Flood Protection

About this measure: This measure describes flood hazard risks reductions via the King County flood protection program.

2011 results: During 2011, River and Floodplain Management:

• Completed three large flood repairs; elevated seven frequently floods homes and, in partnership with the Agricultural Program, supported the construction of eight new farm pads in the floodplain;
• During January 2011, protected the public from flooding during two weeks of emergency response;
• Partnered with the King County Sheriff's Office and Public Health — Seattle & King County to successfully promote river safety on major King County Rivers in preparation for 2011's high flows and high snowpack which increased the risks associated with recreation.
• Submitted a Programmatic Habitat Assessment to demonstrate that under King County regulations, development impacts are unlikely to adversely affect listed species, thereby complying with the National Marine Fisheries Service Biological Opinion for FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program.

As part of the 2011 work program, the old or historical measure "Ensure capital priorities are implemented on budget and on schedule" was amended into two separate measures. The intent of the change is to provide information to the Flood District Board of Supervisors, other decision-makers, and the public with more discretely measurable indicators of flood control program status.

The new 2011 measures are:

1. Percentage of baseline capital projects on schedule; and,
2. Percentage of baseline capital projects within 110% of baseline costs.

Project Baseline means the scope, schedule and budget set at the conclusion of the preliminary design phase when the preferred alternative has been selected, and design has progressed adequately to make reasonable and informed commitments, at thirty to forty percent design.

Measure #1. "Percentage of baselined capital projects on schedule is zero ("0" or None)

• The basis for not meeting the 100% target is that at this time, there is only one project meeting the definition of baselined.

Measure # 2. Percentage of baselined capital projects within 110% of baseline cost estimate is 100%.

• The basis for meeting this target for this measure is that the project has progressed to meet the basedlined definition.

Influencing Factors: King County's advance in flood protection was influenced by the participation, involvement and support of cities through the Basin Technical Committees and the Advisory Committee, as well as actions by the KCFCD Board of Supervisors.

Strategy Going Forward: during 2012 staff will be hired to get larger more complex projects out of the conceptual /feasibility stage into design and construction. Additionally, the Flood Hazard Management Plan will be updated to reflect recent changes in conditions and priorities.

Background: During 2007 King County took several significant steps to identify and respond to the flood hazards facing our communities. First, in January 2007, the King County Council adopted the 2006 Flood Hazard Management Plan, updating the 1993 Flood Hazard Reduction Plan. This Plan included an evaluation of flood hazard vulnerabilities and an action plan of capital projects and programmatic activities intended to reduce flood risks throughout the County.

Following adoption of the Plan, the Council then authorized the formation of the King County Flood Control District (KCFCD) under RCW 86.15, including the voluntary establishment of an Advisory Committee of 15 elected officials to provide the KCFCD Board of Supervisors with expert policy advice on the District's work program priorities and budget. The Advisory Committee is supported by King County staff with input and recommendations from Basin Technical Committees comprised of public works and planning officials from cities throughout the County.

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