Should a father be allowed to review the work of his son? That is the central question in Tracy Wood’s story today on how OCTA chose an “independent” auditor for a review of its $12-billion transportation improvement program.

Should the Orange County GOP be returning more of the fire from the unions in the Costa Mesa outsourcing battle? Norberto Santana Jr. talked to a few Republicans who are leaning that way.

Some other local politics and government news from a world that didn’t end after all …

Jim Newton in the LA Times slams Irvine officials over progress of the Great Park.

Former Orange Unified School District Trustee Steve Rocco, or the “Beanied One” as dubbed by OC Register Columnist Frank Mickadeit, is back … in court.

California’s moving toward a popular vote for president.

California legislators debate giving localities more ability to tax.

Japanese-American former internees receive honorary degrees from Santa Ana College.

Costa Mesa City Council agrees to help fund after-school programs.

Costa Mesa Task Force tackles homelessness problem.

— THE EDITORS

Since you've made it this far,

You are obviously connected to your community and value good journalism. As an independent and local nonprofit, our news is accessible to all, regardless of what they can afford. Our newsroom centers on Orange County’s civic and cultural life, not ad-driven clickbait. Our reporters hold powerful interests accountable to protect your quality of life. But it’s not free to produce. It depends on donors like you.

Join the conversation: In lieu of comments, we encourage readers to engage with us across a variety of mediums. Join our Facebook discussion. Message us via our website or staff page. Send us a secure tip. Share your thoughts in a community opinion piece.