Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
On Tuesday I accompanied Supervisor Foley at her meetings with Maximus US Services, Inc., in which we discussed their case management service progress as a county contractor. Our Internal Audit Department (IAD) Director Aggie Alonso provided updates for the quarter’s end, which issued 12 audit reports (four original audits and eight follow-up audits). Review all finalized audit reports here.
Tomorrow evening, I plan on representing Supervisor Foley at the 22nd Annual “Toast to the Casa Renaissance,” raising funds in support of Casa Romantica’s cultural and community programs. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente is south Orange County's major cultural institution and the home of the founder of San Clemente, Ole Hanson. As stewards of D5, preserving the history and cultural significance of this historic landmark remains a top priority for our office.
Enjoy a safe weekend everyone!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday! This week I continued preparing updates on the Airport Fire for our constituents. On Monday I met with former Orange County Employees Association President & founder of Veterans Alliance Orange County (VALOR) Nick Berardino to discuss veterans’ issues and our Veterans Committee. Our office continues working hard for the veteran population of the Fifth District. Coming from a family of veterans and first responders, working on this subject area remains important to me professionally and personally.
Then, I worked on preparing Supervisor Foley for the meeting of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, of which she serves as the Chair. This week the Trust Board discussed several topics, including approving the funding of three housing projects in all three Service Planning Areas. The future of the Trust and the ability to affect the price of housing in real-time excites me! On Thursday, I attended the 25th Anniversary Gala for Access to Prevention Advocacy Intervention & Treatment (APAIT), where Supervisor Foley was honored with the Legislative Leadership Award alongside Second District Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. APAIT is a community-based organization that positively impacts the quality of life for vulnerable communities experiencing behavioral health challenges, housing insecurity, and at-risk for HIV/AIDS. APAIT is part of the D5 LGBTQ+ Roundtable as well as the D5 AAPI Task Force!
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Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
This week, I began preparation for the October session of Supervisor Foley’s Young Supervisors Program. During this session, students will learn how to become effective and informed advocates in their communities. Our featured guest speaker, Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, will also participate in a Q&A with our cohort.
Today, I provided an update from our office on behalf of Supervisor Foley at the Legislative & Local Affairs Coffee chat in Dana Point Harbor hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. I loved connecting with you all over delicious food and beverages from Coffee Importers.
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 Lastly, on September 7, my family attended the Irvine Animal Adoption Fair hosted by our office and Irvine Councilmembers Tammy Kim and Kathleen Treseder at William R. Mason Park – and they didn’t leave empty-handed. Say hello to our two newest family members: Autumn (left) and Iris (right)!
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
This week, I attended Supervisor Foley’s Wednesday Wellness Walk, hosted in collaboration with OC Parks and the San Clemente Rotary. Local businesses, organizations, and residents connected with the Supervisor in a relaxed, scenic setting. A stunning sunset, OC Parks’ lessons about protecting our fragile coastal ecosystems, and connecting with our neighbors made the walk a highlight of my week. Our next walk will take place on October 10 at the Doheny State Beach Butterfly Garden – save the date!
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 On Thursday, I joined the Chinese American Club of Laguna Woods for the Mid-Autumn Festival Party. Here, I enjoyed mooncakes and a number of fantastic performances. Numbers ranged from choir performances to group dances and skits. My favorite moments included engaging with Laguna Woods residents and exploring Chinese culture together!
 Photo Credit: Bob Ortiz
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Orchestrating this event taught me so much beyond promotion, organization, and delegation skills. Working closely with our County staff and local Irish community also garnered my fresh appreciation for our County’s engagement in teamwork and community. I look forward to seeing you all out at Supervisor Foley’s next community event!
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
For this week’s meeting, the Committee received an update on SB 1098, a bill spearheaded by State Senator Catherine Blakespear, focusing on creating greater interagency coordination for the future of the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor. In the last five years, bluff failures and landslides have interrupted service along the Corridor more times than in the previous 100 years combined. If you follow the Supervisor’s work, you know greater stability along this crucial passenger and freight thoroughfare remains one of her top priorities. Now, the bill awaits signature from the governor. This bill establishes a working group that includes all stakeholders, from the track owners to OCTA itself. Looking over this much-needed cooperative effort taught me the power of vertical and horizontal coordination of government entities and stakeholders. If enacted, I look forward to witnessing this bill’s positive impacts on the residents of Southern California.
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Gagan Bhopal
Intern
Last weekend Olivia and I enjoyed the Maritime Festival in Dana Point. I met plenty of pirates and even made a new feathered friend, pictured below. This annual festival offered a full weekend of maritime family fun, featuring cannon blasts from historically accurate tall ships, sailor camp, mermaid swim shows, and more.
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This week I bid farewell to the wonderful people of the Fifth District office and head back to UCLA for my sophomore year. I enjoyed connecting with all of you at community events and seeing the care we invest in our community reciprocated. Prior to this internship, I was unfamiliar with the number of county agencies and staff playing such crucial roles in serving the residents of Orange County. I also learned about the processes behind implementing policies and developed my research and analysis skills, which will surely help me throughout my academic and professional endeavors.
Thank you to Supervisor Foley and the team for this opportunity to learn and play a part in this office. Thank you, as well, to everyone I met this summer for making my internship experience so memorable!
Noa Tuliau
Policy Fellow
Happy Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
This Wednesday I joined Luca at Save Our Youth’s Back to SOY Night in celebration of the non-profit's mission: supporting low-income, at-risk youth within the Newport-Mesa Unified School District. Soy means “I am” in Spanish, so its name perfectly suits this organization, which commits itself to completing Fifth District students’ “I am...” statements with skill development, passion searching, and promotion of higher education. As a Chicano and proficient Spanish-speaker myself, I am proud to see D5 and Team Foley’s continued investment in the education and future of our youth.
¡Que tengan un buen fin de semana!
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Alexandra Menninger
Policy Fellow
This week I continued my work as a policy fellow for the Supervisor (and absolutely loving it)! From diving deep into agenda items and research to crafting policy analysis, every day this experience teaches me so much about the inner workings of our County.
Most of all, I enjoy this job’s blend of public interest law and hands-on community engagement. For example, this week the team continued working hard at preparing for the Board of Supervisors Meeting on September 24, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. while also executing the Supervisor’s first annual Irish Dance and Culture Celebration.
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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.
Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 | 5:40 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Dennis Parks, DPHOAC Secretary, called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Committee members not in attendance; Diane Wenzel (Theresa Stoller sat in for Ms. Wenzel), Shala O’Keefe, Collin Harris, Wendy Marshall.
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Orange County Supervisor Foley Update: Supervisor Foley advised the committee that the county has engaged MGT of American Consulting to conduct a scheduled audit of the County Executive Office/OC Community Resources’ Dana Point Harbor Public‐Private Partnership. The audit will determine if the lessee’s records adequately support the gross receipts reported to the County and that the lessee has complied with the other financial related lease provisions such as accounting methods, payments and annual financial reports. The complete engagement letter outlining the scope of the audit will be posted on the DPHOAC Updates page on the Fifth District web site.
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The Supervisor indicated that it is anticipated that the DPHP hotel hearing will be scheduled in February of 2025 with the City of Dana Point to review the EIR, and related documents concerning the Local Coastal Plan Amendment for the two new hotels. The Supervisor hoped that the February date could be moved up with assistance from the City of Dana Point. In addition, Supervisor Foley reported that construction of the Coffee Importer space at the Ocean Institute is expected to begin in October. Also, meetings are in progress with the DPHP regarding the Harbor Patrol area and docks portion of the Marina that may also include dock space, when needed, for a Sherriff’s Department vessel that is responsible for the City of Laguna Beach patrol area.
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County of Orange: CEO Real Estate Update: Christian Gagne, the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Manager for the County of Orange advised the committee that the Real Estate team had started working with 5 potential appraisers to undertake the Dana Point Harbor Market Study/Appraisal. The appraiser pool has been narrowed to two primary candidates. Once the primary is selected, CEO Real Estate will collaborate with the County Procurement Office to expedite the onboarding process. This is estimated to take approximately 3 weeks following selection. Based on discussions with the noted appraisal firms, the project scope is anticipated to require 90 to 100 days to complete the study.
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Mr. Gagne then provided an update on the answers to the list of “Boater Concerns” generated prior to and during the Supervisor’s coffee chat in June. In addition to the questions generated by the Coffee Chat and those from Dana Point Boaters Association (DPBA) from earlier in the year, Mr. Gagne utilized the opportunity to add additional frequently asked questions to the list that were submitted by the public via the DPHOversight Email account to serve as an on-going resource on the Supervisor’s website. Question topics ranged from DPHP slip compliance with the approved California Coastal Commission slip layout with respect to the total number of slips, ADA requirements, slip size and fire suppression system to name a few. The complete summary of the Q & A’s will be posted on the DPHOAC Updates page on the Fifth District web site.
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O.C. Parks Update: Scott Fegley updated the committee on the progress of the OC Sailing & Events Center (OCSEC) user interviews being conducted by IDS Group as part of their space utilization study. He reported that everyone has been very responsive. KG Beach Camp questionnaire responses still outstanding which should be accomplished in the near future. Mr. Fegley also advised the committee that there has been no news with respect to the grant request for the design and rebuild of the OCSEC docks, but that communication channels remain open.
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Comments/Questions from Committee Members or Attendees:
- The Outriggers Canoe Club representative expressed concern that a decision on the future storage location of the club’s equipment, once DPHP takes over their current space, cannot be left to the last minute. They were assured that the storage solution process is going on in parallel to the OCSEC space planning project and that they will not be relocated without a workable plan.
- Mike Frost asked the Supervisor if her office would provide conceptual approval of a proposal submitted by the Ocean Institute (O.I.) for their Maritime Village concept that would include 27 permanent pre-fabricated beach cottages for overnight accommodations and the related infrastructure to support them. The Supervisor advised Mr. Frost that the project has not been fully vetted by the Ocean Institute and remaining issues surrounding their understanding of the complexity required to bring it to fruition. As such, the Supervisor indicated that Mat Miller was willing to meet with O.I. to learn more about the proposal and discuss a realistic timeline, as well as the necessary compliance components, of the project.
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Lieb, of DPHP, asked that there be communication between the OC Parks Department’s design team and the DPHP with regard to how the open “park” spaces should be designed so that everyone is in sync with both the County’s open space design and the DPHP design. The goal is to achieve a compatible look and maximum utilization of available space at project’s end. Bryon Ward, of DPHP, had initially offered a working design meeting with OC Parks planning staff and DPHP’s design team to generate conceptual ideas for the future parkscape areas throughout the Harbor. Christian Gagne / CEO Real Estate to coordinate working design meeting with OC Parks and DPHP design team.
Bob Langan adjourned the meeting at 6:25 p.m. after a motion, second and committee vote for adjournment passed.
Next meeting scheduled for 10/2/24.
City of Irvine's Interactive District Dashboard!
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
The Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) has issued a health advisory due to smoke drift from the Airport Fire. We urge individuals in smoke-impacted areas to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity. The Health Care Agency recommends the following precautions to protect you and your loved ones from smoke-related health issues:
OCHCA also issued an air quality advisory. Smoke from the Airport Fire and surrounding fires continues to impact the air quality throughout Orange County, especially those communities closest in vicinity to the fire. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued a Wildfire Smoke Advisory noting unhealthy air quality throughout Orange County with some communities reaching hazardous levels. Levels will fluctuate depending on wind patterns. Unhealthy air quality can have a significant effect on your health, so it is important to follow AQMND recommendations on wildfire smoke and ash safety tips to protect your health during a wildfire smoke advisory:
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Stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, use air conditioner on re-circulate mode, and improve ventilation by using air-purifiers and/or replacing air filters.
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When the Air Quality Index (AQI) is above 151, limit or cease outdoor related work tasks or activities.
If you must be outdoors in a smoky area, or an area with unhealthy air (AQI 151+), consider using an N95 respirator and limit your time outdoors.
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Stay well and hydrated. Dry, hot weather conditions during wildfires can increase the body's fluid needs, while wildfire smoke can irritate your eyes, throat, and lungs.
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Schools can follow guidance available at Air Quality - School Disaster and Emergency Management (CA Dept of Education) to protect Students.
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Employers should follow Cal/OSHA standards to protect workers.
Certain people may experience higher sensitivity to wildfire smoke, including children, pregnant women, older adults, those with health conditions such as lung or heart disease, the unhoused, those with transportation challenges, disabilities, outdoor workers, immunocompromised, and those experiencing active respiratory illness. If your medical conditions worsen, have difficulty breathing, or feel extreme fatigue, contact your health care provider. Call 911 or seek immediate medical care if you experience chest pain or chest tightness. Sign up for air quality alerts from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) to learn more about Orange County air quality.
The Orange County Sheriff's Department Emergency Operations Center (EOC) released the following critical information related to filling medical prescriptions during an emergency:
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Contact your local pharmacy where you typically refill prescriptions. many pharmacies have branch locations that can refill prescribed medications in alternative locations outside the impacted area.
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If you are not able to get your usual network pharmacy to replace your prescriptions, contact your health insurance prescription drug plan which is typically on the back of your insurance card for an extended supply during this local emergency.
Any evacuees needing prescription medications and who are unable to fill them via their health care provider or pharmacy should call OC Public Information Hotline at 714-628-7085. Hotline staff will ask for callers to provide their name and telephone number. County personnel will screen and process requests and will respond to callers at the telephone number provided.
Disasters like wildfires can result in increased anxiety and stress for both adults and children. This can occur even with people that have not directly suffered loss as a result of the fires.
The Emergency Operations Center released the following signs that someone may be having difficulty coping with a disaster:
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Depression, sadness or feelings of hopelessness
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Headaches or stomach problems
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Disorientation or confusion
EOC also provided tips to help cope with stress and anxiety in this emergency:
 Mental health and wellness resources can be found by visiting OC Navigator. Residents can call or text OC Links, the OC Health Care Agency's behavioral health information and referral line, which operates 24/7 at (855) 625-4657. Additionally, the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline is available at (800) 985-5990. This toll-free helpline operates 24/7 and provides free, confidential, and multilingual crisis support to people who are experiencing psychological distress as a result of a natural disaster.
“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.
 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
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, Rob!
 Hi everyone, my name is Rob, and I'm on a mission to steal your heart! With my charming personality and good looks, get ready to fall head over paws for me!
I'm a very affectionate and sweet guy. Once we get to know each other, we'll be snuggling like best friends in no time. Not only do I get along well with other dogs, but I'm also housebroken! Two amazing and desirable traits, if you ask me!
As a German Shepherd, I come with a lot of perks. We’re smart, loyal, and easy to train, not to mention incredibly handsome! If you’re looking for a pup who checks all the boxes, look no further! Kickstart our new adventure by calling OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my animal ID A1853055 to adopt or foster me today! 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!
UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge
The UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge is a community movement to raise awareness and funds for critical cancer research at the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Every participant-raised dollar directly funds pilot studies and early phase clinical trials that aim to develop new insights into cancer prevention, treatment, and cures to save lives.
Tri-Chamber Mixer: Del Prado House
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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