Orange · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Orange public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
El Camino Real bell markers along the creek
The historical subcommittee is planning El Camino Real bell markers along the creek, with Grijalva Park as a possible centerpiece location since the old and new Camino routes split there. Funding hasn't been identified yet, but grants are being explored.
Library programming and outreach
Staff and the Friends group reported on summer programming, pop-up library outreach, and upcoming events, plus September being Library Card Sign-up Month — a push to get more residents signed up for library cards.
Posting and Distribution of Information Policy
The library board set new rules for what can be posted and distributed at Orange's libraries, separating indoor and outdoor postings. This affects community groups, nonprofits, and anyone wanting to share flyers at the library.
El Modena Branch local history exhibit
A local history exhibit curated with the Orange Community Historical Society will be unveiled August 6 at the El Modena Branch Library.
Little Free Libraries partnership
Chair Martinez is teaming up with Santiago Charter Middle School to place 20 student-built Little Free Libraries around the community.
Loading zone at 233 N. Lemon Street
A business near Chapman University wants an enforceable 35-foot loading zone on its frontage. The commission recommended it, and the City Council makes the final call. The zone stays open to the public with time limits.
Landscape maintenance district assessments
Santiago Hills and Sycamore Crossing residents will pay annual landscape assessments of $293 to $369 per single-family home for FY 2026-27, with no protests filed.
West Katella 'Orange Back Lot' economic strategy
Chapman students pitched a film-production district across from OC Vibe that could keep creative jobs and filming revenue in Orange.
Veterans Memorial Park fountain funding
A resident offered to raise private donations and sponsorships to cover the $50,000 fountain restoration so taxpayers don't pay the full cost.
Red curb length and the state daylighting law (AB 413)
Residents asked the commission to trim red curb near the Lemon/Palmyra intersection from 30 feet to the 20 feet the new state law requires, to preserve scarce parking. Staff said the 30 feet was set for this intersection's specific geometry and recommended keeping it.
General Plan Circulation and Mobility Element update
The council updated the General Plan's street element to match the county's master plan of arterial highways — a housekeeping move that keeps Orange eligible for regional transportation funding.
Safe and sane fireworks permit lottery
Nine community organizations won the lottery to sell fireworks for the next two-year cycle, with three permits reserved for the high schools and six alternates on standby.
Planning Commission leadership transition
Isaiah Leslie takes over as Chair and Shannon Tucker as Vice Chair effective February 20, 2026, with outgoing Chair Alison Vejar praised for her service.
Katella Avenue parking for senior housing visitors
Visitors to the Katella Terrace senior apartments get 3-hour parking instead of a 20-minute limit left over from the site's bank days.
Commission scope and subcommittees
Commissioners floated forming subcommittees and expanding their scope to other waterways like Collins Channel, but the city attorney advised any scope expansion requires a council-approved ordinance; subcommittees of three or fewer are allowed without Brown Act implications.
Open Finance transparency platform
The city is launching a website where anyone can drill into budgets, spending, and revenue by department — updated weekly, with a vendor checkbook feature coming in a few months.
Drone program for illegal fireworks enforcement
Barrios wants staff to study drones that track illegal fireworks launchers — Brea's program reportedly generated $120,000 in fines from one homeowner.