Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy June, District 5! OCTA’s Measure M Taxpayer Oversight Committee will hold its annual public hearing on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, to review how transportation funds support projects across Orange County and ensure delivery as promised to voters. The hearing will take place at 6 p.m. at OCTA Headquarters in Orange (550 S. Main St., Conference Room 07).
The hearing offers an opportunity for residents, stakeholders and interested parties to share feedback on the implementation of Measure M – the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements originally approved by voters in 1990 and renewed in 2006. The renewed Measure M reached the halfway point of its lifespan this year and will continue funding transportation improvements through 2041. For more information about Measure M and the Taxpayer Oversight Committee, visit: octa.net/TOC.
On Thursday, OCTA provided a Metrolink budget briefing, including background and a summary of the situation thus far. Metrolink faces ongoing budget challenges as ridership remains below pre-pandemic levels and operating costs rise. On Monday, as part of their FY 2026-27 Budget and Personnel and Salary Resolution public hearing, Vice Chair Foley and fellow OCTA Board members will consider up to $14.5 million to support Metrolink operations through the first quarter of FY 2026-27 while Metrolink develops a comprehensive budget plan for review by member agencies.
|
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday!
This week, I finalized work on our annual CalOptima Community Health and Benefits Fair in Costa Mesa at Lions Park from 9 AM – 1 PM. Access benefits and services, and receive important information and resources from CalOptima Health, our office, and more.
Join us on June 14, 2026, at Dana Cove Park at Baby Beach in Dana Point as we celebrate Flag Day, America 250, and the United States Army’s 251st Birthday. I enjoyed working with Newport Beach Exchange Club for our annual tradition of securing flags. Thank you also to OC Parks for coordinating logistics and local veterans and volunteer organizations for coordinating.
|
 When I think summer, I think of our beautiful Orange County Parks. Every year, Supervisor Foley and our team join neighbors and friends in getting the good vibes flowing, dancing to local musicians, and enjoying family picnics at movie nights.
This summer, the Fabulous Fifth District and OC Parks welcome you to three concerts and four movie nights at Irvine Mason Regional, Dana Point's Salt Creek Beach, and Laguna Niguel parks!
Check out the schedule here.
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I worked on coordinating our Non-Toxic Solutions Advisory Committee meeting coming up next Wednesday. The discussion topics include regulatory frameworks that dictate vegetation management at the local, state, and federal levels, and item S10A from next Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting directing County staff to move away from herbicide use at the County. Sign up for updates here.
Summer events kick off across District Five this month, including the City of Dana Point’s first movie in the park tonight (June 5 at 6:30pm) at Dana Crest Park and San Juan Summer Nites Concert Series beginning June 17. We hope to see you outside enjoying the fresh air with us this summer in the Fabulous Fifth!
|
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
Happy Friday District 5! This week I attended the grand opening for Providence Mission Hospital’s new Kathy Williams Family Health Center in Rancho Mission Viejo. Supervisor Foley supports the Hospital for all the work they’ve done to keep our communities healthy, including caring for residents and even promoting public safety issues relating to e-bikes. This brand-new state of the art medical facility will serve residents in the community by treating people where they live.
|
 With Executive Director of Operations Evelyn Scholosser, Providence Chief Executive of South Division Lauren Driscoll, Chief Executive of Providence Mission Hospital SEth Teigen, Maia Meunier from the Office of Senator Blakespear, and Providence Mission Hospital Chief Nursing Officer Jennifer Cord
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:
-
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.
We're Hiring!
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
OC Fair 2026 Hiring Event
Health News
Community Health Resource Fair on June 6, 2026
CA Senate Bill 43 Updates
Healthy Actions by August 14, 2026
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
-
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:
 
 
Transportation News
OC Bus World Cup Enhanced Service
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.
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.
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
Laguna Canyon Foundation - "Ales & Trails"
2026 Cool Irvine Eco Fair
Same Day Solutions Fair
PBS SoCal Community Storyteller Initiative
OC Fair Family Bundles
Lunch at the Library 2026
Free Compost - Orange Coast College
Dana Point Summer Skate Camp
Laguna Coastal Code: Keep Heat Off the Sand
BBQs and open flames are not allowed on the beach. Even small flames can create safety risks for beachgoers, wildlife, and the coastline we all share. Help keep our beaches safe and enjoyable by leaving grills and open flames at home and using designated areas where permitted.
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.
Doheny State Beach Cleanups
Dana Point Classic Car Show
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
Fifth Annual Gospel Voices of OC Benefit Concert
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
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, Truckstop!
Truckstop is waiting for his final stop, your home! This playful 4-year-old Pit Bull is all about having fun, eating yummy treats, and soaking up love. He knows basic commands and is eager to learn more. He will thrive with consistency, structure, and guidance.
Truckstop's ideal home includes an experienced household and a roomy yard where he can unwind, build confidence, and enjoy the world around him at his own pace. He is best suited as the only the pet in the home.
Can you be Truckstop's (A1910269) final stop? Adopt or foster-to-adopt him 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.
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
|
