lake Norman WS-IVP South Fork Catawba River WS-IVP Lake Norman WS-IVP Lake Norman WS-IVC Legend Roads County Line City Lake Norman Water Bodies Streams South Fork Catawba River US Highways WS-IVP NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads Water Supply Watersheds WS-IIC WS-IIIP WS-IIP WS-IVC WS-IVP Hoyle Creek WS-IVP Mountain Island Lake WS-IVP Mountain Island Lake WS-IVC 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles Lake Wylie WS-IVP 8/28/2009

86 Map: G-7a Critical Facilities (West) Legend Fire & Rescue Stations Roads Fire Station EMT Station Law Enforcement Schools County Line Bridges City Lake Norman Water Bodies Streams US Highways NC Highways State Maintained Roads Planned Subdivision Streets Private Roads 1 in = 6,000 feet Miles 8/28/2009