Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) - Region 4 | DHS 20 MT 023 04 01

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the FY 2020 Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) - Region 4?

It is a FEMA funding opportunity under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that supports state-level efforts to strengthen local floodplain management and participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) within Region 4. The program funds states so they can provide hands-on technical assistance to NFIP communities and evaluate how well those communities are implementing required NFIP floodplain management activities.

What is the main purpose of CAP-SSSE?

The purpose is to improve NFIP implementation by leveraging state expertise and established working relationships with local governments. The program aims to increase compliance with NFIP floodplain management requirements, reduce flood risk, and ultimately reduce flood losses in line with NFIP goals.

Which federal agency is offering this opportunity?

The opportunity is offered by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What type of funding instrument is this?

This opportunity is offered as a discretionary cooperative agreement, meaning FEMA typically expects substantial coordination with the recipient during the period of performance rather than issuing funds with minimal involvement.

What does "cooperative agreement" imply for how the work is carried out?

Based on the listing description, a cooperative agreement indicates active FEMA involvement and coordination with the recipient during the project period, as opposed to a more hands-off grant structure.

What are the two main functions supported by CAP-SSSE?

The work focuses on: (1) helping communities understand and properly implement NFIP floodplain management requirements, and (2) evaluating community performance in carrying out NFIP activities.

What kinds of technical assistance can states provide to NFIP communities under this program?

The description highlights hands-on guidance related to NFIP floodplain management requirements, including topics such as floodplain management ordinances, permitting practices, use of flood maps, and enforcement practices.

What is meant by evaluating a community's performance under NFIP?

Evaluations are intended to assess how well communities are implementing required NFIP floodplain management activities. These reviews are used to identify gaps, encourage corrective actions, and reinforce consistent standards across participating communities.

How does this program support the goals of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)?

By improving technical competence, consistency, and accountability in floodplain management, CAP-SSSE supports NFIP objectives to reduce future flood damages, improve resilience, and ensure communities meet the standards that underpin access to federal flood insurance.

Why does CAP-SSSE emphasize state involvement instead of a one-size-fits-all approach?

The program is designed around state-level expertise and day-to-day relationships with local governments. The intent is for states to apply knowledge of local conditions and governance structures so guidance and oversight are more practical and effective for individual communities.

What is the role of the State Coordinating Agency in CAP-SSSE?

The program is grounded in the role of the State Coordinating Agency, with designation, duties, and responsibilities described in 44 CFR 60.25. In practical terms, the state role includes demonstrating capability and responsibility to support NFIP implementation and ensuring at least the minimum floodplain management criteria are being met.

Which regulation is specifically referenced for state responsibilities?

The opportunity references 44 CFR 60.25 as the regulation outlining the designation, duties, and responsibilities connected to the State Coordinating Agency role.

Who is eligible to apply for the CAP-SSSE Region 4 opportunity?

Eligibility for this Region 4 opportunity is limited to state governments and special district governments.

How many awards did FEMA anticipate making?

FEMA anticipated making about 8 awards.

What is the CFDA number associated with this program?

The program is associated with CFDA number 97.023.

What is the funding opportunity number?

The funding opportunity number is DHS 20 MT 023 04 01.

When was this opportunity created?

The listing indicates it was created on May 1, 2020.

What was the original application closing date?

The original application closing date shown is June 15, 2020.

Is there a maximum (ceiling) award amount listed?

The listing shows an award ceiling of 0, which commonly indicates that a maximum award amount is not specified in the public synopsis and may be determined through allocations, regional priorities, or negotiated work plans.

What kinds of outcomes is CAP-SSSE intended to achieve?

The program is intended to build and maintain floodplain management capacity at both the state and local levels, improve the quality and consistency of community floodplain administration, and strengthen oversight and accountability through performance evaluation and corrective action follow-up.