Item 06 -Minutes from the Regular Meetings of June 17, 2025 and July 1, 2025

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CITY COUNCIL 27 JUNE 17, 2025 sweeps and deportations, and commended Councilmember Phan for asking questions that promoted shared information, acknow ledging the council cannot abolish ICE, stop raids, or tell the National Guard to leave. Councilmember Bacerra expressed understanding for the community's passion and desire for the council to take action, cited the Governor's inability to control the National Guard or remove them from Los Angeles and Santa Ana despite lawsuits filed against the federal government, and reflected on the 2020 pandemic when he witnessed unprecedented challenges and the unanimous decision of seven councilmembers to enact protections for the community. He acknowledged the current disagreements but urged unity, and emphasized that the council is not asking for or supporting ICE. He expressed hope that despite future challenges, the city can come together, show resilience, and rema in a proud city. Councilmember Lopez acknowledged the discussion about residents' experiences and asked the Chief to clarify the type of chemical agents and gases used to disperse people from the downtown Civic Center area and whether tear gas was the only chemical agent used at the protests. Police Chief Rodriguez confirmed that or tear gas was the only chemical agent used. In response to Councilmember Lopez’s inquiry on what other methods or objects were used, Police Chief Rodriguez stated that rubber batons and pepper balls were also used. Councilmember Lopez suggested the city follow Boston Mayor Michelle Wu's executive order and request Freedom of Information Act information from the federal government about who has been arrested, why, and where detai nees are being held. She emphasized the urgency due to community members being sent to various states , some with unknown whereabouts. City Manager Nuñez stated he would work with the City Attorney in this regard. Councilmember Lopez suggested to colleagues that they reconsider their vote on Automated License Plate Reader contracts, citing recent reports which allegedly show local law enforcement agencies violating state law by sharing license plate reader data with federal agencies over a hundred times last month, despite the law prohibiting such sharing with out-of-state or federal entities. She encouraged constituents to get involved with local organizations like the Orange County Rapid Response Network, and to engage with the council or their offices. She thanked Vacation Bar and DJ Gucci Mar for their support and fundraising efforts, and requested training for staff so they may respond appropriately in the event a federal agent walks in to City-owned buildings. Councilmember Penaloza emphasized the importance of turning to Congressman Correa and Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla for support. Mayor Amezcua thanked everyone who attended or watched, acknowledg ed she heard and understood everyone, and stated her opposition to what is happening in the city and said she would never support it. She acknowledged Councilmember Phan's efforts and reiterated that her own actions are limited to asking hard questions and pushing back for help, clarified her role, and stated she is only one vote. Mayor Amezcua acknowledged the daily, ever-changing challenges in Santa Ana and across the country. She reiterated her opposition to ICE and the National Guard's presence, expressed her desire for downtown businesses to thrive, residents to feel safe, and for