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| Volume 2 | Issue 19 |
May 20, 2022 |
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Dear Neighbor:
Despite the many issues of crisis in Orange County this week, our office continued to work on our priority initiatives.
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Addressing Homelessness
I met with a group of Santa Ana businesses to address the increased impacts of homeless residents living on their properties and leaving trash and waste on site. I contacted our OC Office of Care Coordination to send teams out to clean up the area and assist individuals experiencing homelessness to seek shelter. We will continue to monitor and help people to prevent business impacts.
I also participated in several briefings related to our workforce development programs and ensuring that we develop strong metrics for outcomes that place residents with employers to ensure resiliency and stability.
Taiwanese Presbyterian in Laguna Woods
Sadly, this week, we learned about another deadly shooting– this time, at a church in our own backyard: Taiwanese Presbyterian held at Geneva Presbyterian in Laguna Woods. This devastating attack impacts our entire community and County, and I want to extend my deepest condolences to the church, congregants and their families, and our community for the devastating events that occurred this week. Our thoughts remain with the victims of this tragedy and the incredibly saddening loss of Dr. John Cheng, as well as the critical injuries of other churchgoers.
 Churchgoers restain the Taiwanese Presbyterian church shooter until police arrive
Dr. John Cheng is remembered as a beloved doctor and family man who brought his mother to a church event and charged the gunman, in order to save other brave congregants … some of whom restrained the gunman.
 Honoring Dr. John Cheng – Photo Credit: NBC, May 2022
Hate and discrimination will not be tolerated in our County or Country. if you are harassed or at the receiving end of any crime, contact local authorities. Together, we can stop hate and I will do my part to ensure that all available resources are directed from our County to contribute to Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies to address hate crimes.
Read my statement: Here
Coastal Fire
 Destroyed homes are seen from above after the Coastal Fire in the Coronado Pointe neighborhood of Laguna Niguel, Calif., on Monday, May 16, 2022. (Photo Credit: Jeff Gritchen/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images)
Just prior to the shooting, our community suffered from the recent Coastal Fire in Laguna Niguel which spread quickly burning 200 acres, damaging 12 homes, and destroying 20. This fire is now at 100% containment. While the loss of property creates long-lasting impacts and is incredibly difficult for affected residents, we are thankful that there were no reported injuries or loss of life to any residents or their pets. The two injured firefighters are recovered and doing well.
As we debrief this incident, we must ensure that we develop a comprehensive fire mitigation program. At Tuesday's emergency meeting, our Board adopted an emergency declaration to allow the County and and Cities of Laguna Niguel and Laguna Beach to receive reimbursement for the costs of the fire response. I requested the Fire Chief provide a report at a future meeting regarding our County's fire mitigation plan and needs. Also, we got to meet Henry, the compassion companion dog who helped many victims this week.
See more of Henry, below!
2022 State of the County Address
You’re invited to attend our State of the County address this upcoming Wednesday, May 25, 2022, starting at 11 a.m. at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, followed by an old-fashioned BBQ on the historic front lawn.
Learn More: Here R.S.V.P. today: Here
Fly Friendly Launch
After meeting with our John Wayne Airport Advisory Team, I’m pleased to report that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) signed off on our our Fly Friendly program to reduce noise around the airport and we are ready to launch! Stay tuned for a formal announcement and press conference within the next few weeks. Our Board will consider formally appointing the new Charlene Reynolds, to the position of Airport Director this Tuesday, May 24, 2022: Agenda Item 94
We appreciate the experience that Charlene will bring to this important role. After her formal appointment by the Board, our office and internal advisory team look forward to opportunities for the public to meet and partner with her for solutions that help the residents of Orange County.
OC Live Concert Series
On Sunday, our OC Live Concert Series concluded with standout performances by Flashback Heart Attack, Sonic Momz, All Star Trio, and a DJ set from Teak Makai.
This 6-day concert series brought renewed attention and much-needed resources to musicians who struggled throughout the 2-year pandemic, with proceeds funding further local arts grants.
Women's Philanthropy Fund Breakfast
On Wednesday, I attended the Women’s Philanthropy Fund breakfast, alongside many amazing Orange County United Way volunteers! Consider joining 1.5 million people who are giving back so others can get ahead and volunteer with United Way. Here
Head Start Program
 
We also honored the Head Start program’s birthday for 57-years of leading the way in offering comprehensive services to children and families. I am a proud graduate of Head Start and a Pell Grant recipient who went on to attend UCLA and become an attorney and, later, a public servant. As an adult, I gave back by serving on the board for OC Head Start several years ago.
Learn more about the program: http://www.ochsinc.org
My team was out in the community this week at graduations, public safety ceremonies, and participating in Veterans events. Learn more about our work below.
Be Well,
 Katrina Foley
Supervisor
County of Orange
If you have a concern for me to address, please email: Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com
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In This Edition
Read more about our District and County Initiatives in your community, upcoming State of the County address, along with
health and
community news.
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Register to Vote by Monday, May 23, 2022
Read more about our coastal fire and see coverage from local outlets.
The voter registration deadline for the June 7, 2022, Statewide Direct Primary Election is May 23, 2022.
To register online, make changes, or for more information about what to expect after the registration deadline, visit ocvote.gov/registration/register-to-vote
Board of Supervisors Meeting
Please attend our May 24, 2022, Board of Supervisors meeting at 9:30 a.m
View a list of our 2022 Orange County #BOS meetings (link) and learn more about what’s happening in your community from our recent District Update (link).
Thank you to my fellow Board member, Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, for inviting a special guest to our meeting. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and Henry is the OC Sheriff’s Crisis Comfort K9.
Over the last week, he provided comfort as a therapy dog for those who were displaced as a result of the #CoastalFire. Thank you, Henry, and his handler Steven Booth, a professional first responder.
Legislative Update
Alex Rounaghi, Policy Advisor
This week included a productive meeting with our internal District Homelessness and Housing Advisory Team. We discussed how to most effectively leverage our utilization of Project Based Vouchers to address our community’s housing needs and the 2022 Point in Time Count Results. While it’s certainly good news that the overall number of people experiencing homelessness in Orange County fell nearly 17% since 2019, we have more work to do. As Supervisor Foley stated during the investigative hearing to address homelessness, last month, we have the capacity to end Veteran and Youth Homelessness.
Our advisory team also discussed the increase in senior homelessness compared to the 2019 results. You can judge a society by how it treats its elders and these trends are concerning and must be addressed. Our internal team plans to collaborate with stakeholders involved with senior issues and develop a strategy that increases the supply of senior housing, which can sometimes be difficult to finance. I will keep you updated on this important work!
We also discussed next steps for our performance audit contract with Moss Adams. When Supervisor Foley took office, last year, she used her discretionary budget to fund a contract to inventory all housing, homelessness, addiction, and mental health-related funding that the County spends—more than $1.6 billion. The consultants found that the County lacks unified, agreed-upon outcomes or performance measures to effectively spend the money.
This month, we begin Phase II of our work with Moss Adams, which includes a more comprehensive performance audit. We are also developing the scope of work and welcome your input! Please reach out to alex.rounaghi@ocgov.com to provide input on this (or any) policy issue.
Airport Commission Meeting
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Commissioner: Susan Dvorak
May 18, 2022
Agenda Item #2: Approve Contract Amendment for Passenger Boarding Bridges and Baggage Services
The Airport Commission voted unanimously to authorize the County Procurement Officer to amend the contract with JBT AeroTech Corp. for Passenger Boarding Bridges and Baggage Handling System Maintenance Services through 2023. The contract amount of $4,933,116 represents an increase of $261,484 which restores the amount available for additional and unforeseen repairs to ensure safety of these systems at JWA. The five-year revised cumulative total for this contract is $16,994,663. A new RFP (Request for Proposal) will be posted at the conclusion of this contract in 2023.
The airport will soon need to upgrade their aging baggage and passenger boarding bridges systems and will request authorization of funds to study the entire system in the near future.
Agenda Item #3: Approve Revised Bylaws for the Orange County Airport Commission
The proposed Airport Commission Bylaws revision is a response to policy direction from the Board of Supervisors for all boards, commissions, and committees subject to the Board of Supervisors’ jurisdiction to align their bylaws with an approved Bylaws Template.
In a split decision, the Airport Commission voted to approve the amended bylaws. The revised bylaws will move on to the Board of Supervisors for approval.
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Photo Credit: John Wayne Airport
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Constituent Services Manager
Please reach out to me at any time with questions or concerns: Manuel.Chavez@ocgov.com
Representing Garden Grove and Santa Ana.
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Celebrating Students
This past Wednesday, I had the pleasure of attending the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce Les Miller Scholarship Awards. The ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of Costa Mesa students from Costa Mesa High School, Estancia High School, Early College High School, Monte Vista High School and Orange Coast College. It’s always a pleasure to support our Orange County Students. Best of luck in the next stage of your lives!
 
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Constituent Services Manager
Please reach out to me at any time with questions or concerns: Kalvin.Alvarez@ocgov.com
Representing Anaheim, Orange, Tustin, Animal Services.
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Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
What a wonderful time touring Rivian Automotive's housing vehicle engineering and design, propulsion, and battery system development manufacturing plant in Tustin. There, the Supervisor and I learned about the company's process for transforming a simple battery cell into a complex electric truck, all while focusing on their carbon neutrality commitment.
Our office is excited to work with Rivian on initiatives to promote and propel the county toward a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future. I also had the honor of attending the centennial celebration of the Rotary Club of Tustin-Santa Ana! This Rotary club is the oldest in Orange County and is made up of friends, neighbors, and community leaders who come together to serve their community and make long-lasting positive changes. Over the years, they have used their members' diverse experiences, occupations, and cultures to put ‘service above self’. Orange County is fortunate have companies that care about our natural resources and environment serving our residents.
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Stephanie Wade – District Director & Policy Advisor
On Thursday, I briefed a group of Veterans at American Legion Post 291 in Newport about the Supervisor’s support for the Federal Driving Veterans Success Act (H.R. 6527).
This is a thoroughly bipartisan bill introduced by Rep. Michelle Steel and co-authors Representatives Katie Porter, Young Kim, and Mike Levin ... and was recently supported by all five Orange County Supervisors at the May 10, 2022, Board Meeting. Once passed, the act will allow small Veteran-owned businesses to compete with larger corporations in the new $944 billion federal infrastructure bill.
We provide this to businesses owned by women and minorities, and the Supervisor feels strongly that it’s what Veteran business owners deserve (and need) to compete for these once-in-a-generation funds.
 Mike Wolfgang, President of the OC Chapter of the US Veterans Business Alliance & Rebecca Aguilera-Gardner, Executive Director, Veterans In Business Alliance, speaking about there support for HR 6527 The Driving Veterans Success Act.
Cindy Tran-Chang – Policy Advisor
On Wednesday, May 18, 2022, I presented certificates to high school graduates entering the military at the Orange Assistance League Chapter House. The event welcomed graduates and their proud families, all of whom beamed with pride. Entertainment included a local choir group performing songs dedicated to the graduating students, followed by a motivational speaker who served as a pilot in the Service for over 20 years!
Our office presented certificates to graduates from Orange, El Modena, and Santa Ana High Schools. After the presentation of certificates and photo opportunities, graduates and their families enjoyed refreshments provided by the Assistance League of Orange.
Health Updates
New Pfizer Booster Approval & Free Rapid Tests
 A positive Covid-19 at home test is displayed on May 2, 2022 in San Anselmo, California. Photo Credit: CNN
The FDA authorized Pfizer COVID vaccine boosters for children 5 to 11, after submitting for an emergency use authorization last month. Children 5 to 11 can receive their booster shot five months after completing their primary series of two shots. Learn More: Here
The Federal Government is offering 8 more free Covid tests available to U.S. households as it calls on Congress to pass additional funding. Learn More: Here
COVID-19 Data
As of May 20, 2022, 2,313,029 Orange County residents are fully vaccinated and 1,279,272 received their 4th shot or booster dose. The 7-day average positivity rate (5/20//22) in our County is 4.4%. This equals out to 14.7 daily positive COVID cases per 100k residents or 399.5 positive PCR tests received per day.
Vaccine Clinics
Please call (714) 834-2000 to schedule an appointment. at one of our mobile vaccine clinics. Walkins are also welcome! Find a mobile vaccine clinic: Here
Pet of the Week
 Scrappy at OC Animal Care
Meet Scrappy! Before arriving at OC Animal Care, Scrappy felt abandoned, nervous, and alone ... after his previous owner never returned home one day.
Thankfully, a good Samaritan found him and Scrappy now enjoys time and attention from OC Animal Care’s Staff and Volunteers. While Scrappy may come across as a little shy at first, don’t let that fool you! This handsome 3-year-old Pit Bull enjoys taking the proper amount of time to get to know someone and, once you have gained his trust, he won’t ever let you out of his sight! Scrappy loves exploring the play yard and sniffing for good scents on his walks.
While he doesn’t need toys to have fun, he likes back scratches and belly rubs from his best human friends! He's doing very well walking on a leash and looking for an accepting environment and give him the love and attention he deserves, after some time to adjust. me to adjust, of course!
Interested in adding Scrappy to your pack? Call (714) 935-6848 to schedule an adoption appointment today!
Strawberry Festival
Microbusiness Grants
We are relaunching the OC Microbusiness $2,500 Grant due to a low number of qualified applicants received in the first round. There is funding remaining for an additional qualified microbusinesses.
Attend an informational webinar: Here
Drone Courses
During the recent City of Laguna Niguel Coastal Fire, our firefighters used drones with thermal imaging to seek out hot spots to prevent portions of the fire from igniting again.
Youth ages 16 to 24 interested in a career as a drone pilot can sign up for a Ready Set OC Orange County drone piloting class: Here
John Wayne Airport
My First Home Program
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage month, we are recognizing several local businesses as all Asian American and Pacific Islander or AAPI-owned. For more information about each of these businesses and stories by a travel blogger, visit: Here
Hana Field by Tanaka Farms
OC Parks
OC Clerk-Recorder
Orange County Clerk-Recorder is opening an expanded South County Branch Office in Laguna Hills on May 25, 2022.
The office of the Clerk-Recorder will be conducting a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. in the Laguna Hills Civic Center located at 24031 El Toro Road, Suite 160, in Laguna Hills. Several civic leaders plan to attend, and the public is invited. Learn More: Here
OC Waste & Recycling
Join OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) for a Compost Giveaway at Frank R. Bowerman (FRB) Landfill. Pick up FREE compost at 11002 Bee Canyon Access Road in Irvine on Saturday, May 21, 2022, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. while supplies last. The self-haul event by OCWR offers the compost free of charge.
Learn more: Here
If you have questions or comments that you'd like to share, in relation to the committees below, please email me at Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com
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Team Foley
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