The payout comes after a chemical tank threatened to explode in Garden Grove in May of this year pushed 50,000 OC residents to evacuate the area.
Author Archives: Sara Leon
Sara Leon joined Voice of OC as a summer intern in 2026 from Cal State Fullerton.
Leon started in journalism at Fullerton College’s student newspaper, The Hornet, before transferring to Cal State Fullerton and taking on a leadership role at the campus newspaper.
She first planned to become a doctor, but decided journalism was a better way to help people through her writing.
Posted inOutdoors
OC Water District Bulldozing Bird Habitat in the Santa Ana River Triggers Community Concerns
Many concerned residents and Creek Team activists are demanding a halt to protect vegetation that’s become natural habitat for birds.
Posted inBrea
Brea Moves to Issue $60 Million Bonds to Build Affordable Senior Housing
Brea officials approved millions of dollars in bonds for a developer – who’s responsible for repayment – to build senior housing, raising questions as to why so much is needed for the construction.
Posted inSafety, Security & Justice
One OC City Set to Pause Flock Cameras; Will a Second One Follow?
Fullerton officials are the first in OC to push the brakes on automated license plate readers, while Santa Ana officials have delayed their own discussion on Flock cameras.
Posted inCountywide
OC Firefighters Get Nearly 25% Raise, Cities on the Hook to Pay
OC Fire Authority’s nearly 25% increase is going to be funded by member cities, with staff noting they can expect to see their bills increase at the same rate as the new contract.
Posted inEmergencies & Disasters
What Triggered the Recent Fire and Chemical Cloud Around La Habra?
City officials offer updates on two recent incidents in the city but leave major questions unanswered on what caused them.
Posted inCOAST
OC Fire Authority to Get Federal Money for Search and Rescue Ahead of El Niño
The OC Fire Authority is gearing up to fund a dedicated search and rescue task force with over $1.8 million from the federal government.
Posted inSeal Beach
Seal Beach Prepares for Super El Niño
Seal Beach is preparing for what scientists are predicting is going to a Super El Niño – one that experts are saying could be the strongest El Nino in recorded history.
Posted inStanton
Stanton Uses Homeless Emergency to Demolish Public Nuisance Building
The city of Stanton is gearing up to spend over $100,000 to demolish an abandoned four-plex occupied by homeless people who city officials say have become a danger to the surrounding community.
Posted inCountywide
Where to Commemorate the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 in Orange County
Here are 10 ceremonies throughout Orange County where residents can honor the lives lost and the courage shown on Sept. 11, 2001.
