A Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

County of Orange, California sent this bulletin at 07/31/2026 04:57 PM PDT

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Volume 6 | Issue 30

July 31, 2026

Supervisor’s Message

Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley

Dear Neighbor:

This week, my office delivered tangible results for public safety and our local economy: rooting out hate, building wildfire protections, and supporting our Fifth District chambers of commerce. Board meetings resume on August 11, 2026. In the meantime, I enjoy spending more time with you in the Fabulous Fifth.

Our work prioritizes you – share your thoughts with us through Community Connect.

Read on for details of our work this week.

Protecting Public Safety

Investing in Laguna Beach Fire Safety

This week, I presented the City of Laguna Beach with $50,000 in Fifth District discretionary funding for its second HeloPod. These strategically placed HeloPods allow helicopters to refill nearby instead of flying farther away for water. That means faster turnaround times, more water drops, and a stronger response when wildfire threatens our communities.

Since 2023, my office funded HeloPods in Aliso Viejo, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano, building a regional network to help firefighters when every minute counts.

Read this week’s article here.

LB Fire Department Check Signing Presetation 7.30.26

With Laguna Beach City Council Member Bob Whalen, Laguna Fire Chief Niko King, Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill, Laguna Beach City Council Member Sue Kempf, and Laguna Beach City Council Member Alex Rounaghi.

Ensuring Safe Communities

My office received messages from hundreds of residents concerned about antisemitic posters promoting a white nationalist organization appearing in Coto de Caza. I unequivocally condemn these hateful acts designed to intimidate residents, spread fear, and divide neighbors. After my office reported the incident, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) launched an investigation. Anyone who experiences or witnesses a hate crime or hate incident should report it to the OCSD at: ocsheriff.gov/hatecrimes.

Watch the full interview here.

Growing Our Thriving Economy

Welcoming the Chinese Olympic Committee

The 2028 Olympics offers us a rare opportunity to showcase Orange County's strengths on the global stage. This week, I joined the Orange County Sports Commission, South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa City Council members and Travel Costa Mesa in welcoming members of the Chinese Olympic Committee swimming team to discuss training and lodging sites in the Fifth District. We look forward to helping Orange County’s hospitality sector and workforce capture the economic benefits that come with this once-in-a-generation moment.

Engaging with Our Communities

Orange County Sailing & Events Center Upgrades

This week while visiting Dana Point Harbor, I engaged with the community and shared about our upcoming community input workshop related to upgrades to the county public side of our harbor. The workshop, scheduled for August 19 at 6 PM at the Cove, aims to gain your input on how we can improve the public county side of the harbor. No plans have been designed yet. That’s where you come in.

We want your feedback on how you’d like to see the park and beach areas and amenities expanded, better parking, improvements to the educational facilities, as well as to the community event space. This area is intended to remain a non-commercialized space. My goal is to partner with the community to upgrade these tired facilities, to improve the quality, access, and ability for locals to continue to use for free. Please join us and share your ideas.

Randall Preserve Resource Management Plan

As a member of the Randall Preserve/Ganga advisory committee, I'm pleased to announce that the Resource Management Plan is now available for public review. The plan outlines how the preserve’s plants, wildlife, watershed, and habitats will be monitored and managed, identifies restoration opportunities and future funding needs, and will help guide the long-term protection of this important open space. Review the plan here.

Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce’s 45th Annual Gala

On Sunday I attended the 45th Annual Gala for the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of Orange County (TCCOC). Local business owners form the backbone of our economy, and TCCOC uplifts them all year long — connecting entrepreneurs, supporting business groups, and celebrating Taiwanese heritage. Together, we remain committed to investing in Orange County's economic success.

Top Right: With Mayor Pro Tem Peggy Huang, TCCOC President Kevin Yeh, Congressman Dave Min, and Irvine City Councilmember Melinda Liu; Bottom Right: With Councilmember Melinda Liu.

A Look Ahead

OC Transportation Authority and Metrolink will perform overnight emergency repairs along the LOSSAN rail line in south San Clemente beginning tomorrow, August 1 through August 5 from 10:30 p.m.to 5:00 a.m., placing additional rock to stabilize the tracks against high tides, strong swells, and coastal erosion. No passenger rail service interruptions are expected. I will continue supporting both immediate repairs and long-term solutions to protect the reliability of this critical coastal rail corridor.

This weekend, I plan to support local arts in Laguna Beach at the Laguna Art Museum’s new exhibit, “The Tipping Point,” as well as observing a sneak-peak rehearsal of “WE The People – Voices Unbound.” I also look forward to providing local families with school supplies at Newport Mesa School District’s “Back to School Expo.” I always enjoy helping our youngest neighbors prepare to thrive in their classrooms!

Expect another HOT weekend, with 90-degree temperatures. Please remember to stay hydrated, wear your sunscreen, check on your loved ones and neighbors, and try to stay cool. Remember, you can always stop by one of our County cooling centers: ocgov.com/cooling-centers.

Have a great weekend!

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 August 11, 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

Orange County Sheriff partners with the OC Health Care Agency to refine crisis response program

Orange County parents demand answers on child cancer cases after California releases new information - CBS Los Angeles

Minor league baseball coming to Irvine’s Great Park

Newport Beach staff asked for new rules including for curfews, mass gatherings in response to July 4 chaos

Laguna Beach receives funds to aid in aerial firefighting

To make Laguna Beach safer from fire risk, OC Supervisor Katrina Foley presents city with $50,000 toward new HeloPod

OC Supervisor Allocates $50K for Laguna Beach HeloPod

Antisemitic flyers found near Coto de Caza, Orange County officials say

Suspended plan to uproot vegetation in San Juan and Trabuco creeks draws scrutiny from residents, state regulators

Community Correspondence

Post of the Week

Staff Reports

Anthony Nguyen

Policy Advisor

This week, the OCTA Board approved a term sheet with the City of Newport Beach to start evaluating options for potentially relocating the Newport Transportation Center — possibly as early as 2031. This MOU represents a framework for figuring out the best path forward. Vice Chair Foley looks forward to working with the City to find a balanced alternative that serves OC residents, transit riders, Newport Beach Fire Department, and the community.

Adam Tallabas

District Director

Hello! This week, I initiated a refresh of our “Community Connect” website. Moving forward, the site is titled “Community Inquiries.” We also made a few back-end changes that streamline our process internally and improve efficiency. We look forward to hearing from you.

Tonight, I look forward to joining our intern Crystal at the OC Parks Cinema showing of The Wild Robot at Laguna Niguel Regional Park! I hope to see you there.

Abby Paulson

District Representative

Happy Friday, D5! This week I joined the San Juan Chamber of Commerce Installation and Awards Dinner. Congratulations to the new board members of the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. Our office looks forward to continued work together, supporting the local business-owners who shape our economy.

I also joined our Deputy Chief of Staff and our Non-toxic Advisory Committee Pilot Project Subcommittee at the San Juan Creek this week. We discussed the type of manual removal OC Public works will conduct this September, along with planning for future vegetation management. Look out for opportunities to join us in the creek next spring for restoration efforts and invasive species removal. We also gained a better understanding of the three different studies planned for the San Juan and Trabuco Creeks.

Me, our Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa, our OCPW team, and Non-toxic Advisory subcommittee members Kathryn Dressendorfer with Surfrider, Michaela Coats with Surfrider, and Chairman Nathan Banda with the Acjachemen Nation at the confluence of the San Juan and Trabuco Creeks.

Morgan Goldstein

District Representative

Happy Summer, District 5! OC Parks brings free movie nights and free concerts to parks across the district over the next few weeks. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and claim your spot on the grass.

Sunset Cinema (Friday nights, gates at 6 p.m., movie begins at sundown)

July 31: The Wild Robot at Laguna Niguel Regional Park

Aug. 7: 10 Things I Hate About You at Laguna Niguel Regional Park

Aug. 28: Top Gun at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach

Summer Concert Series (Thursday nights, gates at 5 p.m., music starts at 6 p.m.)

Aug. 27: Dream Like Taylor, a Taylor Swift tribute, at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach

Sept. 3: Family Style closes out the season at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach

See the full lineup at ocparks.com. See you there!

Robbie LaBounty

District Representative

Happy Friday District 5! This week I had the opportunity to welcome the Miracle Makers International Film Festival as a new member of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. This film festival is now in its fifth year and returns September 2-6, 2026, in Newport Beach. Newport Beach offers an amazing film scene, and I'm so excited to support the creatives who travel from all over to visit the Fabulous Fifth.

With Erin Miracle

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

OC Fair Family Bundles

Lunch at the Library 2026

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, Elbee!

If you’re looking for a cat who thinks there’s no such thing as too many pets, meet Elbee! This sweet and friendly senior Domestic Shorthair loves everyone he meets and is always happy to soak up extra attention and affection. After all, when you’re Elbee, more pets is more!

At 13 years old, Elbee has already mastered the art of being a wonderful companion. Senior cats have established personalities, so you know exactly what you’re getting, and Elbee has made it very clear that he’s a calm, affectionate fella with plenty of love to give.

Give this deserving senior a second chance at the loving home he’s been waiting for.

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.

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!