The Springfield Planning Commission held a public hearing on March 4, 2025 which it continued to April 1. Since that time: The League of Oregon Cities made it a priority to advocate on behalf of cities in a recent visit to Washington DC. Their call to action included: Advocating for a timeline realignment to urge FEMA to revert to the original Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) timeline which would give communities the necessary information and time to implement effective and compliant measures. Providing technical assistance and funding to communities. Encouraging FEMA to collaborate with local governments/stakeholders. The League representatives were encouraged by their visit with FEMA. Staff is preparing responses to questions from the Commission as well as public testimony which included the clear and objective standards, Measure 49 claims, the Buildable Lands Inventory, consequences of noncompliance with the PICMs, cost recovery for the mandate, and DLCD’s involvement in the PICMs. These findings have not been completed yet. The City Attorney’s Office is also working to address the PICM options and Non-PICM ESA Compliance options. The federal litigation filed by Oregonians for Floodplain Protection was transferred from Washington DC to Oregon. This change of venue will delay the timeline on a ruling regarding a preliminary injunction. For these reasons, staff recommend closing the public hearing and re-opening the hearing once staff have completed our analysis. The city would re-notice the hearing in the Chronicle and post notice at City Hall. Staff would also notify those who have submitted testimony or have signed up on Springfield Oregon Speaks to receive updates.