We’re thrilled to share that ACC-OC’s recent Better Learning Opportunity—a Metrolink briefing led by CEO Darren Kettle—was a great success! Held by the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and chaired by Fountain Valley Council Member Patrick Harper, the event provided an insightful look into Metrolink’s strategic vision for a more connected Southern California.
Darren Kettle, with over 30 years in transportation leadership, outlined Metrolink’s recent achievements, including a 21% ridership increase on the OC Line and enhancements like more frequent trains and flexible, customer-friendly scheduling. He highlighted future initiatives as Metrolink prepares to play a critical role in the upcoming 2028 Olympics. The session covered Metrolink’s $10 billion vision for modernizing Southern California’s rail infrastructure, and new projects like the Student Adventure Pass for free travel access. CLICK HERE to take a look at their website.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this informative event!
View the Powerpoint Presentation
It’s that time of year again! ACC-OC’s Regional Holiday Mixer is just around the corner, mark your calendars for an evening of festive fun, great conversations, and holiday cheer as we bring together local leaders, partners, and friends to celebrate the season in style.
Join ACC-OC and our partners, the League of California Cities Orange County Division, Orange County Business Council, OC Forum, and Orange County Public Affairs Association for this year's Annual Holiday Mixer at the Orange County Museum of Art for a festive evening celebrating our region.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with colleagues, make new connections, and kick off the holiday season with a bang!
Applications are now open for the 2025 ACC-OC Board of Directors. The ACC-OC Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of the organization, advocating for local government issues, and ensuring the voice of Orange County cities is effectively represented. Serving on the board provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with fellow civic leaders, contribute to regional initiatives, and help shape policy decisions that impact our cities.
We invite Member City Council Members to apply for a position on the 2025 Board of Directors. The application process is now open, and we encourage all interested councilmembers to submit their applications for eligible positions by Friday, November 8th.
ACC-OC has launched a series of Better Learning Opportunities. These opportunities are designed to be both enjoyable and enriching, providing valuable resources to all.
Don't miss out on any of these opportunities.
Combatting Veteran's Homelessness with Jamboree Housing
Join ACC-OC's Housing and Homelessness Committee with Jamboree Housing for this Better Learning Opportunity to learn about county efforts on housing solutions for veterans.
To find out more information about these events or to register, visit our upcoming events page!
CHOC & Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort and Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) have a heartwarming partnership that has grown over six decades, inspired by Walt Disney’s involvement in CHOC’s founding. This partnership supports children’s well-being through delightful, hands-on experiences within the hospital, such as Disney character visits, interactive installations like “Turtle Talk with Crush,” and memorable annual events, including the CHOC Walk. Disneyland’s contributions extend beyond entertainment, with over $50 million in donations and thousands of volunteer hours from Cast Members. This collaboration uplifts patients and families during challenging times, spreading Disney magic where it’s needed most.
For more, read the article.
California Public Utilites Commission
Join the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on November 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for a webinar on new energization timelines aimed at improving wait times for electrical service connections across California. This event, spurred by Senate Bill 410 and Assembly Bill 50, will outline efforts to expedite electrical service for homes, businesses, EV chargers, and other critical loads, while enhancing transparency and accountability in utility services. CPUC staff will explain these timelines and introduce a Customer Engagement Plan designed for better transparency. The session includes a Q&A, and registration is required.
City of Laguna Beach
Join us at Main Beach Park as Rivian donates two R1S electric vehicles to the City of Laguna Beach! These vehicles will support the city’s transition to a zero-emission fleet, helping the Marine Safety Department with beach patrols and emergency response. The event starts at 4:00 pm with remarks from city leaders and Rivian representatives, followed by a reception at the Rivian South Coast Theater with light bites and wine.
OCTA
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has awarded over $10 million in grants through its Environmental Cleanup Program to fund 13 water quality improvement projects across the county. Funded by the Measure M sales tax, these projects target pollution from transportation, capturing roadway trash and preventing pollutants from entering waterways. Tier 1 grants cover smaller-scale upgrades, while Tier 2 supports larger efforts, like stormwater basins and bioswales. To date, OCTA has invested around $75 million in 259 projects, advancing environmental protection across Orange County.
Learn more at OCTA
City of Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach recently hosted a therapeutic surfing event in partnership with Surf Waves Enjoy Life (SWEL), a nonprofit supporting veterans and first responders. The event brought together UK police officers and local first responders, including the city’s Fire, Police, and Marine Safety teams, for surf sessions, harbor tours, and community-building activities. Through SWEL, participants used surfing to relieve stress and build camaraderie, fostering connections and wellness. This collaboration highlighted the healing power of the ocean and the value of shared experiences.
For more, visit Huntington Beach News.
Transportation Corridor Agencies
The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) is accepting project proposals for its Habitat Restoration and Property Acquisition Grant Program. This opportunity is open to organizations aiming to enhance natural habitats or secure land for preservation, with funding to support environmental stewardship in Orange County. Eligible projects can apply for grants to advance conservation and restoration efforts that protect regional biodiversity and enhance open spaces.
TCA will host two application workshops:
October 29, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
2. November 7, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The deadline for submissions is December 15, 2024.
Orange County Power Authority
The Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) is now accepting applications for its new Community Benefit Grant Program. This program supports local nonprofits, educational institutions, and community organizations in projects that promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental education. Grants will fund initiatives that align with OCPA’s mission to foster community resilience and support sustainable development. Interested organizations can apply for funding to drive impactful projects that benefit Orange County residents.
The deadline to submit applications is November 15, 2024, with recipients being notified by January 2025.
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