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| Volume 6 | Issue 5 |
January 30, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
My team rolled up our sleeves and continued important work advancing community health and safety, protecting your tax dollars and expanding services.
This week, we joined our County departments in providing outreach services and gathering information for our houseless neighbors at our annual Point in Time Count. We also moved forward on an array of issues impacting the Fabulous Fifth, ranging from advocating for nitrous oxide bans, coastal protection at Prado Dam and John Wayne Airport improvements to rooting out antisemitism in schools and workforce growth in space law.
Read on for updates on all this and more.
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 Legislative Advocacy
Today State Senator Catherine Blakespear introduced Senate Bill 936, -- my proposed legislation to ban the sale of nitrous oxide statewide. Last year, the County of Orange became the first county in California to ban the sale of recreational nitrous oxide. SB 936 bans all sales of flavored nitrous oxide and the sale of non-flavored nitrous oxide in containers larger than 8 grams, which represents the size typically used to charge whipped cream cylinders. This legislation compliments SB 758 by State Senator Tom Umberg, which prohibits retailers with a tobacco license from selling nitrous oxide.
Board of Supervisor's Meeting
Lampson Workforce Housing
Orange County residents deserve a safe, stable space to call home. The Board of Supervisors approved up to $1.24 million in County loan financing, eight project-based vouchers, and authorized loans for the 77-unit Lampson Workforce Housing development in Los Alamitos. By pairing County financing with long-term rental subsidies, we stand to deliver affordability, stability, and on-site services to extremely low-income families and individuals.
This week the Board then adopted a mid-year budget with a focus on responsible cost savings by removing 100 aged vacant County jobs.
We also deleted an additional 173 vacant positions at our final meeting of 2025. Thank you to our department heads and the County Executive Office for their detailed work on this Mid-Year Budget Report. We must remain fiscally prudent with our resources, especially with continued federal funding uncertainty.
Human Trafficking Prevention Month
Recognizing patterns in behavior, noticing warning signs, and strengthening personal connections helps us protect those most at risk of Human Trafficking. This week we welcomed Dean of Social Ecology at UCI, Professor Jodi Quas, who joins me in developing a program to integrate human trafficking data and research across agencies. This will help us identify victims and intervene earlier, especially child sex trafficking victims who face increased exploitation. We must continue looking out for one another by presenting critical connections to safe spaces. Report a tip by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or texting “help” to 233733.
 Holocaust Remembrance Day
We honored International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27, amplifying the importance of learning about survivors and their families, sharing the truth of the Holocaust, lighting candles and confronting antisemitism and hate in our daily lives. In 2022, Rabbi Mintz invited me to tour the Holocaust Education Center of Orange County in Newport Beach. My Chief and I both agreed the deeply impactful and emotional experience must be shared with local students to reduce hate and bullying, build community, and unite students from different backgrounds.
My office allocated $250,000 to support school field trips and educational programing to the Center. Since then, more than 25,000 students participated in guided tours on school field trips. The exhibit remains open to the public – my whole team toured today. For more information on tours, visit here. Watch the presentation by Rabbi Mintz here.
 Remembering Roger Neth
I adjourned this week’s board meeting in honor of Roger Neth, a longtime Costa Mesa resident. He helped build the Costa Mesa Police Department from its earliest days and guided it for decades with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to community-oriented policing. Roger’s leadership shaped the department’s culture, strengthened its connection to the people it served, and set standards that continue to influence CMPD today. His legacy lives on through the institution he helped form, the park that bears his name, and the many lives he touched as a public servant, neighbor, and mentor. Our community remembers him with gratitude and will miss him greatly.
 Keeping Our Community Safe
Traffic Safety in County Unincorporated Communities
My office takes the safety of our community extremely seriously. Recently, I attended an event serving County Unincorporated residents where I received feedback from neighbors in Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo who expressed concern about loud cars speeding down Antonio Parkway. My office works hard to listen to residents and swiftly deliver. Last year our office worked with Orange County Public Works to install a No Turn on Red sign at the corner of Antonio and Sendero Way. I continue working with our Orange County Sheriff’s Department to station more officers on Antonio so we can deter drivers from traveling at dangerously high speeds on our streets.
This week our team also worked to reduce speed limits near Antonio Parkway by installing rapid flashing light beacons on Meandering Trail and implementing e-bike regulations.
Additionally, CalTrans continues working toward completing the final design of the Ortega Highway Project by the end of this year. The project will provide a 1.1-mile widening from Calle Entradero to Reata Road, removing a key hurdle and adding Class II bike lanes. Construction remains on track to begin by 2027.
Growing Our Thriving Economy
Exploring Space Law
In my meeting with space law expert M.C. Sungaila, we discussed how emerging space technologies, particularly microgravity research, serves as a critical future investment for our economy, as well as how Orange County can capture this innovation while also benefiting from the generated revenue. Forming a space-related task force will hone our research into biomedical advancements and industry growth for the economic wellbeing of all Orange County residents. I envision the county supporting this work through land-use planning, job creation, and coordinated legislative advocacy at the state and federal levels.
 Mastro’s Opens at the Irvine Spectrum
This week, I joined City Councilmember Mike Carroll, and the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the newest Mastro’s Restaurant in the Fabulous Fifth District. We love Mastro’s Restaurant, with locations in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and now, Irvine. The highest-quality service and elegant atmosphere set the special tone for celebrating milestones and creating memories. I have celebrated anniversaries with my husband Casey, Christmas Eve with our family, and even hosted a high school gala fundraiser there. I look forward to hearing about all the memories Orange County residents and visitors continue creating right here at Mastro’s.
 Left: With Mastro’s Chef Juan Carlos Salazar; Right: With Lake Forest Councilmember Scott Voigts, Irvine Vice Mayor James Mai, members of the Mastro’s team, Irvine Councilmember Mike Carroll, and Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen, Greater Irvine Chamber President Dave Coffaro
Building Opportunities to Call Orange County Home
Point in Time Count
The Point In Time (PIT) serves as a biennial count and survey of people experiencing homelessness surveyed during the last ten days in January. My team toured Costa Mesa on Tuesday night from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., initiating real conversations with unhoused neighbors and gathering critical data which will guide smart county investments in targeted treatment, affordable housing, expanded permanent supportive housing, and keep people moving from our streets and parks into stable homes.
We encountered little hesitancy from the unhoused individuals we spoke with. Most people engaged openly, even if they chose not to pursue shelter. Some accepted resource cards, others declined services. All but one were experiencing a health crisis, unable to secure recuperative care or housing without significant assistance. In one case, a man who initially declined help later enrolled in the CalOptima Street Medicine program following my referral. We must view every successful outcome as a win for our community.
 Top: With Director of Operations for OC Office of Care Coordination Zulima Lundy, Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, and Director of OC Office of Care Coordination Doug Becht; Bottom: Surveying in Costa Mesa with OC Sheriff’s Department, Kendra Marin of OC Office on Care Coordination, and my Executive Assistant Elizabeth.
Infrastructure Updates
OC Transportation Authority Meeting
This week, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors reappointed me as Vice Chair of the Legislative and Communications Committee, and Member of the Regional Transportation Planning Committee and LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency.
The OCTA Board also reviewed our first quarter budget. OCTA revenues totaled $265.7 million, with stronger toll income, higher interest, and a grant reimbursement. OCTA operating expenses ran $30.9 million under-budget thanks to efficient construction, right-of-way work, and lower service spending. We continue strong revenue performance while keeping spending below plan as key projects and reimbursements move forward.
In 2026, the Directors of the Orange County Transportation Authority continues prioritizing balanced, reliable, and equitable transportation, while remaining fiscally responsible and resilient.
 John Wayne Airport
Newport Beach Aviation Committee Update
At our Newport Beach Aviation Committee meeting, I shared updates on our continued work with John Wayne Airport (JWA) creating a quieter, cleaner, more reliable airport. I provided updates on our noise mitigation efforts including our efforts to encourage commercial airlines to transition to next generation cleaner, quieter airplanes, our Fly Friendly program successes, and our awards for decarbonization of the airport and clean energy infrastructure improvements. In the fourth year, our Fly Friendly program continues educating pilots on cleaner, greener flight departures and improving the number of cutting-edge, quiet flights out of JWA. I also provided updates on a look forward to new concessions, giving travelers from near and far a taste of local favorites like Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza and Wahoo’s. We also shared about our air mobility task force in partnership with the airport leadership, local aviation experts, OC Business Council, UCI, and the community. Learn more at ocair.com
  Coastal Protection
Finding Creative Solutions to Deliver Sand and Maintain our Beaches
Protecting our iconic Orange County beaches remains a high priority. This includes exploring innovative solutions to sand replenishment. Yesterday, I visited The Prado Basin with Dr. Sanders and UCI Master of Engineering students to see Orange County Water District (OCWD) sand management projects firsthand. OCWD controls water flow in the Santa Ana River, which includes managing sediment that naturally flows downstream. OCWD must remove 250,000 cubic yards of sand over the next 4 years from their sediment trap – as part of flood management responsibilities, with up to 100,000 cubic yards of sediment each year.
During our tour, we visited the sediment trap that holds high quality beach sand. Before the Prado Dam, this sand flowed to the ocean and renourished our beaches naturally. In partnership with my office and OCWD, the UCI research students will study creative rail solutions to transport this sand to South Orange County beaches, and systems to mimic nature-based solutions to deliver sand down the Santa Ana River to the Newport Beach mouth, saving taxpayer money and preserving our precious coast. I brought some sand back with me to share with our beach coalition and the community.
Next week, my office will host a sediment-by-rail workshop with the students to study constraints and opportunities for this project – stay tuned!
 Top right: with Dr. Sanders, UCI Master of Engineering students, OCWD Executive Director of Planning and Natural Resources Lisa Haney, and OCWD Director of Natural Resources Sheryl Parsons.
Meetings with Ocean Alliance & Sustain SoCal Board
The Ocean Alliance Network, a collaborative initiative, brings together leaders, innovators, and communities to protect our oceans. This week we discussed improving water quality, cutting plastic pollution and marine emissions, reducing copper from seeping into water, protecting boater safety, and empowering our neighbors to build a sustainable future.
At our Sustain SoCal board meeting, we discussed increasing membership and listened to an update about the Sustainable Campus Challenge across OC schools. Let me know if your business is interested in joining.
 A Look Ahead
Join our Audiobook Walking Club
Join us on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6pm for the first of our new weekly Audiobook Walking Club! Meet us at Angels Playground in TeWinkle Park (970 Arlington Dr, Costa Mesa) to enjoy your favorite genre in the fresh air and company of others. Bring your own audiobook or join us in listening to this month’s book club pick. In honor of Black History Month, we’re partnering with NAACP - Orange County to listen to Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson. We hope to see you there!
Nominate Women Making a Difference
This Women’s History Month, join my office in honoring Fifth District woman leaders at our Fifth Annual Women Making a Difference Awards. Recognizing this year's theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” we celebrate women leaders advancing sustainability. Nominate inspiring women shaping a lasting future here.
 Today, my team spent the day at our annual retreat at the Muth Center in Newport Beach planning our initiatives work for the year, providing training for better presentations, report writing, and communications both with county departments and the community. We also received a personal tour of the new Museum of Tolerance planned for Newport Beach. Lots to take in for our team.
Stay hydrated during this January heat wave, neighbors!
 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 February 10, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! At the next Board of Supervisors meeting, Vice Chair Foley plans to introduce a local ordinance to address ongoing Catalytic Converter Theft and close gaps in state law that limit enforcement for possession of a single converter, strengthening accountability, and aligning Orange County with neighboring jurisdictions working to reduce property crime.
Catalytic converters reduce harmful vehicle emissions and contain valuable precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which makes it a frequent target for theft due to its easy access underneath most vehicles. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD), there were 90 catalytic converter thefts in OCSD jurisdiction in 2025 and 152 in 2024. This jurisdiction includes our unincorporated areas and 13 contract cities, with incidents reported in Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, and our unincorporated communities.
Supervisor Foley’s proposed ordinance prohibits possession of an unattached converter without proper documentation. To learn more, join us in-person for the February 10, 2026 meeting or listen live here.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Yesterday, I met with passionate community members from Irvine who remain concerned about the University Park Library and the Katie Wheeler Library – both of which are now in the care of the City of Irvine. I continue reassuring neighbors that Supervisor Foley is committed to ensuring free access to information, books, and services at public libraries – regardless of jurisdiction.
I ended my week at the Ribbon Cutting for the USC Keck Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center in Irvine. Orange County is a worldwide hub for health care – and the opening of this new facility expands the options for care available to Orange County residents.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
This week, I focused my time on coastal projects across the district, including visiting the Prado Basin to learn about sand projects, planning our sediment-by-rail workshop, and hearing about ocean friendly projects we can implement in Dana Point. I also worked with district five constituents concerned with Medi-Cal access and In-home support services.
I also joined Sustain SoCal at their Sustainable Campus Challenge welcome event. This semester, schools across Orange County and the Fabulous Fifth District participate in Sustain OC Foundation’s Sustainable Campus Challenge, finding innovative solutions to environmental concerns. Groups of students spent the last month researching issues at their schools and in their communities. They now begin project proposals. Supervisor Foley and our team look forward to following these projects and supporting the next generation of problem solvers.
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 Here I am with our intern Katherine learning about student projects and discussing how we can help.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
This week, Vice Chair Foley honored the life of Jeff Halloran by adjourning Tuesday's Board of Supervisors meeting in his honor. A dedicated Laguna Hills Chamber of Commerce board member, Jeff unexpectedly passed away this month at age 66.
Jeff was a cornerstone of our local business community. As Chamber Vice President and Membership Chair, his leadership was fueled by a great pride in his community. He was a true champion for small businesses, organizing car shows and community events with a warmth and sincerity that defined his professional legacy.
On a personal note, Jeff was a wonderfully sweet man. I remember when I first met him, he spent our conversation gushing about his backyard chickens and his passion for beekeeping! That sense of wonder and adventure made him a joy to work with. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, the Chamber, and the entire Orange County community.
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
I also spent a lot of time in the community this week attending four different ribbon cuttings for three small businesses and one grand opening.
One highlight of my week: I helped a resident with obtaining a death certificate for their family member. Often times people struggle knowing who to contact and how to get through the system. I received their letter, and at Supervisor Foley’s direction, I connected the resident with the correct person with the Health Care Agency. They quickly assisted and helped me get this man the closure he needed. I’m grateful that I’m able to help, even if it’s not always in the biggest way.
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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.
Seeking Candidates to Join First 5 Orange County Commission
For regular updates from my Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee on all things Revitalization, click here.
Health News
Renew Your Covered-California Coverage by January 31
Final reminder: The Open Enrollment period to get 2026 coverage through Covered California closes tomorrow, January 31.
Be sure to apply for a new plan or change your existing plan by tomorrow. Covered California consumers should have received notices for 2026 in recent months, including information on: gross premium, a walkthrough of the renewal process, and information on upcoming changes. Re-enrollment is not automatic. You MUST renew if you would like to keep your coverage as long as you still qualify. Don’t wait to get your paperwork in order. Reach out for support today: Connect with certified agents or navigators in your community. Call Covered California directly for support 1 (800) 300-1506.
Second Measles Case Confirmed in Orange County
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:
 
 
Bat Found in Rancho Santa Margarita Tests Positive for Rabies
A bat in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita has tested positive for rabies. The bat was found near the gate entrance along the Mesa Trail at O'Neill Regional Park this week.
HCA and OC Animal Care recommend the following actions to minimize the risk of rabies:
- Avoid all contact with wild animals.
- Vaccinate all cats and dogs against rabies.
- Do not sleep with open unscreened windows or doors.
- If bats are seen inside the house or other structure, close off the area and contact animal control. Once the bat(s) have been removed, close off any areas allowing entrance into the house.
- Do not leave pet food outside where it will attract wild animals.
- Immediately wash all animal bites with soap and water, being sure to flush the wound well, then contact your doctor.
- Report all animal bites to OC Animal Care.
Read more.
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.
   
Tea + Taxes with Senator Catherine Blakespear and Vice Chair Katrina Foley
Tax season is here. Community members are invited to receive free, trusted tax preparation assistance at Tea + Taxes, an event hosted by Orange County United Way’s OC Free Tax Prep program in partnership with Senator Catherine Blakespear and Vice Chair Katrina Foley.
The event will provide IRS-certified tax preparation at no cost to eligible individuals and families. Complimentary tea will be available for the first 100 guests.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Laguna Hills Community Center
25555 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Who Can Receive Free Tax Help
This free service is available to:
- Low- to moderate-income households earning under $69,000
- Seniors age 50 and older
- People with disabilities
- Individuals with limited English proficiency
- Veterans
How to Prepare
To ensure your appointment runs smoothly, please bring the required documents. A full checklist is available at:
https://ocfreetaxprep.com/tax-preparation-checklist/.
Appointments are recommended. To reserve a spot or learn more, visit: Register here.Questions? Please contact Michelle Mai at Michelle.Mai@UnitedWayOC.org.
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
Construction Updates 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, Mila!
Mila is a 5-year-old Dutch Shepherd mix that is a bundle of energy and fun! She came to OC Animal Care in May and has been patiently waiting for her forever home.
She walks well on a leash and takes treats gently. She would love a family who can go slow with her as she gains confidence in her new surroundings. As far as other pets, Mila is suitable for a single animal household, where she can bask in your undivided attention.
Give Mila the chance of a lifetime and foster-to-adopt her today.
Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1915110 to get started. Adoption fees are waived for dogs over 25 pounds!
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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