New FEMA maps to bring changes in insurance standards

Longboat Key leaders hear about what's in store once Sarasota County maps are in force.

For Mike Malliard of MIC Insurance, it’s not so much what new federal flood maps will show; it’s what they will mean for both existing Longboat Key residents and those either moving to the island full time or preparing to buy a vacation home here.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which issues flood-risk maps on which federal flood-insurance coverage is based, in August 2021 finalized its work for Manatee County, culminated by County Commission approval.

Now, Sarasota County maps are in the works, though a time frame for completion is not yet known.

According to Malliard and James Linkogle, the project manager for Longboat Key’s Public Works Department, big changes are on the way that could cost residents more for flood coverage, even if properties’ flood-risk statuses either stay the same or even improve.