Staff Updates
Alyssa Napuri
Deputy Chief of Staff
 |
|
Fantastic Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
Last night I joined San Clemente PierPride for their 96th Anniversary Gala. PierPride is dedicated to help preserve San Clemente pier, the heart of city since 1928, and community members joined together to raise funds ahead of the Pier’s 100th anniversary.
|
 Local businessowner Angela Watts and Eileen President of PierPride
 Auction winner San Clemente Councilmember Rick Loeffler
Supervisor Foley recently met with PierPride to discuss our office’s partnership in identifying funding sources to help restore the San Clemente Pier to its original view in time for the 100th Anniversary (and 2028 LA Olympics!)
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
On Thursday, I attended the Little Hoover Commission public hearing on public-philanthropic partnerships. The Little Hoover Commission, formally known as the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy, is an independent state oversight agency created in 1962. The Commission’s mission is to investigate state government operations and policy, and – through reports and legislative proposals – make recommendations to the Governor and Legislature to promote economy, efficiency and improved service in state operations. The Hearing on Public-Philanthropic Partnerships (Part 1) examined how the state can best work with outside philanthropic partners, whether as outside funders of state activities or as contracting partners receiving state funds. Here in Orange County, Supervisor Foley knows the importance of public-philanthropic partnerships. Due to the commitment of our community members and state and federal funders, as well as a historic local philanthropic gift from Frank and Joann Randall, Banning Ranch has been acquired and preserved as a coastal open space park so that we can permanently protects many sensitive, threatened, and endangered plant and animal communities along with providing coastal park access for several disadvantaged and socially vulnerable communities. Supervisor Foley remains committed to doing whatever she can to preserve this coastal gem for future generations to enjoy.
|
 On Saturday, my wife, our boys and I will join Team Foley at the Ladera Ranch's Harvest Festival. Come join us for an afternoon of family fun, exciting games, engaging activities, crafts, costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, and more! We hope to see you there! Enjoy a good weekend everyone!
Adam Tallabas
District Director
This week, I finalized preparations for our office’s presentation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month at next week’s Board of Supervisors meeting. I also attended the Grand Opening of the Arts & Learning Conservatory’s Borland Performing Arts Center! The Arts & Learning Conservatory delivers world-class performing arts education to students of every age and background, ensuring equitable access and opportunities for all.
Next Tuesday, October 22, I encourage you to attend “The Many Habitats of Orange County”, hosted by OC Habitats and OC Public Libraries at the Irvine University Park Library from 5 PM – 6 PM. There, you will learn about the native habitats and wildlife, as well as the indigenous uses of native plants in Orange County.
|
Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
At the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Affairs Committee meeting on Wednesday, I listened to Assemblywoman Laurie Davies speak about her initiatives in the past year. She highlighted her accomplishments in passing public safety legislation, including AB 2081 which the County of Orange sponsored. AB 2081 requires homes providing drug and alcohol abuse treatment to provide prospective patients with a disclosure directing them to the California Department of Health Care Services website where they can view a facility’s license and any notices of violations of state law. In other words, this legislation makes it easier for people to properly evaluate drug and alcohol abuse treatment centers before sending themselves, friends, or family members to these facilities.
|
 California State Assemblymember Lauire Davies
 Tyler, Diane Harkey, Alyssa, Abby
This morning, I listened to Bryon Ward, President of Burnham Ward Properties, provide an update on the Dana Point Harbor revitalization project. Supervisor Foley remains committed to ensuring transparency and protecting Dana Point’s boaters and local businesses throughout the revitalization. Click here to visit Supervisor Foley’s website for detailed information about the revitalization, including project resources and documentation, construction progress and photos, upcoming events, as well as updates from Supervisor Foley’s Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
A lot of exciting events this week!
To begin, I joined the office planning committee for the 2024 Women and Girls Summit, held Thursday. I thoroughly enjoyed organizing such an inspirational event for girls in District 5 to learn from some of the County’s most influential women. There truly exists no limits to what we can accomplish. I clearly see the impact their success has on empowering the next generation.
Later in the week, I attended the Little Freebirds ribbon cutting in Laguna Beach with the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. I loved celebrating a long-standing business in District 5 – especially one that serves our littlest neighbors. Next time you’re on the hunt for an adorable and sustainable outfit for the kids in your life, make sure to stop on by!
|
 Finally, if you’re looking for a family-fun activity this weekend, head to the iconic Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch! The weather is turning and it’s the perfect time to enjoy the wagon rides, corn maze, u-pick pumpkin fields, and arts & crafts – just to name a few. 🍂🎃🥧
This week, our interns and fellows participated in a host of events in the Fabulous Fifth District! Starting off, Olivia and Noah joined Supervisor Foley at John Wayne Airport in celebration of their #1 ranking in Costumer Satisfaction among Large Airports in the J.D. Power 2024 North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Ali attended the 48th annual Orange County Women’s Lawyer Assocation’s Gala which promotes the advancement of women in the legal profession, and honored Attorney of the Year Mei Tsang, Judge of the Year Honorable Desirae Hutchins, and Advancement of Women Award to Cox Castle & Nicholson LLP. Noa recently attended the Dana Point Harbor Hoot where, even in foggy conditions, over 140 paddleboarders joined spectators at Baby Beach over everyone’s shared love of the Fabulous Fifth District’s beaches. Finally, Luca joined Supervisor Foley at the Orange County Transporation Agency’s Board meeting where they discussed safety measures for the OC Streetcar. Finally, Abby attended Spear America’s ribbon cutting ceremony and presented a certificate to congratulate owner Dr. Petros Yiannikouros and his staff on their grand opening. Have a great weekend District 5!
Orange County Airport Commission Update
The Airport Commission considered approving contract renewal for janitorial services and revised parking rates at the October 16, 2024, meeting. You can watch the meeting video recording and read more about these items by visiting the Airport Commission page.
OCTA Recruiting for Accessible Transit Advisory Committee
Accessible Transit Advisory Committee (ATAC) advises OCTA about issues that relate to OCTA fixed-route transit and paratransit services for customers with special transportation needs. The Accessible Transit Advisory Committee was originally formed in 1992 in response to the Americans with Disabilities Act and formalized the predecessor “504 Committee.”
Each year, as terms of various members expire, a recruitment process is conducted to fill vacant positions on the ATAC. Applications will be accepted for the 2024-2025 Accessible Transit Advisory Committee spring of 2024.
Registrar of Voters
Prefer to drop your ballot in a drop box? Find your nearest drop box here! Remember – you can vote or drop off your ballot at any Vote Center or Ballot Drop Box in Orange County.
Insurance Commissioner Update
A Message from Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen
The Clerk-Recorder Department partnered with the California Secretary of State for a second time to bring Apostille services directly to Orange County residents during this one-day event. We were able to proudly serve 522 customers and issue 1203 apostilles at the Apostille Pop-Up Shop!
Public Safety News
Sheriff's Department Update
Investigators seek information in bank robbery in Lake Forest
Starting immediately, there will be expanded access for Veterans to get into supportive housing. First, more Veterans are now eligible because HUD will not consider disability benefits towards eligibility. Second, the number of vouchers available to veterans is increasing. The county will now have 1039 VASH (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) Vouchers up from 821. Supervisor Foley has been advocating for Orange County to get Proposition 1 money for Veterans as well; with this multi- pronged strategy we can eliminate Veterans homelessness in Orange County.
At 12:03 p.m. on Oct. 17, Orange County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the Chase Bank off Portola Parkway and Bake Parkway in the city of Lake Forest reference a bank robbery in progress with an armed suspect.
If anyone has any information that may assist the investigation, they are asked to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Department at 714-647-7000. Anonymous information may be provided through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
National Prescription Take Back Day: Saturday, October 26, 2024
Join the Orange County Sheriff’s Department for National Prescription Take Back Day! Got unwanted, unused, or expired prescription medication? Bring them in – no questions asked. Let’s keep our communities safe! Find your nearest drop-off location at dea.gov/takebackday
The County recently received a $3.2 million grant to redesign and build new docks at the Sailing & Event Center to comply with ADA access requirements! Progress continues on the CEO state's Dana Point Harbor Market Study/Appraisal. Christian Gagne and CEO Real Estate begin coordinating with OC Parks and DPHP on generating conceptual ideas for the future parkscape areas throughout the Harbor, as well as a draft designed for rebuilding the Sailing & Events Center.
While the rest of the Dana Point Harbor received a green light for revitalization in 2018, the county side of our harbor continued to degrade. Rehabilitating our county docks grew out of the discussions during our Dana Point Harbor Oversight Committee meetings. Now, the County of Orange can completely replace our remaining public docks because of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Boating Access Program. These new docks expand access to recreational boating, public programming, sailing lessons for disabled and low-income youth, and a greater connection to our gorgeous ocean for all.
Learn more by visiting my DPHOAC Updates on the Fifth District website.
Health News
OC Health Care Agency: Windblown Dust and Ash Air Quality Advisory
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) today issued a Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory where winds are high across the Los Angeles metro area, the Inland Empire, and Orange County. Air quality will be variable through Saturday afternoon or until windy conditions subside. Click here for suggested precautions.
OC Health Care Agency COVID-19 Update
Reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations such as seniors, those younger than one-year-old, and those with severe medical conditions. For more information, please visit the OCHCA website at https://ochealthinfo.com/covid.
Beginning 9/26/24, you will be able to place another order of 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. Shipping will begin on 9/30/24. Order your tests here.
Measles Information for General Public
As we enter virus season, measles can be prevented with measles vaccine, usually as part of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Learn more 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) -- an over-the-counter nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses -- at absolutely no-cost to all residents and businesses across Orange County.
From California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara:
As California endures high heat and increased wildfire danger, the California Department of Insurance shares 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.
Youth Ride Free Bus 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. REQUEST A PASS
OCTA Free Hikes & 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.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Ripley!
 Hi, I'm Ripley! Believe it or not, I'm a very curious gal with a zest for life! I'm a 6-year-old pittie who came to the shelter 8 months ago and honestly, I haven't figured out why no one wants me yet.
In addition to having a lovely smile and a big heart, I'm quite the affectionate girl. I may get bouncy when you visit me, but that's just because I'm ecstatic to finally have a visitor! I love receiving pets, running my zoomies, and after I've tired myself out, laying by your side.
With my alert and playful spirit, I'll keep you entertained for hours on end! Can you please make me the happiest girl and adopt me? If you're not ready to adopt, foster me instead! I'd love to show you how amazing I am! Please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1856204, to adopt or foster me!
Ladera Ranch Harvest Festival: October 19, 2024
On Saturday, October 19, attend the Ladera Ranch Harvest Festival at Founders Park! Enjoy a craft fair, delicious food, activities, and even a costume contest from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m! We hope to see and connect with you there!
OC Waste and Recycling Free Compost Giveaway
For more information, visit https://oclandfills.com/Compost-Giveaway-November.
OC Waste and Recycling Paint Collection Event
Have leftover paint? Recycle it this November at OC Waste & Recycling’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers, open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more info, check out oclandfills.com/PaintCare!
Foster Pets with OC Animal Care
Email ocacprograms@occr.ocogv.com today to be a foster hero!
Costa Mesa Online Fair Housing Workshop planned for Tuesday Oct. 22
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:
Help OC Develop our General Plan!
Learn more here:
OC Workforce One-Stop: OPEN NOW!
Ready Set OC offers no-cost employment training for Orange County youth ages 14-24. 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. 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? For information on local haulers and recycling coordinators visit OCLandfills.com/quick-links.
BenefitsCal
Orange County officially switched over to a new benefits enrollment portal called BenefitsCal. 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.

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
|