Keeping Our Communities Safe  

OC Fire Authority 

This week my peers appointed me as Chair for the OCFA Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. We reviewed key state and federal funding priorities and advanced recommended positions on state legislation. Thank you to San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Sergio Farias for nominating me, and congratulations to Cypress City Councilmember David Burke on his selection as Vice Chair. 

Our committee acted on a broad legislative package, including elevating our recommendations to support a range of wildfire preparedness, emergency response, infrastructure, and public safety bills. These discussions help ensure OCFA continues to advocate for the resources, policy tools, and funding needed to strengthen emergency services across Orange County. 

“The Right Track” Film  

This week I attended a screening for "The Right Track." The film pulls back the curtain on sex trafficking by offering a platform for the most impacted voices. Through survivor stories and frontline perspectives, this film challenges deeply held assumptions about “choice,” exposes how exploitation hides in plain sight, and proves prevention must happen long before trafficking becomes visible. My office continues our committed efforts to educate our communities on the threat of human trafficking, including through a recent pilot program at UCI – learn more here. 

Growing Our Thriving Economy  

Women Shaping Business in Orange County  

I enjoyed attending the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce Women’s panel with three powerhouses shaping Orange County's future – JWA Airport Director Charlene Reynolds, attorney Lisa Neal, and President of City of Hope Hospital OC Annette Walker -- for a candid conversation on the resilience it takes for women to forge our own professional paths. Interestingly, Annette was also one of my office’s 2026 Women Making a Difference awardees. 

I commend these women and more for ensuring the Orange County business community thrives. 

Phase 11 of 15 planned marina phases remains underway, replacing aging infrastructure with new docks, upgraded utilities, and improved boater access. To maintain transparency, we completed two independent slip rate studies: one by Laurain & Associates for the County and another by Donahue and Company, Inc. for the Dana Point Boaters Association. Both studies are now online, providing independent market data showing how Dana Point Harbor slip rates compare with regional and market conditions. They also offer an outside perspective separate from the developer’s internal market survey. You can find them on my Dana Point Harbor website.  

On the hotel side, the development team continues finalizing architectural and site planning details before full construction begins. We appreciate the community’s patience and engagement as this transformative project moves forward. Please join us for our Dana Point Town Hall on Monday, March 30, as we discuss the progress ahead. RSVP here. 

OCHFT Updates 

The OC Housing Finance Trust met Wednesday, continuing a strong year for affordable housing. In 2025, the Trust closed its first acquisition loan, secured $3 million for the Marks Way project in Orange, completed 10 permanent loan conversions, closed three construction loans, and celebrated seven grand openings. Since 2018, these efforts helped create 2,115 affordable homes, with 1,182 more on the way. This month, the Board approved K&M Enterprises to lead fundraising and grant writing and extended an agreement with Mobius Planning to keep funding rounds moving. These partnerships will help bring in outside funding and close financing gaps for local families. 

On the housing authority side, the California State Auditor reviewed OCHA and found no issues. The audit highlighted strong outreach, a low 3% application denial rate, and planning for the end of the federal Emergency Housing Voucher program. OCHA continues moving all 475 households into the Housing Choice Voucher program through 2028. 

Prima Deshecha Landfill Tour  

This week I toured the Prima Deshecha Landfill, observing current operations in the active disposal area as well as composting efforts at Capistrano Greenery. I also visited Zone 4, which provided helpful perspective on the distance between the landfill and nearby neighborhoods – a greater distance than many perceive separated by a large native habitat.  

I heard concerns from the community about proposals to increase the landfill’s total daily tonnage. I share those concerns, which is why I oppose increasing the permitted daily tonnage from 4,000 to 8,000 tons. I also know residents remain concerned about odor and air quality. We are continuing to monitor those issues closely, and I am committed to addressing them. Any project at the landfill should fully address air quality concerns before it moves forward. 

During the tour, I also reiterated the importance of stronger waste reduction efforts to help limit long-term landfill demand. That means working with residents, businesses, and local governments to reduce what we send to the landfill in the first place. It also means prioritizing Orange County’s waste disposal needs over trash imported from outside the county. 

Residents: Please use your recycling, organics, and trash bins. This small action makes a big difference. Read this week’s article on our tour.  

Touring our Creek Channels 

Public concern about water quality near flood control channels reflects how deeply our community cares about our coastline. Each concern from community members warrants a direct, evidence-based response from our County team. This week we toured the San Juan Flood Channel with OC Public Works, OC Parks, our Agricultural Commissioner, and OC Health Care Agency to explore next steps. Apply to join our advisory committee here.  

Tune into this month’s Flood Channels town hall to learn more from my office and county experts here.  

Ohana Fest Meeting  

After our tour of the San Juan Flood Channel, we bumped into our friends from Vitalogy Foundation, California State Parks, and Trout Unlimited. What began as a chance meeting grew into a productive discussion of innovative ideas in support of environmental health surrounding Doheny State Beach and the San Juan Creek Flood Channel. My office looks forward to continued collaboration with state, federal, and local partners on protecting public safety and the health of our ecosystems.  

South County Beach Coalition 

We continue working in collaboration with our South County Beach Coalition to enhance coastal resiliency in the region. This week, Coastal Frontiers provided an overview of their Shoreline monitoring program in Dana Point and San Clemente. As we know, most South County beaches meet or fall below historical minimum ranges. As a whole, the region loses 0.3 acres of sand per year, or three acres per decade. Their research also highlights the positive impacts of sand nourishment. Beaches with significant sand nourishment show an increase in beach width, including at State beach and Linda Lane in San Clemente.  

In February, I hosted a Sediment-by-Rail workshop in partnership with OCWD and UCI. The students provided an update on their project status, including the potential excavation sites for sand and unloading sites for our beaches, including Doheny State Beach and San Onofre State Beach. Students continue exploring costs, timelines, and constraints for each of the sites. I look forward to hearing their findings at the end of the semester. 

Newport Bay Watershed Management Area Meeting  

In Orange County, our waterways rank among the cleanest in Southern California. At the Newport Bay Watershed Management Area meeting, we heard from Dr. Ken Schiff with Southern California Coastal Water Research Project on water quality levels across the coast of Southern California.  

His presentation reinforced the importance of strong monitoring, clear data, and practical local action on protecting water quality, especially around urban runoff, trash. He also underscored Orange County's strong work protecting water quality, with local agencies, cities, and community partners making real progress to keep our waterways and beaches among the cleanest in the state. 

The County’s comprehensive stormwater outreach and education program, H2OC, provides nonprofit and classroom programming, business and residential urban runoff production tips, and everything you need to know about your watershed. Help us keep our waterways clean and safe! Learn more about the program here. 

OCTA Updates   

This week, the OCTA Legislative and Communications Committee voted to support two new state bills. The first, AB 1569, introduced by Assemblymember Laurie Davies, requires K-12 students to complete a CHP-approved e-bike safety course before parking their e-bikes on campus. The second, AB 2051, introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, establishes a Coastal Resilience Permitting Working Group designed to cut through bureaucratic delays, lower costs, and speed up projects protecting critical rail infrastructure. This includes the LOSSAN rail corridor running through Orange County. Both bills align with my office’s efforts to reduce youth injuries, improve e-bike safety coordination, and protect our crucial coastal rail infrastructure. 

Safe Routes to School

This week, we met with OCTA CEO Darrell Johnson to discuss how to keep moving active transportation initiatives forward and reinvigorate “Safe Routes to School” efforts across Orange County. “Safe Routes to School” makes walking and biking to school safer and easier for our students. This surveying program fast-tracks critical safety improvements, traffic reduction around our schools, and healthier transportation options for families. It also helps our cities identify where to focus safety improvements, strengthening partnerships between school districts, parents, and students for the safest neighborhoods to call home.  

Corona del Mar Home Tours  

This year’s Corona del Mar Home Tour hosted by Corona del Mar PTA raised more than $300,000 for student supports – showcasing stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, while inspiring student spotlights. This event represents a heartfelt reminder of the light, growth, and positive change our community brings. With the support of parent volunteers, generous homeowners, and community businesses, this event enables transformative school programs for our students. 

Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade  

Over the weekend, we celebrated the Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade, a beloved tradition since 1967. This year, I joined the City of Laguna Beach in enjoying the spirit of patriotism and community with “America 250.” Happy 250th Anniversary, America! 

Senior Town Hall in Rancho Mission Viejo 

In partnership with Rancho Mission Viejo, Senator Catherine Blakespear and the Contractor State License Board, join our senior town hall 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. 

Swallow’s Day Parade 

Tomorrow, my team will join the 66th Swallows Day Parade through historic downtown San Juan Capistrano, celebrating Orange County's rich roots and the return of the swallows to their summer home at the Mercado Street Fair. This marks my fourth year in attendance. I hope to see you there!  

Orange County stops herbicide use in two local creeks as residents raise concerns 

Citizens Private Bank Opens First Orange County Location in Newport Center 

“Grow the Gardens” Campaign Takes Root with Groundbreaking at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar 

Prima Deshecha Landfill Intake Proposal Raises Concerns in San Juan Capistrano 

Editorial: OC supervisors offer risible defense of their $49,000 pay hike - Foley opposed 

Landfill Tour Highlights Concerns from Talega, San Juan Capistrano Communities on Proposed Intake Increase 

Dana Point Harbor Demolition Clears Way for Next Phase of Revitalization 

Ladera Ranch Woman Recognized For Outstanding Work With Water District 

With our CEO Michelle Aguirre set to retire in June, my fellow Supervisors and I continue our search for a new leader of the county’s 18,000 employees. I seek candidates who possess a broad depth of experience in California county government and dedication to leading with integrity, ethics, and inclusivity.  

Help us choose, and provide input on the core attributes, qualities of leadership, and technical strengths you value in our County leadership: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7WP76FW 

Apply to Join a Commission! 

OC Social Services Updates 

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.  

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   

Backhausdance at the Knoebel 

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. 

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! 

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. 

Aliso Viejo 

Costa Mesa 

Dana Point 

Irvine 

Laguna Niguel 

Laguna Woods

Newport Beach 

San Clemente 

San Juan Capistrano