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| Volume 4 | Issue 31 |
August 2, 2024 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor,
I enjoyed a shorter week due to celebrating my 33rd Wedding Anniversary weekend with my husband Casey. When we met in college, we never imagined the life of service we now live. I dove into this week in this same spirit, my office and I continuing our work in service of our Fabulous Fifth neighbors.
Did you know that District 5 is home to 64% of OC job growth this past year? That’s more than 13,400 jobs created. I shared this, "Foley Fast Fact,” on Wednesday at the OC Business Council’s Legislative Day on a panel with Supervisor Wagner. We covered a variety of topics important to Orange County’s business community: the impact of the Governor’s recent executive orders on Orange County, housing, the economy, workforce development, the current political climate and progress in the County CEO search. Yesterday, we learned that in June OC broke our own record job numbers with 1.7 million jobs. Leaders here must continue to work together to support job creation and business growth in Orange County.
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  (Left to Right) UCI Assistant Vice Chancellor of Community & Government Relations P. Alberto Sandoval, OC Business Council Vice President of Government Affairs Amanda Walsh, Southern California Edison Senior Manager of Government Affairs Jessica Fernandez, Chairman Don Wagner, 5th District Supervisor Katrina Foley, UCI Health Director of Government Affairs Christopher Leo, OC Business Council CEO Jeffrey Ball
This summer, we welcomed an intelligent, hard-working, fabulous group of summer interns: Willie Rounaghi, Tula Larsen, Aayush Manapat, Meghan Bartsch, Luca Shakoori, Noah Bolton, Mecca McFadden, Olivia Meis, Rachel Carr and Gagan Bhopal. On Wednesday evening, I hosted our annual summer interns social build-your-own pizza party at my home followed by fun at the OC Fair. Our team and their families gathered, learned more about each other and shared memorable experiences. The students impress me with their work ethic, writing skills, ability to function well in a dynamic environment, and willingness to overcome some fears of public speaking and community engagement. Our future is bright with this group in whatever capacity they choose to lead.
 Team Foley past, present, and future before we tried OC Fair delicacies like the Dr. Pepper Pickle Drink from Chicken Charlie’s!
By Thursday, I was back to the grind with many planning and constituent meetings, analysis and edits to our draft Climate Action Plan, interviews with various media outlets regarding the Governor’s executive order impacts on Orange County, staff meetings, calls with equestrian advocates and the OC Fair CEO Michelle Richards about my concerns around the decision to lock the arena preventing the horses from exercising, and prep for our State of the County presentations next week. I also met with Related California’s Chairman and CEO Bill Witte, Pastor Rod, and Maya Dunn from Neighborhood Congregational Church to discuss the Church’s ideas to help build affordable family and workforce housing.
Finally, this week we released Orange County’s first ever Climate Action Plan draft. The Plan outlines our strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and significant carbon footprint from the County’s operation of three active landfills, nearly 19,000 employees, more than 800 facilities, and 3,000+ vehicle fleet. The draft plan outlines measures for a resilient future through waste reduction, improved air quality, accessible and clean water, and expanded tree canopies countywide. Additionally, the plan reimagines our infrastructure and transportation systems to better protect our natural resources, beaches, parks, and open spaces for future generations.
The Climate Action Plan serves as a roadmap for the County to reach our climate goals, bring home unprecedented state and federal funding, model cost efficient sustainable practices for other public agencies. The County’s plan also provides greater access to technical support, climate friendly resources, and incentives to help residents and businesses transition to a green energy future. Thanks to my D5 Resiliency Task Force comprised of business, environmentalists, engineers, and labor leaders for all the thoughtful discussions and input, as well as our county team led by Lilly Simmering, Tom Koutroulis, Lisa Fernandez and our new Sustainability Officer Tara Tisopulos for the late nights and hours of research, review, and dialogue to get this plan ready for the community to view Orange County’s new green plan.
I encourage the public to review the document, share your feedback, and attend our Community Meeting at 6 pm in the County Administrative South Building on August 6, 2024.
This weekend, join Team Foley and meet our Butterfly Committee to learn all about their efforts at their booth at this Saturday’s Festival of the Butterflies in San Juan Capistrano! This beloved South Orange County event promises a day filled with free, family-friendly fun, captivating entertainment, and educational experiences that will delight attendees of all ages. In the last twenty years, our local western monarch population suffered drastic decline, negatively impacting our County’s precious ecosystem. I encourage you: plant native plants, avoid pesticides, and bring milkweed seeds home from my community booths. When we protect our monarchs, we keep Orange County green and beautiful. In collaboration with Metrolink Transportation, the Festival of Butterflies provides convenient transportation choices, guaranteeing effortless access for all attendees. Whether you arrive by train, car, or bicycle, prepare for a delightful adventure into the captivating butterfly sanctuary.
Finally, I want to congratulate District 5 Olympic Coach Champion Robert Ridland for leading USA Equestrians to Silver at the Paris Olympics today! We’re rooting for all of Team USA, but especially our athletes who call District 5 home: Clayton Brackett: Wheelchair rugby – Irvine, Griffin Colapinto: Surfing - San Clemente, Kaleigh Gilchrist: Water polo - Newport Beach, Kathryn Plummer: Volleyball - Aliso Viejo, Maddie Musselman: Water polo - Newport Beach, Nyjah Huston: Bronze in Skateboarding – Laguna Beach, Rose Zhang: Golf – Irvine, Sara Hughes: Beach volleyball - Costa Mesa & Trinity Rodman: Soccer - Newport Beach.
Be well and wear your sunscreen out and about this weekend,
 Katrina Foley
Supervisor
County of Orange
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In This Edition
Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!
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Staff Updates
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday District 5!
This week, I joined legislative and business leaders at Orange County Business Council’s Legislative Day. I heard from Orange County’s members of the State Senate, Assembly and our colleagues on the Board of Supervisors - Supervisor Foley included! I enjoyed learning about the issues our state representatives currently tackle and how we can continue ensuring Orange County’s status as a hub of innovation, tourism, and business.
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
This week, I prepared curriculum and presentations for the first session of Supervisor Foley’s Young Supervisors Program. On August 16, our office will host an in-person discussion with District 5 high school students, staff, and local officials to educate our future leaders about the role of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, Orange County’s Climate Action Plan initiated by Supervisor Foley, and the housing and homelessness crisis in our communities.
On Thursday, I attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Bill Mack Gallery hosted by the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. The gallery hosts a unique and eclectic collection of sculptures. Congratulations to Bill Mack Gallery for joining the Laguna Beach Chamber!
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  On Saturday, Supervisor Foley and I will attend the annual Festival of Butterflies at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This event promises a day filled with free family-friendly fun, entertainment, and educational experiences for attendees of all ages. We hope to see you there!
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy August, District 5!
This month, lace up your walking shoes and join Supervisor Foley for the next in her Wellness Walk series, an opportunity for engaging with your local elected, your neighbors, and our beautiful District 5 outdoor spaces.
This upcoming walk takes place on August 13, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. along Crystal Cove State Park’s trails. Meeting spot details to come. For additional questions, please contact Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com and RSVP at: bit.ly/KFwellnesswalk. Hope to see you there!
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Aayush Manapat
Policy Intern
This week I helped prepare for the creation of the Orange County Legislative Platform for the next year. The Orange County Legislative Platform outlines the types of bills, policies, and laws that the County supports and advocates for in the State and Federal Legislatures. This critical document ensures that the County receives the support for accomplishing our goals. I enjoyed this process, as it showed me how the County works tirelessly for us at all levels of our government. You can find last year’s Legislative Platform and Priorities here.
This week as a part of our Intern Pizza party, I attended the Orange County Fair for the first time! The diverse talents and interests on display, all curated and organized by Orange County residents impressed me. I particularly enjoyed the table setting displays and some of the wild food combos – especially the pickle Dr. Pepper from Chicken Charlie’s! Make sure to check out the fair this summer and experience all Orange County offers.
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
Tula Larsen
Policy Intern
Happy Friday Fifth District!
I recently attended the Grand Opening of Kohler Signature Store's new location in Costa Mesa, where I presented a certificate on behalf of the Supervisor. This new location presents County residents with the opportunity for shopping in person for valuable kitchen and bath products, learning about their product features from professionals, and gaining assistance on the interior works of their home or business. I also enjoyed a great time engaging with Juliann Harkness and David Haithcock from the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce, which provides Costa Mesa businesses with resources for thriving in our community.
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Meghan Bartsch
Policy Intern
Last weekend Tula and I attended the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce Pet Palooza! Members of the community brought their pets and learned about adoption, vaccination, and licensing resources for our furry friends offered at Mission Viejo Animal Services and OC Animal Care. I also enjoyed meeting Laguna Niguel residents, including Laguna Niguel Mayor Pro Tem Stephanie Oddo and her adopted dog! You too can meet cats and dogs like my new friend Hubbard (seen below) looking for forever homes. pets up for adoption at OC Animal Care’s Adopt-A-Pet.
Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
This week I compiled a presentation on climate resiliency in Orange County for our upcoming Young Supervisors program. We invited two students from each District Five high school who express interest in local government: apply and join a cohort of dedicated and smart Young Supervisors.
Learn more about Supervisor Foley's efforts at combating climate change and promoting sustainability, view our first-ever climate action plan (CAP) here. This plan outlines key strategies and initiatives for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy in Orange County. Additionally, the CAP includes measures for protecting our natural resources, improving air quality, and supporting sustainable community development.
I enjoyed a wonderful time meeting Costa Mesa residents to the soundtrack of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra as a final wrap-up to our Concerts in the Park Summer Series. There, we promoted great county resources we offer, including OC Links, our one-stop online platform for county services ranging from mental health, housing, transportation, and more.
Have a fantastic weekend.
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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's Orange County’s “State of the County” is hosted by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. Click here for more information, and I look forward to seeing you there!
The Old Man & The Old Moon
An epic adventure across land, sea, and sky–all in the name of love! Indie-folk music and ingenious staging transform this tall tale into a thrilling theatrical event like no other. Can he find his love before the moon runs out of light and the world plunges into darkness?
Fun for all ages! Enjoy performances until Aug. 11, 2024, and an American Sign Language Performance this Sunday, Aug. 4 at 7:30 p.m.
A reminder about the 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.
To learn more: Visit Supervisor Foley’s Dana Point Harbor Revitalization website, including a document repository for members of the public to access. Also, go to the DPH website for events, community updates, and visitor info. If you have any feedback for our website, please contact Christian Gagne at DPHOversight@ocgov.com.
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
As of August 2024, an increase in COVID-19 activity and in hospitalizations impacts Orange County. People 65 years of age and older experience highest risk of severe disease. To those 6 months of age and older, stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations. If symptomatic, recommendations include preventative measures such as wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home. Reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations such as seniors, those younger than one year old, and those with severe medical conditions.
Thank you,
Regina Chinsio-Kwong, DO
County Health Officer
Free Naloxone Deliveries in Orange County - FentanylSolution.org
In partnership with CalOptima, FentanylSolution.org is proud to offer 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.
Our 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.
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
OCTA & the OC Fair
Message from Darrell Johnson, Orange County Transportation Authority CEO
Update 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.
OC Fair Express Service runs weekends through August 18, from Anaheim, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, and Laguna Hills.
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, Brenda!
 Hi everyone, I'm Brenda! I am a charming and friendly feline to everyone I meet. I like to think of myself as a social butterfly due to my charismatic and easygoing personality, and I believe I'll soon meet my purr-fect family.
When we first meet, you bet I'm going to purr and seek your attention. The cat in me is bursting with feline love and interaction! Plus, there are so many benefits to adopting me! Since I'm a cat, we're the cleanest pets and require less maintenance. I can also help boost your immune system, help control pests, and provide a lifetime of companionship and emotional support! All big wins, if you ask me!
Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1869144 to adopt me!
 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!
Ocean Institute Summer Camp Openings
Click here for more information about the Ocean Institute’s Summer Camps this year. Also, click here to learn more about the Ocean Institute’s 40th Annual Maritime Festival
Book Your Whale-Watching Tour & Watch Marine Life in the Wild!
See giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales and many more in their natural habitat while whale watching in Newport Beach! Newport Whales offers some of the best whale watching California has to offer! Visit www.newportwhales.com & make your reservations.
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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@SupervisorFoley
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