The City of Biloxi, as part of its continuing efforts to educate property owners about the dangers of storms and flooding, is reminding residents this week about the importance of having flood insurance.
In fact, says Community Development Director Jerry Creel, “right now it’s more important than ever to get flood insurance because of the implications of the new flood-zone maps, which are scheduled to take effect in the fall.”
The city, following a policy that dates back to before Hurricane Katrina, is sending a postcard to all residents explaining the importance of purchasing flood insurance before Hurricane season. This year’s postcard refers to the new flood-zone maps.
“The size of the flood zone in Biloxi will grow significantly, and flood insurance rates will increase for properties that become
part of the flood zone,” Creel writes. “However, property owners who buy flood insurance for their home now -– before the new maps take effect –-
may see less of an increase when the new maps go into effect. The cost of flood insurance, which is set by the federal government, will depend on your property’s proximity to the water and whether your property is susceptible to flooding.”
The postcard also notes that flood insurance policies take 30 days to become effective.
To read details about flood insurance and to see the two-sided postcard that will be mailed this week, click here.
Holloway addresses smart growth, gaming audiences
Mayor A.J. Holloway this week addressed two influential audiences: the Smart Growth conference Tuesday at the Saenger Theater and the Southern Gaming Summit this morning at the Coast Coliseum.
To read his prepared remarks, along with other recent addresses the mayor has made, click here.
News and notes
Thursdays in May: The month-long celebration of preservation and culture in Biloxi moves to the Biloxi City Cementery on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. Graveside re-enactors will tell the story of those buried in the cemetery. To learn more about the event and see the complete lineup of “Thursdays in May,” click here. To see a gallery of photos and links from the re-dedication of the Biloxi City Cemetery in October, click here.
New kids on the block: Students from Biloxi High School shadowed key city staffers and helped conduct a Biloxi City Council meeting Tuesday as part of the annual Youth in Government Day. To see photos from the event, which is a project of Biloxi Elks Lodge 606, click here.
