On March 5, the Association of California Cities- Orange County (ACC-OC) welcomed the Orange County Board of Supervisors as its newest member.

A leading voice for Orange County’s cities, the ACC-OC consists of 25 member cities, the Orange County Transportation Authority, Transportation Corridor Agencies, Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Business Council, OC Housing Trust and other non-profit, academic and private sector partners.

“Since its inception two years ago, I have watched this organization grow to have an incredible impact [on] regional public policy,” said Third District Supervisor Todd Spitzer. “I am impressed with the work they’ve done and believe it’s time the County join with the ACC-OC to work on behalf of all our residents.”

In addition to its advocacy efforts, the ACC-OC serves as host for experts, leaders and innovators in the area to collaborate and educate, recently demonstrated at the bi-annual Public Policymakers Academy held in February.

ACC-OC CEO Lacy Kelly stressed the importance of cities and counties working together to preserve and advance solvent policy that benefits residents. “It’s a good day for Orange County when all its local agencies can collaborate on smart public policy. I am looking forward to having the County at the table so we can all gain from its leadership and regional perspective.”

Fifth District Supervisor Pat Bates echoed Ms. Kelly’s sentiments. “This is a critical year for cities and county governments in our state,” said Ms. Bates. “Cities and County government know what works best at a local level. So having the ACC-OC and County of Orange side-by-side will only strengthen our ability to secure the resources needed to provide the best possible service to our citizens.”

As part of its membership, The Orange County Board of Supervisors will hold a non-voting seat on the ACC-OC Board of Directors and will serve as an advisory member on its policy committees. In addition to the County, the City of Irvine recently became the latest member city in a unanimous vote by the City Council.