Header image with Photo of Supervisor Pat Bates. Followed by office information
November 8, 2013

Pat Bates's Picture

Welcome to this edition of the Fifth District Report, an electronic newsletter keeping you updated about the events taking place in Orange County and in the Fifth District. It is my hope that you find this distribution informative and I would encourage you to contact me regarding any thoughts, comments, or concerns you may have.

PatBates@ocgov.com


IN THIS ISSUE...

1. BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

2. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

3. SAFETY SENTRY

4. HEALTH HERALD

5. ENVIRONMENTAL MEMOS

6. HARBOR HAPPENINGS

7. AIRPORT ARRIVALS

8. NOTES FROM THE FIELD

9. CRITTER CHRONICLES

10. RECORDER RECORD

11. COUNTY CONNECTIONS

12. FIFTH DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT

13. SOUTH COUNTY CALENDAR

14. FIFTH DISTRICT WRAP-UP


OUR STAFF...

Don Hughes:
Chief of Staff

Kristen Camuglia:
Deputy Chief of Staff

Sergio Prince:
Policy Advisor

Erik Weigand:
Policy Advisor

Emily Osterberg:
Policy Advisor

Veronica Yniguez:
Policy Advisor

Ruth Strachan:
Office Manager

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Volume 7 Issue 44
BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

Board of Supervisors Member Pensions

The Board approved two items related to Board member pensions.

The first item will change the County’s personnel resolution and eliminate the County pickup of Board of Supervisors member retirement contributions, requiring each Board member to fully pay their own “employee” share of their pension contribution. Since I opted out of the County’s pension system when I took office in 2007, this action does not affect me; however, I strongly support the action.

For more information, please click here.

The second item will place an ordinance on the June 3, 2014 primary election ballot that will amend the County’s charter to prevent the County from paying the required employee pension contributions for all County of Orange elected officials who begin a term on or after January 1, 2015. Amending the County’s Charter will cement into law the change to Board member pensions and prevent future Boards from reversing the personnel action in the above paragraph.

For more information, please click here.

Orange County Social Host Ordinance

The Board discussed adopting a Social Host Ordinance for the unincorporated areas of Orange County. The Ordinance as proposed would have imposed a $750 administrative fine on a “responsible person” who willingly allows an underage person to consume alcohol in their presence at a gathering where three or more persons are involved.

The second and subsequent violation of the ordinance would result in a misdemeanor, a $1,000 fine and the possibility of six months in jail.

After a lengthy discussion and multiple speakers from the public, the ordinance was continued to December 10 so more information could be gathered.

As Supervisor for numerous unincorporated communities in South County, it is important to receive input from local leaders and residents to make sure the County is not over stepping its boundaries and violating any civil liberties. I also recognize underage drinking is a serious problem and welcome this debate as we reach for solutions that serve everyone.

For more information, please click here.

Additional Funding for Fullerton Armory Emergency Shelter

The Board accepted $40,000 from the City of Anaheim and $40,000 from the City of Fullerton to open the Fullerton Armory Emergency Shelter for approximately an additional 18 days.

Both Cities recently notified OC Community Resources of their desire to provide additional funding to the County to support the early opening of the Fullerton Armory Emergency Shelter beyond the operational days supported by County.

The additional $80,000 in funding from the Cities will be transferred to the County by grant agreements and allow the Fullerton Armory Shelter to open approximately 18 days earlier in November.

For more information, please click here.

2014 Board of Supervisors Meeting Schedule

The Board approved the 2014 schedule for regular meetings of the Board of Supervisors and other authorities under our jurisdiction that hold meetings concurrently with regular Board of Supervisors meetings.

Board meeting dates are eliminated for a number of reasons. These include dates following County holidays due to reduced time for preparation and review of agenda items, publication of legal notices, most fifth Tuesdays of the month, as well as various days spread throughout the year, including six two-week periods to provide opportunities for business travel and vacations.

For more information, please click here.

TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

I-405 Improvement Project Update

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Regional Planning and Highways Committee recommended the OCTA Board of Directors move forward with the Board’s 2012 selection of Alternative 1, as the Locally Preferred Alternative.

The Committee also directed OCTA Staff to meet with Washington D.C. officials to discuss toll policy; specifically, identify corridor city concerns, continue to look at high-occupancy vehicle concepts, and initiate public outreach for all three build alternatives.

At our November 8 meeting, the OCTA Board voted to reduce the Committee’s recommended timeline from four months to thirty days. Staff will present their findings to the Board on December 9.

To review the staff report and recommended actions, please click here.

Open House for I-5 improvements in South County

Please join the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) to learn more about upcoming improvements to the I-5, from Avenida Pico to San Juan Creek Road. Construction is slated to begin in early 2014 in San Juan Capistrano.

  • Thursday, November 14 from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM
    San Juan Capistrano Community Center
    25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano
    View on Google Maps
A video showing a digital representation of the finished Avenida Pico interchange will be shown at the open house. The meeting will not include a formal presentation, but will have project experts present to answer questions about the project.

For more information, please contact OCTA Outreach Specialist Julie Toledo at (714) 560-5573 or click here and here. Information is also available on the project's Facebook page.

OCTA: On The Move

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has released its latest edition of “Orange County: On The Move.” To view the OCTA e-newsletter, please click here.

The Toll Roads VIEWSLETTER

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) has released its latest edition of The Toll Roads VIEWSLETTER. To view the TCA publication, please click here.

SAFETY SENTRY

DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint in San Clemente

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department DUI Task Force will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s license checkpoint Friday, November 8 in the City of San Clemente from 6:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Deputies will be contacting drivers passing through the checkpoint for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. Deputies will also check drivers for proper licensing and will strive to delay motorists only momentarily. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving.

For more information, please click here.

$3.5 Million Real Estate Fraud Scheme Shut Down

A joint investigation between the Orange County District Attorney and the Orange County Clerk Recorder has resulted in the conviction of Long Beach resident for stealing more than $3.5 million in a fraudulent scheme to falsify property transfer deeds and fraudulently rent out Orange County homes.

The scheme involved recording fraudulent quit-claim deeds, transferring properties in Anaheim, Dana Point and San Clemente into the name of their company. The perpetrator then changed the locks on the front doors and began leasing the properties to unsuspecting tenants.

For more information, please click here.

2013 IACP Social Media Survey Results

The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) recently conducted its fourth annual survey about law enforcement’s use of social media. The survey addressed the current state of the practice and issues agencies are facing in regards to social media. A total of 500 law enforcement agencies, representing 48 states, participated in the survey.

For the survey results and more information, please click here.

HEALTH HERALD

Flu Vaccine Now Available

Flu vaccine (flu shot or nasal spray) is now available from health care providers, clinics, and pharmacies throughout Orange County. Many community sites in Orange County will offer free flu vaccine this fall, and the Orange County Health Care Agency will offer free influenza vaccinations for people 6 months of age and older who do not have a medical provider or health care coverage.

For more information, please click here.

OC Health Official Honored for Global Leadership

Dr. Samuel Stratton, Medical Director for the Orange County Health Care Agency’s Emergency Medical Services Division, has been honored with the 2013 Award for Global Leadership in Emergency Public Health from the World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WADEM). The award is presented every two years by the organization for distinguished global leadership in advancing the science of emergency public health and improving humanitarian relief efforts.

In addition to his critical role for Orange County, Dr. Stratton is a Professor in the UCLA School of Public Health and is a faculty member of the UCLA Center for Public Health and Disasters. He practices Emergency Medicine at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he is Clinical Professor of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine. He also is the Editor-in-Chief of Prehospital and Disaster Medicine.

Dr. Stratton has worked for the Health Care Agency since November 2006. For more information, please click here.

ENVIRONMENTAL MEMOS

Electric Vehicles Help OC Parks Go Green

Several OC Parks facilities are a little greener these days, thanks to the adoption of electric vehicles for use by OC Parks staff.

There are now more than 30 electric vehicles in use at 14 OC Parks facilities, which were carefully selected after an analysis of their needs and existing vehicles. Feedback was solicited from staff on the type of vehicle that would best suit their needs, recognizing that each park facility is unique. For example, full size, four wheel drive vehicles are often needed at wilderness parks, while other facilities may be able to utilize compact trucks and SUV’s for routine tasks.

Electric vehicles offer several advantages, including lower acquisition costs, reduced maintenance and reduced emissions. Electric vehicles can be customized with utility beds or designed for use by park rangers and can be easier to maneuver on the narrow pathways found in some parks. Many vehicles are only used within park boundaries and are not operated on public streets, making electric vehicles suitable for a wide variety of uses.

Based on the study conducted by OC Parks staff, funds were budgeted for 28 electric vehicles, including one-third for use by park rangers and two-thirds for maintenance purposes. The vehicles have been in use for about four months and employees reportedly really enjoy them.

As with anything new, there has been a learning curve, and staff quickly identified the need for higher voltage chargers that allow the vehicles to be recharged in a shorter period of time. The electric vehicles have allowed OC Parks to surpass their goal of reducing the number of gasoline powered vehicles used by the department by 30% and fit with a growing industry trend to use “greener” vehicles that reduce our impact on the environment.

Waste To Wow

Did you know that plastic water bottles are among the most common debris materials in our storm channels?

As part of efforts to reduce debris in storm channels, renowned marine-life artist Wyland, the Disneyland Resort, and OC Public Works encourage everyone to take party in "Waste To Wow," a six week contest (Nov. 1 - Dec. 15) in support of the recently launched Adopt A Channel program that challenges people to send in photos of how they have creatively reused their plastic bottles.

For more information, please click here.

HARBOR HAPPENINGS

Dana Point Harbor Director Earns Third Statewide Honor

Brad Gross, OC Dana Point Harbor Director, has become the first person in the 65-year history of the California Association of Harbor Masters and Port Captains to earn his third title as State Harbor Master of the Year.

Brad earned the award in 2003 and 2005 from the association, which promotes the development and operation of harbors and marinas along California’s coast, and advocates sound environmental, economic and management principles to government and private interests statewide, including the boating public.

The State Harbor Master of the Year award recognizes Brad’s contributions to the County and the state association. He has excelled by using his “unique background and skills,” the group said, to effectively manage two large marinas, launch ramp and dry storage operations. He also directs the Dana Point Harbor’s support facilities and its commercial component.

In addition, Brad is a Certified Marina Manager and serves on the Board of Directors for the California Association of Harbor Masters and Port Captains, where he is a past president. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Marina Industries.

For more information, please click here.

AIRPORT ARRIVALS

John Wayne Airport Launches Redesigned Website

John Wayne Airport is pleased to announce the launch of its redesigned website, offering essential information for travelers and visitors alike. The new website features a more intuitive navigation framework, real-time flight tracking, a "Visit Orange County" section, and much more.

For more information, please click here.

NOTES FROM THE FIELD

OC Parks Offers FREE Parking for Veterans November 11

OC Parks will offer FREE parking at nine locations, including Laguna Niguel Regional Park, for veterans, active and reserve service members and their families on Veterans Day, November 11.

For more information, please click here.

CRITTER CHRONICLES

Animals for Armed Forces

Please join Animals for Armed Forces® and OC Animal Care for FREE pet adoptions for our dedicated service men and women during Veteran’s Day weekend. This event will take place Saturday & Sunday, November 9 & 10, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at OC Animal Care, 561 The City Drive, Orange, CA 92868.

The free adoption does not include licensing or microchip. Discount applies to the first 50 animal adoptions. Limit one animal per household.

The adoption discount applies to active duty, Reserve and Veterans of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and National Guard, and/or immediate family members. Please bring your photo ID and one of the following to receive the adoption discount: A copy of your Military ID; A copy of your DD-214 and Driver’s License; or a copy of your NGB Form 22.

For more information, please click here.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Pets

‘Tis the season for friends, family and holiday feasts, but also possible distress for our animal companions. Pets won’t be so thankful if they munch on undercooked turkey or a pet-unfriendly floral arrangement, or if they stumble upon an unattended alcoholic drink.

To view some safety tips for a fulfilling Thanksgiving our pets can enjoy, too, please click here.

RECORDER RECORD

Saturday Hours in November and December

Appointments are being taken now for marriage licenses and ceremonies, as well as passport services, for Saturday Nov. 16 and Dec. 14, when the offices of the Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department will open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The Clerk-Recorder has opened office doors one Saturday each month since June to help customers who are unable to visit during regular weekday hours.

The Old County Courthouse will be open Nov. 16 and Dec. 14 for marriage licenses, civil wedding ceremonies and passport applications, as well as property research. Property and vital record copies, as well as marriage services, will be available at the Laguna Hills and Fullerton branch offices. FREE parking will be available at all three locations.

For more information, please click here.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Countywide Volunteer & Intern Engagement

Volunteer contributions enhance the quality of life for all of us who live and work in Orange County. During fiscal year 2012/13, 36,168 individuals donated their time and expertise to volunteer programs coordinated by 11 County agencies/departments and contributed 579,090 hours of service valued at $16.5 million in avoided costs for County government.

In addition to volunteer involvement over the past year, 1211 interns accepted assignments with 16 County agencies/departments and several Board offices. Their contributions totaled 212,455 hours of service valued at $4.5 million in avoided costs for County government.

Interns bring a fresh perspective, new talent, increased diversity and a helping hand to the County’s workforce, and volunteers work in partnership with County employees to expand and enhance the range of services offered to Orange County residents.

Over the past year, 220 County volunteers, interns and programs were recognized with two national, three state and 10 local awards, including the President’s Volunteer Service Award, CSUF’s Most Committed Partner Award, OneOC’s Spirit of Volunteerism Award and the Learning for Life Spurgeon Award.

To learn more about the County’s Volunteer and Intern Resources or to read the Annual Volunteer/Intern Utilization Report, please click here.

FIFTH DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT

South County School Wins Award for Innovation in Education

The Voluntary iPad Academy at Aliso Niguel High School was recently honored as the Innovative Schoolwide Program at the Project Tomorrow 2013 Innovation in Education Awards. Aliso Niguel High School began a Voluntary iPad Academy Pilot/Development Program at the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year for a limited number of incoming freshman in biology, English, and geometry classes.

Students share information about projects, current class topics, as well as new programs, apps, and websites via Edmodo, email, and discussion groups they create. As a spinoff of the academy, the school created the Global Communications Club, which has already had face-to-face conversations with students in Nepal via Skype about real global issues and continue those discussions via Edmodo on their iPads.

SOUTH COUNTY CALENDAR

Dana Point: Elephant Parade Closing Ceremonies

The Elephant Parade Art Exhibition will be soon end its ten-week visit in Dana Point. The Elephants will move to Lantern Bay Park on Friday, Nov. 8, as they reunite for a FREE public display – their last appearance together before they are escorted to their new homes. On Friday, November 15, say goodbye to the precious pachyderms, as a candlelight tribute led by community leaders will be held at dusk. For more information, please click here, here and here.

San Clemente: Park Semper Fi Ceremony

The community and all veterans and their families are invited to commemorate Veterans Day on Saturday, November 9 at noon at the Marine Monument in San Clemente at Park Semper Fi located in the Pier Bowl. For more information, please click here.

Laguna Niguel: Veterans Day Celebration

Join the City of Laguna Niguel on Monday, November 11 from 11:00 AM to12:00 PM at City Hall, as they honor all those who served in our Armed Forces. For more information, please click here.

San Juan Capistrano: Tribute to our Veterans

Join the City of San Juan Capistrano in honoring our nation's heroes at the Annual Veterans Day Ceremony hosted by VFW Serra Post 3801 at Veterans Park on November 11 at 11:00 AM (refreshments provided), followed by a BBQ and live entertainment at Historic Town Center Park. For more information, please click here and here.

Mission Viejo: Student Veterans Celebration

On Tuesday, Nov. 12, Saddleback College will celebrate five years of veteran success and the opening of their newly-renovated veterans’ center that offers comprehensive services for veterans, including benefits assistance, counseling and other services to help veterans transition to civilian and college life. The event is from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the Saddleback College Student Services Center. For more information, please click here, here and here.

Lake Forest: Veteran's Day Program

The El Toro Memorial Park Committee invites you to the annual Veteran's Day Program at El Toro Memorial Park, 25751 Trabuco Rd., Lake Forest. The program on Monday, Nov. 11 at 11:00 AM includes featured speaker John Adame (Vietnam Veteran) and vocalist John Huntington and Gene Smith. For more information, please call (949) 951-8244.

FIFTH DISTRICT WRAP-UP

In addition to my many meetings, briefings, and other supervisorial activities, I also:
  • Participated in a life science industry tour at Allergan in Irvine to observe some of the state’s cutting edge research at UC Irvine.
  • Participated in the inaugural South Orange County Economic Coalition event, “South Orange County Golf with the Mayors,” to kick-off the occasion.
  • Attended the San Clemente City Council meeting to provide a presentation on the I-5 Improvement Project – Avendia Pico Interchange Replacement.
  • Introduced keynote speaker Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchins at the newly formed Lincoln Club’s broad-based Women’s Coalition event.

My office also:
  • Presented a proclamation in honor of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

My staff and I look forward to continually providing you updated information in our Fifth District Newsletter and website.

Please feel free to contact my office with your concerns, comments or questions at (714) 834-3550. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your Supervisor for Orange County's Fabulous Fifth District.

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