The public comment period on the proposed fire hazard severity zone map that would place Lake County in the highest severity zone closes on the 13th. The map, released in early February added 14,000 acres of the county to the highest ranking for fire, an over 850% increase. County and city officials have stated that the new map could have serious, expensive implications for the county, including the fact that it could not bechanged. even if considerable mitigation work in those areas is achieved. With little public comment received, the county is considering setting public hearings on the matter. Public comment can be submitted to the county and the Clearlake and Lakeport City Councils.