DECORAH - The city this week took a step toward possible participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

Council members approved the first reading of an ordinance establishing a flood plain management plan consistent with the program's eligibility requirements.

During discussion, Mayor Don Arendt asked if residents denied assistance by FEMA because the city does not participate in the flood insurance program would receive additional consideration if Decorah elects to join.

Bill Cappuccio, an engineer from the flood plain section of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, based his answer on his understanding of the situation. He said if the city participates within six months after being declared a federal disaster area, property owners previously denied assistance should be eligible.

The flood occurred in June, and 10 to 12 families could become eligible.

Prior to the council meeting, the city's economic development and community betterment committee discussed the issue for more than an hour. About two dozen people attended, and representatives from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and FEMA answered questions.

Committee chair Karen Tjossem said based on comments during the session, most in attendance were interested in the flood insurance program.

"It was not 100 percent, but there was a strong voice to participate," she said.

Councilman Steve Matter said he favored the idea.

"A lot of things have been cleared up in the past couple of months. Why have we waited so long?" he asked.

Contact Sarah Strandberg

at newsroom@wcfcourier.com.