Policy Pulse: May 1, 2026
- ACC-OC
- 4 hours ago
- 8 min read
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 activities such as superhero training, an interactive scavenger hunt, gaming sessions, and attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! The day concluded with a private celebration, creating memorable moments for wish families and highlighting the impact of longstanding community partnerships.
ACC-OC, in partnership with University of California, Irvine, hosted a timely and impactful Wildfire & Emergency Communications Webinar as part of its BOLD (Better Opportunities for Learning and Development) Program under the Energy, Environment and Water Committee, chaired by Council Member Alex Rounaghi of Laguna Beach.
The webinar brought together experts and regional leaders to examine the increasing complexity of wildfire risks across Southern California and the urgent need for more effective emergency communication strategies. Dr. Amir AghaKouchak shared insights on changing fire conditions, climate-driven extremes, and key lessons learned from recent wildfire events, while Dr. Jun Wu highlighted the importance of addressing communication gaps that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations.
Discussions focused on practical strategies to strengthen community preparedness, improve alert systems, and ensure critical information reaches those most at risk. The webinar underscored the importance of collaboration among public agencies, researchers, and community stakeholders in building more resilient, informed communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared—click here to register for AlertOC!
Kris Murray, ACC-OC’s Executive Director, attended the City of Dana Point’s 2026 State of the City, hosted in partnership with the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together business leaders, real estate professionals, community organizations, and regional stakeholders for an engaging evening celebrating the city’s progress and distinctive coastal culture. Attendees heard directly from Mayor John Gabbard on key updates, strong local leadership, and emerging opportunities for economic investment and growth. The program also provided valuable networking opportunities, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. ACC-OC appreciates the opportunity to be part of this meaningful event and to engage with leaders shaping Dana Point’s future.
Kathryn Morrison, ACC-OC’s Director of Member Services, attended the City of Anaheim’s 2026 State of the City, where leaders highlighted the city’s continued momentum and vision for the future. The event showcased ongoing investments in economic development, infrastructure, and community amenities, along with a strong emphasis on transparency and public trust. City leadership shared progress on revitalization efforts, park and public space enhancements, and initiatives aimed at supporting residents, businesses, and tourism—one of the city’s key economic drivers. The address underscored Anaheim’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive community while positioning itself for long-term growth and innovation. ACC-OC is proud to have the City of Anaheim as a member, and we look forward to its continued success.
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.
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! |
Sustain SoCal
Sustain SoCal is hosting two upcoming events focused on sustainability and community resilience, offering valuable insights and opportunities for engagement across Southern California.
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Community Resilience – Takeaways from the LA Fires
Join Sustain SoCal for a timely discussion on community resilience in the aftermath of the LA Fires. This conversation will explore expected and unexpected outcomes, highlight effective solutions, and examine how recovery efforts extend beyond impacted areas. Attendees will also gain perspective on how Orange County can better prepare for future disasters.
Details:
Wednesday, May 7
10:00 AM
Email info@sustainsocal.org for more information.
Urban Agriculture – Growth & Circularity
Sustain SoCal invites you to explore the future of urban agriculture and sustainability through an engaging, hands-on experience. Topics include irrigation and water management, food safety considerations, compostable products, and transforming waste streams into revenue opportunities. The program also includes guided tours of local sites.
Details:
Tuesday, May 19
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Rancho Mission Viejo – Ranch Camp
30225 Ranch Canyon, Mission Viejo
Santa Margarita Water District
The Water Festival returns for another unforgettable day of education, exploration, and family fun. This community favorite invites residents to learn about H2O, connect with their local water provider, and discover how water, wildlife, and sustainability work together to support our environment. Enjoy hands-on activities, bus tours, live shows, music, food, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Details:
Saturday, May 16
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
SMWD: 26111 Antonio Parkway, RSM
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.
Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA)
The Orange County Transportation Authority is reminding riders that OC Bus is fully transitioning to the new Wave fare payment system and magnetic-stripe paper passes will no longer be accepted onboard buses as of Friday (May 1).
The transition is part of OCTA’s ongoing efforts to modernize how customers pay for transit, creating a more secure, reliable and seamless payment experience. The sale of paper passes ended months ago and OCTA has been actively communicating with riders to ensure they are aware of the change.
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.
First 5 OC
First 5 OC recently co-hosted a community forum on the Conditions of Children in Orange County with Board of Supervisors Chair Doug Chaffee and the Social Services Agency.
The forum highlighted the county’s child care shortages, especially for infants and toddlers. It featured a data overview and panel discussion with Dr. Sue Johnson, Johanna Perez, and Mike Daniels, who shared innovative local solutions. These conversations help drive collaborative action to improve child care access in Orange County.
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.
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
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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