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| Volume 6 | Issue 40 |
October 2, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear neighbor:
This week, my office continued improving community safety, strengthening environmental protections, and connecting with our community. Read on to learn more about our work on fire safety education, improving infrastructure, and advancing healthcare across South Orange County.
Our work prioritizes you – share your thoughts with us through Community Connect. One of our greatest wins brought from the community is the San Juan Creek Pilot Project which launched this week. This pilot manages our flood channels and creeks with natural alternatives, eliminating the use of pesticides from our waterways. Resident concerns and activism helped us pull this across the finish line. Thank you to the Creek Team, Coastkeeper, Surfrider, and engaged residents for your feedback and help eliminating the use of these toxic chemicals.
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 With OC Creek Team leaders Bethany and Brent, and OCPW Deputy Edward Frondroso.
Board of Supervisors Meeting
The Board of Supervisors formally adopted three resolutions for the month of September. The Board proudly recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month, reflecting on the rich history, cultural impact, and community leadership of Hispanic Americans across the nation and here in Orange County. In observance of National Recovery Month, the Board celebrates those in recovery, recognizes the families and professionals who provide support, and raises awareness about substance use disorders and mental health. Lastly, the Board extends its gratitude for local civic organizations and volunteers during Service Clubs Month, acknowledging the invaluable contributions and commitment to serving those in need in our community.
 Top left: Hispanic Heritage Month; Top right: With this week’s National Anthem singer Abi Mesel; Middle right: Recovery Awareness Month; Bottom left: Service Clubs Month; Bottom right: D5 Honorees for Hispanic Heritage Month San Juan Capistrano Councilman Sergio Farias, Irvine Councilwoman Betty Martinez-Franco, Costa Mesa Planning Commissioners David Martinez and Angely Andrade Vallarta, and Costa Mesa Mayor Pro Tem Manuel Chavez.
Protecting our Environment
and Coastal Discussion with Australian Member of Parliament Jacqui Scruby
This week I had the honor to meet with Member of the New South Wales Parliament of Australia, Jacqui Scruby, as she visits Orange County to learn about our efforts to save our coasts, combat E-Bike accidents, and teach our communities about innovative shark management tools they’ve deployed on Australian shores.
 Protecting Public Safety
Fire Safety Townhall
This past Monday, my office was joined by OC Fire Authority, OC Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, and Santa Margarita Water District for a community conversation on the importance of home hardening, how to effectively prepare for a fire, and crucial fire insurance information. Protecting our communities from wildfire is a top priority for my office. Providing opportunities for our neighbors to hear from local leaders and access critical resources ensure we not only prevent fires but can respond swiftly and effectively if they do happen.
 Building Healthy Communities
Camino Health Center’s Annual State of the Mission
Yesterday, I joined Camino Health Center for its “State of Our Mission,” event and celebrated another year of expanding access to quality, compassionate healthcare across South Orange County. Over the past year, Camino served nearly 17,000 patients through more than 73,000 visits and expanded support for young people through its partnership with allcove San Juan Capistrano, which I had the pleasure of helping celebrate at its grand opening last October. The center connects youth and young adults ages 12 to 25 with medical, behavioral health, and other supportive services. Congratulations to their CEO Jeremy Elkins and the entire Camino Health Center team for your continued dedication to improving the health and well-being of our communities!
 With Camino Health Center CEO Jeremy Elkins.
Infrastructure Updates
OCTA Declaration of Emergency
This week, the Board voted to declare the continuing coastal erosion conditions an emergency, waive normal competitive bidding requirements, and authorize emergency shoreline protection and sand placement to protect the coastal rail corridor in San Clemente. The action specifically authorizes an engineered shoreline protection structure and riprap repairs at Reinforcement Area 4, plus approximately 690,000 cubic yards of sand at Areas 1, 2, and 4. This emergency declaration expedites funding to provide flexibility and the ability for quick action to save our beaches and critical coastal rail infrastructure in anticipation of a heavy El Niño winter storm season. For more information, view the full OCTA Transportation meeting here.
 Engaging with our Community
OC Arts Awards
I attended the 26th Annual OC Arts Awards at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts this past week. There, we recognized and celebrated local arts organizations, artists and arts patrons whose significant contributions during the past year, or over the course of a lifetime, notably impacted Orange County arts. The evening was a testament of how rich and diverse our cultural scene is here in Orange County. Congratulations to Helena Modjeska Cultural Legacy Awardees: Visionary Artist, Ann Phong; Arts Patrons, Janet and Walkie Ray; and Visionary Arts Leader, Eli Simon. Also, special congratulations go to Achievement Awardees: Outstanding Arts Organization Orange County Arts and Disability; Outstanding Artist, Alicia Rojas; Emerging Artist, Boróka Nagy; and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts on their 40th anniversary of bringing the art of performance to Orange County.
 OCIACC Success Summit
I was grateful to attend the OC Iranian American Chamber of Commerce’s Success Summit hosted in partnership with the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business. Participants heard valuable stories and lessons from entrepreneurs, CEOs, business leaders, and executives at UCI Beall Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. When our businesses succeed, Orange County succeeds, and I commit to remaining a partner for businesses large and small for the greater success of Orange County.
 OC Black Chamber Annual Banquet
I had the privilege of joining the Black Chamber of Orange County to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary and recognize the exceptional educational, community, and corporate leaders in Orange County. The Chamber promotes and advocates for Black businesses and economic development, supporting the self-determination and survival of the African-American community in Orange County. I’m proud to support their mission and celebrate the incredible achievements of this year’s honorees.
 A Look Ahead
Tonight, I will attend the OC Labor Federation’s Solidarity Awards. The Solidarity Awards serve as an evening honoring union members, community partners, and leaders who stand up for fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity on the job.
I look forward to supporting participants at the annual Superheroes Triumph 5K this weekend! 100% of the proceeds benefit the Triumph Foundation and support their mission to help everyday heroes with paralysis.
This weekend is also the 27th Annual Crystal Cove Endless Summer Soirée, celebrating environmental stewardship and community here in Orange County. I hope you can join us for live music, food, and dancing as we support protecting and preserving the beautiful place we call home.
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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 Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting on October 13, 2026
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Adam Tallabas
District Director
Today, I attended the grand opening of the CU Performance & Worship Center and Golden Eagle Athletics Complex at Concordia University in Irvine. The state-of-the-art athletics complex ensures student-athletes have the tools they need to compete at the highest level. Their brand-new performing arts center is a beautiful commitment to the arts and education.
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 Left: With Tim Jaeger, Concordia University Vice President of Advancement; Right: With Senator Steven Choi, Supervisor Don Wagner, Vice Mayor James Mai, Mayor Larry Agran, Council Member Melinda Liu, Jasmen of Assemblymember Cottie Petrie Norris’s Office, and Concordia leaders.
Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, District 5! This week, I joined the Ocean Alliance Network at their annual Local Legends Luau to celebrate incredible leaders in conservation and preservation across the Fabulous Fifth District. I also celebrated two grand openings—Pacific Post in Dana Point and the San Clemente Pumpkin and Harvest Festival.
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 Additionally, I met with our nontoxic subcommittee for Parks and Open Spaces. We discussed transparent signage, educational opportunities, and proper management of early detection, rapid response (EDRR) species in Orange County Open Spaces.
Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
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Happy Friday District 5! This Monday our office held a successful Wildfire Townhall in Rancho Mission Viejo. Over 120 people showed up to hear from our Office, OC Fire Authority, OC Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, and Santa Margarita Water District. Our team worked incredibly hard to make sure that the residents got high-quality information and could hear firsthand about all the different things these organizations do to keep us safe.
I was also in Ladera Ranch this week for a ribbon cutting to welcome Avenor Real Estate and the Archuleta Team to their new office! Sending a big congratulations to Dave and his wife Julia on their new office space and wish them lots of success.
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 Here I am with Dave and Julia Archuleta.
Intern Update - Welcome Talgat and Aimee!
Talgat: Hello, District 5! I’m excited to introduce myself as a new Policy/District Intern for Vice Chair Katrina Foley. My name is Talgat, and I’m currently studying Political Science at Irvine Valley College. Orange County means a great deal to me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn while contributing to our community. I look forward to supporting the District 5 team and the incredible people who call Orange County home!
Aimee: Hello Fabulous Fifth! I'm the new policy/district intern for Supervisor Foley's office. My name is Aimee and I'm a sophomore political science student currently studying at Orange Coast College. Orange County has been my home for all my life and it means so much to me to help assist and serve my community. I'm excited to serve our beautiful 5th district. See y'all out there!
 Our newest policy interns!
Invest Clean
In 2024, my office helped convene the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant stakeholders alongside our County Climate experts and the AQMD. We successfully brought home $500 M from the Biden Administration, and now that funding is available as an INVEST CLEAN grant. Invest Clean is a regional initiative led by the South Coast Air Quality Management District to bring zero-emission technology to Southern California’s freight and shipping routes. The program recently launched two funding opportunities: the Last Mile Freight Program and the Charging Infrastructure Incentive Program. Learn more and apply at investclean.org/FundingOpportunities.
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
October 23, 2026
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
October 7 is California Clean Air Day!
OCTA is encouraging residents and commuters to leave behind cars and take advantage of the free rides all day on OC bus. Metrolink is also offering free rides with no special ticket required. Take steps to improve air quality and contribute to OCTA's commitment to sustainability. Find more information 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.
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
Free Compost Giveaway
October 3, 2026
OCFA Open House 2026
October 3, 2026
OC Public Libraries Teen Fest 2026
October 7, 2026
OC Public Libraries Outdoor Film Screenings
OC Public Library Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15 to October 15, 2026
Dana Point Trolley Art & History Tour
October 10, 2026
Camino Real Playhouse
September 11 - October 4, 2026
Lyric Opera of Orange County presents Macbeth
October 22 - 23, 2026
Aging in Place Resource Fair
November 7, 2026
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
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, Holly!
Holly is a 5-year-old husky who loves making the most of every moment. She has a contagious playful personality that makes every adventure a little more fun! She's not afraid to show her silly side and she would love a forever family that can give her plenty of playtime, attention, and love.
Holly knows basic commands, loves doing zoomies, and splashing in the pool. She would make a wonderful companion for an active family. Does that sound like you? Call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 to schedule a visit with Holly (A1963429) or visit her during viewing hours between 11am-5pm and find out if she's the dog you're 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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Thank you for being an active member of our County.
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@SupervisorFoley
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