Insurance rates are still sky-high for homeowners in Florida coastal counties, that is if they can get any insurance at all. Now it looks like prices may be going up for some.

Walton County is releasing new flood insurance maps this evening, and more homes are now included in the potential high risk flood zones. The county is holding public workshops this week so homeowners can see the maps and comment on the plan.

The preliminary digital rate maps are being released tonight, but it's important to know that they're not the final deal. Planners won't adopt the maps until residents affected by the new flood zones have an opportunity to voice their opinion.

It doesn't matter if you live on a lake or on a lot that used to have water. The proposed 2008 insurance rate maps could include you.

It's been almost eight years since FEMA and the Northwest Florida Water Management District rezoned the county, and administrators say a lot has changed since then.

Christine Sammelmann, Managing Analyst, said, "Like any area, you have growth and economic changes. FEMA, every so often, updates the maps. This is our turn."

The new maps indicate current flood zones and possible flood areas. Freeport resident Doris Cooper says she's anxious to see if she'll be spending more money on insurance.

Doris Cooper said, "I'm very concerned about weather I'm in a flood zone or not. I really do believe everyone should know what their situation is with their property."

Administrators say representatives will be at the meeting to hear citizens’ concerns. The proposed maps will be on display, indicating areas that will now have to buy flood insurance.

"It's important to see if any of the changes that have been made will affect your area, your house, because it could affect what you pay for insurance."

There are two public workshops scheduled, the first at the South Walton Annex. This one lasts until 7:30, so you still have some time to make it out. It's a very relaxed setting. You can come and view the map and ask questions.

The second is tomorrow, Tuesday night, at the DeFuniak Springs Community Center off of 83. That's from 5:30 to 7:30. It's the same type of setting; you can come in view the map and see if your home is affected by the new flood zone.

If you can't make it to either of these meetings, the county will be displaying the maps on their website.