Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
On Tuesday, I accompanied Supervisor Foley at the County of Orange General Plan Update Workshop at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach. It was great meeting with residents and stakeholders and learning about their thoughts on the values and priorities for Orange County. We hope more residents will come share their feedback about community challenges and assets at future workshops so that we can address the most critical issues in the community and reflect YOUR vision for the future of the County of Orange! Have a safe Labor Day weekend!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Howdy District 5! I started this week by coordinating our office’s next 5 community appearances. If you see our District Team out in the Fabulous Fifth – make sure to say hello! I continued adding the finishing touches on next Saturday’s Irvine Animal Adoption Event. I am excited to see our furry friends find their forever homes at low-cost to their new families. I also met with CalOptima to continue planning our annual Senior Summit event on October 4, 2024 from 8-1pm at Aliso Viejo Ranch – more details to follow!
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
This week, I briefed the Supervisor on San Diego County’s Blue Envelope Program. This initiative, designed in collaboration between government, law enforcement, and community organizations, seeks to promote healthy communication between individuals with disabilities and law enforcement personnel. Individuals who voluntarily sign up for the program can display the Blue Envelope logo upon contact with law enforcement to notify officers that they have a condition or disability that may require additional accommodations or awareness. Supervisor Foley supports this initiative to enhance public safety and plans to discuss implementation in Orange County with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
On Thursday, I joined the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting ceremony with Family Assistance Ministries. FAM provides meals for residents of San Clemente and beyond – as well as personalized life coaching to help individuals achieve independence. I look forward to collaborating with FAM in the future to continue helping residents in need.
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 Here I am with FAM CEO Anna Conti!
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
This week, I toured the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach and discovered more about the offered programs for D5 youth. CEO Pam Estes guided the tour, detailing the Club initiatives, including after-school and before-school programs, art clubs, sports, and recreation. I also learned about how the organization is working to support students through mental health advocacy, scholarships, and creating inclusive spaces. Their Innovation Lab, unveiled in 2023 with a certificate presented by Supervisor Foley, offers STEM learning opportunities and is complete with 3D printing technology. We ended with a discussion on how Supervisor Foley can support the Club's mission through her annual coat drive.
I look forward to continuing collaborations with local organizations and engaging with community members and furthering interactions with the wonderful residents of District 5. Here’s to another week of dedicated service!
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
Gagan Bhopal
Intern
Last weekend I watched the Round About Players perform in the first ever Melodrama in the Park in San Juan Capistrano. I applaud the talented actors who brought the history of San Juan to life through engaging scenes and fun songs. As a great appreciator of local arts, Supervisor Foley fully supports the theater flourishing in San Juan, and thanks the Round About Players and playwright Gary McCarver for sharing their talents with our community.
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Mecca McFadden
Policy Fellow
Last Saturday, I attended San Juan Capistrano’s Melodrama in the Park. While there, I presented Gary McCarver with a Certificate of Recognition for his dedication to sharing his love of the arts while teaching the history of San Juan Capistrano. With twenty years of playwrighting, producing and acting experience under his belt, Gary embodies how we can all use our interests to serve our community.
To catch the next Melodrama in the Park, check out their schedule here!
Additionally, I’m still looking to connect with Asian-American community-based organizations here in District Five. 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
Join us this evening at the finale of the OC Parks summer events: The Goonies at Bluff Park in Dana Point. Team Foley wholeheartedly thanks OC Parks for hosting this engaging series. Fostering a sense of community, Sunset Cinema provided the perfect opportunity for enjoying summertime out in D5’s natural spaces. We enjoyed attending and connecting with constituents, and I look forward to future OC Parks events!
I hope to see you at our booth!
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Alexandra Menninger
Policy Fellow
Last Sunday I attended the Dana Point Car Show. Classic cars like 1947 Deluxe Woodie Wagons, 1956 Volkswagen Bugs, and 1957 Ford Thunderbirds lined Del Prado Avenue. As an event sponsor, Supervisor Foley wishes the 2024 Winners congratulations! I enjoyed talking with constituents, helping kids spin our wheel for prizes, and handing out District 5 resources. Enjoy a safe and relaxing Labor Day 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.
JWA Airport Director Charlene Reynolds receives the Inclusive Leadership Award
This award honors an Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) business or corporation member demonstrating diversity and inclusion within its procurement and employment corporate structure. Nominees lead in supplier diversity and best practices, and foster business capacity with their diverse partners. Congratulations, Charlene!
CAL FIRE Announces Grant for Orange County's Multi-Phased Project to Remove Hazardous Fuels
As part of California Governor Gavin Newsom Administration’s key priorities to bolster the state’s wildfire response and resilience efforts, CAL FIRE has announced $90.8 million in grants for 94 local wildfire prevention projects across California, including for Orange County’s multi-phased project to remove hazardous fuels, including 953 eucalyptus species on interior slopes to safeguard 1,228 single family homes. Congratulations to the City of Newport Beach on receiving $449,763.69 for their “Buck Gully Reserve Hazardous Fuel Thinning and Reduction Project”. The project will reduce vegetation in a 100-foot wide, 1.2-mile long, 14.69-acre buffer area between the rear of residential properties and the adjacent 254-acre Buck Gully Reserve. The Project will bring the area into compliance with local Guidelines and Standards, reduce Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to reduced wildfire frequency and intensity, expand access for fire personnel to the fire perimeter, and create optimal conditions that will make ongoing maintenance feasible. Aside from Buck Gully, vegetation removals are happening throughout Orange County, including Trabuco Creek Habitat Restoration Project at O’Neill Regional Park and routine weed abatement and fuel reduction as part of fire prevention measures, in Orange County Flood Control facilities such as Santiago Creek, El Modena-Irvine Channel, Serrano Creek, and Aliso Creek.
During wildfire season here in Southern California, it remains my priority that we provide Orange County with resources to protect our local neighborhoods and ensure residents receive what they need to support themselves and their loved ones, including their pets. The cost of investing in preventive measures pales in comparison to the cost to respond to the fire, the loss of property and, worse, life. Thank you to CAL FIRE and Governor Newsom for investing in Orange County and our Vegetation Management system.
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
FROM HCA
The OC Health Care Agency reports today that a resident of Huntington Beach has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) infection, becoming the first human WNV case in Orange County this year. Health officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their family.
“West Nile Virus regularly occurs in Orange County during the summer months and into the fall. With increased WNV Activity reported by our partners at OC Vector Control, we anticipate that additional human cases may be reported in the coming weeks,” said Dr. Matthew Zahn, Deputy County Health Officer. "We encourage everyone to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites as the best way to avoid West Nile Virus infection.” Recommended WNV precautions include:
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Emptying all standing water on your property to reduce areas in which mosquitoes may breed, including flowerpots and pet bowls.
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Making sure your window and door screens are in good condition.
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Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or products containing IR3535, always following label directions.
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Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
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Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
Most people who become infected with WNV do not experience symptoms, but about 20% will develop fever and may have headache, body aches, nausea, tiredness and sometimes a skin rash. More serious symptoms, such as severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, muscle weakness or paralysis, occur more rarely, but people who develop these symptoms should seek medical care immediately. People over 50 years of age and those with certain medical conditions are at increased risk of serious complications from WNV infection. In 2023 there were 7 reported human infections of WNV reported in Orange County. Information on mosquito control is available on the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s website at www.ocvector.org. Other websites with helpful information about WNV include:
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: CDC West Nile Virus.
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State of California: CA West Nile Virus.
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OC Health Care Agency: HCA West Nile Virus.
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, Zeus!
 Hi, I’m Zeus, the three-year-old cute and fluffy pup you never knew you needed! As the adventurous husky at OC Animal Care, I'm on a quest to find my forever family. With my passion for exploring new places, I’m certain I’d make the perfect travel companion!
I would love an active family who can match my playful energy, and a home where I can be your one and only pet because my love is more than enough to fill your heart! I’m easy to leash, love going for walks, and I’ve already mastered the “sit” command! Once you bring me home, I promise to be the loyal companion you’ve always dreamed of.
Ready to add some joy to your life? Please make me a part of your family by adopting me from OC Animal Care! Call (714) 935-6848 and mention my animal ID A1818909. 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!
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.
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!
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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