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| Volume 6 | Issue 3 |
January 16, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Thank you to my colleagues, who this week re-elected me as the 2026 Board Vice Chair and Supervisor Doug Chaffee as the Board Chair. In 2025, we accomplished so much for Orange County residents, business owners, safety and health professionals, our airport, and more. This year, we continue facing state and federal funding challenges that require us to step up at a local level and work collaboratively to protect our communities.
I remain focused on protecting taxpayer dollars, keeping our neighborhoods safe, solving the root causes of homelessness, collaborating with federal, state and local agencies prioritizing the wellbeing of Orange County, and holding leaders accountable through transparency and strategic oversight.
Read on for more highlights of our week.
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Board of Supervisors Meeting
Setting Statewide Precedent on NOX
Last year, my office spearheaded the first countywide ban on NOX. This week, Senator Tom Umberg set the tone statewide with the passage of SB 758 Substance Control and Retail Integrity Act out of its first committee on Tuesday. The legislation will ban the retail sale of Nitrous Oxide and synthetic Kratom. During our Board meeting, held at the same time as the hearing, the OC Board of Supervisors formally endorsed the legislation. These drugs cause psychosis, paralysis, and diminished brain function. Together, we must hold retailers accountable and ensure real enforcement to protect our communities.
One year after the devastating Los Angeles fires, we must continue investing in local fire prevention infrastructure. In addition to the Hand Crew station we delivered to Rancho Mission Viejo, the Board expanded our modern firefighting tool belt this week by approving a Fifth District-led grant for new HeloPod in San Clemente, allowing fire crews to access up to 3,770 gallons of water during a fire incident. The new San Clemente HeloPod will come online this year.
Innovative Solutions for Safe Beaches
The Board approved a Fifth District grant to support a UC Irvine Climate Collaboration Master of Engineering student project focused on the design of rail solutions, including transporting sediment from the Prado Basin and additional points along the Santa Ana River to coastal beaches in Orange County. The project includes a field trip to the Prado Dam site and a kick-off student workshop featuring OC Water District, OC Public Works, OC Parks, OC Transportation Authority, US Army Corps of Engineers, and US Fish and Wildlife. By empowering the next generation of engineers, we advance real, innovative solutions that restore our beaches, reduce carbon emissions, protect our coastline, and deliver long-term savings for taxpayers.
Funding Essential Services
The Board accepted $8.6 million in grant funding to support already existing programs for the District Attorney, John Wayne Airport, Sheriff-Coroner, OC Public Works, and the Social Services Agency. These existing programs protect the public safety and tax dollars of Orange County residents, including the DA's efforts to bring justice to victims of pandemic unemployment fraud, and OC Public Works as they continue watershed management projects throughout Orange County. By aggressively pursuing grant funding, we return hard-earned tax dollars to our Orange County community.
Keeping Our Community Safe
Hurri-quakes, tsunami warnings, and year-round wildfire season – we experience it all here in Orange County. This week’s Be Prepared OC Summit hosted by OC United Way and 211OC gathered local business leaders to strengthen our strategy for protecting you and your loved ones in the event of future emergencies. I look forward to hosting more joint fire safety and disaster preparedness town halls this year with local leaders like OC Sheriff Don Barnes, our County agencies, fire authorities, local government, and law enforcement. In the meantime, I encourage residents to call 2-1-1 from disaster resources and track emergency alerts at AlertOC.com and OCFA.org.
 Top: Here I am with moderator and Chair of the 2-1-1 OC Leadership Council Steve Churm, President of United Way Sue Parks, Head of Niagara Cares Ann Chock, and Sheriff Don Barnes; Bottom: Introducing panelists OC Sheriff-Coroner Don Barnes, OCFA Division Chief Cheyne Maule, American Red Cross SoCal Regional Disaster Officer Debbie Leahy, OC Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, and Director of Community Impact for 2-1-1 OC of Orange County United Way Amy Arambulo.
Costa Mesa Police Promotion
This week marks a historic and celebratory moment, as Chief Joyce LaPointe makes history as the first woman appointed to serve as Chief of Police for the City of Costa Mesa, bringing 28 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to this leadership position. We also celebrated my good friend Jason Chamness, as he rises to Deputy Chief of Police. Chief LaPointe and Deputy Chief Chamness form an exceptional leadership team, one that will serve and protect our Costa Mesa neighbors. For the first time in 10 years, a fully staffed Costa Mesa Police Department serves and protects the city again. Thank you to the entire Costa Mesa Police Department for your outstanding partnership with the County of Orange as we work together to keep our community safe.
 Celebrating all of CMPD’s newest promotions: Chief of Police Joyce LaPointe, Deputy Chief of Police Jason Chamness, Captain Scott Stafford, Lieutenant James Brown, Sergeants Ramon Hernandez, Kenneth Tu, Ronald Stocking, Jacob Schulze, and Arnold Alegado, Executive Assistant to the Chief Judy Malouf, and Park Ranger Luke Mauser.
Supporting a Healthier Orange County
Expanding Services to Address Parkinson’s
For those suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, regular exercise proves essential to maintaining a relatively normal lifestyle and managing symptoms. On Wednesday, I met with Parkinson’s Exercise Program (PEP4U) President Jerry Miller and Vice President Kerry Keen to discuss expanding services in Orange County. PEP4U offers 21 free classes 6 days a week to individuals suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. Classes range from boxing and yoga to cycling and Tai Chi, and even speech therapy – with 15 of the classes located in the Fifth District.
 With Parkinson’s Exercise program President Jerry Miller and Vice President Kerry Keen
Building Opportunities to Call Orange County Home
I joined the OC State of Homelessness panel to discuss how Orange County advances housing solutions amid growing funding uncertainty. Stay tuned next week to view the stream of the important conversation with Supervisor Sarmiento, Director of OC Office on Care Coordination Doug Becht, Vice Chair of OC Continuum of Care Nishtha Mohendra, and Lived Experience Advisory Committee Chair Robert “Santa Bob” Morse. As Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, our priority remains providing gap funding for housing developments, strengthening regional collaboration, and expanding the full spectrum of housing from workforce to supportive housing.
 Left to Right: Executive Director of United to End Homelessness, Orange County United Way Becks Heyhoe-Khalil, Robert “Santa Bob” Morse, Vice Chair of Continuum of Care Nishtha Mohendra, Supervisor Katrina Foley, Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, and Doug Becht from OC Office on Care Coordination
Infrastructure Improvements
We know South County residents look forward to smoother daily commutes and safer driving and cycling in their neighborhoods. That’s why this year, OCTA, the County, and city leaders will prioritize widening Ortega Highway with safe bike lanes as well as extending Los Patrones Parkway and the I-5 to improve traffic flow.
In the Fabulous Fifth, OCTA also continues progress on:
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An ongoing agreement towards building a new maintenance facility in Irvine for the expansion of Metrolink rail service
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Advancing environmental review for alleviating congestion along I-5
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Securing funding for I-5 managed lanes
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Expanding zero-emission bus infrastructure in Irvine
Together, our projects strengthen mobility, sustainability, and equity while positioning Orange County for continued improvements in 2026 and beyond.
 Dana Point Harbor
Another milestone met on construction this week, as we completed Phase 10 of the Marina, marking the Dana Point Harbor Docks more than two-thirds complete. Work continues Monday, beginning Phase 11 out of 15 total phases. Meanwhile, all existing shops, restaurants and excursions remain open in the Village and the Wharf.
Engaging With Our Community
On Wednesday, I hosted my monthly speed meeting day with community leaders, innovators, and business owners to discuss initiatives that strengthen Orange County families and communities. The day began with a dialogue on resources to improve outcomes for infants affected by Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. I also met with the Orange County NAACP to explore improved reporting structures for victims of hate incidents.
Other conversations focused on expanding affordable workforce housing to support our working families, reviewing the County’s Climate Action Plan with OC Waste & Recycling, and receiving updates on ongoing efforts to preserve our open spaces. Finally, we explored ways to support local musicians and strengthen job security, while discussing investments in the arts with Camino Real Playhouse. I look forward to continuing critical conversations this year.
 Left Top to Bottom: NAACP Orange County President Deidre Harris; Discussing workforce housing with John Rochford of Inka Build; Meeting with Risk Management and OCERS; Right Top to Bottom: Meeting with OC Waste and Recycling about our Climate Action Plan; Connecting with Edmund Velasco of AFM Local 7 to discuss supporting our local musicians; Meeting with Rekovar Founder and CEO Shiva Sharareh.
A Look Ahead
On Monday, we reflect on and honor the life of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a powerful leader in the United States Civil Rights movement, Dr. King dreamt of equality for all. We still have much work to do. Now more than ever, we must answer the call to unify and look out for our neighbors, regardless of differing beliefs, cultures, or lived experiences. I hope you heed Dr. King's wise words and volunteer in your community. Find opportunities to serve here.
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 January 27, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! This week, I reviewed California Governor Gavin Newsom’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 State Budget proposal to the Legislature. The proposal claims a balanced budget, with about $227.4 billion in General Fund revenues, about $248.3 billion in expenditures, and roughly $23 billion in total reserves. As this relates to the County of Orange and our services, the proposal avoids major cuts or expansions, but it postpones some critical decisions until the May Revision, including for Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and other safety net programs. Uncertainty remains as potential state and federal changes may shift costs and workload onto counties. Our office will continue working on getting updates for you once the May Revision provides clearer direction.
An update for local students: Using OCTA's new WAVE contactless card, all nine Orange County community colleges travel free on the OC Bus and Streetcar to school, work, or fun on safe, clean and reliable public transportation.
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Kimberlee Belli
Office Manager
Through our 17th Annual Coats for Kids Drive, our office donated more than 800 coats to four Boys and Girls Clubs -- Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Laguna Beach, and San Juan Capistrano -- as well as Share Our Selves, Save Our Youth, Project Hope Alliance, Families Forward and Wilson Learning Center.
Next year, we look forward to collecting more medium and large coats for our middle-grade and high-school students, so our local kids stay warm as they keep growing. Special thanks to Reata Glen Retirement Community for donating nearly 100 coats.
Thank you to all who donated at one of our 42 collection boxes throughout our District, including libraries, senior centers, Police Departments, Fire Stations, City Halls, Community Centers and more. Expect more locations near you in 2026!
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Hi D5! This week, I worked with our District team to outline our community priorities and goals for 2026. We are committed to serving the Fifth District with professionalism, care and efficiency. I can’t wait to see you all in the community and hear about all of your exciting ideas for the year ahead.
On Wednesday, I joined the Vice Chair in meeting with PEP4U, where I discussed their outreach and work with veterans suffering from Parkinson’s - their free classes are accessible and vital to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This week, I also spent time working on our upcoming Women Veteran’s Health Symposium at Orange Coast College. You can catch our team this weekend at the Rancho Mission Viejo Farmer’s Market from 9am - 1pm distributing resources and insulated bags.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday D5! This week, I attended Save Our Beaches annual community meeting to discuss sand replenishment work across San Clemente and south Orange County. Our office joins Save Our Beaches in their efforts to bring sand to our beaches for future generations to enjoy. The informative event covered decades of sand erosion, the coastal rail, the new Citizens Ballot Initiative, and sand replenishment efforts across organizations and stakeholders. In 2026, our office looks forward to continued partnership with Save our Beaches and the City of San Clemente to restore our iconic beaches.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Happy Friday, District 5! Last week, I met with local anglers to discuss the Laguna Niguel Regional Lake and gather feedback on shore maintenance. We talked about a management plan that aims to balance fishing access with conservation by establishing ratios between open shorelines for anglers and protected wildlife habitats, like reed beds. This plan will expand fishing access from five sites to 15 areas. Moving forward, our office has created a feedback form to stay updated on the needs of our local fishing community. Please take a moment to provide your feedback to help us keep Laguna Niguel Regional Lake a local angler’s paradise!
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
Hi District 5! This weekend I went to the grand opening for Galiván Ridge, the newly developed 55+ community in Rancho Mission Viejo. It was great to see how excited everyone was to explore the new homes and see everything that makes Rancho Mission Viejo a special place to live. Our office continues working with the Rancho Mission Viejo team to host on a town hall for seniors in late March, ensuring we provide our aging neighbors with resources that help them age in place and stay safe.
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 With Tyler Holst the Senior VP of Infrastructure Engineering with Rancho Mission Viejo and Stephanie Walker the Marketing Director for Rancho Mission Viejo
Intern Update
Our intern Owen participated as one of 37 donors at Dana Point Library's Blood Drive. As the first blood drive hosted at the library following its renovations, the event collected 27 units of blood, reaching 129% of the Red Cross's goal. These donations benefit the lives of far more than 27 patients and bring hope to their families in their time of need. Join us at Dana Point Library for upcoming blood drives on April 3, July 17, and October 9, 2026.
During their meeting on the "Life is Greater Than Drugs" campaign, Owen and Drake shared how they, as students, found parts of the current campaign to be ineffective in reaching out to students and engaging them in meaningful conversation about substance abuse. Thank you to OC Health Care Agency for their open response to this feedback. Our office looks forward to seeing a social media campaign that effectively encourages the health and safety of our students.
Apply to Join a Commission!
The County of Orange is looking for passionate individuals to serve on the variety of County Boards, Commissions, and Committees. I encourage anyone interested and meets the qualifications to apply for a position.
Specific qualifications listed below, but all applicants must be registered to vote in Orange County and reside in District 5, which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, a large portion of Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, as well as the unincorporated areas of Coto de Caza, Emerald Bay, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, Rancho Mission Viejo, Stonecliffe and Wagon Wheel.
Here are a list of Boards, Commissions, and Committees with openings in District 5:
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Must be an Attorney, CPA or Public Accountant, Real Estate Broker, or Appraiser who is licensed/certified within the State of California for a period of at least 5 years. Must maintain qualifications through term of office.
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Orange County In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Advisory Committee
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Must be a recipient who is a current or past user of personal assistance services.
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Public Financing Advisory Committee
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Shall not be serving or running for elective office.
For regular updates from my Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee on all things Revitalization, click here.
Health News
Get Your Flu Shot!
The flu or influenza is a serious disease. It’s more than just a runny nose and sore throat. The flu can make you very sick and cause you to go to the hospital or even lead to death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine (flu shot). You can protect yourself and those around you by getting a flu shot: Learn how from OC Health Care Agency.
Stay Safe from Harmful Substances -- Fentanyl, NOX, and Kratom:
 
 
Transportation News
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.
Supervisor Foley Shares Condolences Following Unexpected Passing of Aliso Viejo City Manager Mitzi Ortiz
The City of Aliso Viejo mourns the sudden loss of City Manager Mitzi Ortiz, who passed away unexpectedly on December 22, 2025. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the City of Aliso Viejo, Mitzi Ortiz’s family, friends, and colleagues. Mitzi dedicated her career to public service – leading with integrity, compassion, and deep respect for the community she served.
During her eleven years of dedicated service to the City of Aliso Viejo, she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, approaching her work with integrity, humility, and genuine care for the residents and colleagues she served. Mitzi will be remembered for her commitment to making local government work for those who call the City of Aliso Viejo home.
In accordance with City Council policy, Mitzi previously appointed Ann Eifert to serve as Acting City Manager during her absence. City staff will ensure services continue uninterrupted while the community takes time to honor Mitzi’s memory and legacy.
At this time, the City’s focus remains on supporting one another and allowing space for collective grief. Additional information will be shared as appropriate. The City respectfully requests that the privacy of Mitzi’s family be honored during this difficult time.
Aliso Viejo Interim Media Contact Name: Cora Swanson Title: Human Resources Manager City of Aliso Viejo Email: hr@avcity.org Phone: (949) 425-2511
Call for Artists
OC Streetcar arrives in 2026! Local artists are invited to submit portfolios for a chance to be featured in marketing campaigns. Learn more: octa.net/artists
Prepare to Renew Your Covered-California Coverage
Construction Update from OCPW
Veteran Art & Resource Expo
Support Ocean Friendly Businesses
This month, Surfrider celebrates the incredible Ocean Friendly Restaurants and Hotels that are leading the way in reducing single-use plastics and protecting our ocean. Join us in showing our ocean friendly businesses some much deserved love and appreciation!
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.
Resources at OC Public Libraries
 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!
Meet Pet of the Week, Mango!
The first thing you’ll notice about Mango is his bright blue left eye and his brown right eye -- something not uncommon for Siberian Huskies. But you might have to look quickly: Mango is a ball of energy who loves to zoom around and play.
The 20-month-old Husky found himself at OC Animal Care in May after a Santa Ana resident discovered the playful pup in their yard.
Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention animal ID A1916871 to foster-to-adopt Mango today. Adoption fees are waived for dogs over 25 pounds, making now the perfect time to bring this bright-eyed boy home.
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 Weekends - Ride for $10!
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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