2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
At this time, members of the public may address the Council on matters not listed on the agenda within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council, provided that NO action may be taken on off-agenda items unless authorized by law. Public Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker unless a different time limit is announced.
January 27, 2026
To the Orange City Council,
I support the City of Orange taking action to stop the sale and distribution of products containing 7 hydroxymitragynine. This is an important first step and a clear recognition that these products pose a real risk to public safety.
My niece, Kielee Rustici, died on March 1, 2025 from acute mitragynine toxicity. She was using kratom powder to manage pain related to Ehlers Danlos syndrome and POTS. Like many consumers, she believed online and industry claims that these products were safe and helpful. Instead, what she trusted fueled an addiction and ultimately took her life.
Highly concentrated 7 hydroxymitragynine products are especially dangerous, but they are part of a broader problem. The kratom market remains unregulated, misleadingly marketed, and easily accessible, leaving communities vulnerable when stronger protections are absent.
By acting now, the City of Orange has an opportunity to reduce harm locally and prevent other families from experiencing the same loss. I urge the council to treat this action as a first step and continue evaluating broader measures that prioritize public health over industry pressure.
Respectfully,
DeNae Jones
Pocatello Idaho
Phone: 208-339-2697
Email: denaejo@yahoo.com
January 27, 2026
To the Orange City Council,
I support the City of Orange taking action to stop the sale and distribution of products containing 7 hydroxymitragynine. This is an important first step and a clear recognition that these products pose a real risk to public safety.
My niece, Kielee Rustici, died on March 1, 2025 from acute mitragynine toxicity. She was using kratom powder to manage pain related to Ehlers Danlos syndrome and POTS. Like many consumers, she believed online and industry claims that these products were safe and helpful. Instead, what she trusted fueled an addiction and ultimately took her life.
Highly concentrated 7 hydroxymitragynine products are especially dangerous, but they are part of a broader problem. The kratom market remains unregulated, misleadingly marketed, and easily accessible, leaving communities vulnerable when stronger protections are absent.
By acting now, the City of Orange has an opportunity to reduce harm locally and prevent other families from experiencing the same loss. I urge the council to treat this action as a first step and continue evaluating broader measures that prioritize public health over industry pressure.
Respectfully,
DeNae Jones
Pocatello Idaho
Phone: 208-339-2697
Email: denaejo@yahoo.com
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