A Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

County of Orange, California sent this bulletin at 02/20/2026 06:55 PM PST

View as a webpage / Share

Volume 6 | Issue 8

February 20, 2026

Supervisor’s Message

Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

Dear Neighbor:

This week, we strengthened our coastal rail network, celebrated Lunar New Year, preserved the Balboa Island Ferry, and supported our local economy with new investments at John Wayne Airport.

Thank you to the neighbors who contacted our office with questions about San Juan and Trabuco Creeks. Let me be clear: I oppose the use of herbicides in our public spaces and waterways. I shared your concerns directly with OC Public Works and continue to engage with County staff on this issue. RoundUp/glyphosate has not been applied in the Trabuco or San Juan Creek Flood Control Channels since January 2025, and it will not be used in those channels again. Please contact Public Works with any additional inquiries at (714) 667-8800.

The County may only apply herbicides approved by the State Water Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to manage vegetation in flood control channels. We remain committed to balancing environmental stewardship with our responsibility to protect lives and property from flooding.

As a reminder, the LOSSAN rail corridor in South Orange County and San Diego will shut down this Saturday and Sunday to complete critical improvements. Metrolink will suspend service south of the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station, while continuing regular weekend service north of the station. This closure allows essential progress on the San Clemente emergency rail repair project and infrastructure improvements at the San Juan Creek Bridge. Riders should plan ahead, as no alternative transportation will be provided. Stay updated at metrolinktrains.com.

Learn more below about our continued work to build a safe, healthy, and economically vibrant Orange County.

Building Healthy Communities

Wednesday Wellness Walk

We kicked off 2026 with another successful Fabulous Fifth Wellness Walk! Thank you to everyone who joined us for a healthy stroll through Dana Point Harbor. I enjoyed connecting with neighbors and discussing the exciting progress underway to revitalize our waterfront businesses in the coming weeks. Learn more here.

Growing our Thriving Economy

Welcoming New Airport Concessions

Travelers continue enjoying a true taste of Orange County with the opening of new concessions at John Wayne Airport. This week, we welcomed Dunkin’, Harbor Exchange, and Brookstone, with additional openings expected by the end of summer.

With more than $50 million invested in transforming the terminal, we anticipate generating $11.4 million in annual revenue. These improvements create jobs, boost tourism, and support the local businesses that help make Orange County the paradise we proudly call home.

Uplifting Black Businesses

In honor of our Black History Month small business series, I enjoyed an amazing lunch at Georgia's restaurant at Irvine Spectrum while speaking with co-owner Nika Shoemaker-Machado. Nika's mother, Ms. Gretchen Shoemaker, created each dish inspired by her family recipes – the very recipes she raised her daughters on and served through her successful Orange County catering service for more than 30 years. Stop by for a taste of Southern soul food staples like the seabass and mac n’ cheese I enjoyed, or try what my husband Casey called, "the best fried chicken" he's eaten in Orange County!

Infrastructure Improvements

Preserving the Balboa Island Ferry

Operating since 1919, the Balboa Island Ferry remains a cherished part of our Newport Beach coastal identity. Multiple generations of locals and visitors enjoy the short ride across the harbor. Residents rely on it every day to avoid traffic around the peninsula as they travel to support our small businesses.

In 2023, when the ferry faced a state requirement to transition to zero-emission electric vessels, my office convened stakeholders to secure its long-term future. Together, we identified and pursued a $7.9 million Carl Moyer grant to help fund electrification and modernize the fleet while keeping this essential service operating.

The ferry removes more than 4.2 million vehicle miles from our roads each year. Preserving it means protecting our coastal character while making smart, practical investments that reduce congestion and keep our community connected. Read more about our work on saving the ferry here.

Strengthening Our Coastal Rail

Congratulations to our new LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Board Chair Fred Strong and Vice Chair Jewel Edson. This week, we approved a new business plan and added an extra daily Pacific Surfliner train between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo to help alleviate busy travel times and provide more affordable pass options for riders.

Coastal Protection

South Orange County Beach Coalition Meeting

Last week, I led a Board vote officially establishing the South Orange County Beach Coalition as a decision-making body, turning a more than decade long-standing recommendation into meaningful action to protect our coastline.

Permitting historically serves as the greatest obstacle to widening and reinforcing our beaches. At this week’s Coalition meeting, OC Public Works Senior Environmental Resources Specialist Giles Mathews shared encouraging updates on the Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program (SCOUP). This program streamlines sand placement permits for all cities and jurisdictions with beaches from agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the California State Lands Commission.

With SCOUP in place, a process that once took one to two years can now move forward in just one to two months. Next step: Securing permits to extract and transport sand. This progress brings us closer to achieving more resilient beaches for Orange County families. Read more about our work on nourishing our beaches here.

meeting with south county beach coaltion

Meeting with OC Community Resources

This week, I met with OC Community Resources to discuss finalizing an agreement allowing the County to maintain the fence and other improvements near North Strands Beach Access and the Niguel Shores community. Residents can look forward to safer, long-lasting fencing this summer.

We also reviewed updates on projects benefiting District Five residents, including expanded pickleball courts in Laguna Niguel, pet fostering and adoption through the “Dog’s Day Out” pilot program, and rental assistance opportunities through the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list.

Engaging With Our Community

Weddings on Valentine’s Day

We filled last weekend with love. Every year I look forward to the tradition of officiating weddings for happy couples in the Fabulous Fifth! What a joy to play a small role in their love stories on Valentine’s Day in Laguna Hills. Learn more about Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen civil ceremonies here.

Celebrating Lunar New Year

Thank you for inviting my office to celebrate Lunar New Year with you throughout the Fabulous Fifth and countywide, including Lunar New Year’s Eve at Advance Beauty College! The Year of the Fire Horse promises a mixture of energy, ambition, and transformation, values that connect our Fabulous Fifth District as a community built on resilience, hard work, and shared hope.

Celebrating Laguna Beach City Council Member Alex Rounaghi

Today, I joined Women’s Club of Laguna Beach in recognizing Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, as he recently concluded his historic term as Mayor of Laguna Beach. Many longtime newsletter readers may remember Alex as a Team Foley alum, beginning as an intern and working his way up to Senior Policy Advisor. Mentoring Alex early in his career allowed me to observe his knack for diving deep into issues, reading everything he can find, mastering the details, and then implementing. That same drive, strategic mindset shaped his time as Mayor right here in his hometown. Today we celebrated his exceptional service as Mayor – the youngest Mayor in the city’s history, his continued commitment as a Councilmember, and the integrity and passion Alex brings to his neighbors in Laguna.

Top & Bottom Left: Celebrating outgoing Mayor Alex Rounaghi; Bottom Right: Alex’s last day in my office as Senior Policy Advisor in 2023

Supporting Assistance League of Capo Valley

This week, my office presented a $7,500 grant to the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley to support teacher training for the Dana Hills High School AVID program. The organization matched our contribution, bringing the total to $15,000, ensuring teachers remain equipped to support students.

Dana Hills High School AVID Teacher Robin Maris, ALCV Vice President of Philanthropy Michelle Dymerski, ALCV Igniting Potential Chair Katie Fliegler, and ALCV President Kathy Kirtz.

Celebrating Laguna Dance

Orange County remains culturally vibrant because of organizations like Laguna Dance Festival. I enjoyed celebrating the organization’s 21st season before a sold-out audience this week, inspired by strength, discipline, and pure artistry.

I remain committed to supporting the arts across the Fifth District. My office invested $25,000 for Laguna Dance’s We The People performances, $80,000 for the Laguna Art Museum, $4,500 for Laguna Playhouse, and $10,000 for the Coast Film & Music Festival. The arts represent a cultural and educational necessity in our community.

With Doug Wilson, Kathleen Abel, and Karen Wilson

A Look Ahead

I look forward to joining the Laguna Hills Chamber of Commerce for their 5th Annual Gala celebrating leadership, service, and the evolving Laguna Hills business community tonight. Tomorrow, I will attend the Orange County Chinese American Chamber of Commerce Installation Ceremony before wrapping up the weekend with some much-needed quality time with my family. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend, neighbors!

Be well,

Katrina Foley
Vice Chair
County of Orange

In This Edition

Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!

Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting on February 24, 2026

Attend our 9:00 a.m. Board of Supervisors Meeting
View the Agenda: Here
See a list of our upcoming 2026 Board meetings: Here

Balboa Island Ferry set to go green after securing public funding

Residents alarmed after officials reveal plan for massive landfill expansion

OC supervisors conducting national search looking for new county CEO

OC Board Set to Discuss Losing Multi-Million Dollar Verdict

O.C. Board of Supervisors to discuss latest multi-million dollar harrassment verdict

South County Beach Coalition forms to help struggling coastline

Community Correspondence

Post of the Week

Staff Reports

Anthony Nguyen

Policy Advisor

Happy Friday and Happy Lunar New Year, District 5! "Chúc Mừng Năm Mới!

Next Monday, the OCTA Board of Directors meets to review and vote on various reports, including the Measure M2 Community-Based Transit Circulators Program Project V Ridership Report. This report provides a semi-annual update on the Measure M2 Project V community-based transit circulator services from April 2025 through September 2025, detailing ridership, service hours, miles traveled, cost per boarding, and how the services performed compared to required cost and customer service standards. Join us in-person or listen live here.

On Tuesday the Board will vote on the second reading for the local ordinance to address ongoing Catalytic Converter Theft -- closing 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. Supervisor Foley’s proposed ordinance prohibits possession of an unattached converter without proper documentation. To learn more, join us in-person for the February 24, 2026 meeting or listen live here.

Adam Tallabas

District Director

I joined the Irvine community in celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Sea Pointe Design & Remodel! Since 1986, Sea Pointe Design & Remodel has been offering residential remodeling services throughout Orange County. The design and build firm specializes in home remodeling including kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor living spaces, room additions, and full home remodeling. I congratulate founder Andrew Shore, President Lauren Mills and the entire team on 40 years of transforming homes in our Orange County community.

I also joined the Asian Business Association OC for their annual New Year Luncheon at J. Zhou! This is always one of my favorite events. I love networking with the Asian American business community, and celebrating the Lunar New Year with them is always a joy.

Abby Paulson

District Representative

This week, I attended the San Clemente and Dana Point Annual Chambers of Commerce Installation and Awards. Separately, we honored our businesses and nonprofits and celebrated the new Board of Directors for each chamber. Supervisor Foley looks forward to continued partnership with the new boards!

I also joined the Dana Point Civic Association at Coffee Importers to give an update on the Dana Point Harbor, South Orange County Beach Coalition, and the Board’s first reading of our Catalytic Converter ordinance.

Morgan Goldstein

District Representative

This week, I joined the Laguna Woods Chinese American Club at their annual Lunar New Year Festival. Each year, the club hosts a vibrant stage show in Laguna Woods Village, showcasing traditional dances, solo vocal performances, instrumental pieces, and colorful costume parades. Our office values the chance to join Laguna Woods residents as they honor and share their rich cultural traditions. Engaging with neighbors in moments like these strengthens our connection and highlights the diversity that shapes our district!

Robbie LaBounty

District Representative

Hi District 5! This week I had the honor of presenting a retirement proclamation on behalf of Supervisor Foley for Trustee Lorraine Prinsky, Ph.D at the Coast Community College District Board Meeting. Trustee Prinsky dedicated 17 years of service to the Coast Community College District Board of Trustees and brought 38 years of teaching experience as a Professor at Cal State University, Fullerton. Her thoughtful leadership, unwavering commitment to student success, championship of faculty excellence, and devotion to educational innovation left an indelible mark on Coast Colleges – touching the lives of thousands of students.

This week I presented a certificate of recognition at a ribbon cutting for PuraBella’s Grand Opening in Corona del Mar

County Updates:

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:

Assessment Appeals Board

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.

Orange County In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Advisory Committee

Must be a recipient who is a current or past user of personal assistance services.

Public Financing Advisory Committee

Shall not be serving or running for elective office.

Click here to apply for any of these Boards, Commissions, or Committees. For more information, click here to learn more.

I hope you consider filling out an application.

Seeking Candidates to Join First 5 Orange County Commission

Dana Point Harbor News

From the Dana Point Outriggers:

Sadly, we lost long time Outrigger Tom Davis to his battle with cancer. He will be missed at our Dana Point Harbor Oversight Committee meetings.

Dana Outrigger Canoe Club, a community of outrigger canoe paddlers that embraces athletes of all ages and abilities, announces exciting opportunities to experience the beautiful coast of South Orange County. The club has been celebrating the joy of ocean paddling and Polynesian culture in Dana Point Harbor for over 50 years and continues to provide opportunities to enjoy traditional outrigger canoe paddling.

The club's novice program is offering an introduction to outrigger canoe paddling at 10:00am on Saturdays and Sundays at Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor through the end of March. New paddlers are welcome to join to learn paddling technique and get a great workout on the water. More info here: Dana Outrigger Canoe Club

On Saturday, March 14th, Dana Outrigger will host the Tom Davis Ocean Challenge, where hundreds of participants on outrigger canoes, standup paddleboards and surf skis will be competing at Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor. This is the 37th year of the race and promises to be an exciting event. More info here.

Health News

OC Social Services Updates

Medi-Cal Eligibility Changes

Starting January 1, 2026, when you apply for or renew your Medi-Cal, we will look at what you own. This is called an asset check. Assets are things you own that have value. You may be affected if you:

Are age 65 and older and meet the household income limit for Medi-Cal

Have a disability (physical, mental, or

developmental)

Live in a nursing home

Are in a family that makes too much money to qualify under federal tax rules

To learn more about these asset limits, visit here.

Protect Against Measles While Traveling

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.

Community News

RSVP to Our Women Making a Difference Awards!

Every year, I look forward to celebrating Women's History Month and the women leaders helping us build a safer, healthier, economically thriving Orange County for all to call home.

In honor of Women’s History Month this March, join us in celebrating “Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” on March 14, 2026 at 5:30 pm. As space is limited, please RSVP by clicking the flyer below:

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.

Senior Townhall in Rancho Mission Viejo

In partnership with Rancho Mission Viejo, Senator Catherine Blakespear and the Contractor State License Board, join our senior townhall at The Guest House in Rancho Mission Viejo on March 26 at 2pm. Join us for resource booths from various local partners as well two panels focused on protecting our seniors from scam activity and improving senior health access.

Swallows Events in February

Laguna Niguel Chamber Spring Crafts & Marketplace

OC Office on Aging Introduces Free Mobile App for Senior Resources!

Old Orange County Courthouse Now Displaying "Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries"

Admire the creativity of local artists at Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries art exhibit, now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.).

The collection is made up of 110 original paintings from more than 50 local artists featuring unique art depicting diverse scenes of nature and life in Southern California, cityscapes, florals and more. The exhibit is hosted by OC Parks, in partnership with Southern California Plein Air Painters Association (SOCALPAPA).

Admission to Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries exhibit is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through April 3.

For information, visit ocparks.com/historic-sites/old-orange-county-courthouse.

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

Edward Albee's WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?

Jan. 24-Mar, 21, 2026 on Segerstrom Stage

The New York Times described this American classic as “wry and electric!” Hilarious and harrowing, this unflinching portrait of a marriage ceaselessly astonishes audiences with its razor-sharp dialogue and thrilling performances.

https://www.scr.org/plays/productions/25-26-season/who-s-afraid-of-viriginia-woolf/

Mariners 936 Dana Point Sea Scouts

https://visitdanapoint.com/event/55th-annual-festival-of-whales/738/

Save the Date: 2026 Women’s Conference

Mark your calendars for the City of Irvine's Women’s Conference March 13 in honor of Women’s History Month.

The event will offer comprehensive resources and support for women in the community, such as financial education, networking opportunities, professional development, and programs that provide a holistic approach to health, safety, and overall well-being.

Stay tuned for details about the Women’s Conference coming soon at cityofirvine.org.

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, Aster!

Aster is a smart, friendly girl who loves playing fetch. A 5-year-old German Shepherd, Aster came to OC Animal Care on December 19. Aster likes sitting for treats, running out her zoomies, and coming up for pets of affection. With some training and lots of love, Aster's ready to become your perfect companion.

Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1944407 to get started or go to Pet Adoption Information | OC Animal Care. Adoption fees are waived for dogs over 25 pounds, making now the perfect time to give Aster the loving and active family she’s been patiently waiting for.

Support Our Local Museums

Orange County Museum of Art

Laguna Art Museum

Moulton Museum

Orange County Sheriff's Museum & Education Center

Balboa Island Museum

Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center

Casa Romantica

UCI Art Galleries

Orange County Holocaust Education Center

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

Resources

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!