Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
OCTA offers options for getting around Orange County, including bus routes, rail systems and ride share programs. For routes and schedules, visit OCTA’s website by clicking here. OCTA also offers discounts for a variety of riders, including seniors, individuals with a disability, kids under the age of 18 and college students. Find out if you are eligible for a discounted pass now. Public transportation is an affordable and reliable option for making your commute. Explore OCTA's options today!
Have a great weekend, everyone.
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Alejandro Santiago Ortega
Executive Aide
Hola, everyone! Another beautiful week in the amazing D5. This week, I joined the UNIDOS gala in celebration of leaders who positively impact and help those in San Juan Capistrano most in need. Learn more about their work here. As I continue my work around San Juan Capistrano, I want to share with you all a piece of Orange County history: long before Orange County became the home we know today, the Acjachemen people lived in this area for over 10,000 years. Today, they continue celebrating their traditions and celebrating their history. Learn more about them here.
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Dixie Samaniego
District Representative - Costa Mesa and Irvine
Hola D5 community! This past Tuesday the Supervisor and I attended the grand opening of Mercado Gonzalez, the almost 70,000 square foot food market, in Costa Mesa. This mercado is inspired by Mexican mercados and will provide residents of Costa Mesa a unique connection to Mexican culture through innovative eateries that partner with street vendors and culinary entrepreneurs in the community. We enjoyed touring the eateries and delicious Mexican food and live music. Visit the Mercado at: 2300 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa when it opens today!
This week our office began to prepare for meal distributions for families experiencing homelessness and foster care in our D5 community. We are working with our partners to distribute hundreds of meals and resources to families in need this holiday season.
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
Greetings, District Five! I look forward to continuing the holiday spirit this winter, planning logistics as our office prepares for the Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk and the Newport Beach Boat Parade. I always enjoy the opportunity to get more involved in my assigned city of Newport Beach and meet with our constituency. Both events are available to the public free of charge, with festivities for people of all ages. Hope to see you there!
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Hi D5! This week, I assisted with providing updates on the Tustin Hangar Fire. Supervisor Foley encourages emergency fostering of local animal shelter pets.
OC Animal Care currently cares for 300 dogs. In an abundance of caution related to the ongoing fire, these dogs currently spend time indoors, and can no longer go out for walks or play outside. Fostering dogs lightens the load for OCAC in providing the attentive, quality care these animals deserve.
Community members can also help by donating Kong toys to keep the dogs occupied while indoors in their shelter kennel. The OC Animal Care shelter accepts donations in person daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. or through their Amazon Wishlist.
OC Animal Care provides many resources for pet owners who may be struggling with caring for their pet at this time. For anyone who has found or lost a pet, see these education tips.
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Sanah Akbari
Policy Intern
Happy Friday, District 5! Last week, I staffed the Career Fair where a variety of job seekers and employers connected. I enjoyed meeting many of the veterans who attended the career fair and honor their service to the country. Orange County Workforce Solutions Centers also offered workshops on professional skills like resume writing to the community members that attended. By making these skills more accessible, we bridge the gap so that everyone receives a fair and equal opportunity to develop their career. Find more information about the Career Fair linked here.
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Nathan Bui
Communications Intern
On a similar note, the County of Orange is hiring election workers for the upcoming 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Pay starts at more than $20 an hour! Visit ocgov.com/jobs and search the term “Elections” to get started.
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Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee Report from Secretary Dennis Parks
The monthly meeting of the DPHOAC was held at the Orange County Sailing and Events Center Wednesday, November 1, 2023. It was a fitting venue as one of the primary agenda items was how the center could better serve the Orange County public and what resources it would take to make that happen. Supervisor Foley in her update to the committee reported that she and her team have requested a “Boaters Access” $3.4 million dollar grant from the California State Department of Harbors and Waterways to help fund the infrastructure needs of the Orange County side of the harbor revitalization of which the Sailing and Event Center is a key componentRead more.
Dana Point Harbor Lights
Themed light exhibits now decorate the Harbor include a giant whale sculpture, lighted palm trees, giant beach-ball-like ornaments, the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and much more. Check it out this holiday season!
From the Marina
On the Docks
Things are going very well on the docks! Our mighty maintenance team continues to perform dock and facility maintenance in order of priority. We walk docks regularly to scope out needed repairs or issues. We also appreciate hearing from you should you see something needing our attention. Please call the office or stop by, (949) 496-6137. Read more.
Marina Revitalization
With Phase 3 ready for occupancy on November 1st, we are officially 20% complete of the 15-phase marina project. This is great progress and very exciting! The docks, walkways and signage in Phase 3 is stunning and we are thrilled to start bringing boats in. As was announced in our September newsletter, there will be over 80 boats coming into Phase 3 off the slip waiting lists. This has been so much fun and so exciting to reach out to these folks that have been waiting for 10-20 years for an opportunity to boat in Dana Point Harbor. We are excited to welcome all tenants, new and old, to the Dock of the Green Lantern on November 1st! Read more.
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
With COVID-19 continuing to affect the community, preventive measures and mitigation strategies are strongly recommended. Vaccines and testing also continue to play an important role. Read more here.
Tustin Hangar Health Update
Asbestos has been identified in the debris related to the Tustin Hangar fire incident. Avoid touching or disturbing debris related to the fire.
For residents in the immediate areas:
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Keep windows and doors closed
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Remove shoes before entering the home
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Turn on indoor Air Purifiers
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Keep Air Conditioning units, HVAC systems, Swamp Coolers and Whole house fans off to minimize drawing outside air in.
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If you have a pet, minimize outdoor activity. Reduce your exposure outdoors.
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Avoid touching debris
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If your skin, eyes or mouth inadvertently come into contact with debris, wash thoroughly as soon as you can.
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Limit or avoid activities that will displace debris related to the fire. (Example- Avoid sweeping, landscaping, leaf blowing, mowing, gardening) Avoid outdoor activities (exercise, running, cycling, basketball, soccer, etc.), yard furniture and play equipment until advised otherwise.
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Avoid temporarily closed areas (parks, schools).
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If you must go outdoors in the immediate area, P100 respirators offer greater protection than well fitted N95 masks.
- Seek medical attention if you have any medical concerns.
Ocean Recreational Water Update
Ocean Water Warning removed from:
Newport Bay:
Laguna Beach – From the projection of Bluebird Canyon to 300 feet upcoast of Bluebird Canyon
Dana Point Harbor – All of Baby Beach
Dana Point – 300 feet in front of the snack bar at Doheny State Beach
Ocean Water Advisory Warning removed from:
Laguna Beach – 150 feet at the drain/ocean interface at Diver’s Cove
However, the current rain advisory remains in effect for all Orange County ocean, harbor, and bay waters.
Read more.
E-Bikes
During the past several years, Orange County has seen an increase in the number and variety of e-bikes on roads and on paths. Over this time, OCTA has expanded its role to coordinate efforts regionally, monitor e-bike use and trends, and provide safety information to e-bike riders.
OCTA has a webpage dedicated to e-bike resources and safety information, which includes a database listing local bike and e-bike ordinances. To further promote safe and courteous e-bike riding, OCTA is also developing a series of videos about e-bike safety aimed at teen riders. The first video was a partnership with local influencer Goodboy Noah and other videos will be rolled out in the months ahead.
OCTA has also been hosting quarterly e-bike coordination meetings with partner agencies from around the county. These meetings allow the group to exchange ideas and coordinate resources with the goal of keeping people safe and connected in Orange County. At the same time, OCTA is also developing its e-bike safety action plan, which is expected to be finalized by December 2024. This plan will provide recommendations centered around educating the public about safely riding e-bikes and policy approaches to encourage safe e-bike riding.
More information about OCTA's efforts is available at www.octa.net/ebike.
Planksgiving Challenge
Don’t forget, this month we celebrate #Planksgiving! For the month of November, I invite you to participate in my Planksgiving challenge! Each day, track your plank progress and write down one thing you’re thankful for. Post photos of your planking and caption them with your gratefulness, tagging @SupervisorFoley and #Planksgiving. Submit your completed challenge sheet to Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com by December 5, 2023 for a chance to win a $100 grocery gift card. I look forward to seeing your submissions!
METROLINK UPDATE
Governor Newsom announced that the Interstate 10 (I-10) Freeway is expected to open on Tuesday. The repairs to the freeway are being completed far quicker than initially expected. Following this announcement, Metrolink advised that no additional train service would be provided on the OC Line.
OCTA 405 Express Lanes - Which Transponder is Right for You?
We are very excited to share that drivers on I-405 are about to see their commute improve as two new regular lanes and the 405 Express Lanes are expected to open to traffic December 1, 2023 as part of OCTA's 405 Improvement Project. For more info, visit: bit.ly/405opening
Learn which FasTrak transponder is right for you by reviewing the flyer below.
OCTA TransitVision
Share your thoughts on transit recommendations in Orange County! Learn about current local and future transportation plans while making your voice heard 🚗Take the survey and find more info at: OCTA TVMP Survey - English (typeform.com)
OCTA Free Hikes & Equestrian Rides
Orange County is home to some of the most beautiful protected wilderness areas in the country. Experience and enjoy the natural landscape with OCTA's free docent-led hikes and equestrian rides!
Lace up your hiking shoes or saddle up your horse, and sign up for a free hike or equestrian ride today. Come see Orange County as it was yesterday, and as it will be tomorrow.
OC Animal Care
Through Kennel Connection, visitors can view ready-to-adopt pets right in their kennels every Wednesday and Saturday. No appointment needed to walk through. One-on-one visits available on a first come, first serve basis.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pets of the Week, Teemu and Tonka!
Teemu and Tonka are the dynamic duo in search of their forever home! These charming pups ventured into the shelter hand in paw, and now they're hoping for a loving family that will adopt them together.
Teemu and Tonka are strong, playful pups who love roaming around the yard and playing ball! They were stars during Pooches on the Patio, proving they are great around other dogs and people. Their bond is unbreakable, and their love is palpable. If you would like to adopt these two best friends, please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1818654 & A1818653.
(Image: Teemu and Tonka is looking for a home!) Please visit our Pet Adoptions page to see more adoptable pets.
Help Promote Our Pet of the Week! Download this flyer to print, post or share at your work, school, or on Facebook.
OC Workforce One-Stop: OPEN NOW!
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
From Shari Freidenrich, Orange County Treasurer
I am pleased to announce that Fitch Ratings has assigned the Orange County Treasurer’s Pool (OCTP) its highest available credit quality rating of ‘AAAf’, as well as a Fund Market Risk Sensitivity Rating of ‘S1’ for variable net asset pools. The AAAf rating indicates that the OCTP meets the highest underlying credit quality, while the S1 denotes a very low sensitivity to market risk and changes in interest rates. As per the Investment Policy Statement, the objectives for public fund investing are the safety of capital, maintenance of sufficient liquidity to meet cash flow requirements and lastly, achievement of a market rate of return yield commensurate with the risk profile and cash flow needs within budgetary and economic cycles.
This Fitch rating is an important and critical independent evaluation that affirms our commitment to protect the public funds that the Board has delegated to the Treasurer. This rating also represents additional independent oversight on this delegation in addition to the annual compliance audit and other oversight that the Treasury Oversight Committee monitors. I appreciate the support of the Board of Supervisors and the Treasury Oversight Committee since I have been in office and especially during the time that I have been working with my team of professionals to get the entire pooled funds rated. We join several other Counties who have also received this highest available credit rating including the County of San Diego, the County of Riverside and the County of San Bernardino.
Review of the Treasurer's Schedule of Assets
The Orange County Auditor-Controller released an internal audit of the Treasurer's Schedule of Assets as of December 31, 2022. Click here to read the whole report.
The annual 2023-2024 Secured Property Tax bills have been mailed to the owners of record on the most recent tax roll and are now available to view, print or pay online at octreasurer.com/octaxbill. We encourage all property owners to join the over 580,000 taxpayers who paid online last year using eCheck, which is a no-cost payment option utilizing the taxpayer’s bank account. Payments made online through our website provide the taxpayer with same-day credit and an emailed receipt which can be printed for their records. The first installment of the 2023-2024 Secured Property Tax bills is due on November 1, 2023 and will become delinquent if not paid by December 11, 2023. Payments made or postmarked after December 11, 2023 will be assessed a 10% delinquency penalty. Taxpayers may sign up to receive payment reminders at octreasurer.com/securedreminders.
Please contact Treasurer Freidenrich at treasurer@ttc.ocgov.com if you have any questions.
Federal Updates on Government Funding and SONGS
Last night President Biden signed the spending bill passed by the House and Senate into law, averting a shutdown ahead of tonight’s deadline. Congress will recess this evening for Thanksgiving and will return to Washington on November 27.
When Congress returns, negotiations will resume to pass a proper spending bill. For non-controversial agency/department funding, Congress will have until January 19. All other agencies/departments are funded until February 2. Spending cuts desired by House Republicans and funding for Ukraine and Israel will be the largest points of contention in avoiding another shutdown showdown in the new year.
The Continuing Resolution signed by President Biden funds departments until the following dates:
Funded until January 19:
- Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration
- Military Construction and Department of Veterans Affairs
- Department of Energy and water agencies
- Department of Transportation and Department of Housing and Urban Development
Funded until February 2:
- All other departments/agencies
Dana Point Turkey Trot
The 46th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot is almost here! This fun-filled Thanksgiving Day tradition draws crowds, fun and festivity to Dana Point Harbor on Thursday, November 23, 2023. If you plan on participating in the Turkey Trot or visiting Dana Point Harbor on Thanksgiving Day, please take note of the following road closures and timing on Thursday, November 23, 2023:
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Both sides of Dana Point Harbor Drive will close from Golden Lantern to Casitas Pl from 12:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
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Southbound Golden Lantern from Del Prado to Dana Point Harbor Drive will close from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
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Dana Point Harbor Drive from Golden Lantern to PCH (eastbound) will close from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
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Dana Point Harbor Drive from Island Way (bridge) to the Ocean Institute will close from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
No vehicle access into or out of the harbor areas, including boater lots from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023.
No access to Embarcadero dry storage and launch ramp from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
Run the race before you stuff your face! Registration is OPEN for the 46th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot. Click HERE for more information or to register for the 10k, 5k or Kid’s Gobble Wobble!
America Recycles Day at Dana Point Harbor
America Recycles Day is Sunday, November 19, 2023 and Stand up to Trash has a lot of fun planned for their Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn! The Beach Cleanup will occur from 9 -- 10:30 AM, and Lunch & Learn from 10:30 – 11 AM.
Art Contest: Using the items found from your own beach, park or neighborhood cleanup get crafty, creative and help us raise awareness about recycling and plastic pollution!
See flyer below with all the details or click HERE to register to participate and celebrate America Recycles Day!
Corona Del Mar Village Kicks Off the Holiday Season in Grand Tradition at the 44th Annual Christmas Walk - December 3
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On Sunday, Dec 3rd the community at large will gather together to celebrate the joyous holiday season at the 44th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk.
The pioneer event presented by the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce
expects to attract generations of families, friends and neighbors for a stroll throughout the charming village of Corona del Mar this Sunday to celebrate local business and kick off the holiday season.
Every street corner from Avocado Avenue to Poppy Avenue will include talented musical entertainers, street performers, character artists, Santa visits, a beer & wine garden, restaurant parties, and merchant celebrations both small and large.
The event supports local business, CdM marketing projects, events and community spirit. A special thanks to our sponsoring partners, volunteer teams, and the Newport Beach Police Department for their kind assistance.
The Christmas Walk is free and open to the public from 11am-4pm. For more information please visit www.Cdmchamber.com.
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Capistrano Lights - Beginning December 2!
Holidays at The Inn
The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection will host a series of events celebrating the holiday season from December 2 - 31, 2023! ✨
See which event catches your eye and find more details by visiting https://event.marriott.com/snaak-inn-at-the-mission-san-juan-capistrano-autograph-collection/events?_ga=2.16144435.403215528.1700241982-108842275.1700241982#page-3 for more information!
OC Waste and Recycling
Are you an Orange County resident trying to dispose of bulky items like old refrigerators and appliances but not sure how? Start by checking with your local waste hauler. Many haulers offer free bulky item pickups. For information on local haulers and recycling coordinators visit OCLandfills.com/quick-links.
⏰Time for yardwork? OC Waste and Recycling offers free compost and mulch by appointment to OC residents! Schedule a pick up appointment in Irvine or San Juan Capistrano (free compost coming to Brea soon).
🌱Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano is expanding its hours - compost is now available six days a week, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment.
🌱Free compost is also available at the Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. by appointment.
For more information on Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano, Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine and Valencia Greenery in Brea, along with details on small and large quantities of compost, visit OCLandfills.com/compost.
From the Anti-Defamation League
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Annual Audit of Antisemitism 2022 Each year, ADL tracks incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assault in the US. 2023 data shows alarming increases across the board.
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Hate in the Golden State Over the past two years, California has dealt with a significant increase in extremist activity driven by a variety of factors. This report will explore the range of extremist groups and movements operating in California and highlight the key extremist and antisemitic trends and incidents in the state throughout 2021 and 2022. It also includes especially noteworthy events and incidents from 2023.
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ADL and GLAAD Report: Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate and Extremism Incidents, 2022-2023 Between June 2022 and April 2023, ADL and GLAAD documented at least 356 anti-LGBTQ+ extremist and non-extremist incidents motivated by hate across the United States. Incidents about anti-LGBTQ+ hate and extremism are an important part of a larger story about the heightened threats facing the LGBTQ+ community in the US today.
OC Parks is Hiring!
OC Parks Ranger
Park Rangers play an important role in protecting Orange County’s 60,000 acres of parks, open space and beaches. They work hard to keep parks safe, clean and enjoyable for 15 million visitors each year. Learn more here.
OC Parks Rangers are sworn peace officers and perform a wide variety of duties at different types of facilities, including regional and wilderness parks, camping parks and beaches. Candidates will be required to participate in a written test, oral interviews and a comprehensive background investigation that includes medical and physiological examinations. Successful candidates will join a high performing team that serves our communities seven days a week.
OC Parks Maintenance Workers
The Park Maintenance Worker I position performs routine unskilled and semiskilled grounds maintenance, landscape, and facility maintenance, along with repair work.
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!
BenefitsCal
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.
Explore the Ocean from the Water!
Join the Ocean Institute for a 2-hour interactive kayak tour around the Dana Point harbor. Learn about the history of the harbor and its unique ecosystem from expert Naturalists. All experience levels are welcome!
Must be at least 3 years old to participate. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Learn more here.
Orange County Resources
UPDATED LINK: Alert OC
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 this link!
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
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