A newly released audit reveals that former OC Supervisor Andrew Do directed public contracts to businesses and individuals involved in a previous federal corruption investigation related to a program for feeding the elderly.
Do, who is currently in prison for bribery, awarded contracts to businesses linked to Peter Pham – a central figure in the corruption probe facing 15 federal charges and is currently on the run.
Meanwhile, a newly constructed mental health campus in Irvine remains unoccupied as the county and Mind OC are entangled in a legal dispute.
Mind OC, which was intended to assist the county in establishing mental health centers, accuses the county of attempting to seize the Irvine building.
County officials claim the nonprofit defrauded taxpayers and suggest that Mind OC has connections to Do’s corruption scandal through a $275,000 contract.
Despite criticism from an OC Grand Jury report regarding their pay raises, county supervisors mostly disregarded the report. One supervisor expressed regret over voting for the raises but stated that reversing them would violate state law.
Animal advocates are issuing warnings to shelters across California, citing various illegal practices and urging reforms. OC Animal Care officials maintain that the county shelter complies with all state laws.
Authorities in Anaheim are exploring ways to enforce state rent control laws, potentially leading to a rent control proposal on the November ballot.
In Costa Mesa, a community group is urging elected officials to monitor evictions and the rental market through a rental registry.
Despite opposition from residents, a controversial six-story apartment expansion is proceeding in Mission Viejo, as city officials warn that rejecting the project could result in more buildings due to California’s housing mandates.
Santa Ana is cracking down on alleged illicit activities, including gambling and black market cannabis operations, reportedly taking place in smokeshops.
Newport Beach is considering demolishing a portion of the city’s sculpture garden near city hall to make way for a new police headquarters, a decision met with resistance from many residents.
[Context: The content covers various issues and controversies in Orange County, California, including corruption probes, legal disputes, community advocacy, and city development projects.] [Fact Check: The article accurately reports on ongoing legal battles, government responses, and community initiatives in Orange County.]
