Welcome to Skagit County

October 18th, 2006

SKAGIT COUNTY RECOGNIZED BY FEMA FOR IMPROVED FLOOD INSURANCE RATING
Rate payers save $487,882 in reduced premiums

SKAGIT COUNTY – Skagit County residents will save $487,882 in reduced National Flood Insurance premiums thanks to an improved rating awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Community Rating System (CRS). Skagit County’s rating was improved from class six to class five, qualifying ratepayers for a 25 percent discount.

Mark Carey, Chief of FEMA Community Mitigation Programs, was on hand at the annual Skagit County Flood Awareness Breakfast held this morning at the Cranberry Tree Restaurant in Mount Vernon to present the award to Delores McLeod, Skagit County’s CRS Coordinator.

More than 80 representatives from Skagit County, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA, cities, and dike districts attended this morning’s breakfast.

“We can’t stop the rain, but we can help protect our citizens from the worse effects of flooding, and that’s what CRS is all about,” said McLeod. “

The Community Rating System awards communities that voluntarily take steps beyond the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program to reduce flood risks and increase the effectiveness of flood insurance protection. Skagit County’s volunteer actions include flood preparedness, flood damage reduction, mapping and regulations, and public awareness.

There are 2,687 flood insurance policies in unincorporated Skagit County with total premiums totaling $1,641,149. The average policy is approximately $600 annually. The new Class 5 rating saves the average policy holder $182 annually for a total savings of $487,882.

For further information, contact: Dan Berentson
Communications Director
360-419-3461