HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — After hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed by storms raking Connecticut’s shoreline, a state task force recommended that local zoning codes be changed to reflect rising sea level and new flood elevations.
But the recommendation never made it into legislation, due partly to concerns that property tax revenue would take a hit if beachfront home construction was limited or even banned.
Local officials prefer to find other ways to protect against storm damage. Residents will instead rebuild according to federal emergency management standards, and town officials will seek more insurance reimbursement.
Rep. James Albis, co-chairman of the Environment Committee, said zoning changes prodded by the state concern local officials and are likely among the major reasons more discussion is needed before legislation is enacted.
