Howard Beach, NY (June 30, 2015) “I believe that without federal officials altering the FEMA flood maps themselves, the city took a step in the right direction when it appealed the proposed flood maps. The planned FEMA maps could put many of my constituents in the objectionable position of paying exorbitant flood insurance premiums or making the complicated decision to elevate their home. I am hopeful that with either the city appeal, state or preferable federal action, my constituents may someday witness some relief from the stressful possibility of being in a flood zone.”