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| Volume 6 | Issue 18 |
May 1, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
Happy May! This week, we focused on the issues that shape daily life across the Fabulous Fifth: public safety, supports for children and seniors, cleaner communities, critical infrastructure, and long-term challenges. We moved forward with practical solutions to protect quality of life, oppose landfill expansion, and reject the unnecessary use of chemicals in our waterways.
Read on for details.
Standing with San Clemente Against Higher Daily Tonnage at the Landfill
Last night, our community stood united in opposition to an unnecessary increase in daily tonnage at Prima Deshecha landfill. I thank the San Clemente residents who joined us, the San Clemente Mayor and City Council for their leadership, and Assemblymember Laurie Davies for standing with the community on this issue.
I shared my continued opposition to increasing Prima’s daily cap from 4,000 to 8,000 tons of trash per day. The facts do not show a present need for this increase. Prima operates well below the proposed cap, and average daily tonnage declined since the Board cut imported waste in half and doubled fees on imported trash in 2025.
I also spoke honestly about the broader challenge: Orange County once utilized more disposal options. Today, just three active public landfills remain, and 20 landfill sites closed throughout the years. As Brea Olinda moves toward closure, only Prima and Bowerman in Irvine will remain. At the same time, the state made it impossible to permit new landfills. This is not sustainable.
I hope my colleagues on the Board and our representatives in Sacramento recognize this is not a workable long-term path for Orange County. When waste haulers have to drive farther to dispose of trash, all of Orange County pays the price with more heavy truck traffic, worsening congestion, and declining air quality.
We need long-term solutions to reduce waste, shorten truck trips, expand diversion, improve methane capture, and protects our neighborhoods. I will keep standing with residents in opposition to increasing daily tonnage at Prima.
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Board of Supervisors Meeting
Fighting Harmful Chemicals in Our Creeks and Open Spaces
I voted no to keeping Orange County in a regional partnership focused on addressing invasive non-native plants that can damage habitats. While this work remains important, the agreement leaves key decisions to a steering committee where members can set standards by majority vote. I believe this could inhibit Orange County’s ability to move away from the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides in our waterways.
The majority of the Board, with me and Supervisor Sarmiento dissenting, moved this agreement forward. I spent more than 21 years working to keep harmful chemicals out of public spaces. I pushed to eliminate pesticides on school campuses, helped Costa Mesa transition to nontoxic vegetation management, and opposed glyphosate use at the County from day one. I continue pushing for stronger standards reliant on organic materials and manual or mechanical clearing methods.
Ortega Highway Widening Moves Forward
Construction on the Ortega Highway widening project begins in January 2027. This long-awaited project adds two lanes through a major bottleneck, bike-friendly shoulders, a new traffic signal, and other safety improvements on State Route 74. More than 10,000 drivers who rely on Ortega Highway each day will soon enjoy safer travel, less congestion, and a better route to work, school, and home.
Investing in the Future of the OC Sailing & Events Center
The Board approved a master planning contract for the OC Sailing & Events Center, one of Dana Point Harbor’s most important public assets. Families learn to sail there, young people build confidence on the water, and visitors enjoy direct access to the harbor. This action moves us closer to improved public access, stronger programming, and long-term upgrades that will help this community resource serve residents for the future.
Helping Older Adults Return to Work
A nearly $900,000 grant will help older adults return to the workforce with paid job experience, training, wages, benefits, and other critical support services. This investment will create a real pathway back to work for seniors. Meaningful employment builds independence, dignity, and stronger communities.
Keeping Orange County Financially Strong
We approved our April Budget Update to address current needs responsibly, from public safety and legal costs to the forensic audits that will help strengthen the County for the future. The County of Orange receives just five cents of every property tax dollar — the lowest in the state, while our departments continue delivering for residents. Thanks to the discipline and hard work of our County staff, we maintained a budget healthy, supported our workforce, and reaffirmed the highest possible credit rating from Fitch.
Protecting Mental Health Care for Children
Children and teens ages 3 to 17 will continue receiving inpatient mental health care through Children’s Hospital of Orange County, including Orange County’s youngest patients in crisis. CHOC remains the only provider in Orange County serving young children who need this level of care. I thank CHOC and our Health Care Agency for working together to save County dollars while expanding access for children and families.
Recognizing Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
I remain committed to honoring the memory of the 1.5 million victims of the Armenian Genocide with the dignity they deserve. Supervisor Wagner and I shared a proclamation recognizing the Armenian Genocide as established historical record, condemning all acts of hate-reaffirming we will learn from the lessons of history.
Keeping our Neighborhoods Safe
Large Animal Evacuation Workshop
Our equestrian community runs deep in the Fifth District. When disaster strikes, we work together to ensure you and your animals remain safe. At our Large Animal Evacuation Workshop, we gathered leadership across local agencies to discuss actionable steps toward a safe and efficient County emergency plan for protecting large animals.
 Top Left: with Cheyne Mauie Chief of Orange County Fire Authority, with Jamie Link Operations and Maintenance Manager of OCAC, with Kimberly Chavez Business Service Manager of OCAC, with Joe Torres of San Juan Capistrano Emergency Response Manager
Crime Survivors 5K
I joined Crime Survivors to raise awareness for crime victims and survivors at the Superhero 5k around William R. Mason Park. Each step reflected our continued commitment to supporting our neighbors, prioritizing combating revictimization and rebalancing the scales of justice.
 Top Right: Patricia Wenskunas, the founder and CEO of Crime Survivors, Inc.; Bottom Right: Cheering at the starting line with Laker Girls.
A Place to Call Home
Supporting Orange County Housing Finance Trust
The OC Housing Finance Trust recently underwent a significant transformation: bringing trust management in-house, contracting with a new fundraising firm to pursue additional funding streams, and issuing an RFP for a new NOFA administrator. This week, I met with Trust Manager Louis McClure and our newly contracted fundraising team, K&M, to align on strategies for growing the Trust's resources.
 Coastal Protection
Bringing Sand by Rail to Our Beaches
Protecting our beaches requires innovation. My office funded this research with a $25,000 grant. UCI Master of Engineering students presented their Sediment-by-Rail feasibility study yesterday, examining how the rail could help move sand more efficiently to beach nourishment sites. Their work compared rail and trucking costs, reviewed excavation sites, and evaluated offload locations including San Onofre State Beach, Doheny State Beach, and barge transfer from Long Beach. As this work moves into the final phase, we will observe practical solutions to restore sand and protect our coastline.
 Engaging With Our Community
Congratulations to Dana Point Women's Club (DPWC) on 75 years of dedicated service to our community! In 2023, my office awarded DPWC with a $35,000 grant to revitalize their Community House -- which they now rent out to the public, generating revenue to fund their community programming. This week, DPWC hosted their “Diamond Celebration” in support of Project Foster, providing at-risk and foster youth with clothing, hygiene essentials, comfort items, and hope.
 Top Left: With Dana Point Women’s Club 1st Vice President and Public Relations Director Toni Nelson; Top Right: With Exchange Club of Newport Harbor President Ken Dufour; Bottom Left: with Project Foster founder Debby Thrailkill and Ken Dufour; Bottom Middle: With Dana Point Councilmember Michael Villar.
Día Del Níño Children's Day
April marks a special time for our San Juan Capistrano community, as neighbors join Unidos South OC, Inc. in celebrating Día Del Niño and ensuring every child thrives. This community fair provided essential resources for families.
 Bottom Left: With Unidos South OC
Dana Point State of the City
Dana Point continues to thrive, with a budget surplus, a growing business community, and incredible network of community. At the Dana Point “State of the City,” Mayor John Gabbard shared 24 new businesses opened last year, introducing new locally owned places for shopping, dining, and supporting our local economy. We learned about Dana Wharf Whale Watching, which celebrates 55 years, and progress continues at Dana Point Harbor.
Mayor Gabbard also welcomed Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, the new owners of the Monarch Beach Resort. With an exemplary business career, Chairwoman Valbuena played an integral role in growing the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation into a flourishing community.
Our conversation with the Monarch Sunrise Rotary Club this week covered the County’s ongoing efforts to improve access to Strands Beach and Dana Point Harbor, nourish our shrinking coastline, Harbor Revitalization, and ensuring public safety. Accessible, well-maintained public spaces mean stronger shores and a thriving local economy.
 Top Left: With Monarch Sunrise Rotary President Bob Zaza.
A Look Ahead
Travel by bus to join us throughout the Fabulous Fifth. Starting today, May 1, bus rides fully transition to our Wave card or app, contactless, or cash -- no more paper passes! Learn more here.
Be well,
 Katrina Foley
Vice Chair
County of Orange
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In This Edition
Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!
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 Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting on May 5, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, District 5! Vice Chair Foley advances transportation solutions that reflect what residents experience every day. This week, our office heard concerns about freeway congestion, vacant lane confusion, and coastal access delays.
The I-405 Improvements Project (SR-73 to I-605), led by Orange County Transportation Authority in partnership with Caltrans, upgraded 16 miles between SR-73 and I-605, adding express lanes by converting the former carpool lanes into two managed lanes in each direction to improve traffic flow. OCTA also continues a study along SR-73 to evaluate operational improvements. Along the coast, catchment wall construction continues through October 2026. The pedestrian bridge at Mariposa Point in San Clemente opens intermittently. The trail remains closed from North Beach to Linda Lane, while the Linda Lane tunnel will remain open unless potentially hazardous work is being performed. For Fifth District residents, this means more reliable commutes and continued progress on protecting coastal rail service while maintaining safe access to our beaches and trails.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
This week, I attended “City by City: Navigating Challenges Facing Our Immigrant Communities” co-hosted by UC Irvine School of Social Ecology, Orange County Community Foundation, and the Orange County Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs at UC Irvine. Presented by Dr. Jon Gould, Dean of UCI Social Ecology, this event provided an insightful poll from UCI Social Ecology.
We also heard from community leaders Trustee Katelyn Bracer Aceves of Santa Ana Unified School District, Dr. Susan Coutin of UCI Social Ecology, Monica Glicken of Public Law Center, Irvine Chief of Police Michael Kent, and Dr. Tam Nguyen of Advance Beauty College on the impact of immigration enforcement in Orange County neighborhoods on police departments, local businesses, and our communities at-large. Then, a panel of our county’s large city leaders including Mayor Larry Agran of Irvine, Mayor Ashleigh Aitken of Anaheim, Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza of Santa Ana, and Councilmember Arlis Reynolds of Costa Mesa highlighted how immigration enforcement impacts communities and municipal operations.
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 The Community Leaders panel, featuring Dean of UCI Social Ecology Dr. Jon Gould, Dr. Tam Nguyen of Advance Beauty College, Dr. Susan Coutin of UCI Social Ecology, Chief of Irvine Police Michael Kent, Santa Ana Unified School District Trustee Katelyn Bracer Aceves.
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I attended the Doheny Campground Community meeting on behalf of Supervisor Foley to hear an update on the Doheny Desalination project and Doheny State Beach Campground Climate Resilience and Modernization project. The modernization projects includes Infrastructure improvements to prevent flooding and create designated biking and walking paths. Residents also shared concerns about the loss of 22 campsites and community gatherings spaces.
I provided an update at this week’s San Clemente Community Affairs meeting, worked with community partners on the Large Animal Preparedness workshop and Sediment-by-Rail mixer, and joined Dana Point and San Clemente State of the City events. We look forward to exciting improvements and community investments across South Orange County.
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 With Supervisor Foley and Rotary President Bob Zaza.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
This week, I joined the Moulton Museum at their Inaugural Ranch Roundup Living History Museum. This program brought elementary school students from across South Orange County to experience life as it was 100 years ago on the Moulton Ranch — taking place at the Aliso Viejo Ranch, which sits on the old Moulton Ranch and still features some of the original structures. Students rotated through different stations to experience lassoing, blacksmithing, livestock care, historical reenactments, and so much more. Supervisor Foley sponsored this program with a $14,000 grant, understanding that supporting local education means supporting a healthy and thriving future for young District 5 residents.
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
This week I had the pleasure of attending the Newport Mesa Schools Foundation Annual Teacher Awards Night. Supervisor Foley sponsored six teachers with an $8,000 grant to help bring more tools, toys, and resources into their classrooms. Educating our youth remains a top priority for the Supervisor.
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 Here I am with teachers Tim McFadden, Dorothee Morse, Karlee SanGiovanni, Diane DeLucia, and Nicholas St. Royal
Orange County Seeks CEO
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.
 
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.
Upcoming OCFA Events
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:
 
 
Mental Health Resource Fair for Moms
Transportation News
OCTA Update
By Darrell Johnson, CEO of OCTA
Newport Beach Transportation Center Meeting
On Monday, OCTA executive staff participated in a Project Development Team meeting to discuss the City of Newport Beach’s requested relocation of the Newport Beach Transportation Center. The Project Development Team oversees the Newport Transportation Center Relocation Feasibility Study, a joint effort between OCTA and the City evaluating options to potentially relocate the existing transit center to accommodate future city needs at the current site.
OCTA attended the inaugural meeting of the University of California, Irvine’s Mobility Partnership. The meeting convened regional stakeholders, UCI officials, and students to discuss collaboration and emerging approaches to advancing mobility across the region.
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15 Years of Measure M
See how Measure M is improving Orange County with better streets, freeways, transit and environmental programs. Celebrate 15 years of progress with OCTA and explore what’s ahead through 2041. Learn more at: octa.net/MeasureM15
Amtrak Partial Service Disruption
Metrolink Announces Extension of Reduced Weekday Service Levels
Metrolink, Southern California’s six-county passenger rail service, will continue to operate on a reduced weekday schedule moving forward.
On March 23, Metrolink decreased weekday service levels by 20% to address reliability issues stemming from mechanical challenges and supply chain delays. Originally, these changes were anticipated to remain in place for seven weeks but will now continue for the foreseeable future.
To minimize disruption to customers, the agency prioritized preserving the highest-ridership trains and travel windows. Click here to learn more.
OCTA Teen Council
The OCTA Teen Council offers high school students an opportunity to learn about transportation-related projects. Members focus on building leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
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.
Salt Creek Beach Parking Lot Surfacing, April 13 - May 15, 2026
2026 Taxpayer Oversight Committee Recruitment
Be a watchdog for Orange County’s tax dollars! Lend your voice on the Measure M Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC). Districts 2 & 3 are seeking new members to ensure voter-approved transportation funds are spent as promised. Learn more: octa.net/tocrecruitment
OC Bus - Commute Calculator
Construction Updates: Ladera Ranch Curb Ramps
OC Parks Summer Cinema & Concerts in the Park
Apply to Work for Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory
Caltech’s Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory (KML) is seeking an occasional Aquatics and Administrative Assistant that will support the on-site aquatic life support systems and facilitate education and outreach programs. Under the direct supervision of the KML Manager, this role will assist with troubleshooting lab equipment, provide regular maintenance of systems, and assist with general lab activities (both research and education). Apply here.
OC Public Libraries Welcomes Percival Everett
OC Public Libraries Celebrates AAPI Month with Music
OC Public Libraries Welcomes Cookbook Author Jet Tila
Spring Gardening Workshops with OC Public Libraries
South County Rotary
Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce
State of the City Mayor's Luncheon
The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce will host its annual State of the City Mayor's luncheon on Monday, May 11 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm at the Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 South Coast Highway. Register here.
OC Office on Aging Introduces Free Mobile App for Senior Resources!
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
Local Arts & Entertainment
Fremont Ave.
In 1968, George buys a suburban Southern California home—a stop on his way to something bigger—and hires Audrey as a housekeeper. In 1991, Robert is still living there, itching to start his own life. Thirty years later, Joseph returns home, still struggling with a secret that holds him back. With humor and heart, this multigenerational drama revolves around three Black men, their journeys to choose love and the woman who holds them all together.
Previews: Apr. 25-30, 2026
Opening Night: May 1, 2026
Regular Performances: May 2-23, 2026
American Sign Language Performance: Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 2 p.m.
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.
Balboa Yacht Club Summer Sailing Program
Mariners 936 Dana Point Sea Scouts
Mother's Tea Party
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
Meet Pet of the Week, Lexi!
Meet Lexi, a 4-year-old Pit Bull who's ready to shower her new family with lots of love. Lexi is potty trained, calm and gentle, and knows commands. Her favorite thing to do is roll over for belly rubs!
Lexi is great on walks, treat-motivated, and has been fantastic during her Dog's Day Out Pilot Project field trips. She has attended multiple off-site adoption events where she did well around other dogs, adults, and children. Those who interact with Lexi describe her as a mellow dog who's sweet and easy to handle.
If Lexi (A1926478) sounds like the dog you're looking for, foster-to-adopt or adopt her or her friends from OC Animal Care today!
Visit www.ocpetinfo.com/adopt for more.
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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@SupervisorFoley
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