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| Volume 6 | Issue 35 |
August 28, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
This week, we continued delivering on healthier communities and safer public spaces. We broke ground on a new wildfire response facility and approved funding to expand several County programs supporting public health, environmental protection, airport improvements, workforce development, senior services, libraries, and public safety.
It’s another warm week as Orange County enters the hottest stretch of its prolonged heat wave. Please take precautions to stay safe – keep hydrated, wear sunscreen and hats, and stay cool. If you need relief from the heat, utilize one of various cooling centers in the Fifth District. Find more information here.
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 Protecting Public Safety
OCFA’s Wildfire Resource Center Groundbreaking
I joined OCFA, Congressman Dave Min, and Rancho Mission Viejo to break ground on a new Wildfire Resource Center in the Fifth District. The five-acre site will house OCFA’s Hand Crew and Heavy Equipment programs, strengthening year-round wildfire response, fuel reduction, and training.
Congressman Min helped secure nearly $17 million in state funding, while Rancho Mission Viejo donated and prepared the land. My office worked with the Ranch and County Development Services to move permits and approvals quickly. Together with our Firehawks and HeloPods, this facility will help firefighters hit fires faster, keep them smaller, and better protect South Orange County.
 Bottom: With Laguna Hills Councilmember and OCFA Chair Joshua Sweeney, KF, Interim Fire Chief TJ McGovern, Congressmember Dave Min, President and CEO of Rancho Mission Viejo Jeremy Laster.
Board of Supervisors Meeting
Recognizing Our Community
During this week’s meeting, we congratulated OCFA Assistant Chief Baryic Hunter on his well-deserved retirement, thanking him for his years of service. We also recognized Eligibility Professionals Recognition Month, commending their dedication to keeping the County safe, heathy, and economically stable. Lastly, we acknowledged National Health Center Week, honoring the staff, board members, and patients who help make quality care accessible across Orange County.
 Top: OCFA Assistant Chief Baryic Hunter’s Retirement; Middle: Eligibility Professionals Recognition Month; Bottom: National Health Center Week.
 Top: With Jen Grange from Camino Health; Bottom: With Isabel Becerra from Coalition of Orange County’s Community Health Centers.
Dana Point Harbor Updates
Multiple things can be true at once: the County entered a lopsided deal in 2018, the developers refused reasonable amendments to the renegotiated lease with the County, workers in our businesses and hotels deserve protections, and politics and bureaucracy now stall a project that finally began making progress.
For years, residents of Orange County waited for movement on the long-stalled Dana Point Harbor Revitalization and my office worked diligently to get the commercial core and hotels through arduous bureaucratic entitlement processes so shovels could break ground on the landside redevelopment. Despite our success for our harbor partners and businesses, the Board majority three times now disappointingly chose political theater and stagnation for the remaining piece of this puzzle: two brand new hotels which will create hundreds of jobs and provide permanently affordable accommodations for visitors.
The current construction schedule for the two new hotels states they must complete construction of both hotels by 2032. Part of our negotiations was to get the hotels built and open in time for the 2028 Olympics, with amendments to the lease so the County can receive funding years ahead of schedule. With each delay by my colleagues, we lose the opportunity of 4 less years of construction, and 4 more years of rental income.
As negotiations continue, I urge my colleagues to tell us all what they actually want to approve the deal and let’s get it done sooner rather than later with lease terms palatable by the Board majority. I anticipate the Board’s attitude will change after November 3rd- let’s hope it’s not too late. View this week’s article here.
Read more details about this week’s Board meeting in our press release here.
NOX Legislation Update
This week, SB 936 (Blakespear) and SB 758 (Umberg), both co-sponsored by the County of Orange won final bipartisan approval and now head to Governor Newsom’s desk.
SB 936 targets how companies package, flavor, market, and sell nitrous oxide. SB 758 restricts sales at tobacco retailers and convenience stores, protects legitimate uses, and preserves local authority to adopt stronger safeguards.
There is no safe recreational use of nitrous oxide. I commend Senators Blakespear and Umberg for advancing these protections, and I strongly urge Governor Newsom to sign both bills and help communities across California prevent needless impacts on families, injuries, paralysis, drug induced psychosis, and even deaths.
Infrastructure Updates
OCTA Updates
The Board unanimously approved an additional $4.25 million for the San Juan Creek Bridge Replacement Project, increasing OCTA’s commitment to $67.7 million. The project replaces a 100-year-old rail bridge in San Juan Capistrano, improving safety and reliability for Metrolink, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, and freight service while reducing future maintenance needs and protecting this critical South Orange County rail corridor from storm damage.
 I-5 Construction Update Near Ortega Highway
Residents in San Juan Capistrano have raised concerns about ongoing K-rail and lane impacts along southbound I-5 near Ortega Highway. According to Caltrans, the contractor originally planned to complete construction behind the K-rail near Ortega Highway in March 2026. However, over the last several months, the contractor shifted work to prioritize the southbound I-5 Oso Parkway Interchange, completing most of that work early and opening traffic in July.
The contractor plans to begin the remaining drainage and asphalt paving work behind the K-rail near Ortega Highway this fall and complete the work by mid-December, weather permitting. Caltrans expects the overall project to wrap up ahead of schedule by the end of February 2027.
 DPH Dredging Project
The US Army Corps of Engineers Breakwater project began on August 3. Phase 1 includes dredging up to 70,000 CY of sand and placing it just offshore of Doheny State Beach to replenish South Orange County Beaches. Crews dredge inbound in CUT-1 and CUT-2 today and will continue dredging inbound in CUT-1 tomorrow, as outlined in the diagram. We expect completion of the dredging phase by August 31. We request that all boaters to reduce speed and minimize wake while in the harbor, and encourage paddleboarders, sailors, recreational boaters, and other harbor users to remain cautious as you navigate the channel for your safety.
 Engaging with our Community
Dana Point Classic Car Show
I joined the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce at the annual Classic Car Show. Thank you to our neighbors in the fabulous fifth district for coming out, sharing your classic cars, and supporting local small businesses.
 Bottom: With Vintage Yacht Club Owner Eric Sawall.
Heritage BBQ Historic Barn Ribbon Cutting
I joined Heritage Barbecue, celebrating the ribbon cutting of the newly expanded 1880s Oyharzabal Barn in San Juan Capistrano. The restoration and expansion of the century-old barn highlights a new chapter for Heritage while honoring the rich vaquero history behind it. It was wonderful standing alongside San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, local ambassadors, community leaders, and supporters in this meaningful, historic event!
 Top right: San Juan Capistrano Chamber President Ben Medina; Middle left: Heritage BBQ co-owner Daniel Castillo; Middle right: Property Owner Dan Almquist; Bottom left: Heritage BBQ co-owners Daniel and Brenda Castillo; Bottom right: San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Howard Hart, and Heritage BBQ co-owners Daniel and Brenda Castillo.
I attended the ribbon cutting for one of my favorite small businesses, BexBloomz in Costa Mesa. This amazing floral design studio has floral workshops, private events, and creative gatherings for all your floral needs. These small businesses tie our community together and they deserve our support and celebration at every milestone – congrats to BexBloomz on their exciting opening!
 Middle: With Becky Bridger, floral educator at BexBloomz.
A Look Ahead
My team looks forward to joining Costa Mesa Historical Society celebrate their 60th anniversary this weekend. This two-day event takes place in three historic locations, featuring museum exhibitions, demonstrations, live music, and food – a weekend sure to be fun for the whole family.
 Unfortunately, I’ll have to miss the celebration myself, as I’ll be moving my youngest to college at Parsons in New York this weekend. It’s a bittersweet and exciting time for our family as he goes off to pursue the next step in his academic and career journey. We will miss him.
 Have a great weekend!
 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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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! Following the OCTA Board’s recent approval of an additional $4.25 million for the San Juan Creek Bridge Replacement Project, OC Public Works plans additional improvements along San Juan Creek in coordination with OCTA and Metrolink’s ongoing bridge replacement project. The work will extend and connect sheet piles along the creek, closing an existing gap, reducing the risk of levee damage from major storm flows, and supporting future channel improvements designed to handle 100-year storms.
Construction could begin in December 2026 and take up to two months. During construction, crews will temporarily close the bike trail for approximately two months to stage equipment and complete the sheet pile installation. Vice Chair Foley continues working with OCTA and County partners to strengthen South Orange County’s infrastructure and protect communities from major storm impacts.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
This week, I met with American Water, the largest and most geographically diverse water and wastewater service provider in the nation. While they do not currently serve any Orange County cities, they serve about 700,000 residents across California. I appreciated the opportunity to learn about the critical services they provide, not only for consumers but for cities that may be looking to divest from a municipal system. Additionally, their commitment to following strict regulations & standards set by local & federal authorities as well as discounted rates for low-income families was very encouraging to hear. I enjoyed our fruitful discussion and hope they enjoyed their time in Orange County.
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 Here I am with American Water’s representatives.
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I joined the San Clemente multi-chamber legislative affairs meeting to share updates on this week’s board meeting, and to hear from Congressman Mike Levin on his work to support the South Orange County Community.
I joined the Nontoxic Advisory Committee at San Juan and Trabuco Creeks to take an up-close look at the vegetation in the creek. We explored native, non-native, and invasive species, woody and grassy plants, and potential trout nesting areas. The pilot project subcommittee continues working closely with OC Public Works to develop an ideal approach to vegetation management this September, protecting the creek while preparing for a super El Nino. Next May, we plan to remove invasive plant only, with the help of volunteers from across the County.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi, neighbors! This week I joined the KXFM Radio luncheon in Laguna Beach on behalf of the Supervisor to celebrate the station's impact in South County and look to what is next for Laguna Radio. Fittingly themed "State of the Art of Radio," the event brought residents together to support South Orange County's only independent, nonprofit community radio station. KXFM lifts up local artists, musicians, and storytellers while serving as a trusted source of information during evacuations and emergencies. Our office proudly directed county funds toward their recent relocation, an investment in the culture and character that make Laguna Beach special. Thank you, KXFM, for keeping our community connected and creative!
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 Billy Fried, Chairman and Chief Listening Officer at KXFM, shares Laguna Radio’s future.
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
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Happy Friday District 5! This week I attended the grand opening of a new Mathnasium location down in Ladera Ranch. Making sure our children feel prepared and confident in the classroom greatly helps with their self-esteem and motivation. |
Intern Update from Ninja
Hi District 5! I’m Ninja, a Policy & District Intern for Vice Chair Katrina Foley. This week, I will be departing from my role after nearly one year in the D5 office. Looking back on my time here, it has been full of learning, challenges, and amazing experiences with such a wonderful team. As I move on to pursue other opportunities as an incoming transfer student at UCLA, I will bring the many valuable lessons I’ve learned with me. I would like to thank Vice Chair Katrina Foley for offering me this incredible opportunity, our team for always being there when I needed guidance, and our District Director Adam Tallabas for his continuous support of me in and outside of the office.
 We will miss you, Ninja! Good luck at UCLA.
Join County Board Meetings Remotely
Orange County is adding remote participation for members of the public to participate in Board Meetings in response to California Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) and upgrading the live webcasting capabilities of its Board of Supervisors meetings to promote greater community participation. In-person or remote participants can also register at board.oc.gov/meetings-agendas.
California Climate Credit
SCE residential customers will soon receive the California Climate Credit, a bill credit funded through California’s Cap-and-Trade Program that returns a portion of program proceeds to customers while supporting the state’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
While customers previously received the credit in the spring and fall, beginning this year the electric credit will be applied during the late-summer billing period to provide added relief when energy use and bills are typically higher. The credit will appear automatically on eligible customers’ bills as a line item labeled “California Climate Credit,” and no action is required to receive it. Customers will see a $36 credit on their August bill and a $36 credit on their September bill, providing a total of $72 in rate relief this summer.
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
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
Road Closure Notice
OC Public Libraries: Paint and Swap
Fall Gardening Workshops
Camino Real Playhouse
Science Tuesdays at Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory
Free marine science events at OC's only marine laboratory including activities, speakers, and tours! Learn more here.
Lyric Opera of Orange County presents Macbeth
Aging in Place Resource Fair
OCTA Long-Range Transportation Plan Community Meeting and Online Survey
OCFA Girls Empowerment Camp 2026
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
OC Office on Aging Introduces Free Mobile App for Senior Resources!
Local Arts & Entertainment
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.
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
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, Bond!
The name's Bond... Cat Bond. This dapper 3-year-old Domestic Shorthair is ready to find his next mission, a forever home!
Bond is friendly, sweet, and charming. Like any good secret agent, he prefers not to rush into unfamiliar situations. He’ll need a slow introduction and a quiet home where he can take his time getting comfortable and settling in. Once he knows he can trust you, Bond is ready to bring plenty of sweetness, companionship, and maybe a little 007 charm into your life!
Are you ready to make Bond’s (A1960664) mission a success? Come meet this handsome agent at OC Animal Care and see if he’s the one you’ve been looking for!
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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