August 08, 2025 Edition
COUNCILMEMBER MIKE CARROLL AT THE IRVINE PUBLIC LIBRARY RIBBON CUTTING!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the grand reopening of the Heritage Park and University Park Library branches. It was an incredible day celebrating a major milestone as Irvine moves into its own public library system. As someone who grew up in a public library, I was honored to be a part of this special event and welcome residents to these newly revamped spaces. I’m grateful to everyone who came out and showed their support. Libraries are key places for learning and opportunity. This is just the beginning of a bright new chapter for Irvine. For more information about our libraries, see more.
To see my event recap video, WATCH HERE.
HELP CLEAR THE ANIMAL SHELTERS
The Irvine Animal Center is partnering with Clear the Shelters this August to help more animals find loving homes. From now through August 31, adoption fees are reduced or waived for many of our furry (and not-so-furry) friends. Adult cats and dogs are $50 to adopt, and fees are fully waived for small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. I encourage you to stop by, meet the animals, and consider giving them a second chance with a forever home. You just might find your new best friend! For more details, see more.
SUPPORT OUR SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Irvine is teaming up with the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC to host a Small Business Clinic on Thursday, August 21, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the University Community Center. This free event gives small business owners the chance to sit down one-on-one with an expert SBDC consultant for personalized, 30-minute sessions focused on key areas like marketing, operations, or financial planning. After the initial consultation, participants will be matched with a primary advisor for continued, no-cost support. If you’re a small business owner–or know someone who is–I encourage you to schedule an appointment and take advantage of this great resource. Learn and book your session, see more
MONTHLY FOOD ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
In partnership with Community Action Partnership of Orange County, the City of Irvine is offering monthly food support through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). Eligible residents can receive a 30-pound food box each month, filled with a variety of nutritious items, including canned goods, fresh produce, dairy, grains, and proteins when available. Pickups take place at Heritage Park Community Center, located at 14301 Yale Avenue. Reservations are encouraged to ensure availability. If you or someone you know could benefit from this resource, I encourage you to sign up or share this information. To make a reservation, call 949-724-6650, email foodbox@cityofirvine.org, or see more.
COUNCILMEMBER CARROLL INVITES YOU TO REIMAGINE HERITAGE PARK
Heritage Community Park has been a cornerstone of Irvine since 1978, and now, we’re inviting you to help shape its future. Staff is hosting a series of community workshops to update the Heritage Park Master Plan, and your input is key. This is a great chance to share your ideas, learn about current amenities, and help create a refreshed vision for one of Irvine’s most beloved parks. The next workshops will be held August 21 and September 18 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to participate. For information about these meetings, see more.
Thank you for reading this edition of my Community Update. I hope you enjoyed it.
Mike Carroll