Staff Updates
Alyssa Napuri
Deputy Chief of Staff
This week, the Supervisor’s own hometown of Costa Mesa celebrated the grand opening of Matty’s Patty’s, the newest culinary venture from chefs and co-founders Pat Tenore and Matt Matheson. For the first time in 39 years, a new business calls this iconic location on Newport Boulevard home, welcoming all of you to enjoy delicious burgers, shakes, fries, and great vibes. Morgan and I enjoyed meeting Matt and telling him how much we appreciate his acting chops on Emmy-Award winning television show, The Bear. Welcome to Costa Mesa, Matty’s Patty’s!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday & Happy Holidays!
This week, I attended a meeting with housing partners and local jurisdictions to develop a transformative affordable housing resource that I believe will greatly improve the experience of searching for housing opportunities for renters. I look forward to continuing the work in 2025 that needs to be done to solve the housing emergency our community is facing.
On Thursday, I joined our team at the Laguna Canyon Boys & Girls Club for our New Coats for Kids Drive! I enjoyed providing free, new coats for kids to stay warm in the holiday season.
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 As we look to 2025, I look forward to all of the great opportunities to serve you all and provide the best public service possible. See you next year! 😊
Tyler Mosher
District Representative and Policy Analyst
This week, I helped our team prepare Supervisor Foley for the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday – the last Board meeting of the year! Supervisor Foley continues to advocate on District Five’s behalf, working to end homelessness, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and safeguard taxpayer dollars. Stay tuned as our office updates our priorities for District Five in the new year.
Also on Tuesday, I supported my friend and fellow District Representative Morgan Goldstein at Supervisor Foley’s Holiday Resource Fair. Due to the large attendance, our policy intern Luca Shakoori and I stepped in to direct traffic!
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Happy Holidays, District 5! ❄️
This week was all about giving back to the community. We held coat drives, resource fairs, and food distributions to ensure that our community is safe, warm, and well-fed this holiday season.
After a lot of planning with our incredible partners, the Supervisor’s 2024 Holiday Resource Fair was a massive success. It was wonderful to connect with so many residents from South County at the Shea Center, including some with four legs!
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 Additionally, we tackled a significant amount of constituent casework this week. We coordinated CalFresh benefits, connected residents with housing and mental health resources, and helped access utility services, ensuring that District 5 residents are well-supported this holiday season.
Intern Updates
This week, our interns and fellows celebrated the giving season and helped spread holiday cheer throughout the Fabulous Fifth District. At our three Coats for Kids Drive events, Abby joined Kimberlee in collecting, sorting, and distributing new coats to local kids, while Noah documented the day on camera. The whole team pitched in at the Holiday Food & Toy Drive we hosted at the Shea Center – while Luca and Mecca passed out produce boxes, Abby and Noah delivered toys, Ali directed parking and traffic, and Noa utilized his Spanish skills in assisting event navigation. Mecca and Ali also joined Olivia in celebrating 116 years of the Newport Beach Boat Parade, a little tradition attended by over a million people each year.
Airport Commission Update
By Sue Dvorak
At their December 4, 2024 meeting, the Airport Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of an amendment to extend the Sterling Energy International Inc. contract through December 31, 2027 to ensure continued operation and maintenance of JWA’s Central Utility Plant. The Central Utility Plant provides electrical service and chilled water for airport terminals, and electrical service for JWA’s parking structures.
The Airport Commission also voted unanimously to recommend approval of an amendment to the Allied Universal Security Services contract to ensure continued private security guard services at John Wayne Airport through January 31, 2027.
California launches new rebates to help cut home energy costs
Homeowners: Receive $4,000 - $8,000 in rebates to reduce the cost of purchasing and installing a new, energy-efficient home heating and cooling heat pump
California homeowners with household incomes between 80% and 150% area median income (AMI) will be eligible for up to $4,000. Those with incomes less than 80% AMI will be eligible for up to $8,000. Applicants can find their AMI here and begin their application here.
The rebates can be added to other incentives for even more savings on home electric appliances and equipment.
Bay View Trail Pedestrian Bridge Repairs
By OC Parks and OC Public Works
OC Public Works will perform maintenance at the Bay View Trail pedestrian bridge at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. A detour along Mesa Drive will be available for trail users to connect with the trail.
A portion of Bay View Trail, including the pedestrian bridge, will be closed for repairs, from December 9 - December 27, 2024. The construction schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other factors.
A Message from the County Librarian
The Laguna Woods Library will be closed Monday, December 23 to Tuesday, January 1 due to Laguna Woods City Hall Complex holiday closure. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season and look forward to seeing you in the new year!
Join the Orange County Ethics Commission
District 5 is seeking a qualified individual to serve on the Ethics Commission, which oversees the County's Campaign Reform, Lobbyist Registration, Gift Ban Ordinances, and Code of Ethics.
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Must be a registered voter.
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Cannot hold any elected or appointed public office.
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Must not have been an elected official, lobbyist, candidate, public agency head, or Grand Juror in the last 10 years.
- No felony or misdemeanor convictions involving dishonesty or election law violations.
Make a difference in ensuring transparency and accountability in Orange County!
Orange County Continuum of Care (CoC) Recruiting for Board
The CoC is currently accepting nominations for their board! The CoC Board oversees and governs the community’s work to end homelessness, including:
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Deciding which types of organizations and programs get funded
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Determining strategic direction
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Analyzing and interpreting data
The CoC is recruiting for seven to eleven members to serve a two-year term from January 2025 to December 2026 and is seeking to broaden board membership to more wholly reflect the diversity of identities and experiences in Orange County.
APPLY HERE
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.
OC Public Libraries - 2024 Winter Reading Challenge!
Please see the latest Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee updates here.
Health News
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.
California Insurance Commissioner Update:
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
Metrolink Holiday Express
The holiday season is here! Get in the spirit by riding Metrolink to festive events and activities! On the Metrolink Holiday Express, you can look forward to great holiday deals and delightful day trips from LA to Oceanside. Enjoy the magic of a classic, cozy train ride!
Learn more at Octa.net/MetrolinkWeekends.
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, Sally!
 Hi there! My name’s Sally, and I’m a sweet six-year-old Akita Pit Bull mix with a heart as big as my smile. I’m the perfect cuddle buddy who absolutely lives for pets, and I’ll happily melt into you for all the love and affection you can spare!
I’m a one-of-a-kind blend of two amazing breeds. Did you know Pit Bulls are known for their affectionate, playful nature, while Akitas are famously loyal and protective? That means I’m ready to be your most devoted companion! A mix of love, loyalty, and a touch of sass, all rolled into one adorable package!
I’d love to be the center of your world, so I prefer a home without kids or other furry friends. That just means I have more love to give you!
If you’re ready to make me your new best friend, give OC Animal Care a call at (714) 935-6848 and mention my animal ID A1857284. I can’t wait to shower you with love!
Support OCMA
Support Your Orange County Museum of Art, which makes art accessible to all through free admission! Click here to donate.
Foster Pets with OC Animal Care
Email ocacprograms@occr.ocogv.com today to be a foster hero!
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:
18 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Orange County
Visit here for information on holiday festivities in Orange County!
Help OC Develop our General Plan!
Learn more here:
Russ Bendel's Coastal OC Restaurants Celebrate the Holidays
Russ Bendel’s seven coastal hotspots are celebrating the holidays with custom cocktails, indulgent culinary offerings and a rewarding gift card program. Visit Olea in Newport Beach, Sapphire and The Pantry in Laguna Beach, Ironwood in Laguna Hills, Bloom in San Juan Capistrano and Vine and Parlor in San Clemente for the best in yuletide cheer!
ELFING AROUND…Inspired by the iconic holiday movie, Elf, celebrated mixologist Inga Tantisalidchai has created a unique cocktail for the season, “Elfing Around,” served exclusively at Olea in Newport Beach. It’s made with Papa’s Pilar blonde rum with bright notes of vanilla and citrus. Then Shanky’s Whip adds a hint of maple and holiday spiced flavors to cold brew coffee. The cocktail is presented in a glass ornament, perched above a frosty snowball, then ceremoniously poured on top of the icy orb.
HOLIDAY SURF + TURF… Chef-partner Jared Cook has taken an over-the-top interpretation of the classic surf and turf for the month at the restaurants.* A towering nine-ounce Revier Ranch Filet mignon, cooked to order, is paired with three colossal, wild-caught Ecuadorian shrimp. The luxe entrée comes with melted garlic-crème fraîche potatoes, winter vegetables, and enhancing the steak and shrimp, bordelaise and Meyer lemon-champagne butter. The perfect indulgence for New Year’s Eve.
CAVIAR? YES PLEASE…The luxurious holiday delicacy is served at all locations* in December. Black Pearl Siberian Sturgeon caviar comes with toasted brioche and the classic garnishes—capers, chives, crème fraîche, red onion and grated egg yolk and white.
LARGE PARTIES + PRIVATE DINING… RJB Restaurants now have private, semi-private and buyout options available at each restaurant. Sapphire has a private 16-seat Boardroom; Vine and Olea have intimate spots for six to eight. All locations are also available for private holiday luncheons, contingent on group size. For more information, click on the restaurant links and go to Large Parties.
BLOOM AND A VIEW - CAPISTRANO LIGHTS: MISSION IN LIGHTS…Now through December 29, you’ll have a front row seat to view the dramatic exterior of Mission San Juan Capistrano’s annual “Mission in Lights” from Bloom. The restaurant, located directly across from Orange County’s only mission, recommends reservations. Limited booth seating offers the best views.
Olea, Sapphire, Ironwood, Bloom, Vine and the Parlor will open for dinner service at 4pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Costa Mesa Residents Can Apply Now to Serve on Various City Commissions
The Costa Mesa City Council is currently seeking residents to serve on the following City Commissions:
Arts Commission: For further information, contact Executive Assistant Laura Fautua at (714) 754-5009.
Parks and Community Services Commission: For further information, contact Executive Assistant Laura Fautua at (714) 754-5009.
Planning Commission: For further information, contact Administrative Assistant Anna Partida at (714) 754-5612.
Application Process – Residents who are interested in getting involved in local government are encouraged to complete a Commission Application Form from the City Clerk’s Office or from the City’s website (www.costamesaca.gov/apply). The completed application may be submitted online; mailed to Costa Mesa City Clerk at Post Office Box 1200, Costa Mesa, California, 92628-1200; emailed to cityclerk@costamesaca.gov; or hand-delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. The deadline is 5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. The appointments are tentatively scheduled for the Jan. 21, 2025 City Council meeting.
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
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