|
|
| Volume 6 | Issue 29 |
July 17, 2026 |
|
|
Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
My office continues cutting red tape for economic growth and a safer, more sustainable Orange County. Today, we kick off the opening of the OC Fair!
Every year I buy my family and members of my team passes to the OC Fair. I look forward to sending everyone on a scavenger hunt to find unique and traditional fair experiences we can share with you.
My husband Casey and I love riding our golf cart over in the evenings to socialize with neighbors and dance in front of the Hangar. We also enjoy walking through the exhibits, visiting the small business vendors, watching the local performers, and especially taking home the best cinnamon rolls from Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls.
|
This year’s theme is “Your Adventure Awaits,” inviting visitors to kick off a summer of music, dancing, rides, crazy food selections, exhibits, animals, and great family fun, right here in the Fabulous Fifth. Buy your tickets today.
Make your trip to the fair easier and less expensive by hopping on the OC Fair Express. Service begins tomorrow, July 18. Fifth District stops include the Laguna Hills Transportation Center and the Irvine Train Station. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Learn more about our work this week below.
Growing Our Thriving Economy
The Fifth District continues as the economic engine for Orange County. Low unemployment, strong business growth, and lots of innovative family-owned businesses keep our community thriving.
I continue to work with our local chambers and county staff to streamline permitting, reduce red tape and costs, and create access to county procurement opportunities.
Streamlining Business Permits
As a small business owner myself, I know that time is money. Two years ago, our team initiated plans to cut red tape and shrink environmental health permitting wait times. I’m pleased to report that we cut down from 4-6 months to 1-19 days. Plus, permits and construction applications can now be submitted digitally, saving local businesses thousands of dollars.
Our Environmental Health team expanded staffing to respond to the increased volume in plan submissions and enable faster reviews. Thanks to this proactive effort, plan reviews increased by 28% and inspections by 29%, allowing new businesses to open sooner with fewer delays. Total number of days to examine new construction drawings from initial submission including secondary and subsequent reviews of revised plans decreased by 40%.
The best part: Food facility plan submissions in the Fifth District increased from 75 in 2025 to 239 this year so far, reflecting real momentum for local business growth.
I’m working with Development Services to expand this effort to include on-site pop-up permitting and review at Dana Point Harbor to expedite permitting and plan check – so businesses can open quickly in the new buildings after construction.
Dana Point Harbor
OC Sailing & Events Center Update
At the OC Sailing and Events Center, ADA improvements move forward with design work now underway, paving the way for upgraded dock access this fall. The Coastal Commission approved final conditions for dock replacement this month — right on schedule. Youth camps continue running smoothly in the renovated boathouse. Staff worked with Outrigger canoe teams on future storage solutions. Read more about it here.
Join us on August 19, 2026, at 6pm at the OCSEC Cove Room for our public workshop and input session on the Long-Term Plan for upgrading and reimagining the County operated side of the harbor. Help us gather input on the future of the Sailing and Event Center, ensuring we create lasting community benefit. RSVP here to receive updates throughout the process.
 Jetty Repair & Dredging Update
I received an update this morning about the Army Corps of Engineers Breakwater Repair Project. They are currently working with their contractor, Curtain Maritime, to finalize remaining pre-construction submittals over the next 2-3 weeks. They anticipate mobilizing and beginning on-site work in early August. We will keep you updated as we progress.
Harbor Construction Update: Hotels
Despite rhetoric and rumors, the planning and construction of the Dana Point Harbor revitalization project continues. The Grading/Drainage Permit advances to a fifth review round and the Demolition Permit completed a second review. The Building Permit, which covers architectural, structural, and MEP plans for each hotel, remains under applicant review since the County's extensive first-round of comments in February.
Although the existing construction timeline doesn’t finish the two hotels until 2030, as part of our negotiations for the lease extension and bifurcation, I’ve asked to move up completion to spring of 2028 – to prepare for Olympics tourism. As we finalize the lease negotiations, the Dana Point Harbor Hotels permitting process continues moving through OC Development Services.
To expedite the process, design and construction drawing work continue in tandem. We expect an update during our biweekly project management call on Wednesday.
Commercial Core Update: Phase 4 & 5 Begins
We continue Dana Point Harbor's modernization to drive economic growth and support local businesses. Phase 3 construction progresses with foundation work underway. Phase 5 village demolition begins following fence installation and plant relocation. Wharf tenants report strong summer sales despite construction.
Good news: July 4th weekend filled the parking structure with more than 960 vehicles.
Phase 4 begins this fall, temporarily closing the Wharf beginning November 1, 2026. Original tenants like Dana Wharf Sportfishing relocate to on-site trailers, while other businesses will close from current locations by October 31, 2026, and continue discussions with Dana Point Harbor Partners about new opportunities.
As you probably read, Wind & Sea is closing. I’ve asked our workforce solutions office to send our mobile unit out weekly to help transition employees to new positions and services before the closure. Access to yacht clubs, Aventura Sailing, and Captain Dave's remains open. Phase 4 delivers 20,000 square feet of reimagined space with eight new tenants.
Please take time to intentionally boost the revenue for these businesses before they are forced to close for construction.
 Rendering courtesy of Dana Point Harbor Partners.
Protecting Public Safety
Advancing Drug Prevention with OCFA
This week on the OC Fire Authority Legislative and Public Affairs Committee, we voted to support SB 936, our County-sponsored legislation authored by Senator Catherine Blakespear. The bill builds on the first-in-the-state County ordinance I proposed and targets the large, flavored, and directly inhalable nitrous oxide products driving abuse.
SB 936 unanimously passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee and now moves to Assembly Appropriations. Our firefighters and paramedics see the consequences of nitrous oxide abuse firsthand. OCFA support adds another strong public safety voice to this statewide effort.
Coastal Protections & Climate Resiliency
Non-Toxic Advisory Solutions Committee Update
Our Non-Toxic Advisory Committee formed four subcommittees to begin research for safer, healthier, more environmentally friendly policies. The four subcommittees include:
- Building an inventory of all local city, school board, special district, and County Integrated Pest Management Plans
- Researching best practices for vegetation management in Orange County waterways
-
Researching best practices for vegetation management in open spaces and parks
- Assisting OCPW with the San Juan Creek Pilot Program
The subcommittees work to reduce pesticide dependance, strengthening public health and environmental protection while prioritizing nature-based solutions. We anticipate discussing subcommittee progress at our next meeting in August. In the meantime, we want to hear from you. Share your ideas and input here.
Next week, as part of a pilot project I initiated with OC Public Works, crews will remove invasive, non-native vegetation from the San Juan Creek and Trabuco Creek channels from July 21-31. This proactive work improves flood protection, supports healthy native habitat, and keeps these critical waterways functioning as designed without toxic weed abatement chemicals.
I know many residents also care deeply about the trees and open space along our creek channels. I share your perspective. Crews will remain cautious and attentive, using a biological monitor to ensure nesting birds and any other sensitive biological resources remain unharmed during this essential maintenance.
During the abatement, the bikeway will remain open except for brief intermittent closures to safely move equipment and materials, with posted detours available. This work reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting Orange County's waterways for county employees, wildlife, and residents.
Infrastructure Improvements
Laguna Canyon Road Updates
The “Laguna Canyon Road: Protect & Connect” project strengthens the only direct routes to I-405 and SR-73 for Laguna Beach residents, businesses, and visitors alike. By under-grounding utility lines, the project protects the community from wildfire and roadway obstacles, while enhancing views of the canyon. We also look forward to new bikeways and pedestrian paths, improved crossings, signal upgrades, enhanced transit stops, and native low-water landscaping for multi-modal transportation.
We expect road work to wrap up in March, with planting completed by late May, ahead of the last day of school on June 11. These upgrades support a critical evacuation route and long-term community resilience.
Building Opportunities to Call Orange County Home
OC Housing Finance Trust Update
In my final week as Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, we committed $2.6 million toward 50 new senior homes in San Juan Capistrano, with 16 reserved for our lowest-income neighbors. We launched a Predevelopment Loan Program, pairing a $3 million CalOptima grant with matching financing from Century Housing — funds that recycle into future housing development. We also passed our FY 2026-27 budget, a new NOFA contract, a member city contribution waiver, and our annual audit.
We made significant progress during my time as OCHFT Chair, including:
-
Approving a 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, creating a clear, action-focused roadmap designed to support local workforce housing development.
-
Providing gap funding for the development of more than 800 new housing units across Orange County.
-
Restructuring the Trust, bringing administrative services into the County, and saving taxpayers approximately $300,000 annually on administrative overhead.
-
Securing $250,000 in federal funding, thanks to Rep. Derek Tran, to support construction of 2,700 permanent affordable housing units across Orange County.
-
Issuing a Request for Proposal to bring in a professional fundraiser, so the Trust can raise capital funding from private entities and rely less on taxpayer funding.
 Engaging with Our Communities
A Week in the Fabulous Fifth
We kicked off our week in Newport Beach, celebrating the opening of Witte Hall. Check out this premier 298-seat auditorium for live music, lectures, film screenings, and more right in the heart of D5.
Celebrations continued with the OC Bar Association, as we recognized the promotions of Honorable Presiding Superior Court Judge Sheila F. Hanson and Honorable Assistant Presiding Judge Terri K. Flynn-Peister.
 Top Left: With Honorable Presiding Superior Court Judge Sheila F. Hanson; Top Right: With Honorable Assistant Presiding Judge Terri K. Flynn-Peister; Middle Left: With Newport Beach Councilmember Robyn Grant and Laguna Beach Councilmember Alex Rounaghi; Bottom Right: With Bill Witte and Keiko Sakamoto.
A Look Ahead
Tonight I look forward to stopping by LJ's Lounge in Costa Mesa in celebration of their grand opening. LJ's offers Orange County residents a sophisticated environment to indulge in Southern comfort food as well as enjoy a gathering place for families, friends, and groups.
Remember you can always engage with my office! Help us learn more about your priorities for the Fifth District. Submit your input through Community Connect – our online portal for sharing questions, concerns, or requests directly with us. Enjoy a sunny weekend in the Fabulous Fifth!
 Enjoying the Fair with my husband Casey
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!
|
|
Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Hi! Last weekend, I joined community members at Black & Brown in the OC – a free event in Santa Ana. This event showcased the beautiful quilt of culture, music, and entertainment of Black and Brown communities right here in Orange County. An afternoon of joy, community, and cultural exchange followed an impactful speaking program. I’m glad to have joined an event with such thoughtful leaders to bring communities together.
|
 Left to right: With Black & Brown leaders in Orange County - Tiesha Hutchins, Deborah Jane Burke, Alan Woo, Santa Ana Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez, OC Black Chamber President & D5 Veterans Advisory Team Member Bobby McDonald, Former Tustin Mayor Letitia Clark, Former Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan, myself, and Dr. Shelley Burke
As our office’s representative for the City of Irvine, I’ve built strong ties to the leadership in the city. I commend Irvine Councilmember Melinda Liu on her recent election as Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, a position Vice Chair Foley held for the past three years. Irvine serves as a model for housing development and construction in our county, and I look forward to seeing all Chair Liu will bring to the Trust.
 With new OCHFT Chair Melinda Liu
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday D5! Many residents reached out to our office with concerns about uneven pavement, poor road conditions, and public safety concerns along La Pata in San Juan Capistrano. This week, OC Public Works began a repaving project in the area. The construction team completed paving this week, with striping set for Monday. Thank you to everyone who shared concerns.
I joined the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce at the grand opening of Reset Cove, a center providing wellness and recovery services in a calm, coastal setting. Welcome to the Fabulous Fifth District!
|
 With Reset Cove owners Theresa and Rachel.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi District 5! This week I joined the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce at the Brusters Ice Cream ribbon cutting ceremony. The team scoops more than 150 homemade flavors, churns fresh batches on site daily, and drew a line out the door on opening morning. I presented a certificate of recognition on behalf of the County of Orange and thanked the owners for choosing Laguna Niguel for their newest location. Stop by, grab a waffle cone, and support a neighborhood business!
|
As part of a pilot project Supervisor Foley initiated with OC Public Works, crews will remove invasive, non-native vegetation from the San Juan Creek and Trabuco Creek channels, from July 21-31. This proactive work improves flood protection, supports healthy native habitat, and keeps these critical waterways functioning as designed without toxic weed abatement chemicals.
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.
OC Sailing & Events Center Enhancements
Save the date for our Community Input Meeting on August 19 from 6-8pm!
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.
2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Help shape how Orange County prepares for future natural hazards (e.g., wildfires, flooding, earthquakes). Join Orange County and Orange County Fire Authority on August 5 to hear about the draft 2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and how you can share your thoughts. County Conference Center 601 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, CA 1–2 p.m. Library of the Canyons 7531 Santiago Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA 6–7 p.m. More info: https://arcg.is/ffvPj1
Health News
How to Stay Healthy in a Heat Wave
We expect a heat wave to impact our area over the next few days. It’s already hot! Please take precautions to stay safe:
1. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
2. Wear sunscreen and hats when outdoors
3. Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
If you need relief from the heat, stop by one of our cooling centers: ocgov.com/cooling-centers. Remember to check on your neighbors, especially seniors and those without Air Conditioning. Let’s keep cool (and safe) in the Fifth District.
Changes to CalFresh and Medi-Cal
State and federal changes to Medi-Cal and CalFresh remain in effect, with more changes ahead. These updates may affect eligibility, benefits, covered services, or renewal requirements. Do not ignore notices in the mail, and do not assume your benefits will stay the same.
CalFresh: What You Need to Know
As of June 1, 2026, some adults ages 18-64 must meet work, training, education, or volunteer requirements to keep CalFresh benefits. For many residents, these rules will apply at the next application or renewal. If you receive CalFresh, make sure to update your contact information and watch closely for notices about new requirements.
Medi-Cal: What You Need to Know
As of July 1, routine dental coverage ended for undocumented adults — emergency dental care remains available, and pregnant and postpartum individuals continue receiving full dental benefits. Other eligibility and coverage changes will continue to roll out, including work and volunteer requirements. If you rely on Medi-Cal, review every notice carefully and prepare for additional updates.
Read more about changes to both programs here. If these changes may affect you or your family, contact the Orange County Social Services Agency, call 2-1-1, or reach out to our office for help connecting with resources and support.
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.
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.
 
 
Transportation News
Irvine Traffic Advisories, July 2026
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 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.
OC Bus - Commute Calculator
Science Tuesdays at Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory
Free marine science events at OC's only marine laboratory including activities, speakers, and tours! Learn more here.
Segerstrom Center Summer Movies
Mondays at 8pm
Relive your favorite throwback moments all summer long with the return of free Movie Mondays on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza! Click here for the schedule.
60th Annual Sawdust Festival in Laguna Beach
June 26 - September 6, 2026
Each summer and winter, these forested grounds become a living, breathing art village, a place where over 180 Laguna Beach artists are empowered to exhibit and sell their work directly to the public. Enjoy art classes, live music, and support local businesses.
Learn more here.
PBS SoCal Community Storyteller Initiative
OC Fair Family Bundles
Lunch at the Library 2026
OC Public Libraries Summer Family Fun
OCPL: A Slice of Literary Orange
OC State of the County 2026
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
OC Parks Summer Concerts in the Park
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
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, Alexander!
Alexander is a friendly, 6-year-old pooch who loves to play! He enjoys fetching toys and receiving pets. He is also well-behaved, knows basic commands, and does great on walks. Our shelter volunteers have described Alexander as a giant baby who's sweet with people!
This happy boy is highly food-motivated and loves treats! Alexander can get excited when accepting them, so offering treats on a flat palm and continuing to practice gentle treat manners will help him succeed.
Alexander (A1940875) is best suited in an adult only home as the only pet. If he sounds like the pet you're looking for, 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
|
|
Thank you for being an active member of our County.
Please share this newsletter with family and friends!
Follow us and be the first to know about important announcements in your community!
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
@SupervisorFoley
|
|
|
|
|
