Topsail Beach leaders meet to discuss FEMA appeal

TOPSAIL BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Topsail Beach town leaders met Wednesday night to talk about a push to appeal FEMA’s recent flood rezoning.

Residents said a report from an engineer looks positive and they’re hoping for a good outcome.

Last week we told you FEMA proposes changing about 200 homes from Scott to Clark Avenues to a VE flood zone. The town says that could increase those homeowners’ flood insurance upwards of five times.

The town asked those homeowners for a $240 contribution each by Monday to help pay for the $48,000 appeal process. The Town Council said within a week, they’ve gotten a 52% response from homeowners who have already sent their checks in.

Homeowners say handing their money over is worth it.

“It will be expensive for us on our insurance,” John Gunter said. “I don’t mind paying the money the town asked for in order to pursue an appeal.”

Topsail Beach town leaders will meet Thursday to discuss whether or not to start charging for parking in town.

It’s being looked at as an option to fund long term beach renourishment projects.