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| Volume 5 | Issue 15 |
April 11, 2025 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear neighbor:
This week, my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors decided to delay a resolution asking the U.S. Department of Justice to reassess whether disgraced former Supervisor Andrew Do complied with the plea deal he entered when he pleaded guilty to bribery. I voted against this delay.
Since his resignation from the Board, Mr. Do continued to act in an unethical, criminal-minded manner by secretly routing emails to a personal account, including obtaining privileged information about the County’s civil case against him, his family, and his co-conspirators. This covert action violates county policies and the laws governing attorney conduct and confidentially. The U.S. Department of Justice must ensure he complies with his plea agreement and hold him accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Read more of my statement here.
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Board of Supervisors Meeting:
At our Board of Supervisors meeting this week, we voted to accept a $4.5 million settlement from T-Mobile, that accepted responsibility for their failure to properly design, install, and maintain equipment that sparked the 2020 Silverado Fire. We also voted to pay $9.5 million in claims for the Airport Fire.
The Board declared this week as “National Public Health Week.” In the Fabulous Fifth, we've prioritized public health by eliminating toxic pesticides. Irvine became the first city in Orange County to go non-toxic in 2016, followed by San Juan Capistrano. As Mayor, I declared Costa Mesa toxic-free in 2019, protecting residents with a weed abatement and pest management plan that prohibits toxic pesticides. Following suit, Fabulous Fifth communities of San Clemente, Laguna Hills, Rancho Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Aliso Viejo also adopted this organics model. The Aliso Viejo Community Association’s recent efforts de-toxified Canyon View Park in Aliso Viejo, so residents of all ages can safely enjoy playing on the grass. Orange County remains a world-class destination to work, live, and visit because we prioritize public health.
 Here I am with Toxic-Free OC leadership: Carolyn McCuan, Melissa Christian, and Tracy Blum.
A glance at my week:
Thank you to the dedicated researchers at Laguna Beach’s Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) for protecting our ocean animals. This weekend I joined airport Director Charlene Reynolds to celebrate continued advocacy and partnership with PMMC at their Top Chef fundraiser in Irvine. The beautiful floral arrangements for our table were created by Costa Mesa resident Henry Tieu. The meal prepared by Chef Jonathan Stanley of Vista Bar & Kitchen was delicious, too! I also attended the 50th Anniversary of Laguna Beach Seniors with Laguna Beach Mayor Alex Rounaghi, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill, Councilmember Bob Whalen, City Clerk Ann Marie McKay, and Orange County Older Adults Advisory Committee appointee Joni Nichols.
Mesa Verde residents can finally end two decades of advocacy for Garfield-Gisler Street Bridge removal from the Master Plan of Arterial Highways. For 20 years, I've been vocal: the bridge is simply ineffective. Next week, the OCTA board will vote on the Regional Transportation Committee's recommendation to remove the highway, protecting the neighborhood, schools and cemetery from imminent domain taking of property to build a highway. We need resident support to complete the removal. If you live in Mesa Verde and can attend our OCTA board meeting at 500 S. Main St in Orange on Monday at 9am, I encourage you to speak in favor.
At a Housing Conference at Claremont McKenna College hosted by former Governor Gray Davis, I discussed government solutions for housing such as cutting red tape to reduce delays, partnering with county procurement to reduce building material costs, and educating the community about the new neighbors to avoid opposition. In Orange County, a person earning $88,0000 per year qualifies for low-income housing. That means our new firefighters, police officers, healthcare professionals, and teachers could all qualify for affordable housing. People who work, study, and play in our County should be able to live and thrive in communities they've invested in, and we must expand housing opportunities for all, especially our workforce and next generation of professionals.
 Lower Left: Director of Claremont McKenna Rose Institute of State and Local Government Kenneth Miller, California Governor Gray Davis, and me. Upper Right: Diamond Bar Councilmember Andrew Chou and me.
The Fabulous Fifth is home to coastal luxury shopping centers that help our local economy flourish. We hosted our April Wellness Walk at Fashion Island this week. Thank you to all who joined us – including former Huntington Beach City Councilmember Rhonda Bolton and NMUSD Trustee Carol Crane – in touring this vibrant social epicenter of Newport Beach culture and style.
 On Thursday, I joined “Good Morning Corona del Mar,” to share updates with the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce and Newport Beach residents about our Nitrous Oxide ban, Wildfire prevention, John Wayne Airport Fly Friendly progress, and the Newport Dunes Resort.
 Upper: With the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce Executive Board: Laurie Horn, Tony Hashemian, Linda Leonard, Bernie Svalstad, and Jeremy Evans.
Thank you to the students of UCI’s Samueli School of Engineering for sharing your research on coastal resiliency with me, Assemblymember Laurie Davies, and San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock at the UCI Resilient Shores event. The students showcased inspiring dedication to protecting our beaches. I enjoyed sharing updates on our work to bring 540,000 cubic yards of sand nourishment to South County beaches. Today we learned that the Coastal Commission approved our permit. Stay tuned for more sand soon.
 This morning, I stopped by the Laguna Niguel Government & Community Relations meeting to share updates on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and wildfire safety. The state wrongfully took away our local control, allowing businesses to build these massive battery systems in high-fire risk areas. While I support the transition to clean energy, it cannot be at the expense of fire safety. At my request, the County is developing an ordinance to identify safety regulations and zoning for these facilities. My priority remains building a safe, healthy, economically-thriving Orange County for us to call home.
 Upper Left: I am joined by Assemblywoman Laurie Davies, Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Duane Cave, Laguna Niguel Councilmember Stephanie Oddo, Meriah Custer of CR&R, and Laguna Niguel Mayor Pro-Tem Gene Johns.
I ended my week at the Newport Chamber Police Appreciation lunch the Pendry hotel. What a great program showcasing the amazing men and women dedicated to protecting and serving to keep our communities safe.
 With Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton and Newport Beach Police Chief Dave Miner.
Enjoy your weekend and wear your sunscreen.
Upcoming Events:
Addressing Public Safety in
Rancho Mission Viejo
Join me, OC Public Works, and Captain Isaac Felter on April 29, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. for a discussion on public safety in the Rancho Mission Viejo community at the RMV Guest House facility (11 Brioso St., Rancho Mission Viejo, CA 92694). Email robert.labounty@ocgov.com to RSVP.
 Ladera Ranch Spring Celebration
Hop on by and say hi to Team Foley at the Ladera Ranch Spring Celebration this Saturday, April 12 at Founders Park, from 12 – 4 pm. Enjoy a day of delightful activities including an egg hunt, crafts, eats and treats, and photos with Peter Rabbit.
 Be well,
 Katrina Foley
Vice Chair
County of Orange
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In This Edition
Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!
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Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting on April 22, 2025
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Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Adam Tallabas
District Director
This week, I met with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library of California, who are looking to expand into Orange County. Did you know that the Dolly Parton Imagination Library distributes 3.2 million books per month and, to date, has distributed 260 million books since their inception in 1995? Tonight, I will be at the Orange County Museum of Art for SHIFT, a conversation about shifting the narrative around the issues of homelessness and affordable housing in Orange County – with OCMA CEO Heidi Zuckerman and Becks Heyhoe-Khalil of OC United Way.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hey, D5! This week, I collaborated with our District Director Adam Tallabas and a resident of Laguna Woods to coordinate community volunteer opportunities with the doctors at the local Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinic. With our Annual Senior Summit coming up in October, this meeting identified the best individuals to invite to address the needs of our District 5 community. I look forward to seeing how these conversations can help improve the lives of our local seniors and veterans, alike.
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Robbie Labounty
District Representative
Hi District 5! This week, I had the privilege of attending two impactful local events. At the Orange County United Way 2025 Scorecard Event in Costa Mesa, community leaders gathered to celebrate the achievements of the FACE2024 Strategic Plan and the United to End Homelessness initiative. The event showcased measurable progress and inspiring stories from our collective efforts to address homelessness.
I also attended the 52nd Annual Newport Beach Police Appreciation Luncheon hosted by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. It was a great event honoring outstanding officers of the Newport Beach Police Department, who do lifesaving work every day. In particular, we were excited to honor Officer of the Year Zachary Varela for his excellent service.
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 Left: (Becks Heyhoe-Khalil Executive Director of United to End Homelessness, OC United Way), Right: (Ann Ramirez Chief Strategy Officer for OC United Way, Max Gardner Former President & CEO of United Way, Nanda Kumar Cheruvath Chair on OC United Way Board of Directors, Chris Tucker Chief Transportation Officer of OC United Way)
Abby Paulson
District Associate
This week, we had a resident reach out with safety concerns at the Tidepools near the Dana Point Harbor. OC Parks looked into the issue and informed us that they are actively working on a project to replace the weathered railings and stair cage at the Killer Dana stairway access near the Ocean Institute, which is currently in the permitting phase. Project completion is expected within the next year. Vice Chair Foley and OC Parks remain dedicated to keeping our beaches safe and accessible.
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Interns
Welcome to our new Summer Intern, Julian Serur. Julian plans on attending UCI as a transfer student majoring in Social Policy and Public Service this fall. He looks forward to focusing on the policy areas of public transportation and housing, and meeting you out and about in District 5 as together, we make Orange County a better place to live and play.
Join the Orange County Ethics Commission
District 5 seeks 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. Submit your CV or resume, a short bio, and the linked application to Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com.
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. APPLY HERE.
Share Your Input on the County of Orange Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget by April 15
The County of Orange invites you to share your input on the CEO Recommended Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget. Your feedback is essential in shaping the budget process.
Toxic-Free OC
Christian Gagne, OC CEO Real Estate’s Office
Exciting progress continues at Dana Point Harbor - The Commercial Core's parking structure remains ahead of schedule, with landscaping and mature trees planted. Phase 3 (the Commercial Core Village) is on track for a July/August estimated beginning timeframe. Phase 8 of the Marina is open for occupancy while relocation efforts for demolition and construction at Phase 7.1 are set to begin mid-late April. The Hotel EIR public review period is ongoing, with a June Planning Commission meeting targeted.
Read the latest from the Marina at Dana Point.
OC Board of Supervisors Approved Amendment to Gravois Aluminum Boats DBA Metal Shark Contract
The Board of Supervisors approved a plan to update Orange County Harbor Patrol’s Police and Fire boat fleet with metal sharks, to support our law enforcement in keeping Newport, Sunset Huntington, and Dana Point Harbors safe for families to enjoy. Learn more here.
Health News
Measles Information
OC Health Care Agency COVID-19 Update
Order your for free at home test kits: Order your tests here.
Free Naloxone Deliveries in Orange County
FentanylSolution.org offers 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. Request free delivery of Naloxone: https://tinyurl.com/FentSolOC
Transportation News
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.
Veterans Advisory Committee Update
We must ensure the honorable and respectful treatment of veterans in the County of Orange in the county they called home. With unanimous support, the State Assembly approved AB571 to allow construction of Gypsum Canyon Veterans Cemetery. Thank you to the Fabulous Fifth's VALOR President Nick Beradino and VALOR member Bobby McDonald for testifying in support.
Laguna Canyon Foundation
Crime Victims' Rights Ceremony
This year's ceremony focuses on combating revictimization. In honor of our victims, we will continue our tradition of displaying victim photos in the courtyard surrounding the ceremony.
Hoag OC Marathon on May 4, 2025
The Hoag OC Marathon returns to Costa Mesa on May 4, 2025. There's something for every age and every ability level: walk the Hoag OC 5K at your own pace or let the kids take on Kids Run the OC. Learn more about the marathon and book accomodations while discounted race rates are still avaliable.
JWA Advisory Committee Update
The County Board of Supervisors approved an operating license for JSX to enable the private charter to provide expanded service at John Wayne Airport. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to supporting operators who follow the County’s curfew and passenger limits, and fly the newest generation of cleaner, quieter, and environmentally friendly aircraft.
“I am deeply grateful for the leadership of Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley and JWA Airport Director Charlene Reynolds, who worked tirelessly to make this come to fruition,” said JSX CEO Alex Wilcox. “We look forward to continuing to serve as a responsible and innovative member of the Orange County aviation community, providing more travelers with access to our seamless public charter flights on low-noise aircraft.”
RAD Camp Update
Thank you for your incredible support of RAD Camp this year, we couldn’t have done it without you! We value your dedication to our mission in making RAD a reality to (a record!) 226 families and over 800 volunteers this past year! We recently finished our 2024 Annual Report and I hope you’ll take a moment to see how your contribution has helped shape RAD into what it is today. Click here to view the report.
Katie and Megz
Directors of Awesome, RAD Camp
Quantum eMotion Update
Thank you to Vice Chair Foley for attending last month's launch of Quantum eMotion’s first American office in Irvine, in support of our goal to save lives and protect patient and business information using the world’s fastest technology. Learn more here.
Francis Bellido, CEO of Quantum eMotion Corp
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Nalu!
Do you want a dog that will be loyal and give you protection? A dog that stays close, follows your lead, and is also cute, charming, and lovable? Adopt Nalu!
Whether you choose to adopt or foster, Nalu's (A1891627) gentle spirit and charming eyes are sure to win you over. Come to OC Animal Care to meet him today! Your perfect match is one tail wag away!
Please visit our Pet Adoptions page to see more adoptable pets!
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.
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.
 
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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