Lake Forest named a Cal Fire Fire Risk Reduction Community; two mitigation grant applications pending

Charlene Depp, the city's administrative services manager, briefed the council on updated Cal Fire local responsibility area maps and explained the distinction between long‑term hazard classifications and present fire risk. She announced, "I am pleased to announce that the city of Lake Forest has been designated as a fire risk reduction community by Calire," and said designation can provide priority consideration for prevention grants and potential property insurance discounts for eligible residents.

Depp described two pending grant applications submitted in July: a Cal Fire hazardous‑fuels reduction request covering roughly 51 acres (Concourse Park and Foothill Ranch Community Park in very high–risk zones and Broken Bow Open Space in a high‑risk zone) and a second 44‑acre application for Serrano Creek Park submitted via lobbyists through Senator Adam Schiff's office. She emphasized that eligibility for any insurance discounts depends on individual insurers and encouraged residents to contact their carriers. OCFA staff were present to answer technical questions.