A Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

County of Orange, California sent this bulletin at 05/15/2026 05:01 PM PDT

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Volume 6 | Issue 20

May 15, 2026

Supervisor’s Message

Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

Dear Neighbor:

This week, we continued delivering on healthier communities, safer public spaces, and stronger environmental stewardship. Harmful toxins have no place in our waterways.

Yesterday, OC Public Works announced a countywide pause on herbicide spraying across Orange County Flood Control District channels. During the pause, OC Public Works will stop spraying, and will instead observe invasive species growth patterns to evaluate safer and more effective removal methods. OC Public Works now moves forward with a third-party review of its Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program, additional evaluation of maintenance practices, and public information updates.

Thank you to the residents, advocates, and community leaders who spoke up and made their voices heard. Government works best when residents stay engaged and raise concerns clearly. Community input helped drive this progress, and that matters.

Special thanks to Creek Team OC leadership Brent Linas, Bethany Nelms, and Robert Beard for your continued collaboration. Harmful toxins have no place in our waterways.

Read the letter I sent to the U.S. Senate and learn more about our work this week below.

Building Healthy Communities

Non-Toxic Advisory Committee

We hosted our first Non-toxic Advisory Committee meeting this week, bringing together environmental organizations, residents, nonprofits, and local agencies. We formed this group to evaluate the County’s Integrated Pest Management Plan against best practices across the county and state, as well as to amend the County’s IPM for healthier, safer, cleaner waterways. I look forward to working collaboratively to protect the health and safety of our residents and our waterways.

Celebrating Pickleball Courts in Laguna Niguel

In 2024, OC Parks conducted a countywide study evaluating community interest in pickleball, Laguna Niguel Regional Park emerged as a natural fit as the first OC Parks facility to expand their pickleball courts. These four new and improved courts reflect our commitment to recreational spaces that bring people together, encourage an active lifestyle for residents, and increase use of our regional parks and green spaces. Read the full article here.

Top: Cutting the ribbon with Laguna Niguel pickleball players and OC Parks Director Pam Passow; Bottom Left: Thank you to our dedicated OC Parks staff; Bottom Right: With Scott Magner, whose dedication helped bring these courts to the public.

Growing Our Thriving Economy

Audit Oversight Committee Meeting

Yesterday, I joined the County's Investment and Audit Oversight Committees in reviewing the latest updates on the treasury and investment pools, ongoing audit activity, the County's forensic audits, major IT projects, and other financial controls. Orange County continues leading by example on accountability, protecting taxpayer dollars through the strong oversight that keeps our finances stable and our government focused on results.

Last week the Orange County Register published an op-ed I wrote with Auditor-Controller Andrew Hamilton on why government must stop treating fraud and public corruption as the cost of doing business. We do the work, and we take it seriously. Orange County must keep leading with strong internal controls, rigorous oversight, and real accountability when public dollars get wasted, abused, or stolen.

Laguna Beach State of the City

This week, we joined the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and city leaders at the annual Laguna Beach State of the City address. Mayor Mark Orgill and City Manager Dave Kiff shared updates on advancing public safety through expanded fuel modification zones, operational grazing, and a new Emergency Operations Center. We also learned storefront vacancy rates decline as we streamline permitting at both the city and county levels. This progress reflects our continued commitment to protecting our residents and businesses.

Top: With Laguna Beach City Councilmember Alex Rounaghi and Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill; Bottom Left: With ACC-OC Director of Member Services Kathryn Morrison, CEO of OC Power Authority Joe Mosca; Bottom Right: With Laguna Beach City Councilmember Sue Kempf.

Coastal Protection and Climate Resiliency

Delivering Sand to Our Beaches

Since representing the Fifth District, I promised to find solutions to bring sand to replenish our eroding beaches. This week, I joined Orange County Parks at Capistrano Beach as crews began placing up to 13,500 cubic yards of sand from the LaPeyre Quarry off Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano.

We’ve delivered more than 360,000 cubic yards of sand to south Orange County beaches, with more than 540,000 cubic yards more in the works. That amounts to about 84 football fields worth of sand on the way! Every dollar invested yields $3,000 into our coastal economy. I’ll take that return on our investment any day. Read the full article here.

With OC Parks Deputy Director James Dinwiddie, OC Parks Interim Deputy Director Ev Mena, OC Parks Coastal Director Makana Nova, and OC Coastal Planning Manager Camille Adler.

Infrastructure Updates

OCTA Board of Directors Meeting

This week, our OCTA Board of Directors reviewed the proposed FY 2026-27 budget outlining a $2.05 billion transportation plan, including $46 million for Metrolink operations, ahead of the June 8 budget hearing. We must ensure reliable Metrolink service for Orange County and California riders.

The Board also voted unanimously to approve $57.1 million in state and federal funding for the Ortega Highway Gap Closure and Multimodal Improvement Project, which widens a 1.1-mile segment from two to four lanes and adds safety and mobility improvements for South Orange County. I urge my colleagues to move quickly on this long overdue project.

Engaging With Our Community

Balboa Yacht Club Opening Day

Home to 11 yacht clubs, the Fabulous Fifth harbors a rich maritime history. This weekend, we joined Balboa Yacht Club in celebrating their 104th Opening Day — the perfect reflection of my office’s continued commitment to our boating community.

Lawn Bowling in Newport Harbor

Nestled in Corona del Mar, the Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club stands as one of the largest lawn bowling clubs in the nation. I enjoyed joining local bowlers of all ages for friendly competition this week.

Left: With Newport Lawn Bowling Vice President Wendy Valdes and President Julie Buchanan; Right: Learning how to lawn bowl with Steven Glyer.

A Look Ahead

Join us as we honor our clean water and sailing heritage this weekend. Santa Margarita Water District's Water Festival returns for another unforgettable day of sustainability education, community connection, and family fun. Then, kick off the sailing season in style at the Opening Day celebration for Dana Point Yacht Club, a cherished tradition welcoming another year on the water.

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 May 19, 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

More courts for pickleball at Laguna Niguel Regional Park

Sand project at Capistrano Beach pulls from quarry to add to beach before busy summer season

California must stop treating fraud as the cost of doing business

Orange County Pauses Herbicide Spraying in Creek Beds After Backlash

After public outcry, Orange County halts herbicide spraying in creeks

Sand replenishment project underway to slow erosion at Capistrano Beach

Capistrano Beach Receives Shipment of Sand to Protect Coastline

Community Correspondence

Our work continues. I sent a letter urging the U.S. Senate to reject any effort to shield chemical manufacturers from accountability and to restrict local government from regulating the use of herbicides. If these chemicals prove as safe as manufacturers claim, they need no protection from Congress in the courts. History shows the full risks of chemicals such as PFAS, DDT, asbestos, lead, and PCBs often became clear only years later. Please contact your U.S. Senators and urge them to oppose any Senate liability shield for chemical manufacturers.

Post of the Week

Staff Reports

Anthony Nguyen

Policy Advisor

Happy Friday, District 5! One of my top priorities right now involves staying engaged and informed on the future of Metrolink by tuning in to upcoming Board meetings and discussions surrounding proposed service reductions and long-term financial sustainability. Metrolink faces major financial pressures from slower than expected ridership recovery after COVID-19, mechanical issues, supply chain delays, and proposed funding reductions from major partner agencies like OCTA and LA Metro. To keep Metrolink financially sustainable, agency partners continue discussing possible fare increases not seen in 13 years.

Vice Chair Foley thanks the riders, constituents, and advocates who raised concerns on this issue. She will continue closely monitoring these discussions and advocating for reliable transit service for Orange County commuters and families.

With my son Aiden – he LOVES riding the Metrolink train.

Adam Tallabas

District Director

On Tuesday, I attended the Irvine City Council meeting to speak on Item 6.3, which appeared on the agenda at the request of Councilmember Martinez Franco. The City of Irvine explored a buyout of University Park Library's property, currently held by the County of Orange. While the property still sits off the market, our office remains open and willing to help facilitate discussions to enter into a long-term lease to ensure uninterrupted library services for the South Irvine community.

Vice Chair Foley always advocated for this site to serve the University Park Library. She strongly supports the continued operation of this library. We look forward to fruitful discussion and negotiation with the City of Irvine, once they formally request an extension. I enjoyed connecting with the Save the University Park Library Coalition including Michaela Montaner, Lee Handy, Mari Fuji, and more. Their advocacy has proven incredible and shows the passion this community holds for their treasured asset. UPL stands as the only library in South Irvine, and we must preserve it for our residents.

Here I am with the Save the University Park Coalition

On Thursday, I attended the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month Mixer hosted by Asian Business Association OC and the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce OC. I enjoyed networking with the fantastic businessowners and stakeholders from the AANHPI community, while celebrating the diverse group of cultures within.

Abby Paulson

District Representative

This week, I met with Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation to hear concerns about the renovated dock space at the OC Sailing and Events Center. While we work with County staff to answer questions and address concerns, we want to reassure every community group remains accommodated in the new OCSEC decks. The final dock layout awaits Coastal Commission approval, with construction expected after the summer season. In the meantime, replacement of the storage sheds at the OCSEC boathouse began this week.

Morgan Goldstein

District Representative

This week, I reviewed a key item for the Board on May 19 which reflects District 5's continued commitment to housing stability across Orange County. The item approves five Project-Based Housing Vouchers for Tustin Heritage, a new eight-unit development in Tustin that will house families experiencing homelessness.

Vice Chair Foley remains focused on using every available federal tool to expand housing access, and our office remains proud in supporting this item heading into the May 19 vote.

Robbie LaBounty

District Representative

This week I attended and presented certificates on behalf of Supervisor Foley at the 2026 Les Miller Awards Dinner hosted by the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce. This annual event honors the scholastic achievements, community leadership, and hard work of local Costa Mesa High School and College students. This long-standing Costa Mesa tradition represents how our community continues to advance the next generation.

With NMUSD Board Trustee Carol Crane, Costa Mesa City Manager Cecilia Gallardo Daly, and legislative representatives from Asm. Cottie Petrie-Norris and Senator Steven Choi’s offices.

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.

OC Sailing & Events Center Enhancements

As the broader Dana Point Harbor Revitalization moves forward, the OC Sailing & Events Center (OCSEC), located next to Baby Beach, continues to see meaningful enhancements thanks to County investment. Since opening in 1985, OCSEC has served as an important community hub, offering recreational programs, public restrooms, meeting spaces, and special event venues for the public.

Recently, the Board approved a contract to begin developing a long-term master plan for the entire OCSEC campus. This effort will evaluate future opportunities for key facilities such as the Cove Room, Pilot House, Boat House, picnic areas, and parking and pedestrian access points, focusing on how OCSEC can continue to serve the community for decades to come. Public engagement will be an essential part of this process, so please stay tuned for details on upcoming community meetings.

To address immediate needs, the County is currently undergoing short term facility enhancements at OCSEC. These improvements include essential building repairs, ADA upgrades, demolition and replacement of aging storage structures, and expanded classroom space for program users. Additionally, the aging north and south docks are being replaced with modern infrastructure for more accessible boating access.

Together, these projects reflect a comprehensive County investment for the future of Dana Point Harbor, supporting community programming, improving aging facilities, and ensuring residents can continue enjoying this treasured waterfront destination for years to come.

Upcoming OCFA Events

career firefighter academy 63 graduation

Health News

May is Mental Health Month

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.

Notice to EBT Cardholders

Magnetic stripe‑only EBT cards will be deactivated on April 19, 2026. You must replace your magnetic stripe‑only card with a chip/tap-enabled EBT card to continue accessing benefits. Residents who already have chip/tap- enabled EBT cards do not need to take further action. Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC) and SUN Bucks magnetic-stripe EBT cards will not be affected. To request a replacement, please call the EBT Helpline at (877) 328‑9677, visit Benefitscal.com or ebtedge.com, or contact your local Social Services Agency office in person or by phone at (800) 281‑9799.

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:

American Red Cross Blood Drive with HCA

Transportation News

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.

Apply today: https://www.octa.net/teencouncil

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.

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

Daily commute costs add up fast, but there is a smarter and more affordable way to get around. Ride OC Bus and see how much you can save with our new commute calculator. Learn more: octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/commute-calculator

Community News

OC Fair Hiring Event

OC Fair & Event Center is hosting a hiring event and looking for 400+ seasonal employees. Walk-up interviews and on-the-spot offers will take place. Applicants must be at least 16 years old.

Applications are required, apply before the day of the event at ocfair.com/jobs.

When: Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Enter through Gate 4 off Arlington Drive.
What to bring: Resumes and IDs are recommended. In the event that you are hired, IDs are recommended to expedite the hiring process. To view the list of proper I-9 document, click here. You can bring one document from List A or two documents, one from List B and one document from List C.

Construction Updates: Ladera Ranch Curb Ramps

Capo Beach San Nourishment

OC Parks Summer 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 Celebrates AAPI Month with Music

Doheny State Beach Cleanups

South County Rotary

Iron House Jiu-Jitsu

Dana Point Classic Car Show

Wildfire Preparedness Workshop with Susi Q

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

Local Arts & Entertainment

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

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, Cecilia!

Cecilia is a social butterfly who can't get enough of people. She's a five-year-old German Shepherd with a zest for play and an eagerness to learn. She's smart and engaged during play time, responds quickly to commands, and learns fast with treats.

Cecilia's favorite pastime? Playing fetch! Her ideal day includes plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love and affection. Cecilia will be happiest as the only pet in the home.

Call (714) 935-6848 to foster-to-adopt or adopt Cecilia (A1943236) or any of her friends at OC Animal Care! Her adoption fee is waived!

Visit www.ocpetinfo.com/adopt for more.

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!