Undergrounding of utility power lines has been a hot topic for quite some time and is frequently at the forefront of discussions when it comes to assessing the cause of wildfires.
Recently, investigators determined the cause of the Emerald Fire in Laguna Beach to be “overhead powerlines.” According to the Orange County Fire Authority, “the Emerald Fire’s most probable heat source was sparks from electrical arcing.” This fire burned 154 acres and forced the evacuation of thousands of people from their homes.
While the cause of the more recent Coastal Fire in Laguna Niguel - which destroyed 20 homes, severely damaged 11 others and caused millions of dollars in property damage- remains under investigation, Southern California Edison issued a statement that circuit activity was detected in the area near the time the Coastal Fire started.
In 1967, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) adopted “Rule 20” which defines policies and procedures for electric utilities to convert overhead power lines and other equipment to underground facilities. In 2001, the CPUC issued a ruling, noting that with very few exceptions, the public favored undergrounding for “safety, reliability, and property value increases” in addition to aesthetic benefits. The Rule 20 Program consists of Rule 20A, 20B, 20C and 20D.
Rule 20A projects are 100% ratepayer-funded and enable utility companies to allocate Rule 20A work credits to local communities for utility underground conversion projects. Cities and/or counties put forth these projects that customers pay for through their electric utility bill. Work credit allocations are established by the utility companies and a community may “borrow” up to five years of future work credits to fund an undergrounding project.
A February 2020 staff proposal discussed by the CPUC’s Energy Division for Rule 20 Reform and Enhancements, identified a number of significant challenges with the existing Rule 20 program including, inequitable usage of ratepayer funds, outdated program eligibility criteria, flawed work credits system, and high project costs and project delays.
The February proposal also estimated that at least $489 million in unused and un-committed Rule 20A work credits remain outstanding among communities served by electric utility companies. Upon further review, the Commission’s Energy Division “determined that the value of unused and un-committed Rule 20A work credits across all electric utility service territories is over $1.56 billion as of January 2021.”
The CPUC’s “Phase 1 Decision Revising Electric Rule 20 and Enhancing Program Oversight.” noted that only a handful of the 503 communities paying into the program have completed ratepayer-funded projects, while 82 eligible communities have not completed a single project since 2005.
Considering the myriad of problems with Rule 20A and the work credit system, the CPUC decided in June 2021, to discontinue approval of new work credits for allocation after December 31, 2022, and effective immediately, the unregulated practice of trading of Rule 20A work credits is banned, with one or two exceptions.
For over 50 years, the Rule 20A program has funded conversion of less than 1% (0.017% to be exact) of overhead electrical facilities – WHY? Utility companies have been allowed to collect millions in taxpayer dollars for years with very little progress to show for it! With $1.56 billion in unused and un-committed Rule 20A work credits, why were utilities and communities allowed to accumulate such credits without little to no oversight? How were utility companies allowed to engage in an unsanctioned secondary work credit marketplace where some communities could sell, trade or donate their unused work credits to other communities?
How much longer do we have to wait and how much more devastation, death and destruction do taxpayers have to endure before serious action is taken to underground powerlines? To mitigate the risk of sparking wildfires, some utilities have opted to turn off power during certain weather conditions. While this may sound like a good idea, it would be disastrous for the health, safety and economic well-being of our communities. The time for action is long overdue and it is imperative that a viable solution be found sooner rather than later to avoid any further suffering and hardship by Orange County taxpayers.
BARTLETT BULLETIN
Fly Friendly Program Takes Flight at JWA
I'm pleased to report John Wayne Airport (JWA) has announced the launch of Fly Friendly, an education and outreach program designed to minimize noise and environmental impacts from General Aviation (GA) – or private use – jet aircraft around the surrounding communities.
Rooted in the concerns of the surrounding communities and the Newport Beach Aviation Committee, Supervisor Foley, Second District, took a proactive approach in establishing a program aimed at reducing measurable noise and pollution.
When Newport Beach and Costa Mesa became part of my district, both Supervisor Foley and I joined forces and enthusiastically committed to the continued progress toward the implementation and launch of the program. The process consisted of many months of collaboration with residents, aviation industry professionals, and County representatives culminating in the creation of the Airport’s first voluntary Fly Friendly program.
Though JWA already has one of the most stringent aircraft noise monitoring programs in the United States, Fly Friendly builds upon existing regulations by outreaching directly to GA jet operators using toolkit materials available here and seeking voluntary adoption of best practices for quieter, cleaner flights.
GA jet operators will receive points based on the following voluntary actions:
Avoiding nighttime and early-morning operations, when possible;
Producing the least amount of measurable noise per year;
Engaging pilots with noise abatement education, distributing Fly Friendly materials, and/or attending Orange County community meetings focused on aviation impacts; and
The program goal is for community members living under and near the flight path to experience less noise by GA jet operators voluntarily adopting the recommended pilot instructions and best practices of the Fly Friendly program.
John Wayne Airport has consistently ranked in the top three among large airports in the nation in terms of guest experience and customer satisfaction, and takes great pride in being a good neighbor. When planes fly in and out of John Wayne Airport, they are not just utilizing the Airport – they’re flying over neighborhoods. I ask our general aviation jet operators to keep this in mind and strongly encourage their voluntary participation in the Fly Friendly program.
A key component of Fly Friendly, as compared to other ‘’fly quiet” programs in operation at airports nationwide, is an environmental stewardship and sustainability category designed to support healthy, biologically-diverse ecosystems that provide residents with cleaner air, water, and recreational areas by offsetting some environmental impacts from GA jet aircraft. To learn more about Fly Friendly, click here or email FlyFriendly@ocair.com. To read the full press release, click here.
South County Multimodal Transportation Study
In addition to serving you on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, I'm also honored to serve you on the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors.
As such, I'm pleased to report the South Orange County Multimodal Transportation Study looks at a range of transportation needs and solutions over the next 25 years, including improvements to streets, bus and other transit options, highways and bikeways.
Since the study’s launch in 2020, OCTA has remained engaged with the public, key stakeholders and partner agencies to develop long-term strategies for continuing to improve transportation for South Orange County. Potential solutions that are being analyzed include:
Improvements to streets, including traffic signal synchronization and upgraded technologies to accommodate for connected and autonomous vehicles
Continuing to fund programs for cities and communities to operate shuttle services
Enhancing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure
OCTA will continue working with stakeholders and partner agencies over the next few months to develop a locally preferred strategy. The study is scheduled to be completed this month. For more information, click here.
Ladera Ranch: Fiber Optic Equipment Installation
Antonio Parkway Road Grinding and Resurfacing
Fun & Affordable Family Getaways on Metrolink
Between the high cost of gas and inflation, some families are foregoing their summer vacation. But why stay home when world-class destinations are an affordable train ride away?
A Metrolink train trip can put your vacation back on track; and right now, there’s a chance to win four round-trip tickets and a $100 gift card. Enter for a chance to win here!
On weekends, a family of four with two kids 17 and under can travel all day Saturday or Sunday for only $20. And the travel itself is part of the fun! Metrolink train cars are cool, safe and comfortable for a relaxing journey with no traffic and time to focus on family.
Metrolink fans give these destinations two thumbs up for families:
San Juan Capistrano - Within an easy walk from the station, there’s a lovely area called the Los Rios District, the oldest neighborhood in California. Walk the shady lane and visit one-of-a-kind restaurants and shops, and a petting zoo. Also in town is the famous Mission, featuring many programs for kids.
San Clemente - Some of California’s best stretches of wide sandy beaches are within steps of the Metrolink station. Bring your boards and bikes. it’s easy on the train! The train stops at the beach and restaurants are nearby.
Los Angeles - The City of Angels is packed with fun places to visits like Chinatown, historic Olvera Street, museums and amazing restaurants.
Buena Park - Summer isn’t complete without a visit to Knotts Berry Farm and its very cool roller coasters. For jousting and knights in armor, check out Medieval Times.
Check out other family-friendly ideas here. For inspiration about places to go and great deals at restaurants and more, stop by the Metrolink Daycations website.
On weekends, adults ride throughout the Metrolink system for only $10 Saturday or Sunday and kids 17 and under ride free. On any one weekday, the adult fare for unlimited rides throughout the Metrolink system is only $15. Check out 42 trip ideas from 14 stations and enter to win today.
Connect to Fun with Car-Free, Carefree Shuttles
With help from OCTA, Orange County cities in the 5th District are offering summer shuttle services. Many began Memorial Day weekend. Funded in part by OC Go, the shuttles cost little or nothing to ride and provide convenient car-free service to popular destinations including festivals, the beach and shopping. OC Go, also known as Measure M, is the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements.
Many summer shuttles connect to one another, as well as to OC Bus and Metrolink stops, making it easier to travel to popular destinations without a car. Shuttle services allow residents to avoid driving and parking hassles while enjoying what Orange County has to offer. And with the high cost of gas, low-cost transportation options should be more welcome than ever. All the shuttles are free on weekends.
Check out these fun, convenient summer fun travel options in the 5th District!
Shuttles are operated by local jurisdictions. OCTA continues to work closely with cities in monitoring ridership and evaluating costs. For more information, click here.
World Animal Protection: Dana Point Aquatic Life
Join Camp Do Good: Give Blood - August 29
OC Summit on Antisemitism and Hate - Aug. 30
Monkeypox Vaccine Administration Guidelines
First West Nile Virus Case of 2022 in OC
OC Microbusiness Grant Awards Re-Launch
5th DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT
90th Anniversary Celebration of Festival of Arts
Last weekend, I had the great pleasure of presenting a proclamation in honor of the 95th anniversary celebration for the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach. The proclamation was presented to Festival of Arts (FOA) Board President David Perry.
Since its founding during the Great Depression in 1932, the Festival of Arts Fine Art Exhibit has become a world-renowned destination for art-lovers from around the globe, drawing millions of visitors over the last nine decades to Laguna Beach. The Festival has also been instrumental in exhibiting the work of thousands of local artists and artisans, over its 90-year history.
Beginning in 1933, the Festival has presented “living pictures” at the first “Spirit of the Masters” Pageant, which later became known as, and remains, Pageant of the Masters. And in 1941, the Festival built and dedicated the Irvine Bowl amphitheater and grounds, home to the annual Fine Art Show and Pageant of the Masters.
In 1947, the Festival established the Junior Art Gallery, showcasing the works of thousands of Orange County students, highlighting the value and importance of arts education. And since its establishment in 1957, the Festival of Arts Scholarship program has provided nearly $3.5 million in financial assistance to hundreds of qualifying Laguna Beach college-bound students.
In 1962 the Festival participated in the founding of the Laguna Beach School of Art, which later became the Laguna College of Art and Design.
And in 1989. the Festival of Arts provided a $1.5 million donation establishing the non-profit Laguna Beach Festival of Arts Foundation in order to assure annual support for the arts in Laguna Beach.
In 2010, the Festival opened and dedicated the foaSOUTH gallery, which serves Laguna Beach visitors and residents throughout the year by the Festival-related exhibitions.
The Festival is an art institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting artwork significant to the rich cultural history of the Festival of Arts and Laguna Beach.
In 2017, the Festival completed a spectacular multi-million dollar, award-winning renovation project of its façade and grounds for use not only by the organization, but also by various local non-profits. To that end, the Festival of Arts has been and remains a beloved cultural and community partner. I was honored to recognize the Festival of Arts on the milestone of its 90th anniversary. For more information, click here.
Casa Romantica Celebrates its 95th Anniversary
This week, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens celebrated its 95th anniversary with a special commendation from my office, recognizing the center's commitment to history, culture, and community. The proclamation was presented by my Community Relations Advisor, Sergio Prince, during a President’s Circle event, where philanthropic supporters of the iconic cultural center and arts destination gathered across the stunning Casa Romantica grounds for an exclusive event to thank them for their support.
The magnificent estate was built 95 years ago for the San Clemente city founder, Ole Hanson and his family, which became the building blocks for the development of the rest of the city.
“We are proud to be a vibrant destination for people of all ages to share special, inspiring experiences. As a historical landmark bringing together generations, we can’t think of a better way to reflect on Casa Romantica’s past than through unique events and experiences that represent the history and cultural evolution of Southern California,” shared Casa Romantica Executive Director Amy Behrens. “Casa Romantica offers something for everyone to enjoy throughout the year, with both free and fundraising events of all types. We hope you will come celebrate the beauty of art, culture, and history with us for our 95th year.”
The 95th anniversary commendation declared, “Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett does hereby take great pleasure in congratulating Casa Romantica upon the momentous occasion of celebrating its 95th anniversary in San Clemente, commends Ole Hanson’s home for continuing to serve as an invaluable cultural and civic resource, and further extends sincere best wishes for continued success in all future endeavors.”
Casa Romantica invites the public to join them with FREE admission Sunday, September 4 from 10 AM to 2 PM for its D. Yoder Family Sunday 95th Anniversary Celebration. There will be tile decorating, special docents located throughout the grounds sharing the history of the estate, live music, and celebratory cake.
For a complete list of events, more information, or to purchase tickets to upcoming events visit CasaRomantica.org and follow on social media at @CasaRomanticaSC.
Tijuana Dogs Summer Concert at Salt Creek
This week, I was pleased to introduce the headliner and popular Orange County band Tijuana Dogs at the OC Parks Summer Concert held at beautiful Bluff Park in Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. With well over 5,000 in attendance, a rockin' great time was had by all! For more information, click here.
Raya and the Last Dragon in Laguna Niguel
Last week, my office was pleased to introduce the OC Parks Sunset Cinema, Raya and the Last Dragon, at beautiful Laguna Niguel Regional Park. For more information, click here.
TURF in Newport Beach
My office was pleased to present a commendation in honor of TURF in Newport Beach, where the Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony this week. Members will benefit from TURF's active lifestyle center for private and group training classes of spin, strength training, and most other sweaty pursuits! Please join me in welcoming TURF to the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce!
STRETCH LAB in San Clemente
My office was also pleased to present a certificate of recognition to Stretch Lab in San Clemente, where the Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony this week. Stretch Lab's team of highly trained Flexologists® are to be commended for giving their members a much deeper stretch than they could have ever achieved on their own! Please join me in welcoming Stretch Lab to the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce!
COUNTY OF ORANGE COVID-19 UPDATE
COVID-19 Orange County Case Counts by Cities
The OC Health Care Agency continues to release daily COVID-19 case counts in Orange County. As of today, HCA is reporting 653,562 positive cumulative cases and 7,303 deaths to date, as well as 271 currently hospitalized with 36 in ICU.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: HCA has transitioned to publicly reporting COVID-19 data to two days a week following the change in reporting by CDPH. Specifically data on COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, ICU numbers and bed availability, and deaths will be reported on our dashboards Tuesdays and Fridays. Other data (e.g. testing positivity, variants, vaccinations) will continue to be updated on a weekly basis.
COVID-19 Messages from Health Care Agency
Preparing for COVID-19 Vax for Young Children
HCA: Why Is It so Important to Get Vaccinated?
Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, County Health Officer at the OC Health Care Agency (HCA), has a video message to help explain why it's important to get vaccinated. To view the video, click here or on the image below.
For informational town hall events and more educational videos related to COVID-19 vaccination, visit the OC COVID-19 homepage.
HCA Update on Boosters and Additional Doses
The CDC has updated its guidance on COVID-19 booster shots and additional doses for people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised, including recommendations for people who received the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine, as well as updated time intervals between doses.
The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) has an infographic to help you understand all of the information about boosters and additional doses. Click here or on the image below to download the information.
CRITTER CHRONICLES
OC Animal Care is NOW OPEN for Appointments!
Orange County Pet of the Week: Meet Remington
Orange County Pet Licensing Information
Lost and Found Community Pet Information
Let's Paws: Coyote Awareness
Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworm Prevention
OUT & ABOUT SAFELY IN THE FIFTH DISTRICT
OC Parks Sunset Cinema Series - August 19
Ladera Ranch Farmers Market is Every Sunday!
Laguna Beach: Music in the Park - August 21
Music in the Park is a free public concert series held Sunday evenings through August 21 at Bluebird Park in Laguna Beach. Concerts start at 5:00 p.m. See a list of upcoming concerts below. For more information, click here.
Performers:
8/21 - LA Sound Machine (Gloria Estefan)
Newport Beach: Summer Concerts - August 21
The City of Newport Beach presents its annual Summer Concerts Series on the Green, featuring an array of performers for your entertainment. Unless otherwise noted, all concerts are held on the Newport Beach Civic Center Green (100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach). Admission and parking are free, on a first come, first served basis. See the list below for upcoming concerts. For more information, click here.
August 21 - Young Guns (Country Cover Band)
September 18 - Britain’s Finest (Beatles Tribute)
October 2 - Stone Soul (At Marina Park)
OC Parks Summer Concert Series - August 25
Dana Point: Classic Car Show - August 28
Ladera Ranch: Concerts in the Park - Aug. 28
Bring a blanket and lawn chairs, pick up dinner and treats from local restaurants, and enjoy an evening of music in the park this summer in Ladera Ranch. See below for a list of upcoming concerts and more information:
For those of you who may have missed any of my previous Fifth District Dispatch newsletters, featuring up-to-date COVID-19 facts and other information pertinent to South County, click here.
Thank you so much for your outstanding and continuing efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Orange County, as we're all in this together!
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
Sergio.Prince@ocgov.com
.