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| Volume 5 | Issue 43 |
October 24, 2025 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear neighbor:
We work every day to build a safer, healthier, economically thriving Orange County for all to call home. When the State and Federal governments disrupt our efforts, we must pivot, stay focused on local supports and move forward with innovative, creative, and efficient solutions. This month we experienced many obstacles, but continue prioritizing our resident needs.
Addressing the Federal Government Shutdown
The longer the federal government remains shut down, the greater the hurt to local residents and losses to our local economy. More than 300,000 Orange County residents receive EBT/CalFresh benefits each month to buy groceries. District 5 serves more than 35,000 residents.
The average card holds about $443, equating to $62 million in total allocations each month.
Residents must only buy food with the CalFresh cards. Because most residents shop locally and usually buy other household items, these benefits generate more than $100 million in local economic activity that supports local grocery stores, markets, farmers markets, and thousands of small family-owned businesses.
When we invest in the health and sustenance of our most vulnerable residents, especially children, the disabled, and elderly on fixed incomes, the entire community benefits. The government shutdown presents both a moral and economic issue. We must protect and advocate at every level to restore and protect essential services to support our community.
Our food pantries already struggle to serve existing needs. If you can donate funds, canned foods like tuna, beans, soups, and lentils -- we need your help to stock the shelves. If you need food or support due to this delay in benefits, call 2-1-1 for local resources. In the meantime, I urge you to call your Congressional Representative to advocate for reopening the government. I'm writing and calling them too.
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 Discussing the impact of SNAP funding cuts with Michele Gile of CBS News. Click the photo above to watch our interview.
Read more on the highlights of our week.
Keeping Our Community Safe
Uplifting Crime Survivors
This week I joined Crime Survivors at the 22nd Annual Crime Survivors event to support victims of crimes and their families. Orange County is home to 7 of California’s top 10 safest cities. In 2024, 2,500 survivors sought support from the Crime Survivors Resource Center.
Between 2020 and 2024, the Center engaged 28,000 attendees through roundtables, hosted nearly 20,000 at health and safety expos, led 825 support groups, and mobilized 12,800 volunteers. Together, with law enforcement, we must provide supports for the health and hope of crime survivors, ensuring Orange County residents grow beyond survival and can thrive in our communities.
 Left: Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton, Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes; Right: Crime Survivors Founder and CEO Patricia Wenskunas
Supporting Healthy Communities
Standing with our Health Care Workers: UNAC/UHCP Kaiser Strike
Hands that heal deserve a better deal! I stand with the 35,000 UNAC/UHCP workers picketing for fairer wages, better working conditions, and the hiring of additional staff to prevent burnout. My own father, currently in the hospital for 43 days, and I have seen how the care and empathy of these educated health professionals remain essential in his path to a healthy recovery. Kaiser nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, case managers, and other critical staff heal our loved ones. They deserve adequate compensation and support.
 I joined Gerard Corros (RN) and his colleagues on the front lines outside of Kaiser Irvine Medical Center. Former California State Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderone speaking with employees.
Energy & Sustainability in Orange County
My office continues making major strides in building a sustainable future for Orange County. As I shared with sustainable energy professionals at the Cal State Fullerton Energy & Sustainability Summit, I spearheaded Orange County’s first Climate Action Plan, which outlines how the County will move away from greenhouse gas emissions towards renewable energy. Part of the plan highlights the County’s unique ability to capture landfill gas and convert those excess greenhouse gasses into a reliable renewable energy source. I also discussed the $500 Million grant my office helped secure from the EPA for the South Coast Air Quality Management District to help fund cities and municipalities transition to heavy duty electric vehicles.
As more electric vehicles come online, the greater the need for reliable and affordable energy capacity. Together with local leadership and residents, we act on our commitment to a clean, green future for Orange County.
 Top Left: With Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento and Vice Mayor Connor Traut; Top Right: Here I am with Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, moderator Karla Sayles, VP of Local Public Affairs for Southern California Edison, and Vice Mayor of Buena Park Connor Traut; Bottom: Discussing Orange County’s award-winning mobile home electrification project and community engagement with County sustainability initiatives including the award-winning green efforts at John Wayne Airport
OCHCA Veterans Focus Group
As a sister and granddaughter of veterans, I know the important sacrifices servicemembers make to this nation. That’s why I hold our veterans close to my heart. We want your help with recognizing them next month! Help us honor the Fifth District veterans dedicated to serving our community and our nation. You can nominate veterans of all ages, active-duty service members, and reservists living in and shaping Orange County. Submit your nomination here.
Building a Thriving Economy
J.D. Power Awards Presentation to JWA
John Wayne Airport remains a dynamic travel hub with excellent customer service and experiences to accommodate traveling families and businesses. This month, John Wayne Airport received recognition by J.D. Power as #1 in Customer Satisfaction for Large Airports in North America for the second year in a row. This recognition highlights our Airport’s continued investment in hospitality, family friendly accommodations, traveler convenience, and amenities that elevate the entire guest experience. JWA’s ongoing commitment to excellence strengthens our local economy, attracts tourists, and reflects the vibrant community we remain proud to call home.
 Airport Advisory Committee Meeting
This week I met with our District 5 Airport Advisory Committee to discuss the latest news at John Wayne Airport. We received updates on our efforts to engage with our commercial carriers to encourage them to bring the newest generation of quieter and cleaner Max 8 aircraft to Orange County. We also discussed our progress to create a new user friendly noise monitoring webpage for the public to easily observe noise patterns in our community. In addition we continue to research the latest noise monitoring technology that we hope to bring to Orange County in the future.
Orange County Business Council
As part of our Business Connections series, Orange County Business Council convened local leaders and experts for a timely discussion on coastal erosion and the infrastructure investments needed to protect our shores and coastal economy. Healthy beaches mean stronger communities, thriving tourism and a resilient economy, so we continue streamlining County efforts to nourish our beaches with more sand. More than 75% of Americans vacation by a beach, by renourishing our beaches we can support that thrive off of our coastal economy.
 Here I am moderating the “Addressing the Economic Impacts of Beach Erosion” discussion with panelists Heather Johnston, Dave Dzwilewski, and Jim Merid.
Women Who Mean Business Luncheon
I attended the Laguna Niguel Chamber's “Women Who Mean Business” luncheon. As the recipient of the 2024 “Public Service & Government Award,” I enjoyed celebrating the women leading our local business community. Congratulations to the awardees:
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Difference Maker: Stephanie Winstead
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Luminary: Tammy Letourneau
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Entrepreneur: Julie Mangrello-Jennings
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Change Maker: Sara Sullivan
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Notable Newcomer: Lauren Johnson
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Community Impact: Stacy Lumley
I love supporting our woman-owned small businesses as well as our local chambers.
 Top: Celebrating the women shaping OC’s business community with 2025 “Change Maker of the Year” awardee Sara Sullivan; Bottom Left: With Laguna Niguel Mayor Ray Gennaway; Enjoying the luncheon with Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce members.
A Place to Call Home
Jamboree Housing’s 35th Anniversary
For 35 years, Jamboree Housing has served as a builder of hope, belonging, and stability in our communities. My connection with Jamboree began more than 20 years ago, when I first saw their commitment to quality affordable housing as Costa Mesa’s Planning Chair. Years later, as Mayor of Costa Mesa, I partnered with Jamboree leader Laura Archuleta to explore new housing opportunities. One of which, the Costa Mesa Senior Center, now breaks ground to provide housing to our aging neighbors. Other developments I remain proud to partner on include Salida del Sol in San Juan Capistrano and WISEPlace in Santa Ana. Building affordable housing in Orange County remains dynamic and challenging, but Jamboree’s creativity, perseverance, and collaboration make it possible.
 Top left: Speaking on behalf of Jamboree’s incredible work, Top right: Presenting a proclamation to Jamboree Housing Vice President of Business Development Kelsey Brewer, Bottom: Irvine Mayor and Jamboree Legacy Awardee Larry Agran.
Engaging with Community
Celebrating San Juan Capistrano’s 250th Anniversary
Next year marks the 250th anniversary of Mission San Juan Capistrano, a major milestone in our community’s history. To kick off the year-long celebration and honor the original inhabitants of the land that would become San Juan Capistrano and, eventually, Orange County, the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation hosted a traditional Powwow. From traditional dances and songs in Native Tribal languages to ceremonial offerings and prayers, the event invites leaders across Orange County to recognize the perseverance and courage of Indigenous people, commemorating the shared history of our cherished San Juan Capistrano.
 Top Left: Celebrating the origins of Orange County with Laguna Niguel City Councilmember Stephanie Oddo and Spiritual Overseer (Púul) and Cultural Director Adelia Sandoval of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation; Top Right: Honoring the city’s 250th anniversary; Bottom: With San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Howard Hart, Acjachemen Nation Chair Nathan Banda, Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation secretary Shannon Wingfield, San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember John Taylor, San Juan Capistrano Mayor Pro Tem John Campell, Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation Councilmember Frank Barraza.
Another Successful Newport Beach Film Festival
Orange County shines with filmmaking magic for the 26th year! The Newport Beach Film Festival presented more than 300 films from across 50 countries this week to more than 56,000 guests. Thank you to the talented team of filmmakers and creatives behind NBFF for inspiring our community with unique storytelling and cinematic excellence.
 Left: Me celebrating this year’s Newport Film Festival; Top Right: NBFF Co-Founder Gregg Schwenk; Bottom Right: NBFF Co-Founder Todd Quartararo with my Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Napuri
Coastal Protection
Sand Discussion with our South OC Beach Coalition
In our second South County Beach Coalition meeting, we invited our county and state lobbyists to explore funding strategies for coastal erosion and beach renourishment. As Prop 4 funds roll out from the state, this coalition is uniquely positioned to pursue grants that require multi-agency partnerships and return your tax dollars from Sacramento. The federal appropriations process provides an additional funding source for future beach renourishment projects - through this coalition, we will continue working with all levels of government to bring sand to our beaches and protect our beautiful coastline.
Public Meetings: Coastal Rail Resiliency Study
After years of reacting to sea encroachment and bluff destabilization along our rail corridor, we begin studying viable, proactive solutions for the future. While the state undertakes the long-term study to potentially relocate the LOSSAN Rail Corridor, OCTA continues advancing our mid-term stabilization efforts. To ensure continued public participation, OCTA will host two public meetings to share updates and gather input on the study’s progress and preliminary options:
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Virtual Public Meeting Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 – 5 to 6:30 p.m. Zoom: https://bit.ly/CRRS-Oct28 Webinar ID: 889 5281 6018 Call-in: 213-338-8477
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In-Person Public Meeting Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 – 5 to 6:30 p.m. San Clemente City Hall, Council Chambers 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673
Continued public feedback this fall will help shape the study and contribute to a final feasibility report expected in 2026. I hope to see you there.
As Wahoo’s Fish Tacos celebrates 38 years of service, I look forward to celebrating the restaurant’s contributions to Costa Mesa’s small business community, while introducing the world to a taste of our Orange County coast.
This weekend - exercise your right to vote early beginning tomorrow at select voting centers. Check below for more details on how you can prepare.
Have a great weekend in the Fabulous Fifth. Remember to schedule your mammogram in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Don't forget your sunscreen!
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 October 28, 2025
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Staff Updates
Adam Tallabas
District Director
This week, I represented Vice Chair Foley at the Orange County Public Libraries Advisory Board meeting. While the committee is only advisory in nature, I appreciated the perspectives from member cities on the state of their libraries and how the County can improve access to services. There, we learned that OC Public Libraries was awarded a $100,000 grant from the Samueli Foundation’s 2025 Breakaway Fund in support of their innovative new initiative: Regulation Station: All Aboard for Sensory Play. This generous funding will strengthen OC Public Libraries’ capacity to serve neurodiverse families by creating inclusive, sensory-friendly story times for children ages 2–8, as well as fund programs and resources for the community to support families with children on the autism spectrum.
The goal will be to encourage families to gain a sense of belonging, community support and confidence in their children’s ability to participate in library programming and offerings.
Finally, please join us in honoring our nation’s heroes at the 2025 District 5 Veterans of the Year event, which will be held on November 12 at 6 PM at Heroes Hall Museum in Costa Mesa. RSVP to attend. Please also note that nominees MUST reside in the Fifth District. Nominate a veteran here.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi, all! As we gear up for Halloween, our intern Owen and I joined OC Social Services Agency yesterday for their Annual Trunk or Treat event at the Orangewood Foundation. The evening was filled with music, games, candy, dinner, and incredibly spooky booths! Open to resource families, youth in foster care, and participants of the Orangewood Foundation, the event served some of our most vulnerable neighbors and ensured everyone had a safe, wholesome night of Halloween Fun.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
I also joined the South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees meeting. The Board rescinded their grant agreement with Engie for the Compass Battery Energy Storage System in San Juan Capistrano. This move ensures the protection of our residents in South Orange County and highlights the importance of community engagement
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 Here I am with San Juan Capistrano Mayor Troy Bourne.
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
Hi District 5! This week I staffed our office’s booth at the Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s College and Career Fair. We enjoyed talking with students as they begin exploring diverse career paths. I enjoyed informing the next generation about Government opportunities here at the County of Orange, while also explaining my current work and the career path that led me here. I hope to see some of these faces in our office as interns someday!
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Application Open! District 5 Public Financing Advisory Committee Appointee
The Public Finance Advisory Committee (PFAC) is responsible for reviewing, approving, modifying, or denying debt financing proposals. No debt financing proposal is considered by the Board of Supervisors unless specifically recommended in writing by the PFAC. We seek applicants with a financial industry background to join this important committee.
Click here for the application. Please send a completed application and resume to Katrina.foley@ocgov.com
Commission Update
Campaign Finance and Ethics Commission
James Lawson of Newport Beach thrives as a certified planner and retail broker with extensive experience in acquisitions, land use planning and entitlements, and CEQA laws. At this week’s Board of Supervisors meeting, I stated my support of Mr. Lawson. He shares my commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability. James makes an excellent addition to the Campaign Finance and Ethics Commission.
For regular updates from my Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee on all things Revitalization, click here.
Health News
Kratom and Nitrous Oxide Retail Sales Tipline
 
Transportation News
OCTA's Wave Cards
OCTA has launched Wave, a smarter, easier way to pay that can help riders save money. Ride free Oct. 15-31 when using Wave. Learn more at OCBus.com/Wave
Help us Plan for OC's Future
Complete OCTA’s Long-Range Transportation Plan survey to offer your thoughts on how to improve the future of transportation in Orange County. Please visit octa.net/LRTP to learn more.
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.
Select Vote Centers open this Saturday, October 25! Here’s what you can do when you visit:
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Register to vote or update your registration
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Request a replacement ballot
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Get help with any voting-related questions
Boo at the Bay with OC Parks in Newport Beach
Environmental Health Plan Check Informational Session
Nominate a Veteran for my Annual Veterans of the Year Honors
Prepare to Renew Your Covered-California Coverage
Crystal Cove Art Classes
Our Great Plein Air Art Experience art classes invite you to take part in Crystal Cove's living history by spending a relaxing day capturing the beauty of the Cove on canvas with the help of Crystal Cove plein air artist, Debbie Morines. These five-hour classes from 9am – 2pm will take you through the process of creating your first plein air painting from beginning to end. For a full list of upcoming events, visit CrystalCove.org/Events.
Orange County Local Road Safety Plan
The purpose of the Local Road Safety Plan is to enhance roadways safety in unincorporated communities by identifying and prioritizing key roadway safety improvements. This effort will result in a prioritized list of issues, risks, actions, and improvements aimed at significantly reducing fatalities and serious injuries on local unincorporated roads.
Resources at OC Public Libraries
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Sorsha!
Sorsha is one of the smartest dogs at the shelter! This 4-year-old German Shepherd is sweet, affectionate, and always eager to learn. She picks up new commands quickly and responds beautifully to treats and positive reinforcement.
Sorsha loves a good game of fetch, working on puzzle toys for mental enrichment, and showing off her growing list of tricks! She already knows sit, shake, down, leave it, touch, and stay, and she’s ready to learn even more with her future family!
While Sorsha prefers to be the only pet in the home, she has more than enough love and personality to fill your heart. If you’re ready to meet your new best friend, come foster-to-adopt Sorsha (A1910882) from OC Animal Care today!
Support Our Local Museums
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 and Dana Point! Visit www.newportwhales.com, www.danawharf.com, and Captain Dave's to make your reservations.
Metrolink Weekend Campaign
Avoid traffic and enjoy Metrolink! Metrolink Weekends offers $10 round-trip fares, and youth 17 and under ride free. Enter our weekly drawings for a chance to win a pair of Metrolink tickets or for the monthly grand prize: a $100 gift card plus two Metrolink tickets. For more information and to enter, visit metrolinkdaycations.com.
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
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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Thank you for being an active member of our County.
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