Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday District Five! This week I accompanied Supervisor Foley and our Deputy Chief of Staff, Alyssa Napuri, at her quarterly meeting with Orange County Social Services Agency (OC SSA) Director An Tran to learn about their first-ever five-year strategic plan call MOSAIC (Moving Our Strategy to Action and Integration in the Community) and to discuss how we can better serve the people of Orange County. I also worked with our team on preparing Supervisor Foley for her Board of Supervisors Meeting next Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Join us in person or watch the live stream here: Live Board Meeting Broadcast.
Last weekend, my wife and I brought our boys on a melon tour wagon ride at Tanaka Farms in the City of Irvine. We learned about Tanaka Farms’s history (they celebrated their 25th Anniversary last year), farming methods, and all the crops they grow there (over 60 different varieties of fruits and vegetables). Then, we harvested shishito peppers and tasted fresh green beans, cantaloupes, and a variety of watermelons. Did you know each season at Tanaka Farms provides a different farm tour experience? Learn more here: U-Pick Farm Tours — Tanaka Farms. My wife and I enjoy exposing our boys to all the Fabulous Fifth District offers. Thank you to all our farmers and agricultural workers for their hard work in growing nutritious food for our enjoyment. We think of them during these hot summer months.
Have a great and safe weekend everyone!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Good afternoon District 5!
I started this week by joining Supervisor Foley and Alyssa in a meeting with Affordable Housing Access. I enjoyed an informative meeting learning about AHA’s commitment to solving issues on the developer side and the permitting side.
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
I also monitored the City of San Clemente’s Council meeting on Tuesday. The Council introduced and conducted the first reading of an ordinance to establish further regulations for the safe use of e-bikes. This ordinance closely mirrors Orange County’s e-bike ordinance spearheaded by Supervisor Foley in response to concerns from our constituents in District 5.
The Council also introduced an ordinance update the San Clemente Municipal Code to remove the requirement to provide alternative shelter prior to enforcement of its public camping laws. This is in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, et al. Case. While Supervisor Foley supports the clearing of encampments on public property, she also remains committed to finding temporary shelter and permanent supportive housing in support of our residents experiencing homelessness. The Orange County Office of Care and Coordination is working in partnership with the Orange County Sheriffs Department to ensure compliance with current system of care protocols.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
What an eventful week! First, I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Birdhouse Indoor Golf in Laguna Hills. I enjoyed connecting with local business owners and look forward to learning more about more local community staples both old and new as your District Representative.
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 Additionally, I attended the Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers award ceremony, celebrating remarkable contributions to community health and recognizing the exceptional achievements of Shannon Pink, BSN, RN, PMH-BC, CARN in delivering top-notch opioid overdose care. Treatment of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) remains a high priority in Supervisor Foley’s aim to eradicate the opioid crisis in Orange County and work like Shannon Pink’s is paramount to her mission.
 On top of all this, planning thrilling events for District 5 keeps me busy. I look forward to sharing details with you soon.
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
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 At San Juan Capistrano’s Summer Nites concert on Wednesday evening, I connected with the community over a shared appreciation for music and art. I especially enjoyed drawing self-portraits with Rich Heimann from The Alliance for San Juan Art (TASJA). TASJA promotes and sponsors public and visible art in San Juan Capistrano California by supporting emerging and established visual and performing artists. By beautifying SJC’s public spaces, TASJA makes art more accessible for our residents and honors the city’s rich historic presence.
Gagan Bhopal
Intern
This week I attended the San Juan Summer Nites 2024 Concert Series on Wednesday where I enjoyed my first performance by my Costa Mesa neighbors, Flashback Heart Attack. The Booth provided a wonderful opportunity for meeting with community members and chatting with San Juan local organizations. For instance, we spoke with the American Legion Post 721 about our office’s resources for Veterans and their families, like housing, mental health services, and more.
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Mecca McFadden
Policy Fellow
This week I worked on connecting with various Asian-American community-based organizations in District Five. I studied Mandarin in school, so I look forward to implementing my knowledge and bridging cultural gaps with D5 residents. As the office of the Orange County Supervisor, we provide resources for all of our constituents by connecting directly with our community. How can we best support your organization? Please let us know by calling our office at (714) 834-3550 or by emailing either myself at mecca.mcfadden@ocgov.com or Supervisor Foley’s District Director, Adam Tallabas at adam.tallabas@ocgov.com.
I look forward to hearing from you! 谢谢你
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Noa Tuliau
Policy Fellow
Happy Friday District 5! This evening, stop by and say hi to Team Foley at the OC Parks Sunset Cinema Series at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Before residents and their families settle in for 13 Going on 30, chat with us about community issues you find important, learn about Supervisor Foley’s priorities and County resources, and spin our wheel for fun prizes! Team Foley enjoys connecting with everyone at the OC Parks summer events, so I look forward to my attendance tonight as well as next week, the Series’ conclusion: The Goonies in Dana Point.
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Alexandra Menninger
Policy Fellow
Hello District Five and happy Friday! This week, I attended the Orange County Hispanic Bar Association’s end-of-summer event, where I connected with a legal community committed to excellence. As a future legal practitioner, I enjoyed learning about how this organization promotes education and unity in the Hispanic legal community by expanding business and professional opportunities available to its members, enhancing members’ business and professional stature in the Hispanic community, increasing the participation of Hispanic leaders in civic affairs and enhancing the quality of life for members and the community at large.
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Wishing you all a fantastic week ahead!
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.
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
Measles Information for General Public
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Measles presents with a fever and characteristic rash. Measles can be a serious disease:
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1 in 5 people who get measles are hospitalized
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1 out of 1,000 people with measles develop encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
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1 to 3 out of 1,000 people with measles die
Measles can be prevented with measles vaccine, usually as part of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Additional Information on measles can be found at the CDC’s Measles page.
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
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, Farrah!
 Raise your paws if you're looking for your forever family! Hi, I'm Farrah, and I've had my paws raised since I arrived at OC Animal Care in April. I'm a lively two-year-old pittie with boundless enthusiasm and an unwavering loyalty.
One of my favorite activities is playing fetch, and I would love to share that passion with you! I love running and acting like a big puppy, so if you're seeking a running or hiking buddy, I'm your girl! I've also been described as a big goofball who likes to hang out and play, and I can definitely attest to that! With me in your life, we're bound to have endless joy and happy memories. Please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my animal ID A1863747, to make me a part of your family!
 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!
The Ocean Institute's 40th Maritime Festival!
Friday, Sept 13 – Sunday, Sept 15
The Maritime Festival is one of Ocean Institutes Annual fundraisers. All proceeds from the entire weekend support Ocean Institute Education Programs. This festival celebrates California’s rich maritime history and our connection to the ocean! This is a fun-filled weekend event with visiting Tall Ships, Cannon Battles, Pirate and Mermaid Ball, Beer Garden, Mermaids Swim Shows, Pirate School, Live music, Reenactors and Sailor Camp, Vendors, Food Trucks and more!
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.
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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