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LAPLACE — St. John the Baptist Parish residents will soon save more money on their monthly flood insurance premiums. As part of an annual review of floodplain management activity by FEMA, the Parish’s Community Rating System (CRS) class improved from an 8 to a 7 this year. Beginning May 2021, this change in ranking will provide a 5 percent greater discount on flood insurance rates to property owners within FEMA designated flood zones.

Established with the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, the National Flood Insurance Program enables discounted insurance rates to property owners in communities with increased flood risk. As a participating community in this program, St. John Parish is awarded points for implementation of floodplain regulations and activities that:

• Reduce flood damage to insurable property;
• Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP; or
• Encourage a comprehensive approach to floodplain management.

Examples of additional action the parish can take to receive discounts include open space preservation, establishment of freeboard requirements and community outreach.

“I am pleased to see this reduction in flood insurance premiums for our residents. Participating in the CRS Program has been a win-win for St. John residents, businesses, and the community as a whole and is one of many tools we use to improve flood risk for the Parish,” said St. John Parish President Jaclyn Hotard.

For more information, please visit FloodSmart.gov or contact the Planning and Zoning Department at 985-651-5565.