Policy Pulse: June 19, 2026
- ACC-OC
- 2 days ago
- 8 min read
Event Sold Out - Registration Now Closed!
We’re stepping up to the plate for a home run conversation with Molly Jolly, President of Angels Baseball, to explore leadership, community impact, and the future of one of Orange County’s most iconic organizations. Jolly made franchise history as the ninth President of the Angels and the first woman ever appointed to the role. Entering her 26th season with the organization in 2026, she brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience spanning finance, operations, strategic growth, marketing, communications, and overall business strategy. In her current role, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the Club and helps shape the future direction of the Angels organization both on and off the field.
Event Details:
ACC-OC Leadership Summit and Golden Hub of Innovation Awards
The Nixon Library, Yorba Linda
June 24, 2026 I 4:30-8:00 PM
4:30 - Cocktail Reception
5:30 - Dinner Service & Keynote Address
6:45 - Golden Hubs of Innovation Awards
8:00 - Event Concludes
Questions? Email Lauren Kline, Director of Programs and Operations at lkline@accoc.org
On June 18, ACC-OC members participated in a special behind-the-scenes tour of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) Decommissioning Project, gaining a firsthand look at one of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects in California.
The tour provided participants with an overview of the plant’s history, current decommissioning activities, and the long-term plans for the site. Members also had the unique opportunity to view the facility before the iconic containment domes are permanently dismantled.
Attendees learned about the extensive safety measures surrounding the storage of used nuclear fuel and the successful transfer of spent fuel from wet storage pools to secure dry storage systems. Project representatives explained how the fuel is housed in sealed steel canisters and reinforced concrete structures designed to withstand earthquakes and other extreme events.
The group also received an overview of how materials generated during decommissioning are packaged and transported. Waste streams include concrete, metals, asbestos, components from the reactor and adjacent buildings, and spent nuclear fuel. Materials are transported by specially designed railcars approved and regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Disposal and storage destinations include facilities in Nevada, Utah, Texas, and Arizona. Much of the low-level waste generated during dismantlement is transported to the EnergySolutions facility in Clive, Utah.
The educational tour highlighted the importance of safety, environmental stewardship, and long-term planning as work continues to decommission the site and prepare it for future use. Participants also enjoyed the opportunity to engage directly with project experts and learn about the challenges and innovations involved in safely managing and transporting used nuclear fuel.
On June 15, ACC-OC joined regional business, water, and community leaders at the Municipal Water District of Orange County’s (MWDOC) Water Policy Forum & Dinner, which focused on one of California’s most significant water infrastructure initiatives: the Sites Reservoir Project.
The evening provided attendees with an in-depth look at the opportunities and challenges surrounding California’s water future. Panelists explored key topics including water rights, project costs, regional benefits, environmental considerations, and the next steps for advancing this critical water storage project.
The discussion was moderated by MWDOC Board President Larry D. Dick and featured an expert panel including Brian Thomas, Heather Dyer, Randall Neudeck, and Paul A. Weghorst, who shared diverse perspectives on the role of water reliability and long-term resource planning in supporting California’s growing communities and economy.
ACC-OC Executive Director Kris Murray was invited to lead attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, helping open an evening dedicated to thoughtful dialogue and collaboration on one of the state’s most pressing policy issues.
As California continues to address water supply challenges, forums such as this play an important role in bringing together stakeholders to discuss solutions that will help ensure a reliable and sustainable water future for generations to come.
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.
ACC-OC Summer Reception and Non-Profit Expo at Wild Rivers
Please join us for our annual Summer Reception and Non-Profit Expo with complimentary access to Wild Rivers!
This event is open to ACC-OC Members and their Families Only.
July 30, 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Transportation Corridor Agencies: Executive Briefing
Join our Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for our upcoming Better Opportunity for Learning and Development (BOLD) Program for an exclusive Executive Briefing with the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA).
August 20, 11:15 AM - 1:30 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! |
Giles – O’Malley Center for Leadership | CSU Fullerton
The Summer Leadership Institute aims to equip high school students with essential leadership tools and techniques that can be applied in school, community, and future careers, through workshops, group activities, leadership exercises, and opportunities for hands-on learning.
Graduates of the Summer Leadership Institute will receive a signed certificate from the Center commemorating their achievement.
For more information, please contact leadership@fullerton.edu
Download the PDF
Cityside Fiber
You're invited to Cityside Fiber's Groundbreaking Ceremony at Rancho Santa Margarita.
Speaker:
Rod Hanson
CEO, Cityside Fiber
Details:
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
10:00 - 11:30 am
The Bell Tower Regional
Community Center (Ballroom)
22232 El Paseo
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
City of Costa Mesa
The City of Costa Mesa is launching an initiative “Celebrate America 250 by Planting 250 Trees.”
Orange County Water District
Collecting water from a 2,650-square mile watershed – Southern California’s largest – the Santa Ana River (SAR), is a critical water source for the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which is managed by the Orange County Water District and provides a reliable, high-quality supply for 2.5 million residents.
This webinar will examine the SAR’s role in regional water reliability and the coordinated efforts to manage and protect this resource. It will highlight historic floods and legal battles that were ultimately settled by the 1969 Santa Ana River Judgment. A creation of the Judgement is the SAR Watermaster, whose role and responsibilities will be discussed as part of the effective water management of river flows upstream of and within Orange County. Participants will also receive a high-level overview of the major facilities, basins, dams, and wetlands that support operations throughout the watershed.
Featured speaker:
Roy Herndon, P.G., C.HG, Chief of Hydrogeology, Orange County Water District
Registration link:
Santa Margarita Water District
Santa Margarita Water District proudly recognized two remarkable leaders during its June 11 Board Meeting.
Director Betty H. Olson, Ph.D., was honored for more than 30 years of service to SMWD, and Director Saundra F. Jacobs was recognized for her 30 years of dedicated leadership on the Board of Directors.
Together, their six decades of service have helped shape policies, infrastructure investments, water reliability initiatives, environmental stewardship efforts, and financial decisions that continue to benefit SMWD customers today.
Thank you, Directors Olson and Jacobs, for your leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to providing reliable, sustainable, and high-quality water and wastewater services for our communities.
Representing the Office of Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner, Scott Voigts, District Director, and Saga Conroy, Community Outreach Director, presented official declarations recognizing Directors Olson and Jacobs for their contributions to the region's water future.During the presentation, Voigts offered heartfelt remarks highlighting the essential role SMWD plays in delivering high-quality drinking water and wastewater services that are often unseen by the community, as well as the importance of strong leadership in guiding those efforts.Directors Olson and Jacobs also received recognition from US Senator Adam Schiff, Congresswoman Young Kim, Congressman Mike Levin, State Senator Catherine Blakespear, and Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez.
Jamboree Housing
We’re proud to share that Salida del Sol received the Innovative Housing Award at the Affordable Housing Awards Breakfast!
Co-hosted by Orange County Community Housing Corporation/SteppingUP, The Kennedy Commission, and Affordable Housing Clearinghouse, the event celebrated its 40th anniversary this year, bringing together leaders and advocates dedicated to expanding affordable housing across Orange County.
City of Irvine
The City of Irvine officially joined the global bike‑share movement with the launch of a new fixed‑station Bike Share Pilot Program. The City announced the program with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a community bike ride.
The pilot program, a partnership with Drop Mobility, includes two initial locations — the Irvine Civic Center and University Town Center — featuring 20 pedal‑assist bicycles and two docking stations. All bicycles included in the program are Class 1 pedal‑assist models with a maximum assist speed of 18 miles per hour and a battery range exceeding 30 miles per charge. Users may select from monthly, annual, or Pay‑As‑You‑Go options based on their individual mobility needs.
USA250 OC
A recent survey by the U. S. Chamber of Commerce found that 92% of Americans agree that civics education is critical to the country’s success, yet only 66% believe it is working well. Eighty-six percent agree the country would be stronger if more people understood how government works. The good news – there is a simple, cost-effective way for cities to address civic education and celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States at the same time.
The best place to start is at the beginning – the beginning of the United States as a free, self-governing country. “Sharing the Spirit of America” is a national project to have Americans across the nation read the Declaration of Independence publicly, together, at the same time it was first read publicly on July 8, 1776. In California, that will be 3:00 p.m.
Bring your city staff and citizens together for half an hour at 3:00 p.m. on July 8. Ask volunteers to read different sections – unite beyond partisan and other differences to focus on our shared heritage. Celebrate America and let the initiators of “Sharing the Spirit of America know your business is joining in by going to https://hawaiiamerica250.org/share-your-reading-location . For what is happening in Orange County, check out https://www.usa250-oc.com/ .
Orange County Transportation Authority
The Orange County Transportation Authority was recognized at the 2026 American Council of Engineering Companies Orange County Engineering Excellence Awards, where Board Chair Jamey M. Federico received the organization’s Elected Official Award and Senior Project Manager Josue Vaglienty received the Inspiring Leader Award. The City of Santa Ana also received the Client of the Year Award, accepted by Mayor Valerie Amezcua, also an OCTA Board Member.
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
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
Community Resilience Centers Program
California Strategic Growth Council
$55 million available for planning and implementation of neighborhood resilience centers that provide shelter and resources during climate emergencies.
Applications Open: July 2
Wildfire Prevention Grants Program
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
Provides financial support (up to $70 million available) for projects that reduce the potential for destructive wildfire in and around communities.
Application Deadline: July 8
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