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Policy Pulse: June 6, 2025

  • Writer: ACC-OC
    ACC-OC
  • Jun 6
  • 5 min read

As the Disneyland Resort celebrates its 70th anniversary, it’s doing more than marking a milestone — it’s making a monumental impact. According to the newly released 2025 Economic Impact Study, the Disneyland Resort contributed more than $16 billion to Southern California’s economy, supporting over 123,000 jobs across the region.


This economic benefit extends far beyond the resort gates — fueling local businesses, strengthening workforce opportunities, and uplifting communities throughout the region. It’s a powerful reminder of what Walt Disney envisioned when he first dreamed up “The Happiest Place on Earth”: a place where imagination meets innovation and where local prosperity can thrive alongside world-class entertainment.


As we reflect on 70 years of storytelling, creativity, and community, Disneyland continues to be a driving force for good — both in magic and in measurable impact.



EVENT SOLD OUT

We are proud to share that this year’s Golden Hub of Innovation Awards received more than 60 outstanding nominations. Thank you to everyone who submitted! Your engagement reflects the remarkable innovation and dedication taking place throughout Orange County, and we look forward to celebrating your achievements.


Event Sold Out - Please Email Lauren Kline at lkline@accoc.org with any questions.

Click to View Nominees




Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) Project


This July, ACC-OC is partnering with OC Sanitation District (OC San) to spotlight their Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) Project—a next-generation solution for biosolids management that positions Orange County as a national leader in sustainability and innovation. Whether you're exploring biosolids alternatives, looking to build local capacity in sustainability, or simply interested in innovation in the public sector—this is a must-attend



Summer Legislative Reception & Orange County Non-Profit Expo


Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring the Orange County Non-Profit Expo and Live Music by 90's cover band Diego's Garage, featuring OCTA's CEO Darrell Johnson. Splash into summer with local leaders, community changemakers, and nonprofit champions - all at Orange County's favorite waterpark!


It Is Not Too Late To Advocate!

As a reminder, the South Coast AQMD is holding a Public Hearing Today, June 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM to consider final action on Proposed Amended Rules (PAR) 1111 & 1121 – NOx Reductions for Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces and Water Heaters.


Please note there is opportunity to make Public Comment by Zoom.

Zoom Webinar ID: 931 2860 5044


Click Here for participating instructions.

Click Here for Board Meeting Agenda.


Key Concerns:

Outdated Economic Analysis: The AQMD's economic assessment does not reflect current financial burdens, particularly affecting seniors, renters, and low-income households.

Energy Reliability Risks: The proposed rules risk reducing energy redundancy, leaving residents more vulnerable during brownouts and planned power shutoffs during emergency events.

Insufficient Community Outreach: There has been inadequate engagement with communities most impacted by these amendments.


ACC-OC remains committed to advocating a balanced, practical approach supporting environmental goals and economic feasibility.

ACC-OC Updated AQMD Comment Letter - May 2025



City Template SCAQMD




ACC-OC is proud to serve as the SoCalGas Regional Energy Pathways Program Ambassador for Orange County, helping cities and public sector organizations improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.

 

Benefits of Participating:

No-cost energy assessments to identify saving opportunities

Financial support for energy-efficient equipment upgrades

Expert guidance from energy professionals on best practices

Reduced energy consumption to meet state and local sustainability goals

Project management assistance to streamline implentation

 

Through programs like the Large Public Sector Program and Public Direct Install Program, eligible organizations can receive:

  • Whole facility energy audits to create customized energy-saving roadmaps

  • No-cost efficiency upgrades, including hot water insulation, low-flow fixtures, and commercial kitchen improvements

  • Rebates and on-bill financing for energy-efficient equipment installations

 

To learn more about how your city or organization can benefit, contact Marlene Barraza (mbarraza@accoc.org) to schedule a meeting or ask questions!

Large Public Sector Program


Public Direct Install Program



Sustain Southern California


Join Sustain SoCal at our 12th Annual Driving Mobility Event! This event, focused on sustainable transportation solutions, will include a professional program and extensive clean vehicle expo. Topics will include autonomous vehicles, EV battery recycling, vehicle to grid, fuel cell vehicles, and micro-transport.


Details:

Date: Thursday, June 26

Time: 1 pm - 7 pm

Location: UCI Beall Applied Innovation

50% off code: DM12ACCOC50



Kosmont


The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) has presented its highest honor, the Golden Bear Award, to Larry J. Kosmont, recognizing his decades of leadership, innovation, and impact in the field of economic development across the state.




Read their Press Release

CalOptima Health


Join CalOptima's Community Health Resource Fair!

  • Apply for CalFresh and Medi-Cal

  • Free food distribution and diapers while supplies last

  • Learn about the community resources for basic needs, health, & wellness and mental health resources

  • Enjoy family-fun: music, face-painting, balloons, and more!



Orange County United Way and 2-1-1OC


In April, Orange County United Way programs empowered residents through direct support, outreach, and education. Highlights include 211OC reaching nearly 4,000 people at community events, United to End Homelessness hosting impactful housing-focused conversations, and United for Financial Security securing $27 million in refunds through free tax prep. Meanwhile, students gained real-world insights through the Youth Career Connections Disney Speaker Series, fostering confidence and career readiness.







Read their Press Release



National CORE


National CORE continues to earn regional and national awards for its incredible new communities. The latest honor, a Pacific Coast Builders Conference Gold Nugget, goes to Santa Angelina, the senior community opened in 2024 on the campus of the Episcopal Church of the Blessed Sacrament.



City of Aliso Viejo


Join Aliso Viejo for an exclusive Legislative Meet and Greet—an evening designed to connect our local business community with the elected officials and policymakers who shape our economic landscape.


City of Anaheim


Celebrate 30 years of patriotic pride on Saturday, June 8, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM at Pearson Park in Anaheim.



Cox Communications

Community Grants – Orange County

 

Conservation & Sustainability: Funding available for projects or programs that promote positive environmental change in Orange County. Grants will be awarded between $5,000 and $25,000.

 

Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

Samueli Foundation

Breakaway Fund


Hard-to-Fund Needs: The Breakaway Fund is a $5M grantmaking initiative designed to invest in critical yet traditionally underfunded areas. This fund provides flexible, accessible funding for Orange County-serving organizations to pilot new, innovative ideas; upgrade essential infrastructure and technology; strengthen leadership capacity and retain key staff. The Breakaway Fund is structured to be responsive, low-barrier, and inclusive, ensuring that both emerging and established nonprofits have the resources needed to scale their impact without the constraints of


Application Deadline: June 13, 2025

Samueli Foundation

Build OC Fund


Capital Funding: A $5 million Build OC Fund to support Orange County-based nonprofits’ capital projects, consisting of individual grants up to $1M.


Application Deadline: June 27, 2025

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

Department of Interior

Fish and Wildlife Service

 

This program provides technical and financial support to conserve priority coastal ecosystems. Through cooperative agreements with conservation partners and landowners, including state and Tribal agencies, the Coastal Program aims to restore and protect fish and wildlife habitats on both public and private lands.

 

Application Deadline: September 30, 2025

Samueli Foundation

LFI and Leadership Accelerator Program


The Leading for Impact (LFI) and Leadership Accelerator program, run by the renowned Bridgespan Group, provides scholarship-supported access to strategic coaching, leadership development and peer-learning opportunities for 100 nonprofit executive teams. Through a mix of classroom workshops, team-led projects and executive coaching, LFI equips leaders with the skills and tools to strengthen their organizations, drive long-term sustainability and increase their community impact. Participating organizations contribute a portion of the program cost, ensuring shared investment in their growth and success.


Application Deadline: December 31, 2025


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