OC Board of Supervisor candidates discuss their priorities and concerns during a recent forum.
In an engaging candidate forum held by the OC Forum and Orange County Public Affairs Association in Newport Beach, four candidates vying for two seats on the Orange County Board of Supervisors discussed a range of critical issues, including the implications of artificial intelligence in local government operations and the qualities they envision in the county’s future chief executive officer.
The upcoming elections, set for November, will see a new representative for the Fourth District following the term limit of incumbent Supervisor Doug Chaffee. Two candidates emerged from the June primary: Tim Shaw, a Board of Education Trustee, and Connor Traut, the Mayor of Buena Park. Concurrently, incumbent Katrina Foley is seeking reelection in the Fifth District against Assemblymember Diane Dixon, representing coastal communities from Costa Mesa south, along with parts of inland Orange County.
The candidates emphasized the substantial responsibilities of the Board of Supervisors, which oversees a budget of .3 billion and a workforce of approximately 18,000 employees. Their dialogue touched upon shared priorities, such as the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance government efficiency, public safety, and affordability, as well as the necessity for transparent leadership. Notably, all candidates voiced opposition to a proposed increase in specialty designation fees by the OC Healthcare Agency.
While consensus was evident on several topics, disagreement arose on the implementation of initiatives. Foley and Traut advocated for a comprehensive county economic development plan aimed at increasing municipal revenue without additional taxation. Foley highlighted the importance of fully funding emergency reserves and emphasized the plan’s potential to unlock resources currently tied up with private developers.
Artificial intelligence emerged as a focal point, with candidates acknowledging its potential to streamline operations, including processes like permitting and meeting documentation. Shaw noted that leveraging AI could significantly accelerate decision-making processes and inventory management.
When discussing public safety, candidates generally supported technological solutions, including the deployment of automated license plate readers and other surveillance technologies. Dixon firmly endorsed the approach, asserting that it contributes positively to community safety, while Foley noted the county’s commitment to balancing technological advancements with privacy considerations.
In contrast, Traut expressed concerns regarding the privatization of core county services, arguing that it could compromise accountability and consistency — emphasizing that essential services, such as ambulance operations, should remain publicly managed.
As the search for a new county CEO continues, candidates identified transparency, experience, and integrity as vital qualities. This vacancy has resulted from the retirement of former CEO Frank Kim, and the interim management has included Michelle Aguirre and current interim CEO KC Roestenberg.
With ballots now available for mail-in voting and early in-person voting commencing on October 24, residents will soon have the opportunity to shape the future leadership of Orange County. This election, marked by discussions surrounding effective governance, fiscal responsibility, and the integration of modern technology, could redefine the county’s approach to addressing community needs.
