This Week in Newport

Published October 26, 2026

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NEWPORT BEACH | NEWPORT THIS WEEK | OCTOBER 26, 2026

October 26–November 1, 2026. Newport Beach has two schedules this week: one at City Hall and another around town. Tuesday brings decisions about public transportation, emergency spending and infrastructure. By the weekend, costumes have largely displaced council packets. Here’s what deserves your attention and what might deserve a spot on your calendar.

City Hall at a Glance

Two trolley routes face council votes

Tuesday, October 27, 4 p.m. Councilmembers will consider an OCTA agreement to continue the Balboa Peninsula Trolley. A separate proposal covers the Balboa Island–Corona del Mar trolley, including an LAZ Parking operating contract capped at $1.94 million. Neither proposal should be mistaken for an adopted decision. With traffic and parking perennial headaches, the practical questions are stops, operating days, ridership and how much local taxpayers contribute. Peninsula agreement | Island/CdM agreement.

Fire apparatus: A multimillion-dollar commitment

The council is also considering two Pierce fire engines for approximately $2.70 million prepaid, plus an aerial ladder truck costing about $2.63 million. That’s more than $5 million in proposed equipment purchases. Which vehicles will they replace, which stations will receive them, and what safeguards apply if deliveries are delayed? The 2030 model designation is not a confirmed delivery schedule. Official purchase proposal.

Emergency contracting rules get another look

Another council item would revise Policy F-14’s timeframe for review and authorization of emergency-services contracts. After the October Peninsula floods, the question is both speed and accountability: Can city crews act quickly while the public sees what was approved and spent? The proposed policy change is scheduled for consideration, not yet in force. Policy amendment.

Water system resilience is on the agenda

Staff recommends an agreement with Mesa Water District for a new interconnection, allowing Newport to purchase surplus drinking water when available, alongside a $375,000 budget amendment. Separate contracts concern water pump station upgrades. These are potable-water projects, not flood-control pumps. Residents should ask when the work could become operational and what reliability the connection actually adds. Mesa Water proposal | Council agenda.

Harbor users get an in-person forum

Wednesday, October 28, 5–7 p.m. The city has scheduled a Harbor Stakeholder Meeting at Marina Park Community Center, 1600 W. Balboa Boulevard. Boat owners, dock users and Peninsula residents can bring questions about harbor access, maintenance and priorities. It’s a meeting announcement, not evidence that a new harbor policy has been approved. Official notice.

Nineteen apartments proposed on Mariners’ Mile

Thursday, October 29, 10 a.m. The Zoning Administrator is scheduled to hear a proposal at 2332 West Coast Highway for 19 rentals, including three low-income units, and a 1,400-square-foot retail building replacing a restaurant. The project seeks a density bonus and coastal approvals. Traffic, parking and exceptions to development standards merit scrutiny. The hearing is online; no outcome has been assumed. Official planning case | Hearing schedule.

Around Newport This Week

Monday: A Balboa Island lunch with a cause

October 26, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. The Newport Beach Chamber lists a Dining Club event at Zay’s Artisanal Deli, 220 Marine Avenue, benefiting Working Wardrobes. It’s a chance to visit an island business while supporting a job-readiness nonprofit. Check the event listing for participation details. Chamber listing.

Tuesday: Spooky Stories on the Peninsula

October 27, 4–5 p.m. The Balboa Branch library team brings Halloween stories and crafts to Marina Park, 1600 W. Balboa Boulevard. It’s designed for ages 3–8, with costumes encouraged. No registration is required; supplies are limited and children must attend with an adult. Library event.

Thursday: Lido Marina Village turns ten

October 29, 5–7 p.m. Lido Marina Village celebrates its first decade with a free community gathering at 3420 Via Oporto. Participating stores and restaurants will host treats and experiences, with entertainment and a presentation near the boat fountain. For residents, it’s also a moment to reflect on that waterfront’s transformation. Anniversary details.

Thursday: Halloween at Central Library

Families with younger children have another option on October 29, 4–5 p.m. at 1000 Avocado Avenue. The library’s Children’s Room hosts crafts, a costume-friendly storytime and trick-or-treating. Ages 3–8; no registration is needed, but an adult must accompany each child. Library details.

Friday and Saturday: A not-too-scary island adventure

Once Upon a Nightmare Before Christmas runs October 30–31, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. at 114 Agate Avenue, Balboa Island. The family walkthrough features Jack Skellington, Sally and Zero, with small-group, timed visits. Tickets begin at $39.99 per guest, plus booking fees; reserve ahead. Event details.

Friday night: Rocky Horror at the Lido

October 30, 10 p.m. The Rocky Horror Picture Show screens at Lido Theater, 3459 Via Lido, with a live shadow cast and participation props offered for sale. The movie is rated R; consult the theater for ticket details. For families, Hocus Pocus plays there on Halloween evening. Rocky Horror | Hocus Pocus.

Plan ahead: Schedules, reservations and meeting agendas can change. Check the linked city records and organizers before heading out. All council and zoning matters described above are pending proposals, not reported approvals.