Staff Updates
Alyssa Napuri
Deputy Chief of Staff
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SONGS demolition is now 50% complete, and all radioactive material is in the ISFSI. While this progress is great, we need the Federal government to make good on their promise to the American people and find a permanent home for spent nuclear fuel. Our office looks forward to working with Congressman Mike Levin in the coming months and years to find a solution for a consolidated interim and permanent storage facilities for spent nuclear fuel. |
Adam Tallabas
District Representative: Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, & Irvine
With Women's History Month this March, I am honored to work for the only woman currently serving on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. I prepared the Women’s History Month proclamation for Supervisor Foley’s presentation at the Board of Supervisors meeting tomorrow. Additionally, I continued working on this year’s Flag Day event coming to South County June 12-14!
This month’s Wellness Walk will take place on March 20 at Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park! RSVP at https://bit.ly/KFWalkMarch.
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Alejandro Santiago Ortega
District Representative: Costa Mesa & San Juan Capistrano
Hola everyone! Last week our office recognized an active member of the Costa Mesa community. Maria Hurtado-Randall is involved in several nonprofits as a volunteer and board member. Maria’s work revolves around helping young women that have faced trauma and domestic violence. She will continue to advance this work as she graduates and receives her badge and becomes a U.S. Federal Chaplain. Below is a photo of me and Maria.
I also want to share that this week is my last week with the office and this amazing team. I thank you all for the opportunity to work on your behalf. As a D5 resident and new staffer at United Way for United to End Homelessness, I will continue to support Supervisor Foley in all the innovative initiatives she's championing. See you around everyone!
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Sarah D'Agostino
District Representative: Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, & San Clemente
Last week marked the Grand Opening of a cutting-edge fitness facility right here in San Clemente: The Smart Fit Method.
This innovative gym seamlessly blends artificial intelligence, state-of-the-art exercise robotics, personalized apps, expert trainer guidance, and groundbreaking health span research. This workout experience is both seamless and tailored, designed to optimize your fitness journey through rigorous scientific methods.
Witnessing new businesses in Orange County is always exciting. Collaborating with your local Chamber of Commerce is an excellent avenue to foster connections and support within our district. I encourage you all to explore The Smart Fit Method and consider tapping into the resources provided by your city's chamber to further integrate yourself into our community.
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern Covering Juvenile Justice
I'm excited to share some updates regarding our upcoming meeting on March 12, 2024. Among the items on the agenda is item 21, which focuses on enhancing services and prioritization for families at risk of homelessness in Orange County. I'm particularly thrilled about this initiative as it aims to provide more streamlined support for our community.
One of the proposed contract providers for this initiative is Friendship Shelter, Inc., a trusted organization based in South Orange County. They specialize in providing housing support and assistance, particularly for families within District 5. Their involvement highlights our commitment to addressing homelessness and ensuring the well-being of families in our district.
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
This March, we celebrate “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” Supervisor Foley seeks to honor women in Orange County who challenge and transform our legal institutions to center on such values. Such women leaders empower the current and future generations of women in the law to pursue their dreams, regardless of their gender.
Stay tuned on Supervisor Foley’s Facebook this month to learn more about outstanding models of excellence in our Orange County legal community and local historical legends like Clara Shortridge Foltz, the first woman lawyer on the West Coast and pioneer of public defense. A single mother of five in 1876, Clara fought successfully to study and practice law to support her family. We implement Foltz's then-radical concept of providing criminal defendants with assistance across the country today. Foltz's career cements her legacy as a champion of diversity, equity and inclusion in California law.
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Tyler Mosher
Policy / District Intern
Our office made strides in getting sand back on beaches in South Orange County. I assisted in drafting a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stressing the timely completion the San Clemente Beach Nourishment Project. Currently, the Corps are successfully replenishing a 150-foot-wide beach in Solana Beach using sand from a borrow site off the coast of Del Mar. Supervisor Foley advocates the Corps use this same site to dredge sand for San Clemente as soon as possible. Operations in Solana Beach could end as early as March 5. After, the Corps’ dredger will either move South to Encinitas or North to San Clemente. Our office requests the Corps relocate to San Clemente directly after the Solana Beach project completes and resume replenishing San Clemente’s coast.
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Christine Park
Policy / District Intern
Last week, I attended the Festival of Whales in Dana Point. District 5 had a booth set next to the parade and I had the pleasure of meeting so many locals! Even some cute pets.
In the office, I focused on Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) reports. OCTA has some new exciting projects under construction such as OC Streetcar, I-405 Improvements, I-5 South County Improvements, and SR-555 Improvements. My personal favorite project is the OC Streetcar, the county's first modern streetcar hoping to connect more residents with one another, debuting in 2025. For more information on this new advancement click the link below!
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Commission Updates
Coastal Greenbelt Authority Update from Commissioner Kelly Osborne
In our January 2024 meeting, we:
- Approved support of Laguna Beach enrolling their open space lands in the NCCP/HCP (Natural Community Conservation Planning / Habitat Conservation Plan)
- Approved sending request to County for budget for the Addendum for the General Development and Resource Management Plan for Laguna Coast Wilderness Park as we really need to update this Plan with all the trail changes last 10+ years.
- Heard updates about City of Irvine beginning enforcement of municipal code to keep e-bikes off trails
- Reviewed upcoming vacancy; the Supervisor’s Office can appoint one more Alternate Member and suggest a Member At Large
The Natural Community Conservation Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan provides long-term protection for wildlife and their critical habitats, and regulatory assurances and economic benefits for participating landowners.
Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee Meeting Report by Secretary Dennis Parks - March 8, 2024
Wednesday’s meeting kicked off with a report from Christian Gagne, the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Manager for the County of Orange, announcing that the administrative details that delayed the start of the parking garage and commercial core have been resolved. As a result, the site preparation for the parking facility construction has begun. The last compliance issue in play is confirming to the City of Dana Point that there will be 334 “day boater” parking spaces in the boat launch ramp area once the existing land parcel has been reconfigured for the parking structure and the new harbor entrance.
Mr. Gagne then reviewed the NEW Dana Point Harbor Main Resource web site on Supervisor Foley’s home page located at https://d5.ocgov.com/dph-resources. This comprehensive resource holds all of the pertinent documents concerning the harbor revitalization as well as the minutes from the DPHOAC meetings to date.
Supervisor Foley’s update opened with the news that the County of Orange signed off on the proposed new site for The Coffee Importers located within the Ocean Institute facility. Once the parties agree on the “business” aspects of the new venture, construction will begin on a much-needed amenity for Baby Beach users and visitors to the western end of the harbor. Supervisor Foley also advised the committee that her office scheduled the Supervisor’s annual flag display and “Flag Day” celebration for June 12 - 14 on the lawn area adjacent to Baby Beach. A date was also set for Supervisor Foley’s next Dana Point Harbor ‘town hall” meeting to coincide with the Supervisor’s already scheduled ‘coffee chat” at The Coffee Importers on the morning of June 21.
The meeting concluded with updates from Orange County Parks about the County of Orange’s plan to bring on professional space planners to help utilize the OC Sailing and Event Center efficiently for all 13 user groups. Additional discussion topics can be found in the March 6 meeting minutes on-line within the Dana Point Harbor Main Resource site.
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.
E-Bikes
With the E-Bike Safety Ordinance, we spearheaded efforts to draft an ordinance creating new safety regulations for electric bicycles in the County of Orange that will protect pedestrians, equestrians, bicyclists, and drivers from accidents involving e-bikes. In December, the Board of Supervisors supported my proposal to direct staff to draft an e-bike ordinance with input from the OC Traffic Committee. I appointed Todd Stearns, the Executive Director of the Ladera Rancho Chamber of Commerce to the OC Traffic Committee. OC Public Works and OC Parks are in the research phase of developing ordinance language. We anticipate an ordinance presentation to the Board of Supervisors this Spring 2024.
In the meantime, check out these safety tips from the Sheriff’s Department below.
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.
Applications for First 5 OC now open!
The Orange County Board of Supervisors seeks candidates to serve on the First 5 OC . Three available seats for the 2024-2026 term include two in the category of Health and one in the category of Education. Candidates must live or work in Orange County and have relevant expertise or experience in one of these categories. The 2024 Application Package is available on the website at First5OC.org. Candidates are invited to submit an application and resume by March 15, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.
Application linked here.
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.
OCTA Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC) Recruitment
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) invites you to apply to the OC Go (also known as Measure M) Taxpayer Oversight Committee, which ensures that all OC Go funds are spent on voter-approved transportation projects. Orange County residents living in the First, Second, Fourth and Fifth Supervisorial Districts are eligible to apply for current open positions: octa.net/Member-Recruitment/
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Hanna!
Hi everyone, I'm Hanna. I'm an 8-year-old German Shepherd who has lived a wonderful life with a wonderful human, who unfortunately, passed away. While my heart grieves, I know my previous owner would want me to find a new home where I'm deeply loved.
Because I'm an older gal, you bet I'm potty trained and know my commands. If you want to show me off to your friends, family, and co-workers, I'm always social media ready! I'll smile and pose as if I'm on the cover of Vogue. Not only do I sit peacefully and wait to be leashed, I'm also a lover of all things toys and stuffies! The kid in me hasn't left yet and I'll take a new toy or stuffed animal any day.
If you love to lounge, I'll be there right next to you! I do my best as the only apple of your eye, so no fur siblings please! If you think I'm the perfect addition to your family, please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1561944. I can't wait to meet you!
Consider opening your heart and home to a temporary four-legged companion by becoming a foster parent! OC Animal Care is overflowing with lovable dogs in need of temporary homes, and we are on a mission to find foster heroes like you! The ongoing rainstorms mean more dogs need us. Can you open your heart and home to a furry friend in need?
Please email ocacprograms@occr.ocogv.com today to be a foster hero!
The Girls in Ocean Science Conference - March 16 and 17!
Calling all Middle and High School girls with passion for our oceans!
Empower yourself to advance your passion for the ocean into a career. The Girls in Ocean Science Conference connects influential female scientists with the next generation of ocean ambassadors.
Scientists will conduct hands-on workshops that will communicate the success and excitement available to women who pursue science as a career. Participants will spend the day conducting research with leading scientists in our labs and at sea aboard the Ocean Institute's research vessel, the Sea Explorer.
Young women who love science or are just beginning to show an interest will come away empowered to explore the field further! Click here to learn more.
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
OC Public Libraries: California State Parks Pass Program
OC Public Libraries is partnering with California State Parks and the California State Library to offer free State Parks vehicle-day use passes, available for circulation at all branches of public libraries in California.
Last year, 9,957 people checked out park passes. Adventure beyond the book allows Californians to access beautiful parks, lakes, beaches, and monuments in the State Parks system for free. Place a hold today!
The goal of the passes is to support parks access equity, removing economic barriers to Californians’ park visits, and that they should be made available to those that need it or may not be using parks already.
To learn more about parks, visit the Parks website.
Click here to learn more about the program.
UPDATE: Treasury Department opens pre-filing registration for clean energy tax credit
In June of 2023, The Treasury Department announced details of an expanded tax credit for clean energy technologies provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. The feature, known as direct pay by the White House and elective pay by the IRS, applies to twelve tax credits created by the Inflation Reduction Act allowing local governments to receive the tax credit. Among these are a tax credit (direct payment) of up to $40,000 for qualified commercial clean vehicles such as buses, ambulances, and other public fleet vehicles. There is also a tax credit for EV charging infrastructure and clean electricity production such as community solar panels and for clean energy storage.
On December 22, the IRS announced the launch of the IRS Energy Credits Online pre-filing registration tool for taxpayers who wish to receive direct payments or transfer clean energy credits. Any entity eligible for the direct payment must pre-register with the IRS to receive a registration number. The registration number will be required in order to file a tax return and receive the credit.
Check out the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, Residential Clean Energy Credit and these additional resources:
Batteries and Smoke Alarm Disposal
Out with the old, in with the new — let’s wave goodbye to those old batteries and worn-out smoke alarms!
It’s the perfect time to think about your family’s safety and recharge your battery-operated electronics around the house.
Take charge this coming year and dispose of these items at the nearest Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center.
Collection Centers are open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for free disposal.
📍Anaheim Collection Center—1071N. Blue Gum Street, 92806
📍Huntington Beach Collection Center—17121 Nichols Lane, 92647, Gate 6
📍Irvine Collection Center—6411 Oak Canyon, 92618
📍San Juan Capistrano Collection Center—32250 Avenida La Pata, 92675
For more information including a list of what’s accepted visit https://www.oclandfills.com/hazardous-waste
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.
OC Public Libraries
The 12 County libraries in our district welcome people of all ages. We help them find trusted information and receive supports for lifelong learning!
Check out these upcoming fabulous Fifth District events, and learn more here:
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.
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 - NEW!
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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