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| Volume 6 | Issue 42 |
October 16, 2026 |
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Norte Fire Update
My heart is with our neighbors in San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano as the Norte Fire threatens homes and forces families to evacuate. To everyone who has lost a home or is waiting to learn whether yours is safe, our community stands with you.
Firefighters are battling the flames on the ground and in the air while deputies and CHP officers help residents reach safety. My office coordinated with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and CHP to assist with evacuations and connect residents with information and support.
If you receive an evacuation order, leave immediately. Follow emergency instructions, keep roads clear for first responders, and return only when officials authorize it.
Please share these resources:
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AlertOC: Register your address, phone, and email for emergency alerts and evacuation notices. Check your contact information if you already have an account. http://www.AlertOC.org
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Fire information hotline: (714) 628 7085. Call 911 for immediate emergencies.
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Evacuation map: Check your address and current evacuation instructions. http://www.OCSheriff.gov/NorteFire
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Evacuation centers: San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, and San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino del Avion.
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Official updates: Follow @OCFireAuthority and @OCSheriff for changing fire conditions and evacuation information.
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Road conditions: Check freeway closures and follow evacuation routes provided by emergency personnel. http://roads.dot.ca.gov
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Prima Deshecha Landfill: OC Waste & Recycling announced a closure due to the fire. Check operational updates before traveling. http://www.OCLandfills.com/updates
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Schools: Capistrano Unified dismissed affected schools early and canceled Friday campus sports and after school activities. Check messages from your school. http://newsroom.ocde.us/oc-fire-updates/
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Animal assistance: San Clemente Animal Services: (949) 492 1617. After hours animal emergencies: (949) 770 6011. OC Animal Care: (714) 935 6848 Call ahead for shelter arrangements. http://www.ocpetinfo.com
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Air quality: Smoke can affect neighborhoods far from the fire. Check local conditions. http://www.aqmd.gov/aqimap
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Community support: Dial 211 for food, housing, and other assistance. http://www.211OC.org
Thank you to our firefighters, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, emergency workers, and volunteers protecting our communities. My office remains available to help affected residents connect with County resources through this emergency and recovery.
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 Photo courtesy of Watch Duty app.
 Top: With OCFA Craig Covey. Assemblywoman Laurie Davies, and Congressman Mike Levin.
Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Since last weekend, powerful surf and high tides have caused flooding and erosion along our coastline, from Newport Beach to San Clemente. County crews supported Newport Beach with sandbags, heavy equipment, and emergency coordination as flooding affected streets and low-lying neighborhoods, while coastal conditions also damaged shoreline protections and temporarily disrupted rail service in San Clemente.
This week, we also delivered 9,000 cubic yards of sand to Capistrano Beach after powerful surf accelerated erosion, damaged parking areas, threatened nearby homes, and put critical infrastructure at risk. I will keep pushing for faster sand replenishment and long-term coastal protection because sand is infrastructure—and protecting our beaches means protecting our homes, transportation network, businesses, and way of life. For more details, view the story here.
 Board of Supervisors Meeting
This week, the Board advanced several Fifth District priorities, including safer and more efficient runway maintenance and major security upgrades at John Wayne Airport, $2.47 million for nature-based shoreline protection at Capistrano Beach, and the Laguna Niguel City Center project, which includes new housing, retail, medical office space, community space, and a new County library.
The County also recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Last Tuesday, we invited health care representatives from the community to honor survivors, raise awareness, and stand alongside those impacted by Breast Cancer.
Read my full Board recap here.
 With Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, Sandra Reynaga from Saddleback Memorial Breast Center, Dr. Alison Brooks from Hoag Women’s Health Institute, Dr. Krushangi Patel from City of Hope, Andrea Schmidt from Planned Parenthood.
OCTA Updates
OCTA Board Meeting
OCTA declared an emergency to accelerate coastal rail protection in San Clemente ahead of winter storms, while advancing major South Orange County transportation projects, including the Ortega Highway Gap Closure and I-5 improvements. OCTA also approved $3.8 million for transportation-related water quality projects, including five in the Fifth District, as part of $2.3 billion in regional transportation investments.
 Rail Closure Update
Coastal conditions earlier this week forced a temporary rail closure after waves compromised protective rock barriers. Rails have since reopened after Metrolink crews installed 10 tons of ballast to stabilize the track. Service resumed with speed restrictions and inspections after each train movement and significant service delays are expected as work continues. As we prepare for the escalating impacts of a historic El Niño winter, we must work urgently with our state and local partners to stabilize and protect our coastal transportation infrastructure, restore critical services, and invest in long term nature-based solutions that strengthen our coastline.
Infrastructure Improvements
In San Juan Capistrano, OCTA and Metrolink work to replace the 100-year-old Rail Bridge. I visited the project site to learn more about the $75 million project. The new bridge allows for continued rail service between San Diego and Orange County, carrying thousands of passengers per day. In partnership with OC Public Works, OCTA and Metrolink place sheet piles to secure the channel while accommodating future projects to improve the San Juan Creek project—including removing the trapezoidal walls to allow for more native vegetation.
Engaging with our Community
Ketchum-Libolt Park Ribbon Cutting
This week, I joined the City of Costa Mesa and local community leaders for the ribbon cutting of their newly renovated playground at Ketchum-Libolt Park. Improvements included an updated play area, refreshed landscaping, improved walking and seating areas, and other amenities designed to make the park safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for families and visitors. The park provides a vital open space for Westside Costa Mesa and continues honoring the legacy of Costa Mesa Police Officers James “Dave” Ketchum and John “Mike” Libolt.
 Crime Survivors Gala
This week I spoke at the Crime Survivors Resource Center this week, celebrating 23 years of hope, healing, and impact alongside local leaders, supporters, and survivors. Victims of crime deserve dedicated support, and Crime Survivors delivers it through advocacy, raising awareness, and providing resources for prevention and healing. Thank you to the organization and their staff for their hard work and commitment to uplifting victims and survivors in our community.
 Top right: Brendan Ford; Middle Right: Michelle Reinglass; Bottom Right: Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
UCI Event with Guanajuato Governor
I joined UC Irvine's Labor Center and Department of Chicano/Latino Studies and the Orange County Labor Federation for a conversation discussing how migration shapes work, families and communities across Orange County and Mexico. The event’s program brought together labor leaders, academics, policymakers, and experts for an engaging discussion connecting both sides of the border.
 A Look Ahead
I look forward to attending Mariachi Matters at the Coast Film and Music Festival on Sunday, a live multimedia afternoon celebrating the music, history, artistry, and people of mariachi. I’m excited to speak with educators, musicians, filmmakers, and artists to learn more about the mariachi tradition.
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 27, 2026
Community Correspondence
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday, District 5! This Monday, LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Board of Directors will consider forming an Ad Hoc Committee to develop recommendations for future administrative support agreements, review key assumptions guiding the Agency’s Annual Business Plan and budget for FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29, and consider approval of the Board’s Goals and Initiatives for FY 2027-28. The Board will also receive an update on the Ortega Siding Project, which proposes approximately one mile of additional track in Santa Barbara County to improve rail reliability, reduce delays, and support expanded Pacific Surfliner service to Goleta and San Luis Obispo. The project remains in preliminary design, with construction anticipated to begin in 2028. Vice Chair Katrina Foley continues to champion investments that strengthen regional rail connectivity and coastal rail reliability.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Hi D5, I hope you’re well. Celebrate OC’s veteran community at the 2026 Fifth District Veterans of the Year Celebration in Irvine. I hope to see you there!
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Hi, all – I hope you’ve had a great week! I spent this week knee-deep in planning Supervisor Foley’s 19th Annual Senior Summit, which takes place Friday, October 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Aliso Viejo Ranch (100 Park Ave, Aliso Viejo).
We packed the day with great programming, including an expert panel on aging, a presentation on disaster preparedness, and a talk from Alzheimer’s Orange County on memory and brain health. Thanks to our partners at Community Action Partnership OC, attendees can also take home free groceries while supplies last. Throughout the morning, guests can visit booths from more than 22 organizations, sign up for Medi-Cal and CalFresh benefits, and get their annual vaccinations.
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Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I met with our Deputy Chief of Staff, our OC Coastal Resiliency manager, and CA State Parks to discuss beach nourishment and emergency permits for our South County Beaches. CA State Parks face the same erosion issues that our County, City, and private beaches face. Now more than ever, we must collaborate with stakeholders across the County on creative solutions to save our beaches. We continue working with Coastal Commission to ensure mitigation efforts for other emergency projects also benefit our Orange County Coast. I also shared updates about our efforts to protect our beaches, homes and businesses, and our San Juan and Trabuco Creek pilot program progress at the Dana Point Coffee Chat.
The San Juan Creek pilot project continues, removing woody vegetation and invasive grassy vegetation in preparation for storm season. Supervisor Foley’s Nontoxic Advisory Committee discussed next steps and how we can improve the pilot going forward. We learned about alternative, nature-based engineering solutions utilized in flood channels across Orange County, and hope to see these projects implemented in the San Juan Creek.
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
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Happy Friday District 5! This week I got to attend the retirement party for Chief O’Rourke who is stepping down from his position as the Assistant Chief for Lifeguard Operations with the City of Newport Beach Fire Department. I was honored to get to present him with a proclamation from Supervisor Foley. This legend saved over 1,000 swimmers over his career and worked his way up from Lifeguard Captain to Assistant Chief of Lifeguard Operations. His 39-year career is a testament to his passion for saving lives and protecting the community. We wish him and his family the best on their next chapter. |
Apostille Pop-Up Shop
October 21, 2026
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
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
Repair Café
October 17, 2026
Newport Spirit Run
October 18, 2026
OC Public Libraries Outdoor Film Screenings
Halloween Spooktacular & Trunk or Treat
October 24, 2026
Lyric Opera of Orange County presents Macbeth
October 22 - 23, 2026
Aging in Place Resource Fair
November 7, 2026
OCFA Girls Empowerment Camp 2026
November 7-8, 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
2026 Call For Artists
The San Clemente Pier Conservancy, in partnership with the City of San Clemente, invites artists and artist teams to apply for the third installation of Art on the Pier, a public art program celebrating the unique culture, history, and character of the San Clemente Pier.
For more information, visit scpierconservancy.org.
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, Mila!
Mila is one tail wag away from stealing your heart! This 7-year-old Jindo mix is a wonderful combination of smart, sweet, and friendly. Mila knows basic commands and she loves seeking attention and affection. She's the perfect walking companion you didn't know you needed and she has been a great play buddy with both people and dogs during Small Dog Play Group.
Mila's relaxed and calm demeanor makes her an ideal candidate for first time pet owners or seasoned pet parents. She is best suited in an adult-only home or a home with adults and older children. Give Mila (A1857465) a chance and visit her at 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.
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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