Fort Myers Beach launches information campaign on flood panel requirements

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. —

The town of Fort Myers Beach announced on Friday that it's launching an education campaign on flood panel requirements. This comes after the town stopped issuing permits to install them in an effort to comply with Federal Emergency Management Agency regulations.

According to a press release the town sent out, the initiative, which will span one month, will address community questions and clarify policies governing flood protection standards.

They added that the town is releasing a series of informational materials through its Facebook page and website, focusing on why flood panel regulations exist and how they protect residents and properties from flood damage.

The information series will cover topics such as:

• What flood panels are and how they cause harm.
• Federal and state regulatory requirements that govern their news.
• Safety benefits for residents and property protection.
• How property owners can ensure compliance with current standards.

"Resident safety is our top priority, and we recognize that there has been some confusion about flood panel policies and the reasons behind them," Town Manager Will McKanney said in the press release. "This educational campaign will provide clear, accessible information to help our community understand these vital protections and the regulatory framework that requires their implementation."

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