Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
In continuing our Family’s Fabulous Fifth District tour, this past weekend my wife and I brought our boys to Crystal Cove State Park in the City of Newport Beach. Crystal Cove State Park’s 3.2 miles of beach and 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the County, the country, and the world. Next time, we will let the boys explore the tidepools and sandy coves on the beach, popular with swimmers and surfers. After a long day of exploring, we enjoyed small bites from local small businesses: Parakeet Cafe, Bear Flag Fish Co., and Zpizza. I also grabbed an iced coffee from Blk Dot Coffee for the road home. Have a great and safe weekend everyone!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Good afternoon! I hope you all enjoyed your Labor Day Weekend. This week I focused on preparing our office’s outreach strategy for the next month before planning this year’s Senior Summit. I look forward to providing essential services to our district, home to the County’s largest aging population.
I also put the finishing touches on this Saturday’s Irvine Animal Adoption Event! Don’t forget to stop by – OC Animal Care invites you to meet dogs and cats up for low-cost live adoption, as well as free pet tags (while supplies last).
On Thursday, I participated in the next Costa Mesa Skate Park Expansion Meeting. I joined Supervisor Foley at the Rise and Shine Costa Mesa event hosted by the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce, with whom we collaborate on providing our local businesses with the vital resources, marketing and networking tools needed to thrive in our region.
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
Hi D5! This week, I began planning for the September meeting of the Young Supervisors Program. This month, we will take the Young Supervisors cohort on an educational tour of John Wayne Airport. Students will first hear the Airport Director and senior leadership speak about their roles and responsibilities. Then, the cohort will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the airfield and tarmac from Airport Operations staff. Throughout the year, our Young Supervisors cohort will continue connecting with other government officials, business owners, and community leaders as they receive a comprehensive education about County and local governance.
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I enjoyed discussing our featured speaker's fascinating insights on education with my tablemates, CUSD School Board Trustee Amy Hanacek, OC United Way CEO Sue Parks, and Richard Henry Dana Elementary School Principal Kristen Nelson.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi, everyone! I hope you all enjoyed your Labor Day weekend. This week I attended the ribbon cutting for the brand-new Ikea pickup location in Laguna Hills. Supporting the growth of businesses in our district always brings our office joy, as our local businesses form the backbone of our Orange County economy.
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Later, I talked with both the Laguna Beach and Laguna Niguel Chambers of Commerce about updates on governmental and community relations from the Supervisor’s office. I look forward to more opportunities for connecting and collaborating with all of you!
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
This week I reviewed and analyzed the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors meeting agenda for next Monday. Since the Supervisor sits as a Director on the Board, I prepare her to best represent District 5 on the dais. Working through the agenda, I learned about OCTA’s Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program – an effort funded by Measure M2 tax dollars and aimed at coordinating traffic signals across OC jurisdictions. The completed projects in the last year reduced average travel time by 13%, with a project on Seal Beach Boulevard seeing an up-to-27% improvement in travel time. In total, the project also reduced over 1.27 billion pounds in greenhouse gases so far – a great step for climate action in Orange County! I enjoyed understanding yet another way agencies such as OCTA diversely invest public tax dollars. Listen in on Monday’s 9 a.m. meeting here.
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A map of all the synchronization efforts since the project’s inception in 2008
Gagan Bhopal
Intern
This Wednesday I attended the Fairview Park Master Plan Update Community Workshop. For the first time since adopting the Fairview Park Master Plan in 1998 (26 years ago!), the City of Costa Mesa will update the plan. I learned about the unique diversity of Fairview Park’s ecology, home to 197 plant species, 220 bird species, and several protected species. And did you know about the park’s indigenous significance as the location of Genga, an indigenous village site? Stay involved with us in protecting this an ecological and historical hotspot right in our backyard of Costa Mesa. In November, the City will release a draft of the Master Plan Update for a 30-day public review. We encourage members of the community to submit suggestions to fvpmp@costamesaca.gov
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Mecca McFadden
Policy Fellow
This week I give a special shout out to Orange County Transportation Association (OCTA). As a young working professional who relies on the Metrolink to travel to and from work every day, OCTA helps make my work commute seamless. And I’m not alone -- OCTA’s 11 convenient stations and three Metrolink lines service Orange County’s nearly 3.2 million residents in 34 cities, along with the countless others who commute here for work and play.
And spending weekends with Metrolink just became a little easier! Did you know they offer a $10 weekend pass for adults and free rides for any accompanying children under the age of seventeen? Check out a baseball game via the Angels Express, or enjoy the cool partnerships OCTA created with local gems, like Dana Point whale-watching, Irvine’s Great Park, or our beautiful beaches, to name a few. Wherever you go, you can find a productive commute with OCTA.
I hope to see you ridin’ around town, D5!
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Noa Tuliau
Policy Fellow
This week, I attended with Ali the ribbon cuttings of two businesses in San Juan Capistrano: the Law Offices of Cheryl L. Walsh and Edward Jones. It was a pleasure to congratulate both offices’ commitment to helping Orange County residents with a client-first approach.
I am currently working with my colleague Noah on the continuation of Supervisor Foley’s Coffee & Conversation series. The series serves as an opportunity for you and the rest of the general public to directly engage with the Supervisor in a casual setting and discuss Fifth District issues you find most important. I look forward to sharing more details regarding Coffee & Conversation soon – in the meantime, make sure to keep checking our D5 newsletter and Supervisor Foley’s socials on Instagram and Facebook!
Have a wonderful weekend!
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Alexandra Menninger
Policy Fellow
I hope you all enjoyed a great Labor Day weekend!
Exciting events and community connection in D5 filled my week! I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Law Offices of Cheryl L. Walsh in San Juan Capistrano. What an honor to celebrate this new chapter with Cheryl and support a woman claiming space in our local legal community.
In addition to the ribbon cutting, I attended the California Dreaming dance party in Laguna Woods with Morgan. I enjoyed dancing and sharing in the vibrant spirit of the Laguna Woods community. Meeting with constituents quickly became one of the most rewarding parts of my role in this office. In celebrating new beginnings with local businesses or enjoying lively events with neighbors, engagement with you reminds me of the incredible people who make our community so special.
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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.
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!
Orange County Employees: September is National Preparedness Month!
This National Preparedness Month, it is important for employees to engage in preparedness actions and become more resilient for disasters. As part of preparedness efforts, two Lunch and Learn sessions will be held to help County employees prepare for disasters.
The Lunch and Learn sessions will be hosted by Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Emergency Management Division in partnership with Orange County Information Technology, CEO Risk Management, Orange County Fire Authority, American Red Cross, and additional County agency partners.
In-Person Lunch and Learn Session
Thursday, September 19 | 11:30am – 1:00pm County Administration South (CAS) County Conference Center, RM 104/106 601 N. Ross Street Santa Ana, CA 92701
RSVP by emailing OAAdmin@ocsheriff.gov to secure your seat. For those pre-registered to attend in-person, lunch will be provided.
Virtual Lunch and Learn Session
Wednesday, September 25 | 11:30am – 1:00pm Microsoft Teams To join, visit bit.ly/DCPRLunchAndLearn. No registration required.
For more information on how to prepare yourself, your loved ones, and your community, visit ReadyOC.org. To stay informed with important information during emergencies, register by visiting AlertOC.gov.
For more information on how to prepare yourself, your loved ones, and your community, visit ReadyOC.org. To stay informed with important information during emergencies, register by visiting AlertOC.gov.
Transportation News
OC Transit Vision Master Plan Overview & Older Adults Services
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, Sierra!
Hi everyone, I'm Sierra, a three-year-old German Shepherd mix with a heart full of adventure and a nose ready for exploring! My curious and joyful spirit is just waiting to brighten up the life of my forever family. Whether it’s a stroll through the neighborhood or a weekend camping trip, I promise we’ll have the bestest time together!
Since I’m a little older and wiser at three, I’m fully potty trained! No puppy accidents here! I’m also a master at "sit" and I love meeting new people. And when you give me pets and belly rubs, I can’t help but lean into your legs and melt into the moment! After a fun time in the yard, there’s nothing I enjoy more than some relaxing quality time with my favorite humans.
Will you make me the happiest girl and give me a forever home? I’m pawsitive I’ll bring endless joy and love into your life! Let’s embark on our next big adventure together! Please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my animal ID A1859051 to adopt or foster-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!
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 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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