To All Interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals,

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This is to give notice that the Town of Conetoe has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determination on Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection. The activity is funded under the HUD Community Development Block Grant - Neighborhood Revitalization under Grant #22-C-4117. The proposed project is located at 201 Dawson Street in the Town of Conetoe, Edgecombe County and is located in the floodplain. The extent of the FFRMS floodplain was determined using freeboard value approach. The Proposed Action site is located in Flood Zone AE as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Proposed Action Site consists of an approximately 0.84 acre site containing the former fire department building owned by the Town of Conetoe and currently used for storage.

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The Proposed Action includes the renovation of the building to create a community center for use by Town residents. The comprehensive renovation project for the fire staton encompasses a range of vital improvements and enhancements. These enhancements involve the installation of a new HVAC system, siding repairs to restore the integrity and aesthetics of the building, installation of a high-quality sound system and security system for improved communication and safety, restoration of the detached storage building, construction of new restroom facilities and office spaces, fully compliant with ADA standards, restoration of the concerete flooring, and the installation of a generator to ensure uninterrupted operations during severe weather events. Additionally, other renovations encompass the installation of a commercial grade community kitchen and the completion of the loft area, creating a dedicated "teen hangout" space. The community park situated on the same premises will undergo substantial enhancements, including new fencing, the development of a walking trail to promote outdoor activities and wellness, installation of outdoor exercise equiptment for public use, creation of athletic fields, repair to the existing concessions stand and basketball court, and the installation of fall zones under existing playground equipment to ensure safety for children and families.

The Town of Conetoe has considered the following alternatives and mitigation measures to be taken to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing floodplain:

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i) The proposed project location is the only reasonable facility to convert to a community center because the proposed lot already contains a building built to the size and specifications needed for a community center and the lot is owned by the Town.

ii) Alternatives considered included other properties owned by the Town, which are not feasible given size and current issues

iii) Mitigation measures to be taken to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing floodplain will include appropriate drainage and improvement work, as needed, and as funds allow.

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The Town of Conetoe has reevaluated the alternatives to building in the floodplain and has determined that it has no practicable alternatives to floodplain development. Environmental files documenting compliance with steps 3 through 6 of Executive Order 11988, are available for public inspection, review and copy upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments.

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There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Scond, and adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comments about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

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Written comments must be reviewed by the Town of Conetoe Address on or before October 29, 2025: Town of Conetoe, Attn: Delane Bryant, Mayor, 204 W. Church Street, Conetoe NC 27819 and 252-823-0349. A full description of the project may also be reviewed Mondays and Thursdays from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at the same address as above. Comments may also be submitted via email at townofconetoenc@gmail.com

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Date: October 20, 2025