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Policy Pulse: December 20, 2024


It is with deep sadness that we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of former Orange Mayor Mark Murphy. Mark was not only a dedicated public servant but also a valued former member of the ACC-OC Board, where his leadership and vision left a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve. His contributions will not be forgotten, and his legacy of service will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

 

ACC-OC is proud to announce beginning in January 2025, we will serve as the SoCalGas Regional Energy Pathways Program Ambassador for Orange County, working to enhance energy efficiency across the region. Through this program, ACC-OC will provide cities and the public sector with actionable strategies, tools, and resources designed to reduce energy consumption and costs, promote best practices, and help meet local and state environmental goals. By supporting So Cal Gas initiatives to improve energy efficiency, ACC-OC will play a vital role in fostering healthier, more sustainable communities that are ready to embrace future opportunities.

 

Newly Elected Officials Orientation & Training


Join ACC-OC's Sacramento Advocacy Trip on March 31-April 1! This exclusive opportunity allows attendees to engage directly with legislative leaders and influence policies crucial to the region including transportation, infrastructure, housing, and other vital issues as we work to keep OC in LOCal Government.


Members who are unable to attend the entire event are welcome to join the Reception and Board Installation at no charge!

 

ACC-OC Sacramento Advocacy Trip


Join ACC-OC's Sacramento Advocacy Trip on March 17-18th! This exclusive opportunity allows attendees to engage directly with legislative leaders and influence policies crucial to the region including transportation, infrastructure, housing, and other vital issues as we work to keep OC in LOCal Government.



To find out more information about these events or to register, visit our upcoming events page!

 


Orange County United Way


The WelcomeHomeOC program has achieved significant milestones in housing support:

  • Total People Housed: 1,152 individuals across 775 households since inception.

  • Special Focus: 288 veteran households and 179 former foster youth have been housed.

  • 2024 Progress: 157 individuals and 102 households were housed, with 22% of the CalOptima contract goals completed.


Pipeline Updates:

  • 33 housing referrals in progress.

  • 27 housing units in the pipeline, with 17 already matched with households.


Property Engagement:

  • 160 property providers in the network, with 89 unique property owners having housed participants.


The program continues its impactful journey toward reducing homelessness and supporting vulnerable communities.

View the Report


 

Aleshire & Wynder


Please join the members of Aleshire & Wynder’s labor and employment law group to discuss new laws for 2025 and trends that impact many California employers, including:

  • Compliance tips regarding new leave laws, and the expansion of protected leaves

  • Compliance with the new law regarding Paid Family Leave

  • New restrictions on driver’s license requirements in job descriptions

  • Labor relations/PERB trends, and developments

  • Protecting your organization against the rise in retaliation claims

  • Other notable developments, including workplace violence prevention


Approval pending for 1.75 to 2.00 hours of General MCLE credit

Presenters: Alison Flowers, Khadijah Kenyatté, Joan Pugh Newman, and Monna Radulovich.

Location: Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar2 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607

Schedule: January 31, 2025, at 8:30 am

8:30 am: Check-in & Continental Breakfast

9:00 am - 11:15 am: Presentation

Tickets:

  • $60* (single attendee)

  • $100* (when two attendees from the same organization jointly register)

  • $140* (when three to five attendees from the same organization jointly register)

An additional service fee will be added during checkout. To register manually, contact lwest@awattorneys.com

Please register promptly, space is limited.

 

CalOptima Health


CalOptima Health has approved $19.73 million in new funding as part of its Housing and Homelessness Incentive Program (HHIP), aiming to address housing insecurity as a critical factor influencing health outcomes. This funding will enhance infrastructure to meet housing needs, foster partnerships with service providers, and develop innovative strategies to support vulnerable populations.

Since its launch in 2022, HHIP has achieved significant milestones, including funding 1,250 housing units, engaging 70 housing navigation providers, awarding equity grants to 18 community-based organizations, and initiating Street Medicine Programs in three cities. Additionally, over 534 individuals have been served through Orange County United Way’s Whatever It Takes housing initiative.

This latest investment underscores CalOptima Health's leadership in linking housing stability with improved health outcomes under California’s CalAIM framework. With a combined funding pool of over $160 million, the program continues to drive transformative, equitable solutions for Orange County's most at-risk residents.


Press Release


 

City of Irvine


Irvine City Manager Oliver C. Chi has announced several key executive appointments to strengthen the City's ability to advance strategic projects and initiatives, including building the Great Park, addressing community health and wellness needs, and executing the City's economic development strategy.


  • Heather Stratman has joined as Chief Health and Wellness Director, bringing over 25 years of executive leadership experience in Orange County. She will develop and implement elements of the City's safety net for at-risk populations.

  • Michelle Riske has been promoted to Human Resources Director, leading efforts to institute a team-oriented, values-infused, and performance-based organizational culture.

  • Sean Crumby will expand his role as Assistant City Manager – Great Park/External Operations, overseeing public works, transportation, sustainability operations, and Great Park development.

  • Pete Carmichael is transitioning to Assistant City Manager – Chief Development Officer, focusing on advancing the City's development opportunities and economic development strategy.


These appointments aim to support the City's efforts to expand community health, safety, and welfare, while ensuring Irvine maintains premier educational opportunities, balanced housing options, job growth, and a continued focus on infrastructure and community aesthetics.

 

Orange County Museum of Art


Orange County Museum of Art has welcomed nearly half a million visitors in the two years since opening, making OCMA the #1 most visited museum in their category in America! Your support plays a vital role in sustaining their programs and exhibitions — and with free admission and activities OCMA makes art accessible and welcoming to all. Support OCMA with a gift today—all end-of-year donations are matched 3 to 1! Triple your impact!



 

City of Laguna Beach


This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the Spark of Love Toy Drive, running from December 1, 2024 to December 24, 2024. Toy drop-off locations include Laguna Beach Fire Stations One, Two, Three, and Four, as well as City Hall and the Police Department.

Any new unwrapped toy must be in their original packaging or box. Sports equipment (balls/tennis racquets, baseball bats) is not required to have a box or package. Laguna Beach cannot distribute clothing, personal care items, blankets etc.

 

For questions related to the Spark of Love toy drive, please contact Captain/Paramedic Pat Cary at pcary@lagunabeachcity.net.


 

Department of Transportation


The Federal Grant Program supports local and state government agencies, tribal entities, metropolitan planning organizations, and eligible nonprofits in funding transportation infrastructure projects across the U.S. and its territories. The program funds planning, development, and capital projects that improve transportation infrastructure and enhance connectivity.

Deadline: 01/30/2025

Applicants must complete specific registrations before applying, which may require several weeks.



For detailed application requirements and additional information, visit the official page.

 

Department of Interior

 

This grant opportunity provides funding to organizations in areas related to public health, economic development, and community resilience. The program specifically supports the development of support systems and infrastructure improvements. This funding is aimed at projects that address regional and local needs in areas such as mental health services, community wellness, and economic recovery. To apply, eligible entities must meet specific eligibility criteria and deadlines. Visit the official site for more information.



See More Grants Below

 

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-Where Orange County Comes to Connect-

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