Staff Updates
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Howdy District 5! I have exciting news - I have been promoted and now serve as Supervisor Foley’s District Director. I look forward to serving the residents of the Fifth District and managing the District Team (District Representatives & Interns) in an expanded senior role.
My expanded role includes assisting in policy regarding the Orange County Housing Finance Trust. As a young professional navigating today’s rental market, affordable housing remains a paramount issue for me. Accordingly, I joined Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Napuri in a meeting with OC Housing Finance Trust Manager Adam Eliason on Wednesday, in which we discussed funding strategies. On Thursday, I provided an update on the Supervisor’s recent work in the community and on the dais to the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce at “Good Morning CdM.” Later that day, I attended the 2025-26 County Legislative Platform Development Meeting. At the meeting, we were briefed on updates relating to how the County of Orange will lobby to bring funds back from Sacramento and Washington, DC via legislation passed by our local members of the State Legislature and Congress. I am excited to continue my work in the Fifth District as Supervisor Foley’s District Director – please feel free to reach out if you have inquiries or issues that need addressing.
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
On Wednesday, I attended the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee’s monthly meeting.
Thursday, I gave an update on behalf of Supervisor Foley to the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Committee Meeting. There, Laguna Beach City Manager Dave Kiff also spoke about several of his key initiatives in the City. Namely, he hopes to streamline Laguna Beach’s community development, evaluate the City’s purchase of Laguna Canyon Road, and to continue revitalizing the City’s Facilities Master Plan.
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
This past week, Noah and I danced with the Supervisor at San Juan Capistrano’s “Stars & Stripes” Fourth of July celebration. Kids’ faces lit up over the patriotic temporary tattoos I designed. I hope you swing by our booth at one of our many upcoming summer events, like Symphony on the Go in Rancho Mission Viejo this Saturday, for a Supervisor Foley tattoo and more!
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Aayush Manapat
Policy Intern
Noah Bolton
Communications Intern
This week I attended the push-in of Crash 3, the latest and greatest in life-saving technology at John Wayne Airport. I rode in Crash 3 and met those who will operate the new truck.
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On Thursday, I joined Supervisor Foley and Luca at Concerts in the Park for the time of our lives with Flashback Heart Attack. Keep your eyes peeled for our booth at many more Concerts in store this summer! Have a safe and spectacular weekend District 5!
Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
This week, I learned about all the governmental coordination necessary for achieving coastal resiliency. First, I presented an office update at the Laguna Beach City Council meeting. I then reviewed items on the Newport Beach City Council agenda and analyzed agenda items for the Supervisor’s committee appointments, including the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Board meeting.
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Tula Larsen
Policy Intern
I also attended the City of Laguna Woods City Council Meeting, where they discussed their plans for providing seniors and individuals with disabilities funding of longer bus trips and decrease the cost of travel fares. This will help meet transportation needs in Laguna Woods!
Commission Updates
Update from OC Traffic Committee Representative Todd Stearns
Ladera Ranch residents enjoyed a “Bike Free” evening on the 4th of July this year on the closed streets surrounding Founders Park, the location of Independence Day festivities and night time fireworks display. Two OCSD Deputies patrolled the grounds on e-bikes to monitor the goings on and to engage with residents and their families. They even took a few minutes to throw the football with area youth.
The streets were open to bikes last year but many residents reported dissatisfaction with crowding and interactions with riders, some of whom lit firecrackers in busy areas. Prohibiting bikes this year was a hard decision to make but created a more laid-back, pedestrian event that was also safer. People could still ride their bikes to the event but had to lock them at the additional bike racks installed in front of the school complex.
The community would like to thank the Orange County Sheriff's Department for their hard work in making the event enjoyable and safe!
Join Team Foley - Communications Director
My office seeks a Communications Director with the ability to move forward the Supervisor’s priorities and initiatives with a passion for public service and changing the status quo.
The Communications Director is responsible for managing the Supervisor’s daily press and digital operations, which includes media outreach as well as preparing press releases, talking points, briefing memos, social media content, and e-mail newsletters.
Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee July Meeting
This week at the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee, Dana Point Harbor Oversight Manager Christian Gagne presented the county’s response to frequently asked questions from boaters and members of the public regarding the Dana Point Harbor Partners proposed slip rate increase. Access the completed document here.
The committee also discussed potential improvements to Supervisor Foley’s Dana Point Harbor Revitalization website, including a document repository for members of the public to access. If you have any feedback for our website, please contact Christian Gagne at DPHOversight@ocgov.com.
Finally, the Dana Point Harbor Partners addressed the committee’s concerns regarding the harbor’s security. The Partners currently provide two unarmed, private security guards who patrol the harbor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The guards regularly work with the Orange County Sheriffs Department for law enforcement assistance.
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.
Free Naloxone Deliveries in Orange County - FentanylSolution.org
In partnership with CalOptima, FentanylSolution.org now offers free deliveries of Naloxone (8mg Kloxxado) at absolutely no-cost to all residents and businesses across Orange County.
Naloxone, often known as Narcan or Kloxxado, is an over-the-counter nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses in just 1-2 minutes. It quickly restores normal breathing in someone experiencing an overdose, making it essential for bystanders to have on hand in emergencies. Naloxone is safe, non-addictive, and can be given to anyone suspected of overdosing, regardless of their age or medical history.
FentanylSolution.org staff can deliver these supplies at no cost to all OC residents, businesses, and organizations. Our goal is to reach community members who may find themselves in a position to act as bystanders during an overdose emergency. We also offer training upon request, and can accommodate bulk orders.
To request your free delivery of Naloxone, please fill out our brief online form at
https://tinyurl.com/FentSolOC
Join FentanylSolution.org in our mission to reduce opioid-related harm and save lives in communities across Orange County.
From California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara:
Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable, yet more than 700 people die from extreme heat every year in the United States, including many in California. As California endures high heat and increased wildfire danger for the July 4 holiday, the California Department of Insurance is sharing a fact sheet on Preparing for Extreme Heat and Wildfire Risk.
CalOptima Health Grant Opportunities:
Click here and complete the Community Event Sponsorship Form!
Transportation News
E-Bike Update
The Board of Supervisors approved the e-bike ordinance includes common-sense provisions such as grouping restrictions, sidewalk speed limits, helmets for minors, requirements for yielding to pedestrians and equestrians and for an audible alarm when overtaking, consequences for driving without a license when required, and more. Read the ordinance here.
While only 8% of the California population, Orange County residents account for 41% of all e-bike accidents in the state. Unsafe e-bike usage remains a growing concern. After our office held numerous community meetings on this issue, our Deputy Sheriffs requested clarity on their ability to enforce traffic violations in unincorporated Orange County. At my request, the Board of Supervisors delivered this clarity just in time to increase safety during the Fourth of July weekend.
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.
State and Federal Resources Updates
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Direct Pay’s Role in Uplifting Communities
The Inflation Reduction Act introduced a new era for clean energy development, particularly for tax-exempt and governmental entities. This toolkit is designed to help local government staff and elected officials understand and leverage Direct Pay provisions to enhance community well-being and sustainability.
Understanding Direct Pay: Direct Pay allows eligible entities to receive payments equivalent to tax credits for clean energy projects. This unprecedented move by the federal government is set to catalyze public sector involvement in the clean energy transition.
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Financial Empowerment: Provides immediate access to funds, increasing the scope and scale of potential projects.
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Uplifting Communities: Facilitates investments in clean energy that lead to job creation, economic growth, and improved public health.
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Environmental Justice: Ensures that the benefits of clean energy reach all communities, including those historically underserved.
Eligibility and Applicable Projects:
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Who’s Eligible: State and local governments, tribal entities, rural cooperatives, and more.
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Project Types: Solar and wind installations, EV charging stations, and clean vehicle fleets are among the qualifying projects.
Southern California Edison’s (SCE) Involvement: SCE is at the forefront of supporting clean energy initiatives that align with the IRA’s goals. Our programs offer rebates for home energy retrofits and support the electrification of transportation, which can be combined with Direct Pay benefits.
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Assess Community Needs: Identify potential clean energy projects that align with community goals. Let SCE know if you are planning any clean energy projects or are applying for funding.
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Review SCE Programs: SCE’s rebates and incentives can complement Direct Pay, providing additional financial support.
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Secure Funding: Apply for Direct Pay by meeting the requirements for both the payment and the underlying tax credit.
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Educate and Engage: Raise awareness among community members about the benefits of clean energy projects.
The IRA’s Direct Pay provision is a game-changer for local governments, enabling them to take decisive action towards a sustainable future. With SCE as a strategic partner, communities can harness the full potential of clean energy to create a healthier, more resilient society.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Janie!
Meow friends! I'm Janie, the feline friend you never knew you needed! At just over a year old, I've already accomplished one of the most rewarding milestones in my life — I had kittens! Being a mama has been incredibly fulfilling, and I'm thrilled at the thought of my kittens bringing joy to their future families. Now, I'm hoping to find a forever home for myself too!
Let me tell you why you should adopt me! I'm your typical but amazing cat who purrs when I'm happy. Did you know that a cat's purr has healing properties for their owners? While I'm no expert, you can call me Dr. Janie and I'll be there to heal your wounds with my soothing purrs! I'm also a calm and easygoing gal, making me a breeze to handle. My sweetness is contagious and I'm confident that your life will be brighter with me by your side. Please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1866221 to make me a part of your family!
Please visit our Pet Adoptions page to see more adoptable pets.
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!
Always a Good Time at the OC Fair!
Costa Mesa
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!
Register for Summer Camp Scholarships at Westwind Sailing!
San Clemente Chamber of Commerce's Environmental Education Program:
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.
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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