Staff Updates
Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
This week, I helped prepare a public comment to the City of San Clemente’s draft Sand Retention Conceptual Designs within their Nature-Based Coastal Project Feasibility Study. These draft sand retention designs are a core aspect of San Clemente’s study. San Clemente’s study aims to comprehensively address sand loss and sand retention by identifying nature-based solutions, completing planned sand replenishment projects and coordinating with the full range of stakeholders on this issue.
Our public comment outlines various recommendations on the conceptual designs that will help guide public outreach, planning and implementation. As we continue collaborating with the city on this project and others, we also work on finalizing our South Orange County Regional Coastal Resiliency Strategic Plan, which outlines a vision for creating a regional collaborative on coastal erosion. This collaborative will enable us to share resources and expertise, reduce duplicative planning and efforts and work effectively across the seemingly countless jurisdictional boundaries on solutions.
We look forward to sharing our full public comment soon! Have a great weekend.
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Adam Tallabas
District Representative
Happy Friday! This week, following a blur of planning meetings and preparation, I attended California State University – Fullerton's Student Town Hall. There, I engaged in substantive discussion with students interested in civic engagement/public policy. As a young professional, I am always happy to pass my knowledge and experience onto the next generation of civic leaders.
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Here I am with Cal State Fullerton alumni, Former Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (CA-62).
In addition, I held intern interviews this week as we continue summer intern recruitment. We are still considering applicants for our summer fellows volunteer program. Apply by submitting your resume and cover letter to Adam.Tallabas@ocgov.com and CC Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com.
Tomorrow, I will attend the Quail Hill Open Space Celebration in Irvine. Following the Quail Hill event, I plan to represent our office with a booth at the “Blossoming Together” event hosted by US VETS, OC HCA, and Diverse Community Programs at the Great Park in Irvine. If you see me at one of these events, feel free to say hello!
Sarah D'Agostino
District Representative: Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo
This week, I enjoyed collaborating closely with our fellow District Representatives, Adam and Tyler, as we prepare for the numerous summer community events we support throughout our district. Engaging with and actively participating in our community's vibrant life is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role. We can’t wait to unveil more details and look forward to reconnecting with many of you at these events. Keep an eye on our newsletter for updates about our locations this summer.
In addition, mark your calendars for the return of Supervisor Foley's Wellness Wednesday Walks on May 22, 2024. Join us for a tour of the docks and harbor by Dana Point Marina staff. Meet us at Coffee Importers at 10 AM. Dogs are also welcome on leashes. Click here to sign up. Hope to see you there!
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative: Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Coto de Caza
Hello, District 5! Thursday night, I attended the Orange County Transportation Authority’s (OCTA) second public outreach meeting for their Coastal Rail Resiliency Study. The 24-month study evaluates strategies for protecting the seven miles of threatened railroad tracks along Dana Point and San Clemente coastline. Supervisor Foley strongly advocates for OCTA's prioritization of sand replenishment in protecting the railroad along our coast.
After OCTA’s presentation, I listened to questions and feedback from community members, local representatives and stakeholders. OCTA will hold one more public outreach meeting on May 30, 2024 at San Clemente City Hall. I will attend, and encourage all who are interested to join me, as well.
Lastly, click here and learn about the South Orange County Regional Coastal Strategic Plan, Supervisor Foley’s initiative to form a regional collaborative of government agencies to streamline the process of getting sand back on south Orange County’s beaches.
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern Covering Juvenile Justice
Greetings, District Five!
This week, Supervisor Foley requested that all staff review and analyze our Orange County General Fund Level Available Financing Report. I eagerly delved into this report, which showcases exciting revenue growth and promising prospects. Our county's revenue increased by nearly $40 million in comparison to our previous fiscal year, resulting in a substantial increase in general funding. This funding is critical, as it serves as our primary financial safety net, ensuring stability and flexibility in county operations during uncertain times.
Maintaining healthy reserves in our budget is essential for several reasons, such as providing a buffer against unexpected expenses or revenue shortfalls and allowing us to continue delivering essential services without disruption. Additionally, strong reserves enhance our county's financial standing, reassuring creditors and investors of our fiscal responsibility, which, in turn, results in better credit ratings and lower borrowing costs, ultimately benefiting taxpayers.
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The future of Orange County looks as strong as our most recent financing report.
Have a fantastic weekend, everyone!
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Are you the parent of a high school student? OCTA's Teen Council helps selected students develop leadership skills, connect with dedicated peers and make a difference in public transportation! Learn more at octa.net/teencouncil.
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Christine Park
District / Policy Intern
I hope everyone enjoys a great week – Prepare for some fun this weekend!
Every year on April 22, people all around the world celebrate Earth Day. This day marked the start of the environmental movement in 1970, and for the past 53 years, Earth Day has changed policy and launched a greater awareness of the environment.
This Saturday, our office celebrates the Earth right here in D5 with a festival! The Earth Day Festival is from 2:00pm –6:00pm at The Pavillion Field, in Rancho Mission Viejo. The festival will have lots of fun events and delicious food. Stop by and say hello at our booth! We always love connecting with our residents.
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Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee Meeting April 3 2024 by Dennis Parks, Secretary:
This month’s DPHOAC session began with an update from Alyssa Napuri, Supervisor Foley’s Deputy Chief of Staff, standing in for the Supervisor who was unable to attend. She confirmed that the supervisor’s Flag Day celebration will be held at the harbor’s Baby Beach location June 12 to the 14th. In addition, she advised the committee that she would be meeting with Bryon Ward of the Dana Point Harbor Partners and representatives from the City of Dana Point. They will be physically counting the 334 “day boater” parking spaces to confirm compliance of a California Coastal Commission requirement that the spaces exist and are available for public use as Phase 1 of construction continues, and once the revitalization project is completed, Joe Ueberroth, owner and CEO of Bellingham Marine, which is responsible for the marina portion of the harbor revitalization.
The committee asked Mr. Ueberroth to address public concerns about rate differences discovered, as approximately 100 current occupants of the harbor “dry storage” area were advised that they will need to relocate their boats/trailers off-site. The relocation is necessary due to the reduction in available space for boat storage as a result of the parking structure construction and the day boater parking mandate. According to Mr. Ueberroth, the off-site storage area is charging a market rate of $12 per linear foot, which is the same as the published rate charged currently in the harbor storage lot. The issue brought to the committee’s attention is that some of the tenants that are required to relocate were being charged rates significantly below the $12 per linear foot rate paid in the harbor lot, as well as the $12 per linear foot rate quoted by an off-site facility owned by one of the Dana Point Harbor Partners. Mr. Ueberroth, in explaining the variance, indicated that unbeknownst to his office, the former manager of lot operations was apparently charging lower rates for stored trailers with no boats. He assured the committee that the intention was for the off-site lot, referred by the Dana Point Marina office to those having to relocate, to charge the same rate as the harbor lot for all linear storage space utilized. He confirmed that this will be the case going forward in both lots, regardless if it is a standalone trailer or boat/trailer combination, as they both occupy the same linear footprint.
Christian Gagne, the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Manager for the County of Orange, and Michael Wilson of OC Parks both updated the committee about ongoing projects within the harbor revitalization. The details of their reports can be read in the meeting minutes which will be posted on Supervisor Foley’s homepage at https://d5.ocgov.com/ under the new DANA POINT HARBOR REVITALIZATION drop down menu. This comprehensive resource holds all of the pertinent documents concerning the harbor revitalization as well as the minutes from the DPHOAC meetings to date.
Dry Stack Storage Update
Our office and the County of Orange are fully engaged in oversight regarding the operation of the Harbor and appreciate the outreach from concerned community members regarding the Dry Stack Storage.
We are investigating the issue now and will have additional information to report next week. Additionally, Supervisor Foley assigned a County Harbor Oversight Representative Christian Gagne to the project, who can be reached at dphoversight@ocgov.com. Feel free to direct your questions and concerns to him, and he will respond in coordination with our office.
Commission Updates
Coto de Caza Planning Advisory Commission (CPAC)
From Gary Amelio
CPAC had its regular April meeting on April 10, 2024. There was one substantive agenda item: a request by one of the 3 Coto HOAs for permission to update land use on a small partial used by the HOAs landscapers to house equipment and for limited parking. The residents were in agreement with the HOA Board and CPAC approved the request unanimously. There are no items for May & June, so the meetings were cancelled. There might be an item for July.
OC Traffic Committee Update
From C. Todd Stearns
I am excited to represent the Fifth District on the OC Traffic Committee under appointment by Supervisor Foley. Together, we will work to develop an ordinance that addresses the responsible – and safe - operation of electric bicycles in the unincorporated areas of Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo.
While the issue of e-bike safety may first appear to fall under the umbrella of typical parenting responsibilities, it is more nuanced than that. We were introduced to the rest of the committee at our first meeting in February and have since received an early draft that includes how an electric bike is defined and what constitutes “unsafe” operation, which many of us have witnessed.
Helmets will be required for all operators under 18 and those under 16 are expressly prohibited from riding Class III electric bikes, better known as Surrons. Passengers will only be able hitch a ride when the bicycle is designed to safely carry them. One point I am anxious to explore further is whether e-bikes can co-exist with pedestrians on sidewalks, but it looks like they will at least be prohibited on them around schools and churches and in retail centers. Stay tuned!
Audit Oversight Committee (AOC)
From AOC Vice Chair Yvonne Rowden
Attached is the Audit Oversight Committee (AOC) Second Quarter Report from our February 7, 2024, meeting. Our next meeting will be on Thursday May 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the County Conference Center (Building 18) 425 West Santa Ana Boulevard, Santa Ana, CA. 92701.
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.
Behavioral Health Upcoming Events
Say hi to the HCA Behavioral Health Services Team at the following events:
Orange County Community Health Improvement Plan Survey
The OC Health Care Agency’s (HCA) has published the Orange County Community Health Improvement Plan (OC CHIP) Plan update for 2024-26. The draft plan is posted and ready for public review. It will remain posted through Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 5pm.
The OC CHIP is a vital initiative designed to address the health needs and concerns of our community. It serves as a roadmap for improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for all residents. The community’s input was crucial in shaping this plan to reflect the diverse needs and priorities of our community.
HCA uses a comprehensive stakeholder process to develop the OC CHIP. Central to the development and implementation of all programs is the focus on community collaboration, cultural competence, and consumer- and family-driven services. Prioritization of serving the unserved and underserved is a focus, in addition to wellness, recovery, and resilience. Public comments play a pivotal role in the development and implementation of the OC CHIP. By participating in the public comment process, you have the chance to share your insights, experiences, and suggestions for improving community health on the plan written by community members. Your input will help further define our community’s commitment to a healthier Orange County.
Participate in implementing OC’s 2024-26 Community Health Improvement Plan by completing an interest survey at this link: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management
OCTA News
E-Bike Update
OCTA is developing an E-bike Safety Plan that will identify gaps and needs in outreach, education, encouragement data, and funding for e-bike safety. In May and June, OCTA will conduct two e-bike safety rodeos and two virtual workshops.
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E-Bike Rodeos: Kids of all ages can learn the rules of the road for bicycling, get safety tips for e-bikes, and practice their skills on a safety course. Bike repairs and maintenance will also be available. Bring your e-bikes and helmets to a safety rodeo:
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Virtual E-Bike Safety Workshops: If you can’t join in-person, there will also be two Virtual E-Bike Safety Workshops offered in June. These will take place over Zoom -- no bike or helmet required – and will give parents and kids the info they need to start practicing safe biking habits.
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.
OCTA Encourages Public to Join Listening Sessions on Coastal Rail Resiliency
OCTA seeks additional public input on a study to find solutions for protecting the rail line and preventing additional emergencies along the coast in San Clemente.
The OCTA-led Coastal Rail Resiliency Study aims to evaluate and implement strategies to protect the railway in the vulnerable 7-mile stretch between Dana Point and the San Diego County Line, and keep rail traffic moving through the area for up to the next 30 years, while longer-term solutions are explored.
Two public meetings are scheduled – one virtually and the second in person – to gather feedback on the Coastal Rail Resiliency Study and an initial assessment that identified sites along the coastal rail line recommended for monitoring and reinforcement.
The goal is to ensure that rail traffic can continue moving without additional interruptions along this vital rail connection that links San Diego County passenger and freight traffic to Orange County and areas farther north.
One more listening session with the public is planned for:
May 30, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., an in-person meeting will be held at San Clemente City Hall, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673
To register to attend either meeting and receive updates, please visit: www.octa.net/CRRS.
OCTA Teen Council
Hey students! OCTA's Teen Council is THE place to be for high school leaders like you! Develop leadership skills, connect with awesome peers, and rock the community with positive change. Apply before April 30, 2024. Learn more at octa.net/teencouncil.
OCTA Free Rides for Earth Day
On Monday, April 22, OCTA will offer free rides all day on fixed-route buses. No ticket required!
We encourage the public to celebrate the planet and help make Orange County greener by enjoying a free ride on any fixed route OC Bus. Our fleet runs on clean, renewable energy now and OCTA is committed to a zero-emission future.
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.
Applications are being accepted through May 3. 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/
Angels Express Is Back For The 2024 Season!
Ride in car-free comfort and celebrate on the train! Enjoy home runs, hot dogs, and friends without driving. Angels Express train service is rolling back into action for the 2024 season, so you won’t miss a pitch! Learn more.
Youth Ride Free Passes
The pass provides youth aged 6 to 18 with free travel on safe, clean and reliable buses.
Youth Ride Free passes are available from your child's participating Orange County school. Parent signature is required.
If your child’s school is not distributing the Youth Ride Free pass, you may request a pass here. REQUEST A PASS
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.
File Your Taxes Before April 15, 2024!
Tax season is almost over, which means Orange County residents have until April 15th to file their taxes. I wanted to share some of the federal government’s resources for those who still need to file their taxes before Monday—all made possible by historic investments through the Inflation Reduction Act and other initiatives. Now, you have access to more tools than ever before that will help you file electronically and track your refund.
IRS Direct File is a new service that allows eligible Californians to file their taxes for free directly with the IRS. It’s open all day, every day for those that meet the eligibility requirements—and it’s accessible in English and Spanish on laptops, tablets, or desktop computers. You can watch a walk-through video on how to utilize this service HERE. This is a quick self-service resource for Orange County veterans, seniors, and families with the following tax situations:
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You can access IRS Direct File HERE.
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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs have operated for 50 years to offer free tax assistance to those who might require help. The VITA program specifically helps people who generally make $64,000 or less, persons with disabilities, or taxpayers with limited English-speaking ability. TCE is geared towards those 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors. These are reliable and free services offered around our own communities—-find a VITA or TCE site in Orange County HERE.
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Taxpayer Assistance Centers are offices dedicated to offering one-on-one in-person help with filing your taxes. Although these centers are open on weekdays by appointment, Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country will be extending their hours and remain open on Saturday, April 13th from 9 AM to 4 PM to offer last-minute help. Services at these centers include Individual Taxpayer Identification Number renewals, identity theft assistance, and help with payments and refunds. You’ll need to bring your documentation to make sure you can receive the help you need. Two Centers around Orange County will be open this Saturday to offer assistance:
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501 W. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802
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300 N. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
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Interactive Tax Assistant is here for any additional questions you might have! An online tool available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, this feature is perfect for asking any question you might have about whether your income is taxable, what your filing status is, or if you can deduct expenses.
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This tax season, more calls are being answered, more taxpayers are receiving better service, and already 90 million returns have been filled. The Ways and Means Committee has also shared that Americans are receiving an average refund of $3,050, and the IRS has delivered almost $186 billion in refunds in total—so it’s never been more important that you file your taxes before the deadline. Orange County residents have an opportunity to get the most out of their taxes, so I want to make sure you have this important information.
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Share Your Input on the County of Orange Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget by April 15
The County of Orange invites you to participate in the planning of the CEO Recommended Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget.
Our Budget & Finance team created the following video to help our community to better understand the work that goes into building the County budget each year. Watch the Basics of Budgeting & Strategic Financial Planning at the County of Orange and let us know if you have any questions!
Public Workshop | May
An informal meet and greet with our Budget and Finance Team including an overview of the CEO Recommended FY 2024-25 Budget! We’ll be available to answer any questions that you may have. This will be in May with more details to come.
Public Budget Hearing | June 11
This is the Public Budget Hearing where the budget will be presented to the Board of Supervisors and where you can comment on any aspect of the FY 2024-25 Recommended Budget directly to the Board of Supervisors. This begins on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 regularly scheduled Board Meeting.
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New Food Pantry in Laguna Niguel!
South County Outreach is proud to announce the opening of their second Food Pantry in Laguna Niguel in March 2024!
The South County Outreach Laguna Niguel pantry is located at 28981 Golden Lantern, Suite D105, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677.
Hours are Monday and Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Clients are able to visit either the Irvine pantry (located on 7 Whatney, Ste. B, Irvine) or the new Laguna Niguel pantry once a month.
Clients must fill out an application, complete a self-declaration of income, and provide the following identification for each household member:
- Provide Identification for all Household Members
- Adults: Government Issued, photo with expiration date
- Minors: Birth certificate, Medical Card, Social Security Card, Passport, OR State ID
- Complete Self-Declaration of Income Form
John Wayne Airport Arts Program
John Wayne Airport is thrilled to share the resounding success of the new direction of the Arts Program in supporting local artists and captivating audiences with thought-provoking exhibits. The recent showcase, "Endless Summer," was a hit, with an astonishing 96% of the featured artworks purchased and going to new homes!
Of the 72 single popsicle sculptures, an impressive 69 were sold, alongside one of the seven large popsicle stacks. Additionally, out of the nine paintings by Sarah Steiber on display, two were swiftly snapped up, marking an achievement that surpasses gallery standards.
The overwhelmingly positive response is further evidenced by the feedback received by resin sculpture artist Betsy Enzensberger and the buzz generated by the Vandals' Facebook post about our "That OC Sound" exhibit.
We extend our gratitude to all patrons and artists for their unwavering support, and we look forward to continuing to enrich the airport experience with vibrant and engaging artistry. To learn more about the Arts Program at John Wayne Airport visit https://www.ocair.com/travelers/dine-shop-relax/relax/arts-program
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Hank!
What's up guys, my name's Hank! I'm ready to dazzle you with my charm. But seriously, don't strain your eyes staring at this handsome face for too long. Just kidding, look all you want because I'm ready to soak up all the attention as this week's Pet of the Week! Let me tell you why you should adopt me!
I'm a laid-back and social guy, always up for whatever adventure comes my way. You want to play outside? I'm there. You want to be couch potatoes all day? I'm already snuggled in! Staring contest? I win! I've got some serious skills - not only can I obey commands like a pro, but I'm also a champion treat-catcher.
When it comes to relationships, I'm looking for that special someone to be my one and only, so no other furry friends please! With me by your side, we're guaranteed to have a blast together. So, what are you waiting for? Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1852404 to bring me home. 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!
OC Parks: Summer Concerts and Cinema Series 2024!
Save the Date for the OC Parks Summer Concert and Cinema Series in the Fabulous Fifth District District 5!
Rancho Mission Viejo Earth Day Festival: April 13, 2024
Earth Day at the Bay: April 20, 2024!
City of Costa Mesa Earth Day Festival - Saturday, April 20
Laguna Niguel Earth Day Celebration: April 20, 2024
Dana Point's Earth Day Scavenger Hunt: April 1 - April 22, 2024
San Clemente Earth Day Beach Cleanup: April 20, 2024
Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce: State of the City Luncheon - April 24, 2024
Join Sherman Library and Gardens for Summer Day Camp Fun!
Monday, June 24 – Thursday, June 27
9 am - 12 pm, Ages 7 - 10
Kick off the summer with a full sensory experience! Discover a kaleidoscope of colors and symphony of sounds as we explore the garden. We will blend science and art as we investigate sweet smells and fuzzy feels. Top off the week by making your own garden-inspired tasty treat. Heighten your senses and discover all the wonders of the gardens!
Monday, July 8 – Thursday, July 11
9 am - 12 pm, Ages 7 - 10
We have a mystery in our garden that only a “Sherman Sleuth” can help solve. Learn how everything from the smallest plants to the largest animals are all connected here. You must search for clues and solve riddles to find what has been hidden. Grab a trusty magnifying glass and join us!
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:
OC Waste and Recycling
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
Bulky Item Disposal
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.
Free Compost and Mulch for OC Residents!
⏰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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