OC Fair opens as cities weigh budgets, housing and safety

The Orange County Fair opened Friday and runs through Aug. 16, as cities across Orange County face decisions on short-term rentals, budgets, housing rules and public safety, according to Voice of OC.

The roundup underscores how local governments are balancing costs, housing mandates and public safety concerns while one of the county’s largest annual events draws residents back to the fairgrounds.

The fair, first held in 1890, is scheduled to close Mondays and Tuesdays during its run, Voice of OC reported. A family of four could spend nearly $70 just for tickets and parking.

Newport Beach officials are considering tighter rules on Airbnbs and other short-term rentals after a Fourth of July teen takeover that led to 400 arrests, according to Voice of OC. The city is also moving on housing policy, with its City Council reducing affordable housing requirements near John Wayne Airport from 15% to 6% of units.

In Placentia, the City Council chose spending cuts rather than using reserves to address a budget deficit, Voice of OC reported. The cuts include layoffs of two employees.

Laguna Beach officials decided not to place tax increases before voters this November, according to Voice of OC. The proposals were postponed until 2028.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta sued Costa Mesa over the city’s housing plan, alleging it did not meet state requirements, Voice of OC reported. The dispute adds to broader housing pressure across Orange County cities.

Cypress and Stanton are weighing the use of police drones, according to Voice of OC. Officials are considering whether drones could help officers assess incidents, monitor events and assist in missing-person reports.

The issues highlighted by Voice of OC point to a busy summer for local officials, from fair operations and policing to budget choices and state housing oversight.