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| Volume 6 | Issue 33 |
August 14, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
Back in the swing of things as Board meetings resumed following a July break. This week, we advanced new direct flights at John Wayne Airport, prioritized developing new policies related to pesticides, celebrated our OC Probation professionals and Parks and Recreation staff, hosted a community health forum, joined a community discussion on the coastal rail resiliency study, and fought hard to move our Dana Point Harbor Revitalization forward.
We also received the report for Phase 2 of the forensic audit our Board requested in 2025 – covering January 2019-August 2024. This forensic audit shows why I pushed for an independent review of County contracting and stronger safeguards for taxpayer dollars. The most troubling findings continue to trace back to contracts connected to criminal former supervisor Andrew Do and his network, exposing deficiencies in oversight and accountability that the Board continues to address.
I remain determined to follow up on every finding in this phase. We must complete Phases Three and Four to uncover remaining problems, strengthen our controls, and protect taxpayers from corruption and abuse.
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Board of Supervisor's Meeting
Recognizing Our Community
 Top: Celebrating Chicano Heritage Month with Chicano community leaders; Middle: With our OC Parks team; Bottom: With our OC Probation team.
Dana Point Harbor Vote Delayed
This week, my fellow County Supervisors voted to delay the vote on our Dana Point Harbor lease item until our August 25 meeting. I voted against this delay, pushing hard for approval to advance hotel construction from 2030 to 2028, the final major piece of this $700 million revitalization. Delays in construction cost us precious money and time. Meanwhile, progress continues on the commercial core, marina, and redesign of the County-managed park, beach, and community center.
I remain committed to moving this project forward and protecting Dana Point Harbor as a welcoming public space with thriving local businesses, strong community access, and lasting public benefits. View this week’s article here.
Join us for a community workshop with OC Parks on Wednesday, August 19 at 6pm at the OC Sailing and Events Center as we gather public input and ideas for improvements to the park, parking, and facilities.
Aliso Creek Board Action
We launched our pilot in San Juan and Trabuco Creeks to explore alternatives to herbicide spraying while protecting safe flood control capacity. At the request of the City of Laguna Beach, I proposed to expand that work into the small County managed portions of Aliso Creek in the Fifth District. This area connects directly to a channel maintained by Laguna Beach without pesticides. While the Board did not approve the expansion, I continue advocating for safer vegetation management methods, greater transparency, and practical alternatives to herbicide use in our communities.
Building Healthy Communities
SB 43 Community Forum
Yesterday, we hosted our SB 43 community forum in partnership with OC Health Care Agency. Across Orange County, we see how health challenges impact families and communities. SB 43 expands the definition of “gravely disabled” to include individuals with severe substance use disorders who cannot meet basic needs. This legislation gives families an important tool to intervene when the health or safety of their loved one is at risk.
 Environmental Protection
Coastal Rail Resiliency Public Meeting
Our coastal economy depends on a safe, sturdy coastal rail – long-term protections my office remains committed to seeing through. I joined the community in San Clemente to discuss the future of our coastline and OCTA’s Coastal Rail Resiliency Study, examining potential strategies to protect approximately seven miles of rail corridor between Dana Point and San Diego County.
One thing remains clear: a sandy beach creates a crucial buffer for our coastline. We cannot continue to rely on riprap. I continue prioritizing both the immediate need to protect our beaches and the long-term future of our coastline. View this week’s story here.
Thank you to the residents who dedicated years to Board and City Council meetings, writing letters, and advocating for our beaches. Your voices help protect our beaches and rail line.
 Nontoxic Solutions Advisory Committee
At this week's Non-Toxic Advisory Committee meeting, our four subcommittees shared their progress on Integrated Pest Management inventories, research on best practices to manage our waterways and open space, and the San Juan and Trabuco Creek Pilot with OC Public Works.
Then, Acjachemen Nation Chairman Nathan Banda shared insights on the cultural significance of waterways to Orange County Tribal Nations, who lived off the land and maintained the creek for more than 10,000 years. Together, we continue work to develop a maintenance plan based on Acjachemen ancestral practices, using willow, tule reeds, and other plants removed from the creek during maintenance to return to the Tribe for cultural education.
From here, we will build out plans to apply current OCPW habitat restoration and nontoxic weed abatement projects, all to ensure the safety of our residents, guests, and natural habitats. Read about the South Orange County Water Quality Improvement Plan, and learn about where our water comes from at H2OC.
 South County Beach Coalition Meeting
The impact of king tides on our rail service proves the importance of sand placement to protect our coasts from erosion. I faster timelines and more efficient permitting processes to place 500,000 cubic yards of sand at OC Transportation Authority’s three hotspot locations. Our coalition also continued developing our Beach Maintenance Index, establishing a goal beach width of at least approximately 250 ft. to protect each beach in the against high tides.
 Infrastructure Updates
Addressing Impacted Rail Service
This week, Metrolink temporarily suspended the OC Line service south of the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station due to high tides threatening Southern California’s coast this week. These adjustments minimize disruptions and preserve overall reliability after last month’s high tides caused significant delays and cancellations for Metrolink customers. We anticipate services resuming this weekend. Follow Metrolink for additional updates. View this week’s article here.
 United Airlines JWA Inaugural Flight
This week, we celebrated the launch of United Airline’s new nonstop route connecting John Wayne Airport to Washington, D.C. This inaugural flight reflects the County’s broader investment in a $700 million airport modernization project, delivering convenient travel, cutting-edge planes, and cleaner, quieter skies for Orange County -- without extending the runway.
 Top: With Deputy Airport Director Eric Freed, General Manager at United Airlines Krishnendu Bose, and Assistant Airport Director Komal Kumar.
Rancho Mission Viejo AHIA Tour
I love the Rancho Mission Viejo community. The way they planned for all stages of life impresses; plus, the beautiful trails, clubhouses, community gardens, and open space enhances the quality of life for all ages.
On Thursday, I joined Rancho Mission Viejo President and CEO Jeremy Laster, Senior VP of Government Relations Mike Balsamo, and the RMV development team to tour potential site opportunities to build workforce and first responder housing. We need homes for nurses, teachers, retail sales staff and public safety professionals to keep them close to work. I look forward to continuing this work to bring more housing stock online for Orange County families.
 Engaging with the Community
Celebrating Public Safety
This week we joined community in celebrating our shared commitment to safety and senior health. In Ladera Ranch, my team joined families and local peace officers for National Night Out, a great opportunity to connect with the OC Sheriff's Department and neighbors.
 A Look Ahead
I look forward to cleaning our beaches with you at the San Juan Creek Cleanup with Stand Up to Trash and the Acjachemen Nation on Sunday, helping to remove trash before it reaches our ocean. We plan to meet at 9:00 a.m. I hope you can join us – please wear sturdy, closed toed shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
 This is the last weekend to visit the OC Fair – what a fun season! Utilize our convenient OC Fair Express. Buses arrive every 30 minutes from six different locations – including Laguna Hills and Irvine in the Fifth District. Tickets are only $2 each way, and youth 18 and under ride for free with the Youth Ride Free Program. Enjoy a safe ride home with the OC Fair Express – your adventure awaits!
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 August 25, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Small Businesses are the backbone of our local economy – and the 5th District is home to thousands. Congratulations to Irvine business South Coast Mold Owner & President Paul Novak for being named the US Small Business Administration, Orange County/Inland Empire District Office Small Business Person of the Year.
South Coast Mold is a tool and die shop for the investment casting industry- making dies for most major manufacturing industries including aerospace, industrial gas turbines, automotive, electronic, medical, marine and commercial industries. Starting in Costa Mesa, they moved around Orange County including stops in Westminster and Huntington Beach before landing in Irvine.
Catch our rockstar intern team this weekend at Farmers Market on the Ranch located at 79 Esencia Drive in Rancho Mission Viejo on Saturday 9am-1pm. We hope to see you there.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I continued work with our Nontoxic Advisory Committee subcommittees. We established guidelines and objectives for each committee, and plan to dive into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) policy’s and other “gold standard” best practices for managing invasive plants. I also continue to pull together an inventory of IPMs from across Orange County and the state. If you have any best practices or IPMs that you would like to share with us, please share them with me here.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi, neighbors! This week our office met with First 5 Orange County to discuss the childcare landscape in OC. They walked us through the county's childcare picture, where full-time care runs nearly $40,000 a year for two kids. First 5 also broke down new HR1 tax credits that let employers invest far more in childcare benefits, from onsite centers to contracted openings for care, and earn much bigger credits in return. They offered to help local businesses survey staff, curate resources, and connect with supporting organizations. Learn more at first5oc.org.
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
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Happy Friday District 5! This week I had a planning meeting with the Rancho Mission Viejo team to collaborate on another Wildfire Preparedness town hall. Supervisor Foley wants to make sure that the community is prepared in the case of an emergency, and these town halls are a great informative way for us to talk to the community. The date is all set for September 24 at 6pm. Watch for more details soon. We hope to see you there. |
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.
Health News
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.
OC Heath Care Agency Update: Dental Coverage Changes
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 developmental)
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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.
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.
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
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
OC Parks Sunset Cinema Series
OC Parks Summer Concerts in the Park
Science Tuesdays at Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory
Free marine science events at OC's only marine laboratory including activities, speakers, and tours! Learn more here.
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
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 Learn to Sail 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, Sheena!
This sweet 5-year-old Husky is all about love, affection, and a good time! She’s always ready for belly rubs, cuddles, and plenty of attention. Sheena knows “sit” and “paw,” and when she’s not making a splash, she loves playing fetch and showing off her zoomies.
Sheena would thrive in a home with older or no children, and no cats. She does best when given space with her valued items and would benefit from a patient adopter who can continue supporting her build positive habits. Could you be the one to give this loving girl the forever home she’s been waiting for? Adopt or foster-to-adopt Sheena (A1947227) 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
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Thank you for being an active member of our County.
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