Orange County, California –In her first Annual State of the County address, Supervisor Katrina Foley shared that the State of the County is resilient and able to adapt due to a strong foundation. The event was held at the Old Orange County Courthouse, which was completed in 1901 and stood the test of time, even as Orange County has dramatically changed around it. In her remarks, Supervisor Foley said that Orange County families demonstrated incredible strength and resilience throughout the course of the pandemic and while facing many other challenges that impact our local families each and every day.
“Our County is resilient, adaptable, and strong. While the challenges in front of us are significant and complex, I am more optimistic than ever that we will solve them for Orange County through our collaboration, innovation, and engagement with all sectors of the community,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley. “Every child in Orange County – regardless of your zip code, neighborhood, or socioeconomic status – should have the opportunity to thrive and live up to their potential. We are creating a County of the future, where everyone can thrive.”
Supervisor Foley was introduced by Santa Ana Mayor Vincente Sarmiento. She then thanked her staff, the onsite Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and Sheriff’s Department, and welcomed the OCFA Color Guard, followed by a performance of the National Anthem by Emma Stechauner, a Costa Mesa High School graduate, and the pledge led by Tustin City Councilmember Letitia Clark.
Supervisor Foley’s remarks included a detailed description of both District and County improvements over the last year, resulting in the County’s strong foundation and the ability to adapt and overcome future challenges. From initially establishing COVID-19 vaccine clinics to reaching more than a 75% vaccination rate, strengthening and supporting local businesses, supporting Veterans, addressing homelessness through Project Homekey Motel Conversions, clearing of encampments, establishing more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices like all electric buses, Organic Waste diversion programs, improvements to the airport and its impacts, and supporting public safety through additional staffing, equipment, and prioritizing justice for victims of hate crimes. Supervisor Foley listed challenges and remedies that she and her colleagues worked to resolve over the last year, including partnering with local cities to better understand and support their needs.
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Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley joined the Board of Supervisors in 2021. She serves on the Airport Ad Hoc Committee & Fly Friendly working group, the Sober Living Home Ad Hoc Committee, and boards of the Orange County Transportation Authority, CalOptima, Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council, Law Library, Newport Bay & South Orange County Watershed Management Area Executive Committees & the Santa Ana River Flood Control Protection.