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| Volume 6 | Issue 37 |
September 11, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor:
Twenty-five years ago, the course of American history shifted forever. We must never forget the 2,977 lives stolen in the vicious act of terror on September 11, 2001. Our first responders risked their lives for selfless rescue and recovery, while 8 EMTs, 60 police officers, 343 firefighters died that day and countless more deal with the seen and unseen impacts of that trauma.
Today, we honor the sacrifices by our heroes and their families and continue the righteous fight for freedom.
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Over Labor Day Weekend, beaches on much of the coastline disappeared and more than a dozen homes sustained extensive damage from extreme waves in the cities of Dana Point and Laguna Beach. My office arrived on-scene Tuesday morning, visiting with residents to assess the damage and connect them with services. About 500 boulders were placed to reinforce the seawall and protect the beachfront homes from high surf as we look for solutions to repair. A wide, sandy beach offers the best protection for properties along the coast. When we get through this storm season, we must restore adequate sand nourishment to ensure our beaches and homes are protected against future storms. This work is long overdue.
Today, the County of Orange activated the Emergency Operations Center after both Laguna Beach and Dana Point proclaimed local emergencies in response to severe coastal erosion, high surf, and damage to homes and public infrastructure. My office also requested that Board Chair Doug Chaffee proclaim a local emergency on behalf of the County of Orange to strengthen the regional response and support efforts to secure state and federal aid. Our coastal cities are experiencing serious damage, and their residents have been profoundly affected as a result. We must respond quickly, document the full extent of the damage, and pursue every available source of recovery assistance to help our communities recover.
 Protecting Public Safety
Emergency Disaster Preparedness Committee
This week, I gave an update on our work to keep residents safe and prepared while celebrating the Emergency Disaster Preparedness Committee’s 15th Anniversary. With El Niño approaching, we have a responsibility to ensure our District 5 cities and communities are ready for potential severe weather, flooding, landslides, and other emergencies. We also discussed 2028 Olympic Games Preparedness, AlertOC Upgrades and Testing, and increasing County Wildfire Response Capacity. This includes $50,000 from our office toward a new HeloPod in Laguna Beach. From stronger emergency communications to wildfire response, regional evacuation planning, and informing our community, we’re preparing now to keep Orange County safe.
 Building Healthier Communities
OCEA Health Fair
The Orange County Employees Association (OCEA) represents more than 18,000 workers – including nurses, social workers, law enforcement officers, and health inspectors. This week, the annual Health Fair offered them a wide range of health resources, from free preventative cancer screenings and flu shots to vitamin B12 shots, and more. The County of Orange invests in our employees because we know how much they invest in serving our communities.
 Nontoxic Advisory Committee Meeting
While massive waves impact our coastal community in South Orange County, we must also prepare for potential impacts to our flood channels. OC Public works continues collaborating with our Nontoxic Advisory Committee on the San Juan and Trabuco Creek Pilot Project ahead of the upcoming storm system. We heard from OCSD Emergency Management Director Michelle Anderson this week about El Niño preparations and Hazard Mitigation projects. We work to find the delicate balance between restoring native vegetation in the creek and protecting our community from flood risk and infrastructure failure.
Infrastructure Updates
OCTA RTP Committee Meeting
On Tuesday, I sat in on the OCTA Regional Transportation Planning Committee. The Committee received reports about the traffic light synchronization program, which reduces average travel time, decreases required stops, and safely increases travel speed. Additionally, the Committee was briefed on the E-Bike Safety programs held by OCTA, promoting safety for walkers and bikers throughout the County.
 Growing Our Thriving Economy
OC Vistage Executive Summit
At this week’s Vistage Executive Summit, I spoke with my colleague Supervisor Sarmiento about Orange County’s role in the 2028 Olympics. The Orange County LA28 Olympics Preparedness Committee prepares to host Olympics surfing and volleyball, serving as a home base for athletes and visitors from around the world. The 2028 Olympics provide an opportunity to boost our local economy as visitors experience our vibrant shopping centers, clean beaches, a thriving arts and cultural scene. Sign up on our business portals at LA28.supplierone.co and CPO.OC.GOV to get notified of bid opportunities and procurement needs.
 Top right: With Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento; Bottom left: With Anne Petrik, Vice President of Research at Vistage.
A Look Ahead
Tonight, I’ll join Dana Point Yacht Club for their annual Richard Henry Dana Charity Regatta. I look forward to celebrating this year’s benefactory, the Boys & Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, and discussing the future of Dana Point Harbor.
I also look forward to celebrating Southern California’s dance community at the SoCal Ballet Scene Festival. As a former dancer, I make it a priority for my office to support local arts. Events like these are a wonderful way to bring people of all backgrounds together to appreciate Orange County’s rich cultural scene – I hope to see you there!
Please try to keep cool, stay inside, stay hydrated, and beat the heat by visiting the libraries, South Coast Plaza, or museums – all free and air conditioned.
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 September 15, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! This Monday, the OCTA Board of Directors will receive updates on the 2026 OC Bus Customer Satisfaction Survey, Community Engagement Strategy, and Transit Security and Operations Center. The updates highlight rider feedback and service priorities, efforts to strengthen multilingual outreach and community participation, and construction progress on OCTA’s new transit security center. Vice Chair Foley continues advocating for safe, reliable, and accessible transportation while ensuring community voices from District 5 help shape Orange County’s transportation system. Please join us in person for the meeting or attend the live stream here.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Yesterday, I attended a networking event in Costa Mesa hosted by People for Housing OC. There, I enjoyed connecting with community members, organizers, and leaders in the housing community- discussing how we can make housing more accessible for residents across our county. One of Supervisor Foley’s priorities is ensuring a safe, happy, and healthy community- and one of the ways we do that is making sure residents have access to quality and affordable places to call home.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5. This week, I met with our Nontoxic Advisory Committee Waterways subcommittee. We continued discussions on improving the county’s integrated pest management program, including strengthening the decision-making process and combating noxious weeds. We also discussed potential ways to increase flood control capacity, such as diversion projects done by the Irvine Ranch Water District.
Last weekend, I worked with our team to see how we can support South Orange County residents impacted by the high tides. We will present an emergency declaration at the Board meeting next Tuesday and continue to provide support however we can.
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 Photo of the waves overtopping the Tracks in San Clemente.
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
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Happy Friday District 5. This week I attended a ribbon cutting for Ashara Health & Wellness, which opened recently in Newport Beach. This business seeks to provide services for regenerative medicine, hormone optimization and more. However, this wasn’t just an ordinary ribbon cutting ceremony, it was also a wedding proposal for two of the Doctors! It was a definite first for me for a ribbon cutting, and I think it will be one of the most memorable ones that I attend. Supervisor Foley and I are excited to congratulate Dr. Davis Francis, NMD and Dr. Klea Doko, ND on their engagement and we wish them both a long and happy marriage. |
 Right: Dr. Klea Doko, ND says yes!
Intern Update - Owen
Hey Fabulous Fifth! My name’s Owen Engle and I’m a District and Policy Intern for Vice Chair Foley. It’s my last week at the office before I start heading out to UC San Diego. I’ve loved working at this office, where I’ve learned how to truly make a difference in my community and engage in government. I don’t think I could have found a more welcoming, friendly, and fun office to make all the mistakes that I needed to grow as a person. I’m excited to take all the lessons I’ve learned here on to both my journey as a student and into any future workplace I’ll find myself in. Thank you immensely to all the staff that work incredibly hard at the office but have never had a moment where they didn’t help me when I needed it.
 Good luck at UC San Diego, Owen!
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
19th Annual Orange County Senior Summit
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
Maintenance Alert
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
Coastal Cleanup Day at Upper Newport Bay
September 19, 2026
Senior Resource & Wellness Expo
September 17, 2026
Eco Expo
September 30, 2026
Wildfire Townhall in Rancho Mission Viejo
September 28, 2026
Dana Point Trolley Art & History Tour
October 10, 2026
OC Public Libraries: Paint and Swap
Fall Gardening Workshops
Camino Real Playhouse
Lyric Opera of Orange County presents Macbeth
October 22 - 23, 2026
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.
Doheny State Beach Cleanups
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
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, Roca!
Roca is a happy-go-lucky 8-year-old Pit bull who loves getting attention and being showered with affection. She wiggles when she's happy and she'll happily sit for treats. Roca is an MVP when it comes to fetch and she'll gladly show off her impressive agility skills.
She's got a big heart as big as her tail wag, and she gives out affection like it's her full-time job! Rova is a diva who doesn't want to share the spotlight and would be do best as your only pet. Visit Roca (A1946042) at OC Animal Care today and find out if she's your perfect match!
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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