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| Volume 6 | Issue 10 |
March 6, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Happy Women’s History Month! This week, we prioritized the issues that matter most to Orange County families: strengthening public safety, investing in critical infrastructure, and improving services residents rely on every day.
We also prioritized educating the community on our waterways. For the indefinite future, no herbicides will be used in the San Juan and Trabuco Creek flood channels. Learn more in my Building Healthy Communities section below.
This week reminded me how grateful I feel for the support of such a strong staff – both in my office and throughout the County. Their commitment to serving our residents and communities makes this work possible every day. In recognition of Employee Appreciation Day, I thank each of them for their professionalism, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to the communities we serve.
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 Read more about our week below.
Keeping Our Community Safe
Our OC Sheriff's Department’s Harbor Patrol ensures our coastal community remains safe, serving as the ultimate safety backstop for our county. That's why our Board further equipped our Harbor Patrol fleet with additional Metal Sharks and invested in upgrading 11 of our fire and patrol boats.
My team and I joined Sheriff’s Deputies Ryan and Dave for a tour of Newport Harbor to learn more about the work they do to keep our waterways safe. When an emergency arises on the water – such as a stranded boat, spills, or people in danger – our deputies stand responsible for collaborative rescue operations, law enforcement, and in some cases simply giving friendly warnings that ensure boaters and swimmers remain safe and informed.
Thank you to our harbor team for protecting local residents and visitors on the water.
 Top Left: With one of OC Sheriff Metal Shark boats; Bottom: OC Sheriff’s Deputies Ryan and Dave
Building Healthy Communities
At our town hall this week at Dana Point Harbor, in collaboration with OC Creek Team – a resident environmental advocacy group, the OC Agricultural Commissioner’s Office, OC Public Works, and the OC Health Care Agency, we listened to concerns and shared updates on flood prevention strategies. The Fact remains: California’s history of severe flooding demands proactive planning. For the indefinite future, no herbicides will be used in the San Juan and Trabuco Creek flood channels.
The County also outlined updated practices for other channels, including avoiding herbicide application during bird nesting and trout spawning season (December through April), conducting testing before, during, and after applications, and reducing recreational water activities during high bacteria levels following storms. We discussed opportunities and constraints, changes needed to state laws, and opportunities to add vegetation and fish passage areas to the channels, as well as pathways for further reducing herbicide use across other flood channels, parks, and open space.
From here, county staff will pilot a mechanical and manual vegetation removal process in San Juan and Trabuco Creeks, and my office will create a non-toxic Orange County Advisory Committee to work on recommended changes to our Integrated Pest Management plan. Apply for the Advisory Committee Here.
 Engaging With Our Community
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the 2026 Vision and Visionaries dinner in Costa Mesa, where California State University, Fullerton honored several outstanding alumni whose leadership continues making a difference in our communities. I was especially thrilled to see my friend Pete Mitchell recognized for his decades of work in public affairs and civic leadership. The evening also celebrated Kristin Crellin for her advocacy on behalf of educators and school communities, Dr. Robin Holmes-Sullivan for her distinguished leadership in higher education, Michael Losquadro for his longstanding service to public institutions and inclusive communities, and Gregory Wright for his leadership in medical innovation.
Meeting with Irvine City Manager
During our meeting we also discussed upcoming large-scale events. With the World Cup and 2028 Olympics coming to Southern California, we must prepare at the local level and maintain Orange County’s safety. Chief Kent updated my office on public safety in Irvine and participation in regional public safety initiatives in preparation for these two events. I look forward to continued partnership with the City of Irvine to best serve our residents.
Newport Harbor Exchange Club
As the oldest nonprofit service club in Newport Beach, the Exchange Club of Newport Harbor and my office share a similar mission: Working hard to serve our neighbors and make our communities better places to live. I enjoyed providing them with updates on our investments in Newport Beach, ensuring safety for Orange County youth, electrifying the Balboa Ferry, and supporting our thriving local economy.
 Left: Ross Stewart, Present of Newport Harbor Exchange Club
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris’s “Woman of the Year” Awards
I enjoyed joining a room full of woman changemakers strengthening our community. From classrooms to laboratories, from local enterprises to public institutions, women educators, scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and advocates in Orange County lead the change. Congratulations to last night’s extraordinary three honorees: Linda Sadeghi of The Lab in Costa Mesa, Amy Nakamoto of the Tustin Community Services Commission, and Noelle Smiley of Irvine Police Department.
 Top: Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, Noelle Smiley of Irvine Police Department, Councilmember Melina Liu; Bottom: Costa Mesa City Manager Cecilia Gallardo-Daly, California Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, 2026 Woman of the Year Honoree Linda Sadeghi of the LAB, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens, and NMUSD Board Trustee Michelle Murphy.
This week I had the distinct honor of swearing in my friend and former Huntington Beach Mayor Kim Carr as a Coast Community College District Board Member. Kim brings tremendously valuable experience to this position, further supporting Coast Community College District’s legacy of providing quality education to Orange County students.
This Women’s History Month, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and leadership of our women servicemembers. My office remains committed to addressing the unique and critical challenges they face, particularly in mental health, wellness, and access to earned benefits.
Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 9am
Orange Coast College, College Center Building
2701 Fairview Rd., Costa Mesa
 A Look Ahead
I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a chance to relax, recharge, and explore our Fifth District communities. My team looks forward to stopping by the Festival of Whales this weekend. In other good news: Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday. Don't forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed Saturday night. Wishing everyone a safe, sunny, and wonderful weekend!
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 March 10, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
The Long-Range Transportation Plan details vision and investment priorities for Orange County’s transportation system through the year 2050. The plan is updated every four years with recommended projects, programs, and strategies intended to advance the planning goals. The Board will also receive updates on transit planning for FIFA26 and LA28.
Vice Chair Foley urges continued effort to improve, collaborate, strategize, and accelerate preparation for our transportation and infrastructure systems ahead of these games in order to accommodate up to 15 million fans and 800 Olympic events throughout the Southern California region. Join the OCTA meeting in-person or listen live here.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
On Tuesday night, I joined the University Park community in Irvine for a Town Hall hosted by Mayor Larry Agran and Councilmember Betty Martinez Franco to discuss the University Park Library. Supervisor Foley is strongly committed to working in partnership with the City of Irvine to prioritize keeping the University Park Library open. I enjoyed hearing community perspectives and personal stories from growing up, living, and working in the University Park area. I’ve come to learn, understand, and appreciate how important this community asset is to you all.
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 Yesterday, I spent the morning in Irvine with Let’s Go Outside planting coastal oak seedlings and native plants as part of their ongoing restoration project at Quail Hill Loop in southern Irvine. I enjoyed the experience and opportunity to contribute to the effort in creating beautiful, natural spaces for our wildlife. Restoring this habitat aligns with the Supervisor’s goal of creating a healthy and thriving community for us all to call home. Learn more about opportunities to support habitat restoration at Let’s Go Outside.
Abby Paulson
District Representative
This week, our Chief of Staff Nick and I met with Thrive Together OC, a nonprofit that provides no-cost mental health screening and assessment for residents aged 12-25. They specialize in early intervention and prevention for people at risk of psychosis. They also provide trainings for family, teachers, and clinicians to better understand risk factors and intervention.
Thank you to everyone who came to Supervisor Foley’s town hall on Monday to learn more about the San Juan and Trabuco Creek Flood Channels. There was a lot of information to unpack from the meeting, so at Supervisor Foley’s direction, I am building an FAQ sheet with all of insightful questions attendees sent us. We will send that out to everyone who attended next week!
Additionally, this week I continued working with the Vice Chair and our Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee to plan a Dana Point Harbor town Hall. Join us at Coffee Importers and Ocean Institute on March 30 at 6pm to learn about construction progress!
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
This week, our team continued preparations for a full slate of Women’s History Month events. This year’s national theme highlights women’s leadership in sustainability, a reminder that long‑term community well‑being depends on the voices and expertise of women driving environmental, economic, and social resilience. From Vice Chair Foley’s annual Women and Girls Summit, focused on uplifting local school-aged girls, to the upcoming Women Making a Difference Awards, each event is designed to recognize those advancing a more sustainable and equitable future in Orange County. We look forward to celebrating the women whose work strengthens our communities every day!
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
Hi District 5! This week I welcomed new Share Ourselves Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mina Hakim. Supervisor Foley has long championed Share Ourselves and deeply appreciates everything the organization does to serve our community. We wish Dr. Hakim all the best and look forward to partnering with him and the entire Share Ourselves team!
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Orange County Seeks CEO
 
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
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:
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Are age 65 and older and meet the household income limit for Medi-Cal
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Have a disability (physical, mental, or
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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.
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:
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.
OC Public Libraries - Grand Reopening of Aliso Viejo Library!
Spring Gardening Workshops with OC Public Libraries
OCWR accepting applications for food recovery grant program
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.
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
Support Local Small Businesses
Hershey Felder: The Piano & Me
Music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Bartok,
June 9-12, 2026
Known for his hit portrayals of musical geniuses in his beloved composer series, Felder now renders a different musical artist: himself. In this deeply moving new play, Felder pulls back the curtain on his own story. Growing up in Montreal as the child of Polish and Hungarian immigrants, a young Felder discovers the piano, its captivating music connecting him to his unsuspected heritage, while opening up a remarkable new world full of adventure, possibility, heartbreak, and connection. Featuring performances of beloved compositions by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninoff, Bartók, and more, Hershey Felder: The Piano and Me recounts the inspiration behind Felder's illustrious career of more than 6,000 performances across the globe and offers a poignant and profoundly touching portrait of the power of music.
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.
Mariners 936 Dana Point Sea Scouts
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, Blue!
Blue is a 7-year-old, 80-pound Pit Bull with a gentle heart and a thoughtful spirit. This handsome tan-and-white boy came to OC Animal Care on July 30, from Santa Ana, and he’s been quietly hoping for a fresh start ever since.
Blue is an independent soul who appreciates peaceful walks where he can explore at his own pace, and afterward, nothing makes him happier than cozy cuddle time.
If you’re ready to foster-to-adopt Blue, or adopt him outright, call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1875970 or see www.ocpetinfo.com/adopt. 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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Thank you for being an active member of our County.
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@SupervisorFoley
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