Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
I had the pleasure of meeting with Irvine Police Chief Michael Kent and his executive team to discuss public safety initiatives and tour the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). I'm proud to have secured $2 million in state budget to establish this center, which is currently under construction. The RTCC will increase apprehension of criminal suspects, prevent crime, and improve officer safety. Thank you, Chief Kent, for your outstanding leadership in keeping Irvine one of the safest cities in America!
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I am committed to addressing the issues that are important to you. As always, if there is anything that my team or I can do to assist you with a local or state issue, if you have questions or concerns about what I am working on, or anything in between, please contact my office. My team and I are here to help!
Yours faithfully,
Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman
Thank you to the Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) for the opportunity to speak at their annual conference on California's energy future. With approximately 1 in 4 Californians facing energy insecurity or the threat of disconnection, my focus as Chair of the Energy and Utilities Committee is clear: we must limit future rate hikes, reduce current electricity costs, and accelerate the build-out of critical infrastructure. This is essential to ensure that we meet our clean energy goals efficiently and equitably, while protecting our most vulnerable residents.
Marking the new school year, Team Cottie was at the State of the Schools annual event organized by the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation, in partnership with Newport-Mesa Unified School District to celebrate education and the programs and goals that define our children and their schools. I would like to take this opportunity to highlight that The California PBIS Coalition recently honored 10 NMUSD schools for successfully implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiatives during the 2023-24 school year! The following schools were recognized for their efforts in cultivating strong schoolwide PBIS programs: Adams Elementary, Davis Magnet, Early College High School, Mariners Elementary, Pomona Elementary, Sonora Elementary, Woodland Elementary, Costa Mesa Middle and High School, Harbor View Elementary, and Newport Coast Elementary.
To celebrate Dental Hygiene Month, I was proud to partner with Families Together of Orange County to provide a free dental care clinic day in Costa Mesa. Participants received essential services like dental screening, exams, and cleanings. Taking care of our health is so important and I'm grateful for the opportunity to support my community.
Team Cottie was proud to join the South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) to celebrate the groundbreaking of an exciting new project: a six-story building and an adjacent two-story facility that will host Taiwan-based Advantech. Advantech North America, a global leader in industrial and embedded computing solutions, is making a significant investment in our region. This project will directly support the workforce emerging from SOCCCD, creating new opportunities and strengthening the connection between education and industry. A huge win for our community's future!
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Team Cottie was happy to celebrate the grand opening of Alta Dental in Irvine and welcome them to the 73rd Assembly District! Congratulations to the entire team, and we wish you all the success in your new journey here!
The Team also welcomed Comfort Keepers to Tustin! Congratulations on your new location and thank you for providing care to our senior citizens from the comfort of their home. Wishing you continued success.
RESOURCES
Great News for Californians! Look out for a utility credit on your October bill! Your utility bill will include an $86.00 credit identified as the "California Climate Credit". Your household and millions of others throughout the State will receive a similar credit on their utility bill.
The filing period for applications for property tax deferment are now being processed. California's Property Tax Postponement (PTP) Program, administered by Controller Cohen, allows homeowners who are seniors, are blind, or have a disability, and who meet income and other requirements to postpone payment of property taxes on their primary residence.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Oct. 26 - Irvine Prescription Drug Take Back Event
The Irvine Police Department (IPD) will be participating in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free service, which allows the public to anonymously discard prescription medications, addresses a vital public safety and public health issue.
Nov. 1 - Veterans of the Year Ceremony
You're invited to Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris' Veterans of the Year Ceremony on Friday, November 1 in Irvine. During the event, we will honor three distinguished veterans from Costa Mesa, Irvine and Tustin for their valor and unwavering commitment to our nation. To watch highlights from last year's ceremony, click here.
Nov. 7 - Small Business Growth Summit
Empower your business with the education, resources, and information to grow at the 2024 Small Business Growth Summit. Network with business owners, meet with local legislators, understand what it takes to access capital, and learn tactical tools to drive your business' revenue.
Nov. 14 - Theft Webinar
Join AAA for a free interactive workshop designed to provide education on identity theft, fraud prevention tips, and the Dark Web. This workshop is good for all ages and anyone who wants to become more knowledgeable on identity theft prevention. Learn from Experian® experts about the steps you can take to protect your identity.
