Policy Pulse: April 10, 2026
- ACC-OC
- Apr 10
- 9 min read
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 public policy, innovation, and community impact, honoring those who are making a difference in our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with top decision-makers, celebrate exceptional leadership, and be part of the conversation that shapes Orange County’s future!
June 24, 2026 I 4:30-8:00 PM
The Nixon Library, Yorba Linda
Event Includes:
4:30 - Cocktail Reception
5:30 - Dinner Service & Keynote Address
6:45 - Golden Hubs of Innovation Awards
The Golden Hub of Innovation Awards recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations in Orange County for their exceptional creativity and leadership in driving innovation across various sectors, fostering progress and prosperity within our communities.
Join us on Friday, April 17 for the 4th Annual Orange County Women in Leadership Summit, themed “Lifting as We Lead,” at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa. This inspiring event will bring together female elected officials and community leaders from across the region for engaging panel discussions, meaningful networking, and actionable insights to support and elevate women in leadership.
A few spots remain—secure your seat today!
For registration or to inquire about remaining sponsorship opportunities, please contact Director of Program and Operations Lauren Kline (lkline@accoc.org).
On April 8, ACC-OC partnered with Kosmont Companies to host the Sports, Places, and Entertainment – Enhancing the Orange County Economy webinar, a BOLD Program under the Economic Development and Tourism Committee, chaired by Irvine Vice Mayor James Mai. The discussion explored how sports and entertainment projects—from youth sports complexes to large-scale destination venues—can serve as powerful drivers of economic growth and community revitalization across Orange County.
Kosmont President Ken Hira and Evan Eleff of Sports Facilities Companies shared insights on the broad benefits of these developments, including job creation, increased tax revenues, and the ability to attract private investment. Speakers also emphasized the importance of thoughtful planning to strengthen community identity, activate underutilized spaces, and create long-term value for residents and businesses.
The webinar further explored practical implementation strategies such as public-private partnerships, financing tools, and best practices for cities advancing similar initiatives. Attendees left with valuable insights on how local governments can leverage sports and entertainment assets to build stronger economies while fostering vibrant, connected communities.
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.
Wildfire & Emergency Communications Webinar
Join ACC-OC and UC Irvine for an important conversation exploring both the evolving wildfire landscape and the critical role of effective emergency communication.
April 30, 12:30 - 1:30 PM
SONGS Decommissioning Project Tour
Join ACC-OC and Southern California Edison and Todd Priest & Associates to tour San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station decommissioning process before the domes are permanently dismantled.
June 18, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
ACC-OC 2026 Washington DC
Advocacy Trip
Be part of the ACC-OC 2025 Washington D.C. Advocacy Trip, where Orange County leaders come together to champion regional priorities at our Nation’s Capitol.
ACC-OC is proud to be the Regional Energy Pathways Program Ambassador for Orange County, connecting cities and public sector organizations with energy-saving opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Large Public Sector Program | Public Direct Install Program |
Statewide WISE Program
Want to learn more about how your city or organization can benefit?
Contact Marlene Barraza at (mbarraza@accoc.org) to schedule a meeting or ask questions! |
5th Annual Orange County Supplier Outreach Event
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You are invited to join the County of Orange at the 5th Annual Orange County Supplier Outreach Event, a large-scale regional event that has grown beyond procurement into a dynamic forum on economic development, tourism, sports, and major global events like the World Cup and LA28 Olympics. Featuring City Manager and Chamber panels, the event will bring together public agencies, business leaders, and community members from across Southern California. With over 2,000 expected attendees, it offers a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate, and explore regional growth initiatives.
Following the event, attendees are invited to a VIP Mixer at the Anaheim Hilton to continue conversations and network with regional leaders in a more informal setting.
West Coast Arborists (WCA)
West Coast Arborists is advancing public engagement through customized “Tree Benefits” websites, powered by each city’s tree inventory data. Led by GIS Manager Andrew Pineda, these platforms provide transparent, easy-to-understand insights into the environmental and community benefits of urban forests—supporting climate action goals and increasing public awareness. The City of Anaheim offers one example of how this tool is helping showcase the value of local tree canopies.
Orange County Power Authority (OCPA)
Orange County Power Authority has announced the issuance of green prepayment bonds, a strategic step to secure long-term energy cost stability while advancing clean energy procurement. This financing approach allows OCPA to lock in a portion of its energy supply at favorable rates, supporting rate predictability for customers and reinforcing the agency’s commitment to reliable, sustainable power.
First 5 OC
First 5 Orange County, in partnership with the Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF) is supporting cities with increasing access to child care for their residents. As part of this effort, First 5 OC is collecting data on the procedures in place throughout the county that providers experience in their effort to open a child care business. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey by clicking this link provides access to a local land use survey that documents policies and planning procedures related to child care in Orange County. We are engaging land use and zoning officials across the County to ensure the data accurately reflects local processes and to identify areas where improvements may reduce barriers for both jurisdictions and child care providers.
City of Garden Grove
On March 31st, the City of Garden Grove and the Garden Grove Tourism Improvement District (GGTID) officially launched Grove District Transit, a new shuttle service connecting participating Garden Grove hotels to the Disneyland Resort.
“Garden Grove is a welcoming destination and an important part of the region’s visitor economy,” said Mayor Stephanie Klopfenstein. “With the launch of Grove District Transit, we are improving access for hotel guests and reinforcing Garden Grove as a convenient place to stay while visiting the Disneyland Resort”.
Southern California Edison (SCE)
Edison is proud to announce the 2026 Edison Scholars, recognizing outstanding high school seniors across our service area who are passionate about science, technology, engineering and math. This year, 30 students were selected to each receive a $50,000 college scholarship funded by the Edison International Foundation. The program supports students with big dreams who want to build careers that help solve real-world challenges and shape California’s clean energy future.
UC Irvine’s Department of Urban Planning and Public Policy (UPPP)
UC Irvine’s Department of Urban Planning and Public Policy (UPPP) are pleased to invite you to our 5th annual Career Fair! The Career Fair will take place on Wednesday, April 29th, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at University of California, Irvine.
Organizations participating in the Career Fair will have the opportunity to meet and network with over 120 current undergraduate, master's, and PhD students in our Urban Studies (B.A), Public Policy (MPP), Urban & Regional Planning (MURP), and Urban & Environmental Planning and Policy (Ph.D.) programs. Our students are industry-ready and eager to learn more about your companies and organizations!
Sustain SoCal
Celebrate thirteen years of mobility solutions! Sustain SoCal's signature Transportation event, Driving Mobility, is an ecosystem favorite.
Topics Include:
Electrification at Scale
Infrastructure Access
Energy Grid Preparedness
Building Up the Hydrogen Backbone
Public Transit Needs
Autonomous & Self-Driving Vehicles
Drones & Air Mobility
Software-Defined Logistics
Smart City Integration
Transportation Funding Needs
Sustain SoCal is now seeking professional speakers and sponsors as they develop their agenda. Contact info@sustainsocal.org!
Past expo participants include Karma Automotive, Lucid Motors, Rivian, Nissan, Kia, Honda, Ryvid, WattEV, and more!
Use code DM13ACCOC for 50% off
Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG)
Mark your calendar for the OCCOG 2026 Annual Conference, bringing together regional leaders and partners to discuss the future of Orange County. This signature event focuses on the critical issues shaping Orange County—from housing and transportation to innovation and regional partnerships—while providing valuable networking opportunities. Stay tuned for more details and registration information.
Orange County Water District (OCWD) & OC Sanitation District
The Orange County Water District (OCWD) and the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) unveiled a commemorative, limited-edition beer made with purified recycled water from the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS) during the 2026 WateReuse Symposium in Los Angeles. The beer, called GWRS Brew, was produced by Anaheim-based Brewery X and sponsored by H2O Innovations.
GWRS Brew Unveiled at National Water Reuse Conference
USA250 OC
One is known as “the Father of Our Country,” the other “the Grandfather of our Country.” One won the war for independence at home; the other won the war abroad.
Imagine a spirited chat between two of America’s most indispensable founders as they reflect on the fragile birth of a new nation and their visions for liberty and leadership. Enjoy Franklin’s mischievous wit and curiosity with Washington’s steady resolve and calm, commanding presence as they swap stories about their lives, the ideals that would shape and forge a nation, and their life-long friendship.
Join us for “A Conversation With Ben and George” on Saturday, April 11 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum located at 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd. in Yorba Linda. Admission is Free and attendees will also enjoy a discounted museum admission of $17.76 to the museum galleries, including the new America 250 Exhibit.
Space is limited so please RSVP soon.
For more information about America’s 250th birthday go to USA250-OC.com.
SoCalGas
SoCalGas is excited to deliver ways to learn about different energy-efficiency enhancements to help benefit your residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. These trainings and events are offered at no cost except where otherwise noted.
California Climate Investments
Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program
Grants to California communities and organizations to support projects that reduce the impacts of extreme heat and build long-term community resilience. Funding is intended for initiatives such as urban greening, cooling centers, heat mitigation strategies, and community-driven planning efforts that prioritize vulnerable populations. Projects should align with climate equity goals and deliver measurable environmental and public health benefits.
Upcoming Funding
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Service Trust
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Service Trust Grant
Grants to USA nonprofit organizations to improve the lives of injured military veterans
and their families. Funding is intended to support a range of services and programs
including, but not limited to, therapeutic and recreational activities, career training and
education, rehabilitation programs, shelters for the homeless, and the supply of
mobility items.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
Conejo Recreation and Park District (CRPD)
Capital Improvement Grant
Grants of up to $5,000 and grants of up to $25,000 to California nonprofit
organizations to enhance local parks and park facilities in eligible locations. Support is
given to capital improvement projects that reflect the needs of the local community.
This grant program is intended to help community groups initiate, organize, plan, and
implement a project in partnership with Conejo Recreation & Park District. Capital
improvement projects must be constructed on District property.
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
California Climate Investments
Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program
Grants and loans to California communities and developers for projects that integrate affordable housing with sustainable transportation and infrastructure improvements. Funding is intended to support transit-oriented development, active transportation, and community amenities that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase access to housing, jobs, and key destinations. Projects should prioritize disadvantaged and low-income communities and demonstrate measurable environmental and public health benefits.
Application Deadline: May 4, 2026
Charge Ready Transport Program
Infrastructure Funding
Grants to public agencies, transit operators, and fleet owners in California to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles. Funding is intended to assist with the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, helping reduce upfront costs and prepare fleets for electrification. The program can also strengthen applications for other competitive funding opportunities that require a demonstrated infrastructure plan.
Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program
Resilience & Disaster Preparedness Grant
Grants to states, tribes, and local governments across the United States to support infrastructure projects that strengthen community resilience against natural disasters. Funding is intended for initiatives that reduce wildfire and climate risks, enhance public safety, and deliver long-term, measurable risk reduction through proactive planning and mitigation efforts.
Application Deadline: July 23, 2026
Department of Housing and Community Development
Permanent Local Housing Allocation/ 2023 PLHA NOFA
This program provides long-term funding to support affordable housing, homeless prevention programs, and other housing-related projects. Funds are allocated based on California jurisdictions’ housing needs.
Application Deadline: June 30, 2027
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