The Fayette Citizen-News Page

Wednesday, November 5, 2003

Notes from Peachtree City

Improved flood rating means lower insurance

Peachtree City has improved to a Class 7 in the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Community Rating System, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has announced.

As a result, NFIP insurance polices issued or renewed for properties in the Special Flood Hazard Areas will receive up to a 15 percent premium discount effective this month, which represents an additional 5 percent over the discount received last year with the City’s Class 8 rating.

The savings are a result of the flood plain and stormwater management considerations begunlast summer, according to city staff. The city is continuing to investigate new ways to implement and finance upcoming stormwater management requirements.

Residents who have flood insurance should contact their insurance agent about updating their policy to reflect the new CRS status. Insurance agencies can contact the Peachtree City Engineering Department at 770-631-2588 for verification.

For more information about flood plain management, go to www.fema.gov/nfip/ or www.peachtree-city.org and then link to the Engineering Department (City Services/Developmental).

Homeowners urged to inspect their decks

Following the recent deck collapse in Clayton County that caused numerous injuries, the Peachtree City Building Department is reminding Peachtree City residents to perform a self inspection of decks, porches, and balconies to ensure that the structure is bolted properly to the home at the attachment band, and to ensure that decks do not become overloaded during events and holiday parties. 

Building Official Tom Carty said, “While we do not want residents to panic over this issue, we encourage everyone to take some simple steps to ensure the safety of their families and guests. Older homes are particularly susceptible to deterioration that might cause a structure to be unsafe.”

Carty said Georgia Code stipulates that deck construction only support 40 pounds of live load per square foot, so residents must remember to factor in the weight of both people and furniture to ensure everyone’s safety.

Residents who are unsure of proper deck attachment can call the Building Department at 770-487-8901 to have an inspector answer questions. The Building Department also has a model deck display at their offices on at 153 Willowbend Road, and residents are invited to stop by Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to view the display. Residents may also call the Building department to schedule a special courtesy inspection if they remain concerned about the structural safety of their deck or porch.

Deadline is Friday for authority applications

Residents interested in serving Peachtree City have through Friday, Nov. 7, to apply for several vacancies. The city is accepting applications for the following positions:

• One seat on the Airport Authority;

• One seat on the Recreation Commission;

• One seat on the Water & Sewerage Authority;

• Two unexpired terms on the Development Authority.

The regular terms begin January 1, 2004, and all positions are volunteer or nonpaying. Interested residents who have lived in Peachtree City for 6 months or more may apply at City Hall, 151 Willowbend Road, by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7.  Please contact Ms. Gloria Reid at 770- 487-7657 for more information.


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