|
|
| Volume 3 | Issue 20 |
May 19, 2023 |
|
|
Dear neighbor:
We enjoyed another beautiful week of work in the Fabulous Fifth District!
I enjoyed this Mother’s Day weekend supporting the USA Jumping team & Blenheim EquiSports at the FEI Nations Cup held right here at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano. Congrats to Team USA! I loved learning about the sport, meeting the riders, coaches, course designers, organizers, sponsors, and volunteers. And sharing time with lots of moms and their kids. My friends Flashback Heart Attack even joined in the fun! Good luck Team USA at the Barcelona FEI Nations Cup. We will be watching.
|
 Did you know last weekend was the first time the West Coast hosted the FEI Nation’s Cup? Large sporting events such as this attract as many as 220,000 attendees. Consequently, attendees strengthen our local economy with their annual off-site spending exceeding as much as $52 million. I look forward to more opportunities for Orange County to host fun events like this.
  Over the weekend, I also presented MOMS OC with $450,000 to support their work to empower moms and families. My office intends to partner with incoming Board Chair Dr. Allyson Brooks of Hoag Hospital to improve the access to maternal care and resources for financially insecure women.
 On Tuesday, I held a meeting with CBRE on their new Civic Engagement tool. They shared detailed information about the status of Fifth District businesses and the types of industry that uplift our economy.
 Following that meeting, I met with representatives from various Asian American and Pacific Islander organizations. We discussed how we can work together to ensure the AAPI community in Orange County has a seat at the table when it comes to discussions of the master plan for aging, housing projects, county services, and ways to combat Asian hate.
 To end my day, I met with Irvine City Manager Oliver Chi. We talked about ways to improve the Orange County Library system, the status of the Great Park redevelopment, and supports for the city with the fire insurance issue impacting Orange County.
 Wednesday morning, I joined Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer and local police chiefs for a press conference, where District Attorney Spitzer announced 140 charges in Orange County – at least 20 linked to Chilean transnational crime ring. He also announced for the first time, that he will pursue hate crime sentencing enhancements for criminals who deliberately burglarized Asian American homeowners.
 Robbers are much more brazen. As County Supervisor, I remain committed to making sure the District Attorney’s office, Orange County Sheriff and Local Law Enforcement partners receive the tools, equipment and resources needed to prosecute these crimes and to keep our neighborhoods safe.
In the meantime, homeowners must remain vigilant. Here are some tips to stay safe:
-
Always lock your doors, when leaving your home, even if only for a moment. And keep your garage doors closed when it does not need to be open.
-
Keep an eye out for suspicious people knocking on doors. They may be checking whether someone is home.
-
Law enforcement will tell you, good lighting can deter crime, so keep your front porch and exteriors well-lit.
-
If you spot a suspicious vehicle, write down the license plate.
-
Do not a leave a house key hidden outside the home.
-
Start a neighborhood watch.
 Afterwards, I went to the Santa Ana River Jetty Salt Marsh for a site meeting with staff from OC Public Works, the Army Corps of Engineers, and residents to discuss solutions to sediment buildup and future maintenance needs.
 Next, I attended a site visit with OC Public Works staff and staff from the City of Costa Mesa to discuss the potential of transforming a section of county flood control property into a multi purpose trail for residents. If completed, cyclists and pedestrians will benefit from this project, connecting bike lanes on Bristol Street to bike lanes on Fairview Road in Costa Mesa.
 I finished out my day at the Costa Mesa Chamber 44th Annual Les Miller Awards where we celebrated the achievements of Costa Mesa’s outstanding high school seniors and local college students. Congratulations to the honorees!
 On Thursday, I attended a meeting with the Irvine Company. They shared the company’s unique perspective on Orange County’s past, present, and future, and the creative ways the Irvine Company is approaching the housing crisis.
I then received an update from county staff on their progress with the County Master Plan on Aging. Back in December, the Board of Supervisors approved a contract with Advance OC to identify and prioritize our aging population’s needs and factors affecting their health. This allows the County and our staff to understand the holistic needs of our aging population and provide the framework for our Master Plan for Aging.
The Orange County Office of Aging is the lead advocate for approximately 600,000 seniors 60 years and older residing in the county, with a specific focus on low-income ethnic minorities. With the high population of seniors living in the Fifth District, I remain committed to ensuring our elderly neighbors continue to receive the care, attention, and resources they need.
That afternoon I met with mobile home park residents concerned about the possibility of the sale and conversion of their affordable homes.
 I spent my evening at the OC Fair and Event Center for Share Our Selves Taco Night. The proceeds and sponsorships from this event allow Share Our Selves to continue providing medical care, dental care, and supportive services throughout our community. When we lift up our most vulnerable residents like Share Our Selves has done every single day for the last 53 years, we’re all better off.
An update on the OC ACCESS strike: on Thursday afternoon, OC ACCESS drivers ratified a labor agreement with their employer TransDev to end the OC ACCESS strike. OC ACCESS service will resume on Monday. With the announced end to the strike, Same-Day Taxi service and OC ACCESS subscription service will resume, as well as full service for OC Flex, OCTA’s on-demand micro-transit service operating in Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo and Aliso Viejo.
Friday morning began with a meeting to discuss the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting with county staff. We will vote on contracts to continue critical medical services, mental health services, crisis stabilization services, and more. Make sure you tune in on Tuesday morning at 9 AM here.
Then I received a briefing from multiple county department directors on Orange County’s seven-year Capital Improvement Program, which is the work plan for addressing infrastructure in a sustainable, financially responsible way through 2030. The Board is scheduled to approve the program at our June 6, 2023 meeting—stay tuned for more updates.
I met with Assemblywoman Laurie Davies this afternoon to discuss how we can continue to work together to serve our constituents. Our offices work together to address the coastal erosion impacts on our rail corridor and I look forward to our continued partnership.
This weekend, meet Team Foley at Aquafest in Dana Point! To recognize National Safe Boating Week, AquaFest will showcase the public access boating, recreation, and community programs offered at the OC Sailing & Events Center, and public access educational boating programs throughout Dana Point Harbor. Check it out!
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!
|
|
Cindy Tran-Chang
Policy Advisor / Community Events Manager
On Monday, I attended the Ladera Ranch Civic Council meeting and provided an update on the work Supervisor Foley and the County are doing to address the safety and enforcement concerns surrounding e-bikes. Supervisor Foley will continue to collaborate with stakeholders including California Highway Patrol, Ladera Ranch Maintenance Corporation (LARMAC), Ladera Ranch Community Services (LARS), Orange County Public Works, Capistrano Unified School District and public officials to address this priority area.
On Thursday, I joined the Supervisor and County team for a status update on the Master Plan for Aging. We discussed collaboration opportunities and shared resources to maximize efforts for the Supervisor’s Senior Summit planned for late October. I also attended the Compassion with Action’s “A Night to Shine” event to better understand the impact of human trafficking on women, children and our local community. My work in this area will include researching into the prevalence and target areas within the fifth district to shed light on the severity of this issue.
I am also finalizing the paperwork for Supervisor Foley’s fiscal year-end sponsorships and preparing our office for booths at summer concerts and movies in the park, farmers market events in Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo and other neat, summer outdoor events! We hope to catch up with you at one of our events!
|
Adam Tallabas
Policy Analyst / District Representative
Good Afternoon, District 5! On Tuesday, I joined the Supervisor for an AAPI Community Meeting where community stakeholders such as Marshallese Youth of Orange County, Pacific Island Health Partnership, Viet Rainbow OC, Korean Community Services, among many others were able to voice their concerns with the state of AAPI issues and advocacy in the County.
|
 On Wednesday, I attended the San Juan Capistrano Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Committee Luncheon where I gave updates on the status of train service in San Juan Capistrano. Currently, Amtrak & Metrolink end at Laguna Niguel station, but we successfully worked with Metrolink & OCTA to add weekend service to San Juan Capistrano. The Supervisor also recently voted at OCTA to double the amount of Amtrak rides to San Juan Capistrano throughout the week. On Saturday, I will attend the Pacific Chorale Reception & Gala with the Supervisor!
Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! I started off my week by coordinating with our federal and state partners, first by meeting with representatives from Senator Diane Feinstein’s Office. We discussed debt limit negotiations, the LOSSAN Rail Corridor, and OC’s Housing Choice Voucher Program. Later, I attended various briefings with state agencies on Governor’s Newsom’s May Revision and how Sacramento’s funding plan will impact our local programs.
Later in the week I toured the Santa Ana River Marsh and Seminouk Slough area with the supervisor, our OC Public Works staff, and residents to discuss how future maintenance projects can help keep the area clean and clear. In the same day I also toured another flood control area in the City of Costa Mesa to discuss how that county property can be transformed into a bike path for our residents. Our team looks forward to working with the city on transforming this vision into a reality.
I ended my week by preparing for our next Orange County Transportation Authority meeting on Monday May 22, 2023 starting at 9:00 AM. Tune in to hear an update on various I-5 improvements in south Orange County. Have a great weekend, everyone.
|
Kimberlee Belli
Scheduler / Office Manager / District Representative
This past Monday, I represented Supervisor Katrina Foley at the Laguna Woods Community Bridge Builders Meeting, which focused on the story of Jeff Schoep. Over 200 residents attended while the room fell silent through his story. He discussed how he got involved in the largest neo-Nazi organization, National Socialist Movement, ultimately leading the hate group, and eventually left through the help of others after 20 years of involvement. His story proves people CAN change, together we can root out hate from our community, and we can help others to do the same.
Our office is busy planning the Senior Summit, which is scheduled this year for Friday, October 27th at Soka University. There will be a number of booths with helpful information including emergency preparedness, prevention of financial crimes, elder abuse, health related support and much more. If you are interested, we are always looking for volunteers. Please email me Kimberlee.Belli@ocgov.com.
|
Lorenzo Rubalcava
Senior Policy Advisor
This week I focused on diving into the county policy and procedures by reviewing contracts due for renewal this fiscal year. I worked with Health Care Administration staff to identify key metrics of our current contracts and plan for how to better evaluate county programs. Near the end of the week, I met with Supervisor Foley, Social Services Administration, and the CEOs office to review the In-Home Supportive Services Program (IHSS). We discussed various ways California and county governments can improve IHSS wages for workers while saving Orange County money.
Meet Our New Interns!
 Grace McNeill
My name is Grace McNeill and I was born and raised in Orange County’s 5th district. I recently completed my first year at Loyola Marymount University where I am studying Political Science. I am hoping to go into a career in political communications, specifically working on campaign digital marketing. I was excited to intern because of Supervisor Foley’s work to help small businesses, specifically led by women in Orange County. I am excited to work in the Supervisor’s office this Summer!
My name is Claire McCarthy and I just finished my sophomore year at Arizona State University where I study Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice. My family and I recently moved to Orange County from Tucson, Arizona and I am so glad to now be part of this community. I joined Supervisor Katrina Foley’s team because I was inspired to use my passion for criminal justice to help give a voice to those who need it. Because of my studies in criminology, I have taken an interest in the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council and hope to be able to contribute to this meaningful cause. I am very excited to be a part of this team and for what we will accomplish.
Dana Point Harbor News
From Supervisor Katrina Foley
The Building Official has issued the Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) for Phase 2 of the Marina Improvement Project. This means the docks are ready for occupants and the Marina team can start the process of moving tenants into these new slips. The Phase 2 docks include three West Basin Docks: W9, W8, and W7.
In addition, DPHP has commenced work on Phase 4 of the Marina Improvement Project. Phase 4 is located in the East Basin, next to Island Way and includes ADA docks (See below). This phase includes improvements totaling almost $8 million.
The Marina Improvement Project is making great progress with 100% of the new docks opening since I began serving the Fifth District.
Health News
From OC Health Care Agency
COVID-19 Data
As of May 15, 2023, the good news is that the COVID-19 cases are trending downward. There are 2,371,579 Orange County residents are fully vaccinated. The 7-day average positivity rate (May 18, 2023) in our County is 3.5%. This equals out to 1.9 daily positive COVID cases per 100k residents.
#OnePillCanKill: Fentanyl Awareness Campaign
Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can kill you, whether swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through skin. Fentanyl is unlike any substance we have seen, and dealers are intentionally making this poison look like candy. As County Supervisor, you have my word that I will continue to support efforts to address the fentanyl epidemic in our community and hold criminals accountable for murdering our kids. Watch the press conference to learn more.
E-Bike Safety
 
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
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, Fredrick!
Fredrick was discovered as a stray at a local mall. Although his past is a complete mystery, what we do know is that he is a gentle soul.
While a majority of huskies are full of energy, Fredrick's calm and peaceful nature truly sets him apart! He enjoys long walks where he can explore the world at his own pace. Once home, Fredrick will nestle right in between your legs and patiently wait for pets. Fredrick is searching for a patient and understanding family who will give him the time and space he needs to build confidence and feel secure.
This shy boy may take a little time to warm up, but once he trusts you, he becomes a loyal and loving companion. If you're looking for a gentle and serene friend for life, please call (714) 935-6848, and mention Animal ID#A1799470.
BenefitsCal
 Last month, Orange County officially switched over to a new benefits enrollment portal called BenefitsCal. This new website replaces the former portal, MyBenefitsCalWIN, as a new simple way for our residents to apply for, view and renew benefits for health coverage, food and cash assistance. Households interested in applying for benefits assistance can now create an account at www.BenefitsCal.com and submit their application or link their old MyBenefitsCalWIN case to their account. For more information about BenefitsCal, including new features and capabilities, click here.
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.
May is Small Business Month!
May is “Small Business Month" in the state of California, but let’s support small businesses everyday. Did you know that 95% of businesses in Orange County are family owned? The many incredible small businesses here not only make our economy flourish, but contribute to the great sense of community in OC.
Memorial Day 2023 Events
Dana Point and Laguna Beach will both host ceremonies in honor of Memorial Day on May 29, 2023.
- VFW Post 9934 will hold their Dana Point ceremony at 10 am at Pines Park, 34941 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Beach.
-
American Legion Post 222 will hold their Laguna Beach ceremony at 11 am at Heisler Park 375 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach.
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!
OC Parks is Hiring!
OCTA Public Hearing - June 12
The Orange County Transportation Authority Board of Directors will conduct a Public Hearing concerning the Orange County Transportation Authority’s Proposed Fiscal Year 2023-24 Budget as follows:
Monday, June 12, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
Orange County Transportation Authority Headquarters
550 S. Main St, Orange, CA 92863
Board Room – Conference Room 07-08
All persons having interest in these matters are encouraged to submit public comments to the Board of Directors by Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.
Please submit them to clerkoffice@octa.net or:
Orange County Transportation Authority
Please contact the Clerk of the Board with any questions regarding this hearing or any requests for special accommodations no less than two business days prior to the hearing at clerkoffice@octa.net or 714.560.5676.
Mesmerica - OC Planetarium Show
A local production company based out of Orange County, Mesmerica, is currently hosting a show at the OCC Planetarium! Stop by for a chance to view the extremely relaxing 3D art and family show. Check out the following link to get 15% off tickets to the show!
 
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
Committee Appointments
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
|
|
Thank you for being an active member of our County.
Please share this newsletter with family and friends!
Follow us and be the first to know about important announcements in your community!
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
@SupervisorFoley
|
|
|
|
|
