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ACC-OC Blog
OPEN SESSION
Policy, Education & Advocacy Led By ACC-OC
The Association continually provides expertise on a range of policy issues affecting stakeholders at the local, regional, state and national orbits. These contributions advance our ongoing mission to be the authoritative regional voice for public policy issues, with focus on: education that empowers, policy that is collaborative and advocacy that is service-oriented.
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Policy Pulse: May 1, 2026
This week, Disneyland Resort hosted the “Wishes Assemble” event at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Park, welcoming nearly 40 children with critical illnesses and their families for a special Make-A-Wish experience. Part of Disney’s “Week of Wishes,” which celebrates its 45-year partnership with Make-A-Wish, the event brought together notable guests including Anthony Mackie, Paul Bettany, MrBeast, Mark Rober, and Dude Perfect. Families participated in immersive

ACC-OC
5 days ago8 min read


Policy Pulse: April 24, 2026
The 4th Annual Orange County Women in Leadership Summit was a resounding success, bringing together an inspiring group of leaders for an engaging afternoon of meaningful conversation, strong connections, and great energy. The program highlighted the power of leadership, resilience, and the importance of lifting others as we lead—leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. As a program partner, ACC-OC is proud to have supported this impactful event. We extend our since

ACC-OC
Apr 247 min read


Policy Pulse: April 17, 2026
Join us for the ACC-OC Leadership Summit and the prestigious Golden Hub of Innovation Awards, where local leaders, innovators, and changemakers come together to shape the future of Orange County. This exclusive event will feature thought-provoking discussions on key issues facing the region, as well as highlight groundbreaking initiatives and collaborative solutions that are driving progress. The Golden Hub of Innovation Awards will recognize outstanding achievements in publi

ACC-OC
Apr 176 min read


Policy Pulse: April 10, 2026
Join us for the ACC-OC Leadership Summit and the prestigious Golden Hub of Innovation Awards, where local leaders, innovators, and changemakers come together to shape the future of Orange County. This exclusive event will feature thought-provoking discussions on key issues facing the region, as well as highlight groundbreaking initiatives and collaborative solutions that are driving progress. The Golden Hub of Innovation Awards will recognize outstanding achievements in publi

ACC-OC
Apr 109 min read


Policy Pulse: April 3, 2026
ACC-OC Executive Director Kris Murray and Director of Member Services Kathryn Morrison attended the City of Lake Forest’s Annual Meet the Mayor & State of the City on March 31 at the Lake Forest Performing Arts Center. The evening began with a networking reception hosted by the Lake Forest Chamber of Commerce, bringing together local business leaders, community members, and city officials for meaningful connection and collaboration. The program continued with Mayor Robert Peq

ACC-OC
Apr 310 min read


Policy Pulse: March 27, 2026
ACC-OC’s 2026 Sacramento Advocacy Trip brought city leaders face-to-face with state policymakers to discuss key issues impacting Orange County communities—including housing affordability, infrastructure funding, regulatory challenges, and public safety. Across more than 30 meetings, a clear message emerged: while the state is offering significant funding and policy opportunities, cities continue to face barriers in accessing these resources due to complexity, rising costs, an

ACC-OC
Mar 267 min read


Policy Pulse: March 20, 2026
We’re kicking off Q2 with a full lineup of programs designed to keep our members informed, connected, and ahead of the curve. Explore upcoming sessions covering key policy topics, industry insights, and unique learning opportunities. The OC Child Care Landscape Webinar: Challenges, Resources & Next Steps ACC-OC and First 5 Orange County invite you to a timely webinar on the recently published 2025 Orange County Child Care Landscape Study—a countywide look at the current suppl

ACC-OC
Mar 196 min read


Policy Pulse: March 13, 2026
ACC-OC’s delegation traveled to Sacramento this week for our 2026 Advocacy Trip, spending two days meeting with state leaders, legislative offices, and key agencies to advocate for priorities impacting Orange County cities. The program included discussions on critical issues such as energy, housing, fiscal policy, aging services, economic development, health and human services, transportation and water infrastructure. These conversations are an important opportunity to elevat

ACC-OC
Mar 136 min read


Policy Pulse: March 6, 2026
ACC-OC was proud to join city, county, and community leaders from across Orange County in celebrating the grand opening of Waste Management’s new recycling center in the City of Orange. This state-of-the-art facility represents an important investment in the region’s sustainability infrastructure, helping to improve recycling capacity, reduce landfill waste, and support a more circular economy for Orange County. ACC-OC remains committed to advancing sustainability as a key po

ACC-OC
Mar 68 min read


Policy Pulse: February 20, 2026
Join us for the 4th Annual Orange County Women in Leadership Summit as we embrace this year’s theme, “Lifting as We Lead.” Building on the success and momentum of past summits, this year’s event will once again bring together a diverse and engaged audience of female elected officials and community leaders from across the region. Join us as we focus on fostering strategic partnerships, strengthening networks, and empowering women leaders to uplift one another while shaping the

ACC-OC
Feb 206 min read


Policy Pulse: January 30, 2026
In case you missed it — here’s a look back at the 2025 Orange County Regional Holiday Mixer, where city leaders and partners came together to celebrate the season, strengthen regional relationships, and continue building collaboration for the year ahead. Now Open for ACC-OC Advocacy Trips 2026 ACC-OC Sacramento Advocacy Trip Join ACC-OC's Sacramento Advocacy Trip on March 9-10th! This exclusive opportunity allows attendees to engage directly with legislative leaders and inf

ACC-OC
Jan 304 min read


Policy Pulse: January 23, 2026
OCTA DELIVERING ON PROMISES MADE I-5 Improvement Project Breaks Ground This morning marked an exciting milestone with the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the OCTA I-405 to SR-55 Improvement Project. ACC-OC was proud to be represented and support this vital mobility project that will enhance transportation throughout Orange County and the region. It’s important to acknowledge OCTA’s collaboration and partnership with Caltrans, Federal Highway Administration, and the Cities of Irvi

ACC-OC
Jan 234 min read


Policy Pulse: January 9, 2026
On behalf of the ACC-OC Board and staff, we extend our best wishes for a strong and productive new year. As we kick off 2026, we’re excited to share our 2025 Year-End Report, highlighting the progress, milestones, and collective impact achieved over the past year. Thank you for being an essential part of ACC-OC’s work and success—we look forward to another year of collaboration, connection, and momentum ahead. Y’all are invited to dust off your boots and help us boot scoot

ACC-OC
Jan 95 min read


Policy Pulse: December 12, 2025
Thank you to everyone who joined us at this year’s Orange County Regional Holiday Mixer! We were thrilled to celebrate the season with partners, local leaders, and community members from across the region. A special thank-you to our Co-Hosts: League of California Cities OC Division Orange County Business Council (OCBC) OC Taxpayers Association And a big thank-you to our generous Sponsors: West Coast Arborists Jacob Green & Associates Cityside Fiber Woodruff & Smart Kosmon

ACC-OC
Dec 12, 20257 min read


Policy Pulse: December 5, 2025
This week, ACC-OC hosted a BOLD webinar providing an overview of the upcoming federal changes to HUD’s Continuum of Care (CoC) program for FY 2025. These updates will influence how cities plan, coordinate, and administer homelessness services in the year ahead. With Orange County’s $33 million in CoC funding at risk of not being renewed next year, more than 1,800 residents in Permanent Housing and 375 in Rapid Re-Housing could lose support and face returning to homelessness.

ACC-OC
Dec 5, 20257 min read


Policy Pulse: November 28, 2025
ACC-OC is thankful for our cities and affiliate members whose leadership and collaboration strengthen communities across Orange County. Wishing everyone a warm and joyful Thanksgiving holiday weekend. This month, Director of Member Services Kathryn Morrison had the honor of attending Champagne, Courage & Cause, a signature Women Veterans Interactive Foundation event hosted at the historic Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia. As an Army veteran, Kathryn shared that s

ACC-OC
Nov 28, 20257 min read


Policy Pulse: November 21, 2025
ACC-OC held its final 2025 Board of Directors Meeting and Annual Business Meeting on November 19, 2025. Thank you to the many city officials who joined us and helped drive insightful conversations that will shape our priorities for the year ahead. We also conducted the election of the 2026 Board of Directors and look forward to officially welcoming our new board on January 15th at the 2026 Board Installation & Reception. Stay tuned—registration will open soon! ACC‑OC Executiv

ACC-OC
Nov 21, 20258 min read


Policy Pulse: November 7, 2025
On Thursday, November 6, ACC-OC, in partnership with the Orange County Sports Commission and Orange County Business Council, welcomed Orange County Mayors, council members, and city managers to a countywide briefing on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games. The discussion focused on preparing our communities to maximize the opportunities these global events will bring to our region. Attendees learned about anticipated local impacts, opportuni

ACC-OC
Nov 7, 20257 min read


Policy Pulse: October 31, 2025
This week, ACC-OC Director of Member Services, Kathryn Morrison, attended the Orange County Taxpayers Association’s Roses and Radishes Awards 2025. It was inspiring to see Sheriff Don Barnes honored with the Royalty Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to keeping Orange County safe. ACC-OC was also honored to sit with our valued board member, Southern California Edison, and celebrate alongside so many community leaders committed to advancing good

ACC-OC
Oct 31, 20257 min read


Policy Pulse: October 24, 2025
Marlene Barraza, ACC-OC’s Director of Communications, attended the 4th Annual Energy and Sustainability Summit at Cal State Fullerton.The event featured insightful discussions on sustainability, energy efficiency, and community resilience. Panelists included: Panel 1: Senator Bob Archuleta Panel 2: Supervisor Katrina Foley (5th District), Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento (2nd District), and Buena Park Vice Mayor Connor Traut Panel 3: Kristi Bastiste, Emergency Manager for the Cit

ACC-OC
Oct 24, 20255 min read
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