An Important Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

County of Orange, California sent this bulletin at 04/28/2023 06:41 PM PDT

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Volume 3 | Issue 17

April 28, 2023

Supervisor’s Message

Dear neighbor:

What a week!

Saturday, Team Foley and I celebrated Earth Day at two community events. First, I stopped by the City of Costa Mesa’s Earth Day Festival. My team and I hosted a booth with a demo of a compost bin, complete with earthworms. Kids joined in on the fun and dug around to watch the worms.

I joined the Costa Mesa City Council, Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, and State Senator Dave Min for an Earth Day Tree planting!

Then, we had a hoot of a time at Earth Day at the Bay at the Upper Newport Bay. Thanks to our OC Parks and the Newport Beach Conservancy for organizing such a fun family friendly event.

On Saturday, I also stopped by the Costa Mesa Police Department’s Prescription Take Back Day. You can safely dispose of prescriptions you no longer need by dropping them off at the Police Department. Learn more by watching my video!

Then, I attended the Irvine Police Department’s Open House. I enjoyed meeting with our local police officers and learning about their impressive operations in keeping our communities safe.

On Monday, I started out my day at the OCTA Board Meeting. Later in the day, we learned about Governor Newsom’s announcement of a $40 million award to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) including $5 million to assess potential realignment of the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) rail corridor that runs through the Fifth District and is vulnerable to impacts of coastal erosion and sea level rise. Learn more here.

Following the meeting, I joined Steve Rosansky, President and CEO of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce for a lunch meeting to discuss the work we can do together to support our small businesses, especially restaurants, and ensure new business thrives in Orange County.

I finished out my workday by meeting with Ryan Chamberlain, Director of CalTrans District 12, to discuss the planning for undergrounding of the powerlines along State Route 133, as well as the projects CalTrans is partnering with OCTA, the County, and TCA on throughout OC.

Tuesday morning, we held our most recent Board of Supervisors meeting. April represents an important time to speak out against sexual violence and assault. I led the Board's proclamation recognizing April 2023 as Sexual Assault and Prevention Awareness Month and our team wore denim in solidarity with victims of assault.

When I first joined the Board, Orange County had thousands of backlogged rape kits going back decades. Under my watch, we will never allow this unconscionable delay of justice for rape victims again. I stand with survivors of sexual violence and assault. During the Board meeting, we honored Denim Day one day early to spread awareness about sexual violence and the role victim-blaming plays in injustices towards survivors. Read the rest of my Board Meeting Recap below.

Later, I hosted the Dana Point Harbor Town Hall meeting to provide the public access to the County and Dana Point Harbor Partners, clear up any misinformation that has circulated, answer questions directly, and hear feedback on ways to improve their experience at the harbor. My top priorities include working together to address them as we move towards the future. My advisory committee will inform my office’s approach to this project and will ensure that businesses, county staff, and the community have a voice in the process. Apply to join here!

Here I am taking questions from the audience during the town hall! Pictured left to right: Supervisor Foley and Speakers, Mat Miller (County CEO Real Estate), Joe Ueberroth (Bellwether Financial Group), Bob Olson (R.D. Olson), Bryon Ward (Burnham Ward)

We had a great turnout with more than 200 in attendance! Lots of questions were answered - at least 100 submitted by members of the public. The Dana Point Harbor plays a key role in our county’s local economy, ocean conservation and law enforcement efforts. The state of the Harbor must reflect the importance of this county asset to our local boaters, business and residential communities. Representatives from R.D. Olson, Bellingham Marina, and Burnham Ward presented updates on Commercial, Hotel, and Marina revitalizations during the town hall. Watch the townhall on our YouTube page here next week. Learn more on my newly-launched Dana Point Harbor Page on my website!

Wednesday, I started out my morning by attending the TCA Joint Environmental Committee, followed by the TCA Joint Operations and Finance Committee Meeting. Then I met with Bob Olson of R.D. Olson regarding the status of the 2 hotels and challenges with the permitting agencies and delays. I’ll do my best to keep this project moving forward because the costs of construction grow rapidly.

Afterwards, I popped in for the reception for the Dana Point State of the City address. Mayor Mike Frost does a great job of support local businesses and the community.

I then stopped by to give the welcome for the Newport Beach Chamber 60th Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner. I enjoyed seeing many educators and colleagues. So many accomplished students to recognize for their achievements.

Thursday was another booked and busy day this week. I started out my morning with my John Wayne Airport Advisory Group meeting and an update from our Airport Director. Our airport remains one of my top priorities, and this meeting served as an opportunity to discuss the John Wayne Airport Fly Friendly program launched by my office in August 2022. The Fly Friendly minimizes noise impacts on communities surrounding the airport and supports environmental conservation by working with general aviation jet operators to provide actionable data to the public and stakeholders on how best to reduce noise levels. For more information on the Fly Friendly program, click here.

Following this meeting, I joined our Homelessness, Housing, and Veterans Advisory Group. I discussed with our community partners how best to serve veterans in need of essential services, like housing, and how best to provide a pathway to professional success. A one-size-fits-all approach will not work for our veteran community, we must recognize the variety of challenges and opportunities that are present when a servicemember returns to civilian life. The group also collaborated on local challenges for diversifying our housing stock, and the state and federal dollars available to help address our housing crisis.

After these meetings, I was notified of the landslide in San Clemente by Casa Romantica and rushed down to assess the situation. This resulted in a track closure approximately two miles north of where the Orange County Transportation Authority is completing construction work near the Cyprus Shore Homeowners Association in San Clemente. The track closure went into effect at 1:11 p.m. on Thursday and the rail line will remain closed until further notice because of the threat of debris falling on the tracks.

OC Transportation Authority announced that freight, Metrolink, and Amtrak are closed. All Thursday afternoon and evening Metrolink service will be closed from the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station to Oceanside. Amtrak service is closed from Irvine to Oceanside.

In addition, the landslide resulted in an apartment building nearby to get red tagged, displacing residents. Impacted residents can call the City of San Clemente at (949) 361-8341 for assistance. Coastal erosion and recent weather events continue to devastate Orange County’s coastline, threatening homes, businesses, beaches, and vital infrastructure.

Unfortunately, I do not think this is the last incident that will occur. This is the third time in 2 years our rail system was shut down. My office is in direct contact with the County and State offices of Emergency Services, Congressmember Mike Levin, the City of San Clemente, and local partners to be of assistance. I will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the community.

Next up was an Orange County Fire Authority Board Meeting, where we voted on the OCEA contract which predominantly impacts our dispatchers. We also received updates from the Chief and an overview of overtime and efforts to manage.

On Friday, Team Foley and the OC Parks Staff planted 150 new, native trees across Talbert Regional Park, William R. Mason Regional Park, Laguna Niguel Regional Park, and Dana Point Harbor. Watch my videos to learn about the native trees in our county parks!

There are currently 266 different tree species throughout the county park system. OC Parks has over 52,000 trees managed within its urban park areas. Trees are a critical natural resource. They reduce energy usage, remove air pollutants, filter stormwater, and provide shade. I’m happy to add 150 trees to our tree canopy and promote a sustainable future.

At my early morning tree planting at Talbert Regional Park!

With arborists in William R. Mason Regional Park!

Planting trees with my volunteers at Dana Point Harbor!

Friday morning, I also joined join Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris’ press conference to announce the launch of the “One Pill Can Kill” awareness campaign and Assemblywoman Petrie-Norris’ bills to assist law enforcement agencies in addressing the fentanyl epidemic. Fentanyl is unlike any substance we have seen, and any insinuation that we’re not focusing on treatment, helping people, and rehabilitation is wrong.

We believe in rehabilitation and preventing recidivism. We are spending hundreds of millions on substance abuse treatment efforts, housing for transitional aged youth coming out of juvenile hall, and we have incredibly innovative programs to help those struggling with addiction here in Orange County. At the Board of Supervisors, we’re doing the work of treating and trying to prevent these crimes. Now, we need the help of the criminal justice system to hold drug dealers accountable who poison and murder our kids.

I finished out my day by attending the Orange County Fire Authority’s 15th Annual Best & Bravest Awards Ceremony and Reception. I was honored to celebrate our County’s brave firefighters!

That’s a wrap to this week – hope you have a lovely weekend! I know I’m ready for a break.

Be Well,

Katrina Foley
Supervisor
County of Orange

In This Edition

Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!

Tweet of the Week

Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting On May 9, 2023

Attend our 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 9, 2023 Board of Supervisors Meeting
View the Agenda: Here
See a list of our upcoming 2023 Board meetings: Here

California landslide halts rail service, homes evacuated

Landslide damages historic Casa Romantica in San Clemente, halts rail service in area

Landslide in San Clemente closes tracks on Metrolink and Amtrak

Hillside collapses under historic Casa Romantica in San Clemente

Landslide Behind South OC Historical Building Halts Train Service

Landslide at Casa Romantica Forces Closure, Red-Tagging of Properties

Dana Point Harbor Partners Discuss Revitalization Project During Town Hall

Orange County Supervisors Approve New Immigration Office

Housing developments could be delayed amid insurance struggles

OC housing projects stymied by rising fire insurance costs

Rail Service Halted Through San Clemente — Again

Dana Point Film Festival Celebrates the City’s Culture with Surf Film Lineup

ORANGE COUNTY POWER AUTHORITY FIRES CEO

Cindy Tran-Chang

Policy Advisor / Community Events Manager

Whew, this week flew on by, keeping me out and about and active in our Fabulous Fifth District! Last Saturday, our team participated in Earth Day activities in Costa Mesa and at the Upper Newport Back Bay, providing earthy friendly resources and fun activities for visitors at our booth.

On Wednesday, I attended the San Clemente Government and City Affairs meeting, where I presented ribbon cutting certificates to two new businesses in San Clemente – Jules Jones Mobile Notary and Nicole Frank, Realtor.

Today is the Grand Opening of Perspire Sauna Studio in San Clemente and Hom (a home decor, gifting and lifestyle boutique offering interior design services in Dana Point). Supervisor Foley is delighted to support and promote new and local businesses popping up in our district!

At the grand opening of Hom in Dana Point

Last night, I had the honor of representing Supervisor at the Heroes with Heart Awards gala hosted by Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) https://www.tiporangecounty.org/. Since 1995, TIP volunteers provide immediate assistance, practical resources, emotional support, compassion and care to those emotionally traumatized in emergency situations. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It was empowering to hear testimonial stories of those who received life altering support from TIP and to also recognize those volunteers who go above and beyond during times of crisis in people’s lives.

This Sunday from 9AM-4:00PM, we will be at the Redo Vintage and Maker’s Market Fair on Del Prado Avenue in Dana Point. Hope to see you there https://www.redomarket.com/!

Adam Tallabas

Policy Analyst / District Representative

Good afternoon, District 5! I began this week by attending & staffing our Dana Point Harbor Town Hall – which was an excellent event and a great chance for us to continue hearing from the community. On Wednesday, I attended the Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening for ActivCare Living in Laguna Hills, which is an assisted living facility for those suffering from chronic memory loss. The Laguna Hills community is so glad to have them not only taking care of their most vulnerable, but to be employing so many people & bringing jobs to the city.

Thursday, I also attended the Ribbon Cutting for GameCraft Brewing in Laguna Hills!

Later in the night, I went to the Evening with Mayor Richard Hurt to hear all about issues, accomplishments & community updates from the Mayor as well as being able to mingle with community members! On Friday, I visited TeWinkle Park in Costa Mesa to see a mallard that was tragically shot with a dart get a second chance at life!

This weekend, I will be at the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Van Expo! I hope to see you there.

Finally – we’re looking for volunteers to join flag installation efforts at William R. Mason Regional Park on Friday, June 9 from 5-8 PM. Please sign up through this link here.

Michele Mullen

District Representative

This week, I attended a ribbon cutting for a CMIT Solutions, a technology services company in IT Support, Cybersecurity, Compliance and Cloud services. Welcome to Newport Beach and congratulations!

Jonathan Davis

Policy Advisor

Hello! My name is Jonathan Davis. As a new addition to Supervisor Foley’s team, I just finished my first week of work in the office. Born and raised in Orange County, and most recently worked in Senator Tom Umberg’s Office and for the City of Anaheim, I’m looking forward to working with District 5. As a Policy Advisor, I’ll staff the supervisor on the Orange County Transportation Authority and issues related to OC Public Works, OC Waste & Recycling, the Clerk of the Board, State Legislative Affairs & Grants, and the various boards and commissions of the county.

I had a productive and exciting first week at work. I met with our team for onboarding and participated in a meeting with the Caltrans District 12 Director Ryan Chamberlain. During the meeting we discussed six different projects in District 5 that will reduce traffic, repair our infrastructure, and to make traveling in Orange County safer. Later in the week I participated in my first Board meeting and on Supervisor Foley’s working groups on the John Wayne Airport and Veterans and Housing. I can't wait to build memories with this office, and to get to work on behalf of this beautiful district.

Board of Supervisors Meeting Recap from Supervisor Foley

This past Tuesday we had an action-packed Board meeting where the county made progress on several important issues impacting the Fifth District. The Board voted to approve an application to the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program, which would allocate $1,000,000 in federal funding for flexible support on climate planning and implementation. This application marks a major milestone on an initiative I have been advancing since joining the Board, the development of a Climate Action Plan for Orange County. The Fifth District is a beautiful place to live, taking appropriate planning action on climate change is necessary to make sure that it remains that way for future generations.

We voted on the agreement to construct a new Laguna Woods Branch Library next to city hall. The Board also accepted a generous donation of $15,000 to the Laguna Beach Branch Library from the Hano Family Trust, which will support library resources, programming, and capital projects. Our libraries are important resources for the community, expanding free library services throughout our district is an important step towards accessibility for all.

Solving the homelessness and housing crises continue to be my top priority, and on Tuesday the Board of Supervisors voted to invest $10 million in Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) funding to the Orange County Housing Finance Trust which funds the development of affordable and supportive housing throughout the county. Orange County has built a robust continuum of care utilizing MHSA dollars, but mental and physical wellness begins when someone has a roof over their heads.

Orange County Registrar Bob Page also delivered an update to the Board on status and security of our county elections system. From ballot drop boxes to the signature verification process for ballots, the registrar outlined Orange County’s system for delivering fair and transparent local elections. Facilitating fair and transparent elections represents an essential tenant of our democracy, I thank Bob Page for coming by to emphasize the measures taken by Orange County to ensure just that.

The Board also voted to establish an Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs to better assist the immigrant and refugee populations of Orange County. In accordance with state and federal law, this office will serve as a central hub for the coordination of services, resources, and advocacy efforts for Orange County’s immigrant and refugee populations. The speakers in support shared many empowering stories of refugees who succeeded and contribute to our community here. Our county has taken an important step towards supporting our immigrant and refugee communities, and I look forward to witnessing the incredible work they will do.

Dana Point Harbor News

From Supervisor Katrina Foley

Following the Dana Point Harbor Town Hall, Supervisor Foley announced the launch of her Dana Point Harbor Advisory committee, which will consist of a large and small merchant, a boater or boater representative, and 2 members of the public. Ad hoc committee members will include the Mayor of Dana Point, Dana Point Harbor Partners, CEO Real Estate, representatives from public safety & the Ocean Institute. Members of the public are encouraged to apply here.

Health News

From OC Health Care Agency

Older Americans and people with weak immune systems can get an extra COVID-19 booster dose this spring. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday signed off on a more flexible booster schedule for people who remain at the highest risk from COVID-19 — giving them the choice of a second “bivalent” Pfizer or Moderna booster, the most up-to-date formula. 

“Many in the population are experiencing vaccine fatigue but there is a subset who are eager to receive additional doses,” CDC’s Dr. Sara Oliver told an agency advisory panel that expressed support for the change. 

The move came a day after the Food and Drug Administration took steps to make coronavirus vaccinations simpler for everyone. From now on, anyone getting a Pfizer or Moderna dose — whether it’s a booster or their first-ever vaccination — will get an updated version rather than the outdated original shots.  

Eligible Californians will be able to schedule an appointment either directly through their healthcare provider or by using the states online platform, MyTurn.ca.gov 

COVID-19 Data

As of April 29, 2023, the good news is that the COVID-19 cases are trending downward. There are 2,370,974 Orange County residents are fully vaccinated. The 7-day average positivity rate  in our County is 2.3 %. This equals out to 4 daily positive COVID cases per 100k residents.  

Community

Business Support

New Grant Funding for Restaurants in April 2023

$5,000 grants available for independent restaurants April 15 – May 7. Please sign up below to receive alerts and updates about this fund. Funding for grants made possible by SoCalGas, PG&E, and SDG&E

From Treasurer-Tax Collector Shari Freidenrich

April is Financial Literacy Month, and a great time to take advantage of free advice at ftc.gov/Money Matters. Federal Trade Commission data show people reported losing $8.8 billion to scams in 2022, up more than 30 percent from 2021. Money Matters has the tools we can all use to spot, avoid, and report scams, and help those we care about protect their bottom line. Read on to learn more.

Avoiding a Scam When You’re Looking for a JobThe financial impact of the pandemic is far-reaching. Many of us are still feeling it in many ways: in finding work, buying or renting a home, getting loans, and simply making ends meet. And, just as we’re working to regain our financial footing, scammers are trying to take advantage by stealing both money and personal information. The information at Money Matters is here when and where you need it, on your phone or computer, and includes articles, videos, graphics to share on social media, and PowerPoint presentations on these topics:

OC Animal Care

In our ongoing efforts to keep the shelters clear, starting this year, OCAC will waive fees for adult dogs over 25 pounds adopted by residents across Orange County! The normal adoption fee for adult dogs ranges from $100 - $200. Help our furry friends at the shelter find loving homes.  

Pet of the Week

Meet Pet of the Week, Pumba! Pumba is a Siberian Husky who came to OC Animal Care with open paws and a warm heart! This young pup has a lot of energy, enthusiasm, and love to give. At the shelter, he enjoys doggie-dates, pack walks with his buddies, and belly rubs and scratches by hoomans. On the weekends, you can find Pumba at Pooches on the Patio! This social butterfly loves all the attention that he can get and will do best in a home with plenty of space for playing, roaming, and exercising.

Looking for a pup that will melt your heart? Pumba is your boy! To adopt Pumba, call (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID#A1800831.

Tax Filing Deadline Extended to October 16, 2023

The IRS announced an extension to change the filing and payment deadlines to October 16, 2023 for victims of severe winter storms, flooding, and mudslides in California. This extension applies to individuals and businesses in Orange County! Learn more here.

April is National Donate Month!

"The Ultimate Act of Kindness: A Kidney Donor's Selfless Gift" is a heartwarming mini-documentary produced by DMA Media and Vikki Vargas in partnership with The Lifesavers Foundation of Orange County. Known for their superpower of storytelling, DMA Media and Vikki Vargas tell the powerful story of how lives are saved through living kidney donors and the unexpected need that The Lifesavers Foundation of Orange County is filling. The mini-documentary highlights the inspiring story of Heidi Miller, a remarkable 5'2" woman who donated her kidney to a stranger in need, and her selfless gift's impact on Bruce Cook, a 6'5" man who had been in dialysis and lost hope. The video also sheds light on The Lifesavers Foundation of Orange County and its mission to assist living organ donors financially. If you have a story you'd like to tell, please feel free to contact DMA Media and The Vargas Nason Group at aaparicio@dmamedia.tv and Vikki.Vargas@gmail.com. "We tell stories for a living."

Caltrans Update

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) owns or controls 350,000 acres of Right of Way and maintains 15,133 centerline miles of highway and 13,063 state highway bridges. Caltrans also inspects over 12,200 local bridges. You can request customer service from Caltrans through this link!

Register for Camp Newport

Welcome to Newport Beach where your child can enjoy the best Southern California has to offer. With hundreds of camps to choose from you’re invited to explore our shores in a sailing, surf, and bodyboarding camp, enjoy the breeze in a range of outdoor sports and active camps. Or embrace the shade in one of the many science, music, technology, and art camps awaiting you.

For more information, visit campnewport.com. The website is live and registration open. Remember, sign up by May 4 and receive a 10% or more discount on most camps!

Updates from the City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach Launches New Website to Help Homeowners Build Accessory Dwelling Units

The city launched a new website, at www.newportbeaca.gov/adu, to assist homeowners in constructing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on their properties. The user-friendly interface is designed to guide homeowners through multiple phases of the ADU process, from getting started through construction to renting out the ADU.

The site is a comprehensive resource that includes planning exercises, testimonials, the benefits of ADU construction, city incentives, financing options and more. A guidebook that includes most of the content from the website is also available to download and print.

The site can be accessed at https://newportbeachca.gov/adu.

Save the Date: May 13 is Public Safety Day

Please join the city of Newport Beach for Public Safety Day, Saturday, May 18 from 12-3 p.m. at Fire Station 3 and the Police Station at 868 Santa Barbara Drive.

Meet and Greet with lifeguards, S.W.A.T., paramedics, C.S.I., C.E.R.T., the K9 unit, dispatch, the mounted unit, animal control and fire & crime prevention. Included will be live police and fire demonstrations, activities for the kids, station tours, food and much more.

For more information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 949.644.3005.

Be Well Mobile Crisis Response Update

The Be Well mobile crisis response team operates in Newport Beach 12 hours a day, seven days a week to respond to mental and behavioral health crises. The mobile unit is staffed with mental health specialists and EMTs, and works closely with the city’s police and fire departments.

To reach Be Well: The mobile crisis team is dispatched through the Newport Beach Police Department. To request service, dial 911, or call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 949.644.3717.

Substance Abuse Resource

Detox.com’s mission is to provide the best free resources for people to find self-help with substance abuse through detox and other mental health strategies. Check out their website for more information!

OC Alert

Sign up for AlertOC to get notified in case of emergency in Orange County. The mass notification system is designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed in the event of a time-sensitive emergency. YOU MUST OPT IN TO RECEIVE ALERTS. Register today at AlertOC.org.

Appointments for Veterans Services

OC Workforce Solutions

Ready Set OC offers no-cost employment training for Orange County youth ages 14-24, including those with disabilities or IEP plans, former or current foster children, pregnant or parenting, offender/ex-offender, and those experiencing homelessness, including couch-surfing or at risk of homelessness.

To find out more information, call the OC Business and Economic Recovery Call Center at (714) 480-6500 or text (657) 210-1295. Email info@readysetoc.com

Equity in OC

Are you in charge of a grassroots organization? the Equity in OC initiative is releasing a POWER BUILDING FUND to provide smaller, grassroots organizations with the opportunity to build their infrastructure and/or capacity

Learn More: Here

Team Foley is NOW HIRING!

Supervisor Katrina Foley seeks an experienced Executive Scheduler & Special Assistant
to manage the daily schedule for the Supervisor, including creating and maintaining systems to effectively manage a complex and active schedule.

Under the direct supervision of the Supervisor and in coordination with the Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff, the Executive Scheduler will be responsible for working closely with senior staff to understand the priorities of the office and determine the appropriate level of participation by Supervisor Foley and/or staff at meetings, events, and tours.

Essential Job Duties and Requirements:

Possess a very high level of organization, time management and confidentiality
Address all scheduling requests in a timely manner and coordinate complex
scheduling arrangements for meetings.
Have demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and handle stress.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including night and weekends.
Provide administrative support as necessary for the office.
Coordinate and arrange meetings for the Supervisor and prepare materials as
required.
Represent the office of the Supervisor in a professional manner in all interactions
with the public, city staff, dignitaries and others.

Learn more & Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Chief of Staff Nick Anas at nick.anas@ocgov.com with the subject “Executive Scheduler Application."