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Chairman Shawn Nelson - 4th District Update
In This Issue
orange arrow Board Updates
orange arrow Board Announcement
orange arrow OCTA
orange arrow Metrolink
orange arrow In The Community
orange arrow County Commissions and Committees
orange arrow Pet of the Week
orange arrow MEU Newsletter
orange arrow Events
January 27, 2017
Volume 8 Issue 2
Board of Supervisors
Welcome to Nelson's E-News!
Thank you for reading this edition of my newsletter. I hope you find the information below very helpful. As always, I appreciate and look forward to your feedback.

The next board meeting will be Tuesday, February 14th at 9:30am in the Hall of Administration – 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana 92701.

Please see photos and descriptions below of some of the events our office was able to attend in the community this week. If you were unable to attend, there are other events listed at the end of this newsletter.

Sincerely,
Shawn Nelson
 
 
 
Board Updates
John Wayne Airport Contract for Westside and Eastside Hangars Awarded
The Board of Supervisors awarded a lease to Atlantic Aviation and ACI Jet to serve as interim Fixed Based Operators for the Westside and Eastside Hangars, respectively, at John Wayne Airport (JWA). The County leases land (Fixed Base Operations/FBO) at JWA to private operators to provide general aviation services to the public such as fueling, hangaring, tie-down and parking, aircraft rental, maintenance, and flight instruction. These leases are an interim step in the County’s long range plan to improve the general aviation facilities at JWA to accommodate the growing demand at the existing bases. Over the past several years JWA has been competing with other regional bases such as Long Beach and Van Nuys in the private aviation market. These new leases bring two FBO operators with strong national and regional experience to service the private aircraft needs of pilots and travelers. Moving forward, the Board has directed staff to develop a plan for the future facility needs of the general aviation community through a comprehensive General Aviation Improvement Program.
 
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County Receives Bike Grant
On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors received notice of a grant award of over $200,000 to promote walking and bicycling in Orange County. OC Parks applied for the grant in September 2015 through the Mobile Source Review Committee Local Government Match Program and will partner with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the region’s planning organization, to host “Pop Up Program” events in several Orange County cities.

These events are demonstration projects that may include reconfiguring streets to set up plazas, striping crosswalks or bike lanes with non-permanent paint and temporarily altering public spaces. This helps illustrate the impacts and benefits of active transportation-friendly streets and infrastructure along specific corridors. Stakeholders are able to see the improvements, understand the benefits of innovative urban design and have an opportunity to discuss these concepts with examples on the ground.

These demonstration events throughout 2017 will also include booths for educational materials and giveaways to raise public awareness of existing gaps/segments along the OC Loop and other Orange County regional bikeway routes. There is no financial burden on the County as SCAG will use existing Active Transportation Program grant funding for the required 50% match.
 
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Placentia Veteran’s Village operator approved
The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a lease agreement with Mercy Housing to develop the proposed Placentia Veteran’s Village, that will provide housing for 49 homeless and/or disabled United States Veterans. On 2.34-acres of unimproved vacant land owned by the Orange County Flood Control District, as governed by the Board of Supervisors, Mercy Housing will construct an apartment complex consisting of 49 fully furnished apartment homes and on-site offices for support services. The Village will provide a wide range of on-site services such as job-training, job placement, Veterans Administration benefits assistance, and healthcare and wellness programs.

Over the past several months, the County has undertaken initiatives to identify housing opportunities for the homeless. The agreement with Mercy Housing follows previous actions by the Board that created temporary shelter at the old Santa Ana Transportation Center, along with a short-term, emergency housing facility in Anaheim, to open in 2017.
 

 
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Head of County’s Health Care Agency Announces Retirement
Mark Refowitz, Director of Orange County’s Health Care Agency (OCHCA), announced plans to retire at the end of March.

Refowitz began his career with the County of Orange in 2008 as the OCHCA Director of Behavioral Health Services. He was appointed Director of the OCHCA in 2012, a department with approximately 2,700 full-time employees and an annual budget in excess of $620 million. Refowitz was appointed to the CalOptima Board of Directors in February 2012, elected Chairman in May of that year and has continued to serve in that capacity today. Under his leadership, the National Committee for Quality Assurance has rated CalOptima as its top Medicaid health plan in California for the past three years.

Refowitz also serves on the Health Care Committee and the Healthy Counties Advisory Board of the National Association of Counties (NACo), assignments that require annual appointments by the California State Association of Counties. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association of County Behavioral Health and Disability Directors, a NACo affiliate. His background also includes a variety of roles on the boards of non-profit organizations.

OCHCA is a regional provider, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through coordination of public and private sector resources. HCA’s organizational structure includes five major service areas: Correctional Health Services, Public Health Services, Behavioral Health Services, Regulatory/Medical Health Services and Administrative Services. The organization has more than 120 funding sources in addition to a wide array of regulatory and direct service mandates.

The County is conducting a public recruitment for the Director of OCHCA. More information can be found at http://bit.ly/2k04xEO.
 
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Board Re-Appoints OCERS Members
This week, Supervisor Nelson made a unanimously supported motion for the re-appointments of Charles E. Packard and David L. Ball to the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) Board of Retirement.

OCERS is administered by the Board of Retirement, a group of ten trustees that is charged with ensuring the secure delivery of retirement and disability benefits to its members. Of the ten members, four are appointed by the Board of Supervisors; four (including the Safety alternate) are elected by OCERS’ active members. One is elected by the retired membership. The County Treasurer serves as an ex-officio member. Board members serve three-year terms, with the exception of the Treasurer, who serves during his or her tenure in office.

Mr. Packard was first appointed to serve on the Board of Retirement on December 13, 2011. He is an experienced business executive, entrepreneur and business strategist with more than four decades of success across a wide range of professional endeavors. He is a founder and President of Pacific International Capital, LLC, a Newport Beach-based merchant bank which develops and invests in proprietary businesses, and an investment bank which provides clients with growth capital and advisory services. Mr. Packard holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from University of Toledo and a Master’s in Business Administration from University of Toledo.

Mr. Ball was first appointed to serve on the Board of Retirement by the Board of Supervisors on September 17, 2013. Mr. Ball is a long-time resident of Orange County with four decades of business experience, including real estate development and investment. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from California State University, Fullerton, where he graduated with honors.

Current terms for both Mr. Packard and Mr. Ball expire on December 31, 2019.

The next regular OCERS Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 7 at 9:00am at 2223 E. Wellington Avenue, Suite 100, Santa Ana 92701.
 
 
Board Announcement
Children and Families Commission of Orange County's Recruitment

Click on the image above to view a larger version.
 
 
OCTA
OCTA Logo
OC Streetcar Project
 
The Orange County Transportation Authority’s (OCTA) OC Streetcar project has passed another significant hurdle towards federal funding. The U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Transit Administration (FTA) informed OCTA recently that the Streetcar project has been approved to begin the New Starts Engineering phase - the next step towards obtaining approval for federal funding. Transit agencies proposing rail projects that seek federal funds must demonstrate the technical, legal, and financial capability to implement the project. This approval enables the OCTA to incur costs to further develop the engineering elements to the project as well as the other procurements necessary to construct the transit line.

The OC Streetcar project is expected to start construction in 2018 and be operational in 2020. The project will connect the busy transportation hub that is the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center to various residential, commercial and civic destinations along the 4.15-mile route. For more information about the project visit OCTA’s OC Streetcar overview.
 
 
Metrolink
Metrolink Logo
Metrolink Board Elects New Leadership, Honors Past Chair
Earlier this month, the Metrolink Board of Directors recognized Supervisor Nelson for his service as Chairman from January 2015 to January 2017. During his two-year chairmanship, Supervisor Nelson championed the launch of a mobile ticketing app with a print-at-home option, initiated the lowering of fares and advocated for on-time implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC) to preserve rider safety.

To honor the Past Chair, Metrolink presented Supervisor Nelson with a commemorative gavel by CEO Art Leahy. The new Metrolink Chair is Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) representative Andrew Kotyuk.
 

 
 
In the Community
Yogurt Hub
On Friday, January 20, the City of Brea welcomed Yogurt Hub to its local mall. Kamal, the owner, was surrounded by his family and friends in a joyous ceremony celebrating the grand opening of his yogurt shop. Yogurt Hub offers many different flavors and toppings for customers to choose from. He spoke of his trials to get where he is today, but is incredibly grateful and proud of his accomplishment. Congratulations to Kamal and his family on this significant endeavor!
 

Policy Advisor Natalie Wieckert presents Kamal with a certificate of recognition
 
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Supervisor Honors Placentia Chamber Business Leaders
Supervisor Nelson was honored to partner with the Placentia Chamber of Commerce in recognizing the outstanding business leaders and company dignitaries who donated their time and talents to programs in the city in 2016.

Hosted at the Alta Vista Country Club this week, Michele Severson, the Chamber Membership Director, delivered another fun evening of friends and families gathered to celebrate another successful year at the Chamber.

Policy Advisor Steve Spernak delivered County commendations from the offices of Supervisor Shawn Nelson honoring eight very special civic and company leaders for their inspiration and contributions promoting business, commerce, enterprise, education and civic events like the Heritage Days and Las Posadas Christmas gala in Old Town.

Receiving honors for their professional performances and work with the Chamber:

Citizens of the Year:
Monica Alimonti
Sheila Jordan
John Walcek

Businesses of the Year:
Business: Craftsman Wood Fired Pizza
New Business: Rich Farm Ice Cream
Non-Profit – Charity’s Closet
Family-Owned – Disaster Kleenup/Better Restorations
Woman-Owned – Hecho en Mexico

Sincere congratulations and best wishes to our Chamber and 2016 honorees!
 

Placentia Chamber Citizens of the Year in Monica Alimonti, John Walcek and Sheila Jordon with Supervisor Nelson commendations.


Policy Advisor Steve Spernak joined Assemblyman Philip Chen and district staffers from senate, congress and equalization to deliver Chamber awards.
 
 
County Commissions and Committees
The Fourth District has vacant appointments on the following commissions or committees:

  • Orange County Visitors Association
  • Senior Citizens Advisory Committee
  • Assessment Appeals Board No.1
If you are interested in serving on one of these committees, please call Audra Fishel at (714) 834-3440.
 
 
Pet of the Week
 
OC Animal Care Pet of the Week
Click on the image above to view a larger version.
 
 
MEU Newsletter
 
Pendleton Marines Thank Supervisor for Christmas 2016
Supervisor Nelson’s sponsorship and support of the Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit received a nice gesture of appreciation with his receiving a personal letter from the Commanding Officer of the 13th MEU in Colonel S. Nelms this week.

The letter from the Marine commander highlighted the week and touched Supervisor Nelson who supports not only the 13th MEU Adoption committee but other Veteran and military families with programs and projects year-round.

Colonel Nelm’s was gracious to acknowledge all the citizens and volunteers who support the Marines at Camp Pendleton and closed by explaining, “ your generosity and kindness embodies the holiday season and ensures that all of our Marines are cared for, loved and appreciated. Semper Fidelis and sincere thanks!”

The second highlight this week was receiving the newsletter from the 13th MEU Adoption Committee that showcased the Christmas party hosted on the base by volunteers and donors.

The annual toy drive they run, managed by Wendell and Carolyn Walters, delivers new bikes, games, electronics and Teddy Bears and gift-cards for the single Marines who attend to enjoy the Christmas reception and luncheon.

Wendell Walters told Policy Advisor Steve Spernak the Teddy Bears from the Nelson office remain a favorite and are given to the new moms to share with the youngest of the kids attending.

Photos of the Christmas party can be seen by opening the link to:
 
OC Animal Care Pet of the Week
Click on the image above to view a larger version.
 
 
Events
 

Click on the image above to view a larger version.
 
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City of Anaheim Events

What: Good Morning Anaheim Breakfast - February 3rd, 2017
When: February 3, 2017
Where: Manheim California
1320 N Tustin Ave,
Anaheim, CA 92807
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM PST

What: Anaheim Chamber After Hours Mixer - February 16th, 2017
When: February 16, 2017
Where: MUZEO ANAHEIM
241 S Anaheim Blvd,
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 956-8936
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM PST

City of Brea Events

What: Brea Bridal Show
When: January 28, 2017
Where: Brea Community Center
695 E. Madison Way
Brea CA, 92821
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM PST

What: Brea Farmers' Market
When: February 2, 2017
Where: N/W/C Birch Street and State College Blvd.
Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM PST

City of Buena Park Events

What: The Source Presents: Rooster Rock
When: January 28, 2017
Where: The Source
6940 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90621
Time: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM PST

What: 2017 Buena Park State of the City Address & Luncheon
When: February 1, 2017
Where: Knott's Berry Farm Hotel
7675 Crescent Ave.
Buena Park, CA 90620
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM PST

City of Fullerton Events

What: Snow Day
When: January 28, 2017
Where: Brea Dam Park
1700 N. Harbor Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92835
Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM PST

What: Downtown Fullerton Artwalk
When: February 3, 2017
Where: Downtown Fullerton
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM PST

City of La Habra Events

What: Enterprise Team Thursday Meetings
When: February 2, 2017
Where: La Habra Chamber of Commerce
321 E. La Habra Blvd
La Habra CA 90631
Time: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM PST

What: Chamber Bowling - Relay for Life
When: February 8, 2017
Where: La Habra 300 Bowl
370 E. Whittier Blvd
La Habra, CA 90631
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

City of Placentia Events

What: Lunch Mob
When: February 1, 2017
Where: Kelly's Korner Tavern
907 E. Yorba Linda Blvd.
Placentia
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00

What: City Council Meeting
When: February 7, 2017
Where: Placentia City Hall
Council Chambers
401 E. Chapman Avenue
Placentia
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

 
 
For questions or comments regarding Nelson’s E-News
please contact the Supervisor's office staff:
Audra Fishel – Phone: (714) 834-3440, Email: Audra.Fishel@ocgov.com.
Nelson Team
Denis Bilodeau
Chief of Staff

George Cardenas
Policy Advisor

Mark Lopez
Deputy Chief of Staff

Audra Fishel
Policy Advisor /
Communications Director

Steve Spernak
Policy Advisor

Natalie Wieckert
Policy Advisor
 
 
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