OCBC Legislative Day  

This week, I sat down with local leaders at OC Business Council's Legislative Day to discuss what matters most to families here — the cost of living and whether our economy works for everyone. We build a strong economy on strong finances. I also shared about our work to connect local businesses to our county procurement alliance. Visit Doing Business with OC and connect today. One county contract could change the trajectory of your business.    

The County maintains a AAA credit rating and passed a responsible $10.5 billion budget, protecting the services residents rely on while keeping our economy strong. A strong economy also means protecting our coast. We continue prioritizing the delivery of sand to our beaches, advancing safe environmental management, and modernizing Dana Point Harbor to keep tourism thriving for the long haul. 

Ladera Ranch Civic Council Update 

I joined the Ladera Ranch Civic Council meeting to hear directly from families and residents concerned about the recent reports of rare cancer cases in Ladera. Many shared heartbreaking stories of loved ones who experienced this tragic, sometimes fatal, illness. The community gathered united to eliminate poisonous pesticide use and to demand investigations into increased cancer diagnosis amongst their neighbors.  

In the past year, my office worked with residents, doctors, healthcare officials and state agencies to push for answers. After learning the state's previous review of these cancer hot spots only included data through 2021, and following community outreach, I asked our Health Care Agency to formally advocate for the state to reopen and update its investigation. That review is now underway.  

I also asked the Orange County Agricultural Commissioner's Office to investigate community concerns regarding herbicide and pesticide use, while continuing our County's work to reduce routine herbicide spraying on County-managed properties and identify safer alternatives.

Today, I spent hours on calls with our Public Health Officer and others trying to get the state department of health to share data about Ewing Sarcoma cases in Orange County broken down by city or community, and cancer incidents overall in Orange County. At this time, CDPH confirms that the registry identified fewer than 11 cases in Ladera Ranch. We will publish additional data upon receipt.   

We also confirmed that the City of Hope study includes skin cancer which may explain why Orange County rates seem high overall. We’ve requested data excluding skin cancer. Orange County residents deserve transparency, timely information, and a thorough investigation. While we advocate for healthier non-toxic landscape care, my office will continue urging the state to provide more transparent data and investigate environmental factors. Read this week’s article here. 

Pausing our Pilot Project  

After communications and requests from my office and our Nontoxic Solutions subcommittee, as well as consultations with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, OC Public Works agreed to temporarily pause the launch of our Pilot Program for manual vegetation management in San Juan and Trabuco Creeks. We appreciate staff's willingness to collaborate on assessing impacts and the scope of manual removal. My focus remains on ensuring safe practices, engagement with our advisory committee for planning purposes, and full transparency for our residents.

LOSSAN Update  

This summer, Pacific Surfliner ridership already hit record highs, up 63% from last year – proof reliable public rail transportation pays off for Orange County. Building on that momentum, the LOSSAN Board of Directors adopted a three-year agreement with OC Transportation Authority this week, securing their continued management of LOSSAN operations and approving 39 recommendations to the California State Transportation Agency to strengthen the rail corridor. 

Newport Beach Aviation Committee Update 

This week, I briefed the Newport Beach Aviation Committee on my work to bring next-gen quieter, cleaner aircraft to John Wayne Airport. As we continue urging carriers to bring these aircraft to JWA, more than 30% of commercial aircraft operating at JWA now fly the quieter, cleaner MAX 8 model. We look forward to FAA certification of the smaller Boeing 737 MAX 7 later this summer or fall, and bringing even more next-gen, quieter aircraft to our airport.  

General Aviation Improvement Plan Community Meeting  

I joined pilots, neighbors, and airport stakeholders for a community meeting on John Wayne Airport’s General Aviation Improvement Plan. We discussed the planned improvements involving Clay Lacy Aviation, Jay’s Aircraft Maintenance, and ACI Jet, with a shared focus on preserving opportunities for small aircraft owners while modernizing airport facilities. 

Clay Lacy’s new development will also include a new hangar for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Air Support Unit, providing a state-of-the-art facility to support law enforcement efforts. Clay Lacy’s redevelopment will build off their NBAA Sustainable Flight Department accreditation to become the first fixed base operation to earn an ISI Envision Gold verification, a leading standard for sustainable infrastructure.  

As these projects move forward, I continue advocating for affordable access for general aviation, additional tie-down space for small pilots, and environmentally sustainable improvements which reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and protect our surrounding communities.

A Week in the Fabulous Fifth  

I joined OC Public Libraries in welcoming Daniel Silva and his wife Jamie Gangell whose new thriller Ransom just hit shelves. Our "Slice of Literary Orange" speaker series delivers on our OCPL commitment to a free, shared space with resources for everyone to enjoy. I encourage you to sign up for a library card and join the Summer Reading Program if you haven't already!  

Business-owners form the backbone of Orange County’s economy, simple as that. This week, the Fifth District welcomed LJ’s Lounge to Costa Mesa. 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. 

Congratulations, as well, to IHI Power Services Corp and Kyuden International Energy Partners on their new partnership. Kyuden's decision to keep its U.S. headquarters in Aliso Viejo reflects Orange County's strength as a hub for international investment and clean energy innovation. 

This merger deepens our partnership with Japan, expands operations here in Orange County, and strengthens a nationwide network that will deliver better service and support. Most importantly, it reflects our shared commitment to powering communities with a more sustainable future. 

All a reflection of our continued commitment to helping local businesses and workforce thrive. 

On Sunday, we celebrate 45 years of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in Orange County’s service to supporting local entrepreneurs. Next week, join my team and I at  a summer movie night with OC Parks at Laguna Niguel Regional Park.

I look forward to celebrating a milestone on Monday: 35 years of marriage – the coral anniversary – with my husband Casey. More than three decades of building something beautiful one layer at a time, much like a reef. Back in office on Wednesday to continue making waves for Orange County!  

What’s Behind California Rare Cancer ‘Cluster’—Newsom Called To Investigate 

Orange County residents demand answers over cluster of child cancer cases 

Ladera Ranch families demand answers as concerns grow over rare cancer cases

This month, we welcomed intern Jake Reeves back to the team. He shares this message with you all:  

"I’m so excited to be back in the Fabulous Fifth District! After interning here last summer, I was hoping I’d have the opportunity to come back once I graduated from California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo with a B.S. in Political Science. Thrilled to be back and I can’t wait to get out there again with my colleagues and all of our friends in the beautiful, Fabulous Fifth!"  

We also welcomed our new Communications and Policy Intern Crystal Millar: 

"Hi D5! I’m very excited to be joining the Fabulous Fifth team! I recently graduated from Cornell University with a B.A. in Government and minors in Law and Environmental Science. I’m currently applying to law school, where I plan to explore my interests in sustainable development and environmental conservation. After spending the past few years on the East Coast, I’m eager to reacquaint myself with Orange County with fresh eyes while also giving back to the communities I grew up in. I’m looking forward to contributing meaningful work with my colleagues and the residents of the Fabulous Fifth!"

Apply to Join a Commission! 

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 

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  

OC Social Services Updates 

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.  

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. 

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

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 

Construction Updates: Ladera Ranch Curb Ramps

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   

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! 

Aliso Viejo 

Costa Mesa 

Dana Point 

Irvine 

Laguna Niguel 

Laguna Woods

Newport Beach 

San Clemente 

San Juan Capistrano