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| Volume 6 | Issue 21 |
May 22, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
This week, we continued delivering practical results to improve quality of life for Orange County residents.
Read on to learn more about our milestone progress on protecting against wildfires, upgrading access to our beaches and recreation, expanding aircraft at JWA, and ending homelessness across Orange County.
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A Place to Call Home
Homelessness on the Decline in Orange County
This week, Orange County released the results of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count.
For the first time, more people lived in shelters or transitional housing than on the streets, because we invested in housing of all types and moved people from dangerous encampments into beds, addiction treatment, and permanent supportive housing.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Countywide homelessness dropped 13.7%
- Homelessness in the Fifth District fell 32%
- Veteran homelessness fell 37%
- Unsheltered family homelessness fell 34%
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Homelessness among transitional-age youth (18-24) fell 20%
While encouraging, these results do not justify complacency. An estimated 45% of people experiencing homelessness reported substance use disorder and 27% reported serious mental illness. We must continue expanding treatment, behavioral health services, outreach, supportive housing, and strong enforcement against dangerous and unlawful behavior.
Keeping our Communities Safe
Public Safety Updates with OC Sheriff Don Barnes
We highlighted several initiatives, including my catalytic converter theft ordinance, our work with the District Attorney targeting organized burglary crews and retail theft. Stronger e-bike enforcement and education continue. Orange County also leads the fight against nitrous oxide abuse and other dangerous retail drug sales like Kratom that fuel addiction, impaired driving, and public disorder.
We also discussed our anti-encampment ordinance and the County’s first coordinated encampment clearing effort, which removed tons of trash, and restored public spaces.
ICYMI: Fighting Fraud and Public Corruption
Through stronger oversight, forensic audits, and tighter financial controls, we continue pushing for real accountability and safeguard public money. We must keep demanding transparency, consequences, and systems that protect the public’s trust.
San Clemente Helopod Groundbreaking
This week, we advanced a major wildfire safety upgrade for San Clemente – breaking ground on a new HeloPod, funded through a $100,000 Fifth District discretionary grant to the OC Fire Authority. As an OCFA Board Director, I understand the importance of maintaining firefighting resources before disaster strikes. Arriving in June, this 3,775-gallon self-filling water tank will help firefighting helicopters refill faster and respond more aggressively in one of our highest wildfire risk areas. That means stronger protection for families, neighborhoods, and the open space around them.
 Top Left: OCFA Assistant Chief of Corporate Communications Matt Olson, Division Fire Chief Cheyne Maule, Supervisor Foley and Captain Greg Barta; Top Right: Supervisor Foley and Interim Chief TJ McGovern; Bottom: San Clemente Mayor and Council Members, OC Fire Authority, and San Clemente community members
Board of Supervisors Meeting
Meals, Rides, and Care for Seniors at Risk
This week, I called for immediate reconsideration after major senior services contracts failed on a 2-2 vote, with one supervisor absent. At a time when federal food assistance faces real threats, this kind of failure is unconscionable. These votes place Meals on Wheels, Age Well, caregiver support, transportation, legal services, grocery delivery, elder abuse prevention, and other community-based programs at risk.
Without action, services could face disruption as soon as July 1. That includes more than 1.25 million meals, up to 130,000 rides for medical appointments for more than 23,000 seniors, and more than 148,000 direct appointments and services for seniors and caregivers. Seniors should not lose meals, rides, or basic support because the Board failed to act. I will keep fighting to protect these essential programs, and I urge residents to email the Orange County Board of Supervisors at response@ocgov.com and demand immediate action.
Recognizing “Emergency Medical Services Week”
 Recognizing “Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Month”
 Celebrating the Graduates of the California Counties Foundation Institute
 Building Healthy Communities
OC Medical Association Board Meeting
This week, I met with the OC Medical Association, representing the more than 44,000 physicians who shape public health across Orange County. Our work building a healthier community continues, as we advance drug prevention policy, strong environmental health, and accessible systems of compassionate care for all.
 Top Left: With OC Medical Association Board of Directors - Dr. Anjalee Galion, Dr. Crispina Chong-Han, Dr. Connie Bartlett, and Dr. Shalini Shah
Santa Margarita Water District Water Festival
Thank you to the Santa Margarita Water District for a fun day celebrating our commitment to sustainable stewardship of a healthy environment at the Water Festival!
 Top left: with Rancho Santa Margarita Councilmember Keri Lynn Baert, Rancho Santa Margarita Water District Member Rick Erkeneff; Bottom right: with Members of the Rancho Santa Margarita Water District
Infrastructure Updates
Costa Mesa Skate Park Groundbreaking
In 2022, my office awarded the City of Costa Mesa $2 million to more than double the Skate Park and support our growing skate community. After decades of pushing this project forward, we broke ground to expand safe spaces where young people can exercise, build friendships, and connect with their community. This project reflects years of collaboration and community input. We look forward to the community enjoying the expanded skatepark in 2027.
 Top Left: Brian Gruner from Costa Mesa Parks and Community Services, Councilmembers Manny Chavez, Arlis Reynolds, and Andrea Marr, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens and Costa Mesa Public Works Director Raja Sethuraman; Bottom Left & Right: Skateboarding enthusiasts and community members
Launching Balboa Pier Trolley
With Measure M2 Project V funding and a grant we voted to award from OCTA in 2024, the Balboa Peninsula Trolleys will continue serving the community through 2031. The new trolley arrives at the perfect time as we head into busy summer months when families, residents, and visitors rely on safe and convenient ways to enjoy the coast.
 Top Right: With Chief of Newport Beach Fire Department Jeff Boyles; Bottom Right: Newport Beach City Councilmembers Joe Stapleton, Robyn Grant, Michelle Barto, and Mayor Lauren Kleiman, OCTA Director Tam Nguyen, Newport Beach Mayor Pro Tem Noah Blom, and Councilmembers Sara J. Weber and Erik Weigand.
Reopening Access to Cleo Street Beach
Today, we joined the City of Laguna Beach and their amazing public works team to officially reopen access to Cleo Street Beach!
Upgraded stairs, benches, an ADA-accessible viewpoint, foot shower, and continuous handrails provide secure beach access year-round, while sustainable landscaping and storm drain infrastructure protect and preserve the natural environment.
Whether you dive the sunken Foss 125 barge, catch the sunset from the bluff, or simply cherish this corner of our coastline, Cleo Street Beach awaits all, better than ever.
 Top Left: With Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill; Bottom Left: With Laguna Beach City Councilmember Dave Kiff, Max Wernher from Senator Tony Strickland’s office, Mayor Orgill, Laguna Beach Councilmember Sue Kempf; Bottom Right: With City of Laguna Beach Public Works employees.
John Wayne Airport
Welcoming United Airlines Airbus A321neo
United Flight 2666 arrived at Gate 10, giving passengers and airport leaders a first look at the aircraft as it cycled through JWA on its inaugural flight out of JWA to Newark. This A321neo arrival shows the progress we continue making with our airline partners to modernize the aircraft serving JWA while protecting our quality of life for residents who live under the airport flight path.
 Top Right & Bottom Left: Krishnendu (Kris) Bose of United Airlines, Sue Dvorak, Supervisor Katrina Foley; Bottom Right: Sean Harribance, Richard Givens, Komal Kumar, Ron McClellan, Sue Dvorak, Krishnendu (Kris) Bose, Vice Chair Katrina Foley, Nick Gaskins, Nima Javadi, Nick Anas
Engaging With Our Community
Dana Point Yacht Club’s 74th Opening Day
Long before the harbor existed, dedicated sailors founded Dana Point Yacht Club. 74 years later, this cornerstone of our coastal community hosts 49 weekends of races annually and vibrant summer sailing programs – inspiring generations to set sail and give back. I enjoyed joining our boaters for an Opening Day celebration recognizing the living legacy and remarkable contributions of DPYC, whose history lays the foundation for the identity of our Dana Point community.
 Top left: With Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group Treasurer Patti Short; Top right: with Dana Point Yacht Club Commodore Jason Adamson, and Brian Livermore.
Celebrating OC Public Works
This week, we celebrated National Public Works Week. Thank you to our dedicated team of 863 OC Public Works employees, who work behind the scenes to ensure safe streets, fresh trees, effective traffic signals, clean neighborhoods, and reliable infrastructure for our communities.
 Bottom: With OC Board of Supervisors Chairman Doug Chaffee and OCPW County Engineer Kevin Onuma.
Laguna Achievement Festival
From the arts to public service to the stage, the women of Laguna Beach historically lead the way, stepping into the spotlight and using their voices for good. At KX FM's Laguna Achievement Festival, I enjoyed honoring this year’s Best Female Voices winner Anesha Rose, and nominees Kelly Fitzgerald, Lele Rose, Ava August, and Grace Freeman.
 Top Left: Tom Joliet, Top Right: Presenting the “Best Female Artist” award to singer songwriter Anesha Rose; Bottom Left: With Mark Christy; Bottom Right: With Heidi Miller and Laguna Radio Host Billy Fried
A Look Ahead
Honoring our service members and their sacrifices means fulfilling our nation’s promise to defend them with the care, respect, and support they have earned. As we pay our respects this Memorial Day, let us remember our fallen military service men and women, who selflessly served and sacrificed for the future and freedoms of this nation we call home.
We hope you safely enjoy every second of this long weekend. Remember to never leave campfires or grills unattended, avoid launching fireworks in high fire risk zones, secure your trailer chains and never pull over into dry grass, use a life jacket in the water and never swim alone. Have a great long 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 June 9, 2026
Community Correspondence
 
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the Legislative Bulletin, which provides the Board with analyses of measures pending in Sacramento and Washington that may impact Orange County.
As part of that action and as requested by Vice Chair Foley, the Board adopted a support position on H.R. 8023, The Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act, introduced by Rep. Linda Sanchez (CA-38).
This bill would establish a federal tax credit to help eligible childcare providers increase wages for workers, strengthen workforce retention, and expand childcare availability. Vice Chair Foley understands the challenges many working families face and will continue fighting for policies that expand access to affordable childcare, strengthen workforce stability, and support long term economic opportunity for Orange County families.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Yesterday, the National Association of Asian Pacifics in Politics and Public Affairs (NAAPPPA) released their Top 40 Under 40 list – and I am excited to share that I made the list! NAAPPPA established this bipartisan list to highlight emerging AAPIs in the professional unelected side of politics. These honorees are trailblazing AAPI campaign strategists, lobbyists, legislative staff, and corporate public affairs professionals that work behind the scenes in the halls of power. I am deeply honored to be among a list of distinguished, accomplished professionals in our nation. I am also appreciative to have continued honing this experience in Supervisor Foley’s office.
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 I look forward to joining the Vice Chair at Memorial Day events in Dana Point and Newport Beach on Monday – I hope to see you out there!
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi District 5! This week, I joined the Laguna Hills Chamber of Commerce for the Pacific Closet and Garage Showroom Grand Opening. Events like this are a great reminder of the energy and entrepreneurship that make District 5 such a vibrant place to live and work. Supporting small businesses like Pacific Closet and Garage is how we strengthen our local economy and build the kind of community where people and businesses can thrive.
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 At Cleo Beach with Drake Smith and Supervisor Foley
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
Happy Friday, District 5! This week, I attended two graduation celebrations recognizing our community's next generation. At the Save Our Youth College Bound ceremony, we honored the remarkable SOY teens heading to college this fall, Supervisor Foley has championed these young adults for years through her steadfast support of SOY's vital work in Costa Mesa. I also joined the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce's annual Athletic Awards dinner, where we recognized outstanding student athletes who will carry their talents into college and, for many, onto collegiate rosters.
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 Left: With the Athletic Awards special guest speaker former NFL quarterback Matt Barkley; Right: With Costa Mesa Mayor Pro Tem Manuel Chavez and Asm. Cottie Petrie-Norris' District Director Michael Tou.
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.
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
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:
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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.
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
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.
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
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, Julia!
Julia is an adorable and sassy 5-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a personality that’s impossible not to love. She enjoys her independence and takes her “me time” very seriously, usually while lounging comfortably in her bed like the queen she is.
Julia is looking for an adult only home that understands the fine art of loving a cat on her terms. In return, she’ll provide her trust and charm. If Julia (A1953610) sounds like your purr-fect match, adopt her or any of her friends at OC Animal Care!
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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