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Lisa Bartlett - Supervisor, Fifth District
February 8, 2019 Volume 6 Issue 5
Don't Miss the 2019 South County Pet Expo!

Come to the South County Pet Expo on March 9 and meet Bella, canine star of the blockbuster movie "A Dog's Way Home" (now playing at a theater near you) and Bruce Cameron, author of the bestselling book and major motion picture!

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Click the image above to enlarge.
For Booth and Sponsorship info, please click here.
 
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Be Well OC Mental Health and Wellness Campus

As reported in my newsletter last week, the County of Orange has committed $16.6 million toward the creation of our first Be Well Orange County (OC) Regional Mental Health and Wellness Campus, which we announced during a press conference following the Board of Supervisors meeting.

Speaking at the press conference for Be Well OC.

Be Well OC is a transformative initiative, bringing together public, private, academic and faith-based organizations, as well as others, to create a coordinated system of mental health care and support for all Orange County residents.

Artist rendering of the planned Be Bell OC Regional Mental Health and Wellness Campus.

The Wellness Campus at 265 Anita Drive in the City of Orange exemplifies the spirit of the Be Well OC public-private partnership. CalOptima, Kaiser and St. Joseph Hoag Health are joining the Board of Supervisors in the creation of the new 60,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will replace an existing 45,000-square-foot, two-story office building.

This is a significant sign of systems change for mental health and wellness in Orange County. The projected cost for the campus is $40 million and construction is expected to commence in late spring 2019.

Artist rendering of the planned Be Well OC Campus.

265 Anita Drive is the first of three Be Well OC Regional Wellness Campuses planned for Orange County. Each campus will provide common core services, as well as services tailored to the unique population needs of the region, creating an ecosystem of services never before so systematically available to Orange County residents.

The Be Well OC initiative aspires to create a best-in-class system of mental health care and support for all Orange County residents. The Be Well OC effort, which also includes substance use services, spans across all cities in Orange County and a range of needs, from prevention and early intervention to crisis aversion, acute care and recovery.

The vision of Be Well OC is to lead the nation in optimal mental health and wellness for all residents of Orange County, as the initiative brings together a robust, community-based, cross-sector strategy (public, private, academic, faith-based and others) to create a community-wide coordinated ecosystem to support optimal mental health. Please visit the Be Well OC website for more information. 

 
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Laguna Canyon Conservancy Meeting

This week, I was pleased to speak at a meeting of the Laguna Canyon Conservancy (LCC) about successful and upcoming County projects and how they impact our safety and the environment. Topics of discussion included homelessness, Be Well OC, the new visitor center at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, the El Toro Road/I-5 Interchange Improvement Project, and the Laguna Canyon Road Improvement Project, among others.

LCC has devoted much time and effort to preserve the natural environment and its many advantages in Laguna Beach and the surrounding areas. Thank you to LCC President Gene Felder for inviting me and the audience for their engaging questions and comments!

Speaking at the Laguna Canyon Conservancy meeting.
 
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Dana Point City Trolley OCTA Grant Award
Presenting a grant award from OCTA to Mayor Joe Muller at the Dana Point City Council meeting.

I was pleased to attend the Dana Point City Council meeting this week to present a grant award in the amount of $5,107,544 from the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for the Dana Point Trolley System. This amount includes what has been awarded from OCTA over the last few years, including funding for the expansion of the service.

The Dana Point Trolley in the Lantern District.

Through Project V funds, known as Community Based Circulators Programs, Dana Point has done an excellent job implementing the routes and accessibility of its trolleys. The program was established for cities to develop local transit services for their communities that complement regional transit services.

While this is a countywide program, I am proud that the 5th District is leading the way in implementing such successful programs. We are now working on completing the connection throughout South County so all of our residents can have a public transportation option to visit our cities and enjoy everything our community has to offer.

 
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County Connections
OCTA Board Sets Transportation Vision for 2019

For 2019, the strategic initiatives of the (Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors focus on improving the regional transportation network by delivering capital projects, offering modern transit solutions, and emphasizing fiscal responsibility.

The six initiatives act as our guide for the upcoming year and outline specific targeted projects for completion by the end of 2019.

The OCTA Board initiatives for 2019 include:  

  • Delivering on capital projects, including reconstruction on eight bridges as part of the I-405 Improvement Project, construction on the I-5 improvements between SR-73 and El Toro Road in South Orange County, and expanding the Anaheim Canyon Metrolink Station.
  • Championing fiscal responsibility by continuing to be good stewards of funds from OC Go (also known as Measure M), the County’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements. This includes setting priorities for 2020 State Transportation Improvement Program funding, supporting state and federal transportation legislation consistent with OCTA platforms, and awarding OC Go funding to improve streets, synchronize signals, and enhance water quality.
  • Developing state-of-the-art regional transportation plans by focusing on the county’s future needs, including studying the Bristol Street Corridor and taking a comprehensive look at continuing to improve transportation in South Orange County.
  • Strengthening regional partnerships by collaborating with the Riverside County Transportation Commission to improve the 91 Corridor by updating the SR-91 Implementation Plan, with LA Metro to study transit connections between the two counties, and with Caltrans on freeway improvements.
  • Implementing the OC Bus 360° vision and offering modern transit solutions by continuing to refine OCTA bus service to best meet customers’ needs. This year, that includes launching a new Bravo! 529 limited-stop bus service on Beach Boulevard, approving an operations-and-maintenance contract for the OC Streetcar, and implementing new technologies such as additional hydrogen-fuel-cell buses.
  • Reinforcing a culture of safety to ensure the well-being of the public and OCTA employees through ongoing training, completing pilot projects aimed at enhancing coach-operator safety, and developing a Safety Management System, a new federal requirement.
 
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OC Public Safety Agencies Launch Text-to-911

I'm pleased to report that Orange County law enforcement and fire dispatch centers are now equipped with Text-to-911 to allow the hearing impaired, speech impaired or those in an emergency situation who are unable to make a phone call reach emergency services dispatchers by text message.

Text-to-911 was jointly launched by every Orange County public safety agency with a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) on February 6. In 2018, more than 1,243,092 calls were made to 911 in Orange County.  Eighty percent of those calls came from mobile phones.

Remember to always call if you can, and text if you can’t. Calling provides a faster response, allowing information to be relayed to responding public safety personnel as quickly as possible. It also allows dispatchers to hear background noises or conversations and gather additional information.

When texting, residents should first provide their location and whether they need law enforcement, fire or medical aid services.

More about Text-to-9-1-1

  • Ensure location services on your mobile phone are turned on and be prepared to provide your location in the text.
  • To get started, type “911” in the “to” field of the text message and, in addition to your location, provide the type of emergency services you need (police, fire or medical).
  • Use plain text and refrain from abbreviations.
  • Dispatchers cannot accept pictures, videos or icons.
  • Text-to-9-1-1 cannot be used in a group text.
  • If your text does not go through, you should receive a message to make a voice call.
  • Calling or texting 9-1-1 when it is not an emergency is a crime punishable by up to a year in County jail and a fine of up to $1,000.­­­

To view a video on Text-to-911, click here. For more information, click here.

 
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OC Public Libraries: "Fine Free Library Days"

OC Public Libraries (OCPL) will be offering an amnesty program of “Fine Free Library Days” from February 14 to 24. Any items with overdue fines or items that have been marked as "lost" can be returned with related fines and fees waived.

Demonstrating our mission of providing access to library services for all County residents, OCPL will be initiating “Fine Free Library Days” to support local communities and welcome back patrons who may have avoided the library because of their fines.

This is a great opportunity to re-engage in our local libraries and participate in the many events they have to offer our community to promote fun reading and continued learning! To find a library near you, click here.

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YouthSpeak Speech & Essay Contest 2019
Click the image above for more info.
 
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Critter Chronicles
Canine Pet of the Week: Meet Cleve!
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Lonely Hearts Club: Free Dog Adoptions!
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Adopt a Shelter Rabbit Month!
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Out and About in South County
Laguna Hills: Movie on the Mound
Click the image above for more info.
 
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Laguna Beach: Keep It Wild - Big Bend

Join Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks at one of our habitat restoration stewardship events in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, as we learn and work together to create a healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call the canyon their home. No experience is necessary and all tools will be provided. Come out Saturday, February 16 from 8 AM to 11 AM and join the team at the Big Bend staging area in Laguna Beach to help restore the wild lands we all enjoy! To register or for more information, click here.

 
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Aliso Viejo: Brave Race 5K Fun Run

The Joyful Child Foundation is excited to host their annual BRAVE RACE 5K with a Fun Run for children Saturday, February 23 at Aliso Niguel High School. Proceeds benefit The Joyful Child’s BRAVE Initiative to bring safety education to children and adults throughout Southern California. For more information, click here or the image above.

 
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Rancho Mission Viejo: Sounds of Nature Walk

Enjoy a walk through oak woodlands at The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy, as we listen for bird songs February 23 from 9 AM to – 11:00 am. While becoming beginner birders, learn about animal adaptations, including the sounds they make and discover the history of Native American legends. We'll also get crafty and make our own instruments from natural and recycled materials! Space is limited. Click here to register or for more information.

 
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Mission Viejo: South County Tri-Chamber Mixer
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Dana Point: 2019 Festival of Whales

The Dana Point Festival of Whales, one of Southern California’s largest and longest running celebrations, kicks-off in March with a parade and street fair in Dana Point, including four full days of events and activities. This year, the Festival will celebrate its 48th year of paying tribute to the annual migration of California gray whales past Dana Point. With so many fun and educational activities, food and entertainment for the whole family, it is no wonder the event attracts 50,000+ visitors annually to the two-weekend event. The 2019 Festival is set for the first two weekends in March (March 2, 3, 9 & 10). The Festival is free to attend; however, some events and activities require an individual ticket purchase. For more information, please click here.

 
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This Week I
  • Participated in three meetings for the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), including the Executive Committee, Regional Planning and Highways Committee, and Environmental Oversight Committee.
  • Met with newly-elected Congressman Mike Levin to discuss energy and transportation issues.
  • Was the keynote speaker at a meeting of the Laguna Canyon Conservancy.
  • Chaired the Orange County Board of Supervisors meeting.
  • Presented a grant award to the City of Dana Point for  its trolley system.
  • Attended a ceremony to honor the OCTA Employees of the Year, including Bernard Lopez (Coach Operator), Liem Nguyen (Maintenance), and Kristopher Hewkim (Administrative). Congratulations and thank you all for your hard work!
  • Met with Rancho Santa Margarita Mayor Jerry Holloway and City Manager Jennifer Cervantes to discuss City issues.
  • Attended the Orange County Business Council (OCBC) Annual Dinner.
  • Participated in the CEO Leadership Alliance-Orange County Annual Strategy Meeting.
  • Attended the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner to present commendations to outgoing Board Chairman Jay Styles and the 2018 award winners, Barbara Johannes (Citizen of the Year), Cyndi Elders (Ambassador of the Year), I Heart Yoga (Business of the Year), Dana Point Historical Society (Non-Profit Excellence), Catalina Express (Hospitality & Tourism Excellence), Nexus Family Chiropractic (Professional Service Excellence), Brio Tuscany Grille (Dining Excellence), and Killer Dana (Retail Excellence). Congratulations to all the award winners!
Presenting a proclamation to outgoing Board Chairman Jay Styles at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)

With Barbara Johannes (Citizen of the Year) at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner.

With Dana Point Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt and Cyndi Elders (Ambassador of the Year) at the Chamber Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)

With Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt, Ian Pullan (Monarch Beach Resort), I Heart Yoga (Business of the Year), and Jeff Bott (The Toll Roads) at the Dana Point Chamber Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)

With Dana Point Councilman Jamey Federico at the Chamber Dinner.

With South Coast Water District Director Rick Erkeneff at the Dana Point Chamber Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)

With Dana Point Harbor Association President Jim Miller and my Community Relations Advisor, Sergio Prince, at the Chamber Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)

Speaking at the Laguna Canyon Conservancy meeting.

With Laguna Canyon Conservancy President Gene Felder and former Laguna Beach Mayor Paul Freeman at the LCC meeting.

With Laguna Beach Councilwoman Toni Iseman at the Laguna Canyon Conservancy meeting.

With Laguna Beach City Treasurer Laura Parisi at the Laguna Canyon Conservancy meeting.
 
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My Staff
  • Attended the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner.
  • Attended the Laguna Canyon Conservancy meeting.
  • Presented certificates of recognition in Laguna Beach in honor of the ribbon cutting ceremonies for The Garage Collective, Pacific Blue Yoga, and The Wine Gallery, respectively.
  • Presented a certificate of recognition in honor of the ribbon cutting ceremony for Lake Forest Animal Clinic.
  • Attended a meeting of the Orange County Senior Citizens Advisory Council to present certificates of recognition of its outgoing Executive Board members.
  • Attended a Legislative Luncheon with newly-elected Congressman Harley Rouda.
  • Attended a Legislative Round Table Discussion with newly-elected Congresswoman Katie Porter.
My Community Relations Advisor, Sergio Prince (right), with Laguna Beach Chamber President J.J. Ballesteros (left), presenting a certificate of recognition at the ribbon cutting ceremony for The Garage Collective.

Presenting a certificate of recognition at the ribbon cutting for Pacific Blue Yoga in Laguna Beach.

At the ribbon cutting for The Wine Gallery in Laguna Beach.

With Laguna Canyon Conservancy President Gene Felder and Vice President Harry Huggins at the LCC meeting.

Presenting certificates of recognition to the outgoing Executive Board members of the Orange County Senior Citizens Advisory Council.

At the ribbon cutting for Lake Forest Animal Clinic.
(Photo courtesy of Takata Photo & Design)

At the Legislative Luncheon with Congressman Harley Rouda.

At the Legislative Round Table Discussion with Congresswoman Katie Porter.
 
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Elected Officials in the Community
Lake Forest Mayor Mark Tettemer (left) and Councilman Scott Voigts (right) at the ribbon cutting for Lake Forest Animal Clinic.
(Photo courtesy of Takata Photo & Design)

Elected officials at the Legislative Luncheon with Congressman Harley Rouda.

The newly-installed 2019 Board of Directors at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner.
(Photo courtesy of Mark Montgomery Photography)
 
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For questions or comments regarding my E-Newsletter, please contact my office staff at (714) 834-3550 or email my Community Relations Advisor, Sergio Prince, at .
 
In This Issue
orange arrow County Connections
orange arrow Critter Chronicles
orange arrow Out and About in South County
orange arrow This Week I
orange arrow My Staff
orange arrow Elected Officials in the Community
DISTRICT STAFF
 
Victor Cao
Chief of Staff

James Dinwiddie
Senior Policy Advisor

Sara May
Senior Policy Advisor

Sergio Prince
Community Relations Advisor

Megan Dutra
Communications Advisor

Pauline Colvin
Executive Assistant and Office Manager

 
Stay Updated!
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envelope icon Lisa.Bartlett@ocgov.com
phone icon 714.834.3550
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