We have made it to the heart of budget season …

It took two votes to do it, but Irvine passed a budget this week. The city will have to take less from its reserve accounts than officials had previously expected.

Anaheim adopted its 2011-2012 budget.

And it looks like we have a state budget.

The Register’s Brian Joseph brings us Taiwanese-style fisticuffs in the state Assembly over the redevelopment bill. Joseph was even kind enough to show us some video. (The fisticuffs start at about 5:15 or so on the tape).

In one corner, it was Rep. Donald Wagner, R-Irvine. In the other, apparently swinging away, is Warren Furutani, D-Los Angeles.

In other news …

The city of Orange officially approved a controversial development proposal that calls for one-acre estates to be built on some of the city’s last remaining open space. Opponents of the plans are already putting together a referendum.

Newport Beach lifeguards continue to get above-the-fold attention.

Air Quality Management District official earns $400K compensation package.

— THE EDITORS