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Becerra, Alexis From: Rita Merlo < Sent: Monday, April 27, 2026 12:37 PM To: eComment Cc: Vazquez, Benjamin; Penaloza, David Subject: A Walkable Park for Washington Square Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links. Dear Santa Ana City Council, My name is Rita Merlo, and I live in Ward 5 in the Washington Square neighborhood. I have a toddler and a 6 month old baby and LOVE the idea of being able to walk to a park in the neighborhood. I am writing with urgency regarding a recent development. Washington Square is a vibrant, community-focused neighborhood with tree-lined streets and strong daily resident connection, yet it lacks a dedicated park where people of all ages can gather, children can play, and the community can thrive. As an environmental justice area, a park is not just an amenity, it is a matter of equity,public health, and quality of life. Establishing a park here directly supports the City's Parks Master Plan goal of 1.5 acresper 1,000 residents. With over 2,000 residents,Washington Square remains underserved, even when the 10th & Flower park under development is completed.This Is a clear opportunity to improve health outcomes, strengthen community connections,and provide much-needed open space. This project is also highly feasible: • A willing property seller is in place •The undeveloped land allows for a straightforward construction process • No significant traffic or access concerns; entry is within the neighborhood • Minimal infrastructure investment due to the park's passive design However, as of April 19, 2026, the property owner reduced the offering to 0.92 acres(Option 1 of the feasibility study) and lowered the asking price. The property is now actively being marketed to developers, referencing California Senate Bill 9,which allows increased residential density, potentially up to four units per lot.Thissignificantly increases the risk of sale and development before the City can act. I respectfully urge you to: • Prioritize this property for acquisition • Allocate funding in the upcoming budget • Act promptly to prevent loss to private development Washington Square residents strongly support a neighborhood park and are deeply concerned about potential high- density development on this site.This is a rare and time-sensitive opportunity to secure a lasting public benefit by utilizing the only undeveloped land suitable for a park in our neighborhood. I urge you to act quickly.Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Rita Merlo 1