Correspondence - Item 1 - Closed Session

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01/18/2026 Dear Santa Ana City Council and Mayor: My name is Ana Sofia Gaspar , and I am a resident of Santa Ana I am writing in support of THRIVE Santa Ana's efforts to purchase and permanently own 1901 W Walnut St. In April 2025, THRIVE and the City celebrated the grand opening of La Colmena, Santa Ana's first community land trust (CLT) project. Now, THRIVE has been awarded state funds to permanently acquire this site, and we are asking the City of Santa Ana to help make this the first CLT-owned asset in our City. Please direct staff to draft a purchase and sale agreement, accompanied by an Economic Subsidy Report, that will allow the City to accept THRIVE's offer of$852,000. The proposed subsidy and sale would result in a tremendously positive fiscal impact for the City. The City would generate $852,000 in unrestricted revenue directly to the General Fund. La Colmena has already proven to revitalize a vacant and blighted City-owned property into a vibrant community hub that improves the safety and quality of life of the surrounding neighborhood. The project has already generated at least 5 full-time jobs and more than 10 temporary jobs since opening, as well as over 30 jobs throughout the duration of construction. Through future programming and growth of existing businesses, THRIVE anticipates at least 10 additional part time jobs will be created as a result of the project over the next 5 years. In 2020, the City of Santa Ana approved a 99-year lease of this site to THRIVE, which includes an Option to Purchase— supporting the long term development of a community land trust strategy in Santa Ana. Over 300 CLTs throughout the United States provide opportunities for local communities to own and steward land, assuring access to affordable commercial spaces, urban farms, housing, and open spaces. As THRIVE prepares for additional projects in the coming years, the purchase and sale of La Colmena will mark a firm step in the establishment of the CLT model in Santa Ana. I have been a member of Thrive Santa Ana for one year. I joined because I saw a great opportunity to be part of a community that cares about the wellness and well being of each other. As a member I have joined different commitees within Thrive to learn about and work towards needs of our community such as affordable housing for community members. Thrive Santa Ana becoming the owner of La Colmena would be another great accomplishment for our community. Thank you in advance for your attention and consideration. Best regards, Name: Ana Sofia Gaspar Contact Information: Ward Number:5