Staff Updates
Adam Tallabas
District Director
What a week – my first full one as District Director. Highlights of my week included finalizing upcoming summer booth plans and planning for the arrival of a new District Representative and our fall Fellows. We’re excited to see you in the community!
I also joined Supervisor Foley and Alyssa in a meeting of several affordable housing developers and County staff, with whom we discussed the Coordinated Entry System and working together to help unhoused individuals get into housing quicker.
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
This week, I finalized the schedule for Supervisor Foley’s Young Supervisor Program. Beginning in August, this program offers a cohort of 10 high school juniors, seniors and college freshman hands-on experience in local government, public policy and community engagement. Stay tuned for details.
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Later in the day, I also attended Chamber Night at Laguna Art-A-Fair with the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. There, the chamber held a joint ribbon cutting ceremony for 18 home businesses. These businesses contribute greatly to Orange County’s vital small business economy—even without a conventional brick-and-mortar location.
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
This week, I assisted Adam in welcoming the Fabulous Fifth to Supervisor Foley’s Coffee & Conversations. Thank you to the excellent turn out of community members who joined us at Laguna Beach’s Jedidiah Coffee for a valuable discussion on how Orange County’s first ever Climate Action Plan impacts our residents – both present and future. Stay tuned here and on the Supervisor's socials for information about upcoming Coffee & Conversations in your neck of the woods.
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Christine Park
Policy Intern
This week I attended the Laguna Beach Yoga ribbon cutting in celebration of their grand opening. Nestled in the gem of Laguna Beach, this yoga studio provides all types of yoga from yoga for new mothers and children to sound wave meditation sessions
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 I also prepared for the upcoming Orange County Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council meeting, by reviewing the quarterly report. Get involved and volunteer for the OCJJCC by beginning here: Probation Volunteers | Orange County Probation Department (ocgov.com)
Aayush Manapat
Policy Intern
Hi District Five!
This week I conducted research into Orange County Grand Jury’s recent report: “Talking Trash: Recyclables and Organic Waste.” This report outlines the concerning lack of composting and pickup facilities in many jurisdictions and cities in Orange County and asks they comply with state mandates. This ensures we sustainably handle our waste. The County of Orange largely met targets set by the state and continues making progress. I currently work on our office’s position for a discussion of these targets at the Board of Supervisor’s meeting in August.
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Noah Bolton
Communications Intern
Last Friday, I attended the Supervisor’s Coffee and Conversation in Laguna Beach at Jedidiah Coffee with Olivia and Adam, stay tuned for the next one! On Saturday, I presented the 10th Anniversary of Urban Workshop, an amazing and innovative center for learning in Costa Mesa, where I presented a certificate on behalf of the Supervisor.
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 This Friday, I’ll attend the opening of the Orange County Fair at the Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. Hope to see you there! Have a great weekend and stay safe!
Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
This week, I joined the Supervisor on the LOSSAN Agency Board meeting. I learned about all the effort going into ensuring our transportation system remains safe and prepared for global events like the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics and the World Cup.
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Tula Larsen
Policy Intern
Happy Friday Fifth District!
This week, I attended the city of Laguna Woods’ City Council Meeting, where I learned about their city priorities and how the county resources can assist them.
I also enjoyed listening to “Flashback Heart Attack” rock out at Fairview Park, as a part of Costa Mesa’s Concert in the Park Series.
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OCTA & the OC Fair
Message from Darrell Johnson, Orange County Transportation Authority CEO
I’m happy to share that the OC Fair Express is returning this year for the first time since the pandemic halted it in 2020. Through the special bus service, OCTA will offer direct routes to the fair from four locations around the county on Saturdays and Sundays. Regular OCTA fares will apply, including free rides for those 18 and under and for those with the Community College Pass.
The OC Fair opens Friday, July 18, with OC Fair Express Service beginning Saturday, July 20, and running weekends through August 18, from Anaheim, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, and Laguna Hills.
Update Regarding San Juan Creek Bike/Pedestrian Trail Closure
San Juan Creek Bike/Pedestrian Trail to Temporarily Close as Part of Railroad Bridge Construction
The Orange County Transportation Authority, in coordination with Metrolink, continues progress in constructing a new railroad bridge over San Juan Creek in San Juan Capistrano. As part of the ongoing construction, the adjacent San Juan Creek Trail is expected to close for approximately two weeks beginning on Thursday, July 18.
Cyclists and pedestrians who use the trail are being asked to plan for the closure, follow the designated detour route or avoid the area during the closure, if possible.
During the closure, trail users will be detoured to Camino Capistrano, Del Obispo Street and the Trabuco Creek Trail. Detour signs will be in place. (See the map below for more details.)
The detour is necessary so that construction crews can remove pavement and conduct pile driving to construct the new bridge that will go over the trail. The trail is expected to reopen on Friday, Aug. 2.
However, after the scheduled closure, contractors are expected to continue working in the area, prompting intermittent trail closures through August. During that time, workers will be present to hold back trail traffic for their safety as construction equipment is moved through the area.
OCTA appreciates the patience of trail users during this construction.
The work is being completed in partnership with Metrolink as part of a $65.6 million project to replace the existing San Juan Creek bridge, which was constructed in 1917, enhancing safety and reducing maintenance costs.
The project is being funded by Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements, and a mix of state and federal funds.
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.
2024 State of the County Luncheon – Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
This year, Orange County’s “State of the County” will be held by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. Click here to view more information, and I look forward to seeing you there!
OCTA Community Advisory Committee Update
Hello District 5 Residents,
I am Manuel Chavez, Costa Mesa Council Member and former District Representative for Supervisor Foley. I am honored to have been appointed by Supervisor Foley as a member of the OCTA Community Advisory Committee. At my first CAC meeting on Tuesday 7/16, I was pleased to see OCTA's diligent efforts to address the issues affecting the Beachside Rail Line. This rail line is crucial for connectivity between Orange County and Los Angeles and San Diego counties. Over the past four years, climate changes have caused significant delays, but I am proud to report that OCTA is actively pursuing both short- and long-term solutions to keep the line operational. These efforts include sand replenishment, rock retention, and the construction of a new catchment wall.
I extend my gratitude to Supervisor Foley for the privilege of serving District 5 residents. I look forward to advocating for all of our District 5 transportation needs.
Sincerely,
Manuel Chavez
Costa Mesa City Council Member – District 4
Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee July Meeting
Last 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, 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, Hanes!
 Hi, I'm Hanes! And just like your favorite pair of socks I'm all about comfort, reliability, and making your day a little bit brighter!
I'm a goofy guy who is always up for a good time. Whether we're hiking, walking, or even doing nothing, every day is an adventure as long as I'm with you! I'm known for my big smile and wagging tail, and I promise to bring a smile to your face too!
OC Animal Care has been great, but I'd love to find my forever home. Can you make me the happiest boy and adopt me? We can even do a two-week trial run to see if we're a perfect match! Please call the shelter at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1848759 to adopt or foster me!
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!
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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