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Becerra, Alexis <br /> From: Julie S < <br /> Sent: Saturday, April 25, 2026 1:01 PM <br /> To: eComment <br /> Subject: A Walkable Park for Washington Square <br /> Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links. <br /> Dear Santa Ana City Council, <br /> My name is Julie Seyler and I live in Ward 5 in the Washington Square neighborhood. <br /> I am writing with urgency regarding a recent development. <br /> Washington Square is a vibrant, community-focused neighborhood with tree-lined <br /> streets and strong daily resident connection,yet it lacks a dedicated park where people of all ages can gather, children <br /> can play, and the community can thrive. As an <br /> environmental justice area, a park is not just an amenity, it is a matter of equity, public health, and quality of life. <br /> Establishing a park here directly supports the City's Parks Master Plan goal of 1.5 acres per 1,000 residents. With over <br /> 2,000 residents, Washington Square remains <br /> underserved, even when the 10th & Flower park under development is completed.This is a clear opportunity to improve <br /> health outcomes, strengthen community connections, and provide much-needed open space. <br /> This project is also highly feasible: <br /> • A willing property seller is in place <br /> •The undeveloped land allows for a straightforward construction process <br /> • No significant traffic or access concerns; entry is within the neighborhood <br /> • Minimal infrastructure investment due to the park's passive design <br /> However, as of April 19, 2026, the property owner reduced the offering to 0.92 acres (Option 1 of the feasibility study) <br /> and lowered the asking price.The property is now <br /> actively being marketed to developers, referencing California Senate Bill 9,which allows increased residential density, <br /> potentially up to four units per lot. This significantly increases the risk of sale and development before the City can act. <br /> I respectfully urge you to: <br /> • Prioritize this property for acquisition <br /> • Allocate funding in the upcoming budget <br /> • Act promptly to prevent loss to private development <br /> 1 <br />