Policy Pulse: April 24, 2026
- ACC-OC
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read
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 sincere appreciation to the exceptional speakers and leaders who made this event so impactful:
Supervisorial Welcome
Orange County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Katrina Foley
Remarks:
Dr. Jo Ellen Chatham, Director of Concordia University Irvine’s Center for Civics Education
Donna Boston, Business Resiliency Principal Manager, Southern California Edison
Keynote Speaker
Annette M. Walker, M.H.A., President, City of Hope Orange County
Panelists
Dr. Dyonne Bergeron, Vice Chancellor, Office of Inclusive Excellence, UC Irvine
Antonia Castro-Graham, Sr. Vice President of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Avantus and Adjunct Professor, California State University Fullerton
Christina R. Romero, M.A. Executive Director Office of College Advancement Santa Ana College
Event Leadership
Natalie Rubalcava, Council Member, City of Anaheim (Event Chair)
Nicole Suydam, President & CEO, Goodwill Orange County (Master of Ceremonies)
Kris Murray, Executive Director, Association of California Cities – Orange County (Moderator)
Their insightful perspectives on leadership, resilience, and empowering others sparked thoughtful dialogue and meaningful engagement throughout the program. We are grateful for their time, expertise, and commitment to advancing and empowering women leaders across Orange County.
We also extend a special thank you to Melinda Andrade with Todd Priest & Associates for her leadership in guiding the planning committee and helping bring this successful event to life
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.
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! |
CalOptima Health
CalOptima Health, in partnership with AltaMed Health Services and the City of Santa Ana, launched a Street Medicine Program to serve people experiencing homelessness, delivering comprehensive health care via a mobile doctor’s office and providing a path to permanent housing. According to the City’s point-in-time count in 2025, approximately 500 people are unsheltered in Santa Ana, and many of them may benefit from the new program.
City of Dana Point
City of Dana Point is shutting down the entire street of Del Prado in Dana Point again this spring to bring you over 200 vendors, music, food and drinks. This is their signature event and free to the public, do not miss this chance to shop some of the best vintage home, clothing and surf you have ever seen in one place.
Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA)
California’s largest toll road network marks a major milestone as accounts continue to grow across the region
The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA)—operator of the 420 lane miles of The Toll Roads, responsible for planning, designing, financing, constructing and operating the network—has surpassed 3 million accountholders, marking a major milestone that reflects sustained growth in customer adoption and trust in The Toll Roads.
Orange County Power Authority
Join Orange County Power Authority for a free virtual webinar designed to help residents better understand their electricity bills and identify practical ways to reduce energy costs. Topics include how to read your bill, understanding rates and tariffs, available discount and payment assistance programs, and energy-saving tips, along with OCPA resources and rebates for customers.
The webinar will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. via Zoom, and is free to attend.
City of Yorba Linda
Join Yorba Linda's largest community service event, Love Yorba Linda 2026, on Saturday, April 25th. A big gathering will start at 8:00 am at Hureless Barton Park, followed by nearly 1,000 volunteers spreading out across the community from 9:30 am to noon, beautifying, serving, and giving their time to demonstrate the impact of love. All ages are encouraged to participate; there will be free food, gifts, and a t-shirt, and students will receive volunteer hours. This event is sure to be a fun-filled experience that you don’t want to miss!
National CORE
National CORE has been awarded $5 million from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) through its Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) Lasting Affordability Program. The funding will expand National CORE’s Catalyst Fund, a financing tool designed to accelerate affordable housing production.
OC Forum
OC Forum’s upcoming program, “Is A College Degree Still Valuable?” brings together leaders from higher education and the business community to discuss education’s evolving role in Orange County. The conversation will focus on workforce readiness, innovation, and long‑term regional impact.
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!
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.
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