HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 04 - Minutes from the Regular Meetings of August 19, 2025 (corrected) and September 16, 2025 DRAFT Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
August 19, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
REGULAR OPEN MEETING - 5:30 P.M.
(Immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua called the Closed Session meeting to order at 4:09 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tern Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Penaloza, and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor
Amezcua were present. Councilmember Lopez arrived during Closed Session.
Councilmember Hernandez was absent.
CITY COUNCIL 1 AUGUST 19, 2025
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Closed Session Agenda Item No.
1 B as the listed entity, JBW Enterprise, LLC, is a client of her employer, Rutan and
Tucker.
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed
Session items.
MINUTES: None.
RECESS — City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting
regular City business.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed to consider the Closed Session items at 4:10 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION ITEMS—The Brown Act permits legislative bodies to discuss certain
matters without members of the public present. The City Council finds, based on advice
from the City Attorney, that discussion in open session of the following matters will
prejudice the position of the City in existing and anticipated litigation:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to
Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:
A. Delfina Flores Robles v. City of Santa Ana, et al, Orange County Superior
Court, Case No. 30-2023-01352256-CU-PA-CJC
B. JBW Enterprise, LLC v. City of Santa Ana, et al., Orange County Superior
Court, Case No. 30-2025-01498020
C. Kim McPeck v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court, Case No.
30-2024-01370874
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan left the closed session room at 4:28 P.M. for
Council consideration of Closed Session Agenda Item No. 1 B and returned to
the closed session room at 4:43 P.M.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — POTENTIAL INITIATION OF
LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code
Section 54956.9:
* One (1) case — Union Pacific
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE TO
LITIGATION pursuant to Section 54956.9(d)(2) of the Government Code:
Three (3) Matters [Personnel Complaints]
CITY COUNCIL 2 AUGUST 19, 2025
4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:
• Service Employees International Union, Full-Time Employees Unit (SEIU-
FT)
• Service Employees International Union, Part-Time Non-Civil Service
Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
5. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Lori Schnaider, Executive Director of Human Resources
Employee Organizations:
• Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)
• Santa Ana Middle Management / Administrative Management Association
(SAMA)
• Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)
RECONVENE—City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to order at 6:19 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tern Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, Lopez, Penaloza, and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem
Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were present.
CITY COUNCIL 3 AUGUST 19, 2025
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Joe Vargas
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Miguel Hernandez, OCCCO
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced Public Hearing Agenda Item No. 24
has been withdrawn from consideration as the property owner has paid the outstanding
amount.
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificates of Recognition presented by Mayor Amezcua recognizing Vex
Robotics World Championship Participants for Outstanding Academic
Accomplishments
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua presented certificates of recognition to Vex Robotics
World Championship Participants for outstanding academic accomplishments.
2. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember
Bacerra recognizing Saddleback High School Students for Outstanding
Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented certificates of recognition to
Saddleback High School students for outstanding contributions to the community.
3. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez recognizing
the Lit League for Outstanding Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a certificate of recognition to Lit
League for outstanding contributions to the community.
4. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Hernandez to the Guzman Family
declaring August 2025 as Chicano Heritage Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Hernandez presented a proclamation to the Guzman
Family declaring August 2025 as Chicano Heritage Month.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported that for item No 1A, Delfina Flores
Robles v. City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember
Hernandez absent) to settle the case for$150,000. For Item 1 B, JBW Enterprise, LLC
v. City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 5-0 (Councilmembers Hernandez
absent and Phan recused) to file a motion to determine whether the plaintiff's law firm
Rutan and Tucker may legally and ethically continue to sue the City of Santa Ana with
a current employee on the City Council.
CITY COUNCIL 4 AUGUST 19, 2025
City Attorney Carvalho reported that for Item 3, the City Council voted 6-0
(Councilmember Hernandez absent) for potential censure process with potential legal
consequences regarding personnel complaints filed against Councilmember
Hernandez be reported at the City Council meeting of October 7, 2025. She further
reported Item Nos. 2,4, and 5 were not heard.
PUBLIC COMMENTS--Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for ALL comments on agenda and non-agenda items.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments
received: four (4) Agenda Item No. 10, one (1) Agenda Item No. 25, and two (2) non-
agenda comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Joe Vargas spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 25 and spoke regarding his father,
Jose Vargas.
2. Bulmaro Vicente expressed concern regarding the lack of transparency regarding
the annual military equipment reports, spoke in opposition to the drone program, and
requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
3. Sandra De Anda spoke regarding I.C.E. raids and in support of Agenda Item No. 13.
4. Abraham Quintana requested the military equipment policy not be approved, spoke
regarding the policy, and requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
5. Patty Cabada requested Council look into AB495.
Councilmember Penaloza addressed comments regarding relationships.
6. Tommy Fernandez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's
relationship with the Reyes family.
7. Yumiko Hiromoto (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive
use and access to City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember
Penaloza's relationship with the Reyes family.
8. Josh Nuno expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City fields
by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship with the
Reyes family.
9. Karen Perez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
CITY COUNCIL 5 AUGUST 19, 2025
10. Victor Quiroga expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields to La Academia organization, Councilmember Penaloza's relationship with
the Reyes family, and requested Council not take away the use of fields by the
community.
11.Maria Bahena expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
12.Ricardo Sandoval(translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive
use and access to City fields by La Academia organization and requested Council
not take away the use of fields by the community.
13.Hector Hernandez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization.
14.Jose Meza (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive use
and access to City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember
Penaloza's relationship with the Reyes family and requested transparency and
Council not take away the use of fields by the community.
15.Joaquin Olvera expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested the Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
16.Johnny Mejia expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family, and requested equality for the use of fields by all soccer
organizations.
17.Melissa Aburto requested Council not take away the use of fields by the community.
18. Guadalupe Romero (translation: Spanish) requested the Council not take away the
use of fields to the community.
19.Bryan Leos expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City fields
by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use of fields
by the community.
20.America Saucedo (translation: Spanish) requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
21.Sonia Olivarrias expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community
22.Danalin Gonzalez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 19, 2025
23. Christian Castellenos expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access
by City fields to La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
24.Leonel Perez (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive use
and access to City fields by La Academia organization and requested equality and
transparency for the use of fields by all soccer organizations.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated the City does not have a contract with an
organization and for a contract to be in place it would need to be brought to Council for
discussion.
25.Bruce Senator requested an online platform for the community to be able to share
their thoughts anonymously as well as recipes. He expressed concerns regarding
the construction on Warner Street, digital billboards, and field use within the
community.
26. Victor Mendez expressed gratitude to Chief Robert Rodriguez in regards to Item 11.
He requested that appropriate inspectors be assigned regarding Item 18 and that
quarterly reports be utilized and reviewed for possible field use within the community
regarding Item 8.
27.Joel Fuentes expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
28. Gerardo Rangel expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
29.Lupe Lopez spoke regarding Native American Heritage Month and invited the
Council to join her in celebration on November 2.
30. Claudia Acosta expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
31.Daniel Aguilar expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:
32.Kayla Asato spoke in opposition to Item 10 and in support of Item 13. They requested
equality and transparency for the use of fields by all soccer organizations.
33.AL spoke in opposition to Ordinance No. NS-3020 and Agenda Item No. 10.
34.Fabi Jacome spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 13.
CITY COUNCIL 7 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES:At 8:47 P.M., MayorAmezcua moved Agenda Item No. 25 out of order and
prior to consideration of the Consent Calendar.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 25 MOVED OUT OF ORDER
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
25.Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Prepare a Resolution for
Consideration Naming the PAAL Center Located on McFadden Avenue as the
Jose Vargas PAAL Center in Recognition of his Legacy of Service to Santa
Ana's Youth, Immigrant Community, and Public Safety — Mayor Pro Tem
Benjamin Vazquez
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke regarding Jose Vargas' legacy in the
City of Santa Ana and years of service and dedication to the immigrant community.
Councilmember Penaloza thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez forpresenting the item,
spoke in support of the item, and requested the Vargas family be invited to the
unveiling ceremony.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez for presenting the
item and spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez for presenting the item, spoke
in support of the item, and echoed Councilmember Penaloza's request to invite the
Vargas family to the unveiling ceremony.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked the Council for their support.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 20 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES:At 8:56 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Lopez pulled Agenda Item Nos. 10 and 19 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 18 as the listed entity,
Bernel, Inc. dba VFS Fire & Security, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Councilmember Bacerra pulled Agenda Item Nos. 16 and 19 for separate discussion
and consideration.
CITY COUNCIL 8 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez pulled Agenda Item No. 10 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Mayor Amezcua pulled Agenda Item Nos. 14 and 19 for separate discussion and
consideration.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5
through 20, with the exception of Item Nos. 10, 14, 16, and 19, seconded by
Councilmember Penaloza.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
5. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
6. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
7. Appoint Oscar Rodriguez Nominated by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez as an At-
Large Representative to the Rental Housing Board for a Partial Term Expiring
in 2027
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Oscar Rodriguez to the Rental Housing Board as
an at-large representative and administer the Oath of Office (Pursuant to SAMC
Sec. 2-326(a), requires five affirmative votes).
CITY COUNCIL 9 AUGUST 19, 2025
8. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Contracts up to $50,000 for Non-Public
Works and up to $500,000 for Public Works Authorized by the City Manager
as Permitted by Charter Section 421
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file Quarterly Report of Contracts entered
into between April 1, 2025 to June 30, 2025.
9. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Investments as of June 30, 2025
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
10. Annual Military Equipment Use Reports for 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Receive and file the Santa Ana Police Department's Annual Military Equipment
Use reports for 2022-23,2023-24, and 2024-25 for existing equipment.
2. Review and affirm Santa Ana City Ordinance No. NS-3020.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua inquired whether the item included a proposal for the
purchase of drones.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez clarified that the item being considered did not
include a proposal for the purchase of drones.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked members of the public for participating and
spoke in opposition to the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to not approve the
recommended action for Item No. 10.
Motion died due to lack of second.
Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding Chief Rodriguez's start date, the posting of the
reports from 2022-23 and 2023-24, and whether there have been new purchases
of military equipment.
Chief Rodriguez confirmed his start date as Chief on December 19, 2024 and
stated reports from 2022-23 and 2023-24 were not originally posted for the
community. He clarified the department was tracking internal compliance and
usage to ensure compliance and transparency with AB 481 and explained changes
in leadership within the last few years caused data not to be reported to the
community.
CITY COUNCIL 10 AUGUST 19, 2025
Commander Sorenson confirmed no new equipment has been purchased and
provided a presentation regarding the annual military equipment use report.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez requested information related to the increase from .015%
the first year, .054% the second year, and .023% this current year regarding total
calls for service. He expressed concern regarding the deployment of military
equipment used during protests related to ICE on June 9, 2025 and requested the
Police Oversight Director create a report and policy on the use of weapons.
Councilmember Lopez asked whether a member within the department has been
designated to conduct yearly reports and clarification on the events in which the
military equipment had been used. She requested a Zoom option be available for
residents at the next community meeting, parking validations be offered, and a
physical presentation be provided for future meetings.
Chief Rodriguez confirmed multiple members within the department have been
assigned.
Commander Sorenson stated a data report was created in the department's RMS
system to provide reporting access to all personnel and increased enforcement on
East First Street related to the service of search warrants. He clarified the number
of times the equipment was reported as being used as a force option and explained
deployment refers to the removal of a 40mm launcher and projectile from a police
vehicle, as opposed to the actual use of the equipment as a force option.
Councilmember Penaloza echoed Councilmember Lopez's request regarding
future community meetings and expressed gratitude to Chief Rodriguez for his
efforts putting forth the policy.
Councilmember Phan expressed gratitude to Commander Sorenson and
acknowledged the department for taking responsibility for previous shortcomings
while demonstrating a commitment to fixing the issue. She requested clarification
on the purpose of each equipment item and emphasized the importance of
transparency. She voiced support for Ordinance No. 3020 regarding the use of
equipment when necessary and confirmed there have been no discussions within
the City Council about purchasing drones.
Councilmember Bacerra requested data regarding hate crimes be presented on
the City website and echoed Councilmember Phan's comments.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in opposition to the item, voiced concerns
regarding the potential harm to the community from the use of military equipment
and the need for compliance, and asked when the protocol for deploying equipment
is applied in a given situation.
Chief Rodriguez stated proper approval from the commander is required for certain
situations, such as SWAT deployments.
CITY COUNCIL 11 AUGUST 19, 2025
Mayor Amezcua requested clarification regarding incidents where equipment was
deployed and categorized as a force option in the report, whether the department
had received any community complaints or noted any loss of life related to the use
of equipment, and under what circumstances an armored vehicle could be
deployed. She echoed Councilmember Lopez's comments regarding accessibility
for future community meetings and requested translators be available in Spanish
and Vietnamese. She spoke in support of the item and thanked the Santa Ana
Police Department for their service.
Commander Sorenson clarified the data is based on deployment versus
employment, such as incidents where rifles were removed from vehicles or
deployed during a SWAT call but not used as a force option. He confirmed the
department had not received any community complaints and there had been no
loss of life due to the equipment. He provided an example of using a high-speed
pursuit intervention to block an individual and safely ending the pursuit without
endangering the community.
Councilmember Lopez requested clarification regarding the most recent report
covering May 2024 to April 2025 and not including data from the month of May,
while previous reports (May 2023-May 2023 and May 2023-May 2024) did. She
asked why the reported cost of military equipment has remained the same each
year in the data.
Commander Sorenson stated there was a misprint in the report and clarified the
data covers the periods of May 1, 2022 - May 1, 2023; May 1, 2023 - April 30,
2024; and May 1, 2024-April 30, 2025. He explained when the report was printed,
`April"was listed instead of"May,"and confirmed the data reflects the full month of
April, not May. He noted that future reports should display the periods as May 1 -
April 30, explained annual costs, and stated the department has not ordered any
new military equipment.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez stated the City should prioritize investing in youth
programs and community sports rather than the police department and its
equipment.
MOTION: Councilmember Phan moved to approve the recommended action
for Item No. 10, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 4-3, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER
LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 4- 3- Pass
CITY COUNCIL 12 AUGUST 19, 2025
11.Agreement with 02X Human Performance, LLC for On-Site Physical Health
and Wellness Services (Specification No. 25-104) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
02X Human Performance, LLC to provide on-site physical health and wellness
services in an amount not to exceed $215,000, for a one-year term beginning
September 1, 2025 and expiring August 31, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-134).
12.Fourth Amendment to Agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc. (Non-General
Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a fourth
amendment to the agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc. for the installation of
additional security camera infrastructure on Bristol Street and extending the
agreement for an additional two (2) month period from November 1, 2025 through
December 31, 2025, in the additional amount of $42,274 for a total aggregate
amount not to exceed $3,462,144 (Agreement No. A-2025-135).
13.Agreement with Immigrant Defenders Law Center for Immigration Legal
Defense Services (Specification No. 24-137) (General Fund)
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Immigrant Defenders Law Center to provide immigration legal defense services to
Santa Ana residents in the amount of $250,000 for the term of August 19, 2025 to
August 18, 2026, with provisions for two, one-year extensions at an amount of
$250,000 per extension, for a total aggregate amount not to exceed $750,000 over
a three-year period (Agreement No. A-2025-136).
14.Agreement between the City of Santa Ana, the Housing Authority of the City
of Santa Ana, and Orangewood Foundation for Services Coordination for
Transitional Age Youth and Former Foster Youth (Specification No. 25-057A)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Approve and authorize the execution of an agreement
between the City of Santa Ana, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Ana, and
Orangewood Foundation to provide services coordination for transitional age youth
and former foster youth, aged 18 through 24, who are experiencing homelessness
or at risk of homelessness and who have been matched with a Foster Youth to
Independence voucher, in an amount not to exceed $632,839, for a three-year term
beginning August 19, 2025, and expiring August 18, 2028, with the option for a one-
year extension. (Agreement No. A-2025-137) (related to Housing Authority Agenda
Item No. 3)
CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua asked whether other cities are implementing initiatives
for transitional-age youth and if the allocated amount would be sufficient for the
youth, and suggested potentially partnering with other cities as part of the project.
Community Development Director Mike Garcia stated the 10% of HHAP funding is
required to be set aside for cities that receive these funds and the allocation is
formulated based on the City's demographics, with those funds directed toward this
specific population.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 14, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6- 0-0— 1 — Pass
15.Agreement with MDG Associates, Inc. to Provide On-Call Comprehensive
Financial, Grant Monitoring, Administrative, and Technical Support Services
for the CDBG, HOME, and ESG Programs (General & Non-General Funds)
(Specification No. 25-076A)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
MDG Associates, Inc. to provide on-call comprehensive financial, grant monitoring,
administrative, and technical support services for the Community Development
Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Solutions
Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $300,000 over a three-year period,
beginning August 19, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2028, with the option for an
extension (Agreement No. A-2025-138).
16.Agreement with KABOOM! to Provide Updated Playground Equipment at
Sandpointe Park
Department(s): Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to approve a community
partner agreement with KABOOM!, Inc. for new playground equipment at
Sandpointe Park in the amount of$8,500 (Agreement No. A-2025-139).
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra spoke in support of the item, inquired
regarding the start date, and thanked the KABOOM Foundation for their
collaboration.
CITY COUNCIL 14 AUGUST 19, 2025
Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Director Hawk Scott confirmed the
event will take place on October 11, 2025.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 16, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6- 0-0— 1 — Pass
17.Amendment to the Bristol-Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project Cost
Analysis to add $115,000 in Residential Development District 4 -Acquisition
and Development funds and $176,000 in Community Development Block
Grant Funds for a New Total Construction Delivery Cost of $4,872,808 and
Change Order to add $115,000 to an Existing Construction Contract with
Legion Contractors, Inc., for the Construction of the Basketball Court at the
Project (Project No. 24-6600) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an amendment to the Bristol-Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project
Cost Analysis to add $115,000 in Residential Development District 4
-Acquisition and Development funds, and $176,000 in Community
Development Block Grant funds for a new total construction delivery cost of
$4,872,808.
2. Approve a Change Order to add $115,000 to an existing construction contract
with Legion Contractors, Inc., for the construction of the basketball court at the
Bristol-Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project.
18.Service Agreements for Fire Alarm and Sprinkler Systems Inspection, Repair,
and Maintenance Services (General Fund & Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve service agreements with Viking Automatic
Sprinkler Company dba Kimble Fire Protection, Bernel, Inc. dba VFS Fire &
Security, HCI Systems, Inc., and Cal Building Systems, to provide as-needed fire
alarm and sprinkler systems inspection, repair, and maintenance services for
shared aggregate not-to-exceed total of$880,000 for the term beginning September
1, 2025 and expiring August 31, 2028, with a provision for one, two-year extension
(Core Agreement No. A-2025-140).
CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 18 as the
listed entity, Bernel, Inc. dba VFS Fire & Security, is a client of her employer, Rutan
and Tucker.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for Item
No. 18 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilmember Penaloza.
The motion carried, 6-0-1-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBNER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6— 0— 1 —0— Pass
19.Encampment Delegated Maintenance Agreement with the California
Department of Transportation for Right-of-Way Maintenance Services and
Appropriation of $400,000 in Reimbursement Funding (Project No. 26-6423)
(Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an Encampment Delegated Maintenance Agreement with the
California Department of Transportation for the City to provide encampment
abatement, litter and debris removal, weed abatement, and graffiti removal
within Caltrans' right-of-way, with Caltrans reimbursing the City up to $200,000
annually for two years through June 30, 2027 for a total amount not to exceed
$400,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-141).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment in the amount of $400,000 to the Public
Works Agency Services, Contract Services-Professional expenditure account
(No. 05317021-62300), funded by reimbursements recorded in the City Services
Expense Reimbursement revenue account (No. 05317002-57000) (Requires
five affirmative votes).
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement and any subsequent
related documents, including amendments and exhibits, in a form approved by
the City Attorney.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra thanked staff for their help in bringing the item
for consideration and spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua thanked City staff for all their hard work, spoke in support of the
item, and asked how the MySantaAna App would reflect the Caltrans request page.
CITY COUNCIL 16 AUGUST 19, 2025
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated requests through the app do not need to provide
additional information.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item and thanked city staff for their
hard work and efforts.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 19, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6- 0-0— 1 — Pass
20.Resolution and Agreement Authorizing Police Corporal Ryan Johnson to
Purchase a Retired Santa Ana Police Department K-9
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution authorizing the purchase agreement between Santa Ana
Police Corporal Ryan Johnson and the City of Santa Ana for the sale of a retired
Santa Ana Police Department K-9.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-038 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING THE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN CORPORAL RYAN JOHNSON AND THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
RELATING TO THE PURCHASE OF A RETIRED SANTA ANA POLICE
DEPARTMENT K-9
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase agreement with Santa Ana
Police Corporal Ryan Johnson for the sale of a retired Police Department K-9 in
the amount of$1 (Agreement No. A-2025-142).
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
CITY COUNCIL 17 AUGUST 19, 2025
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 10:16 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
21.Nominate and Appoint a Representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed
Executive Committee and an Alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood
Protection Agency
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Nominate and appoint a representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed
Executive Committee.
2. Nominate and appoint an alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood Protection
Agency.
MOTION: Councilmember Phan moved to nominate and appoint Rudy Rosas
as the representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed Executive
Committee and Cesar Barrera as the alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood
Protection Agency, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6- 0-0— 1 — Pass
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
PUBLIC HEARINGS
MINUTES:At 10:19 P.M., the Public Hearings were considered.
22.Public Hearing — Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and Ordinance
Amendment No. 2025-01 to amend portions of Chapter 41 (Zoning) and
Chapter 8 (Buildings and Structures) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code relating
to Group Homes and Land Use Definitions and a Resolution to Amend the
Miscellaneous Fees Schedule for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 to Establish
Planning and Building Agency Review Fees for Group Home Special Use
Permit Applications and Group Home Operator's Permit Applications
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 8, 2025.
CITY COUNCIL 18 AUGUST 19, 2025
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and
Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 to amend several sections of Chapter 41
(Zoning) and to add Article XXIII to Chapter 8 (Buildings and Structures) of the
Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating to the location, licensing, permitting,
and operational requirements for group homes and land use definitions.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3084 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41
(ZONING) AND CHAPTER 8 (BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES) OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO GROUP HOMES AND LAND
USE DEFINITIONS, REGULATING SUCH USES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE
DISABLED AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3), 15061(C)(2), 15060(C)(3),
AND/OR 15301(C)
2. Adopt a resolution to establish a Group Home Special Use Permit application
review fee and a Group Home Operator's Permit review fee.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-039 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ESTABLISHING FEES FOR A
GROUP HOME SPECIAL USE PERMIT AND A GROUP HOME OPERATOR'S
PERMIT
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 10:20 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments received:
one (1) Agenda Item No. 22.
The following individual addressed the City Council in person:
1. Shahan Suzmeyan spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 10:22 P.M.
Councilmember Bacerra spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke in support of the item and thanked the leadership
in the City of Costa Mesa.
CITY COUNCIL 19 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 22, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0— Pass
23.Public Hearing - Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to Amend
Portions of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to
A-Frame Signs
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 8, 2025.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance
Amendment No. 2025-02 to amend several sections of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the
Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating to A-frame signs.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3085 entitled ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO.
2025-02 — AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41 (ZONING) OF THE SANTA ANA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO A-FRAME SIGNS AND FINDING THE ACTION
TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(CEQA) UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES 15060(C)(2), 15060(c)(3) AND
15061(b)(3)
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua opened the Public Hearing at 10:27 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall stated there were no comments.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 10:27 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 19, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 23, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER
PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0— Pass
AGENDA ITEM NO. 24 WITHDRAWN
24.Public Hearing - Recovery of Uncollected Costs Incurred by the City Related
to the Abatement of Dangerous and Abandoned Buildings
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter and mailed on August 6, 2025.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution affirming the Fiscal Year 2024-2025
Dangerous and Abandoned Building Program Report and authorize the transmittal
of uncollected charges incurred by the City related to the abatement of dangerous
and abandoned buildings to the office of Auditor-Controller, County of Orange.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA CONFIRMING THE COSTS OF SECURING
AND/OR DEMOLITION OF VARIOUS STRUCTURES DECLARED TO BE PUBLIC
NUISANCES; MAKING, CONFIRMING AND LEVYING ASSESSMENTS FOR
SUCH COSTS; AND ORDERING SUCH COSTS TO BE RECORDED WITH THE
ORANGE COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced Public Hearing Agenda Item No. 24
has been withdrawn from consideration as the property owner has paid the outstanding
amount.
**END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS**
RECESS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting and convened the
Special Housing Authority meeting at 10:29 P.M.
RECONVENE
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the Special Housing Authority meeting and
reconvened the City Council meeting to order at 10:30 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 21 AUGUST 19, 2025
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
25.Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Prepare a Resolution for
Consideration Naming the PAAL Center Located on McFadden Avenue as the
Jose Vargas PAAL Center in Recognition of his Legacy of Service to Santa
Ana's Youth, Immigrant Community, and Public Safety — Mayor Pro Tern
Benjamin Vazquez
MINUTES: Item No. 25 was moved out of order and considered prior to the Consent
Calendar(See page 8).
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: City Manager Alvaro Nunez announced the requested Joint Special Meeting
could not be scheduled due to scheduling conflicts among the Police Oversight
Commission and City Council and suggested Councilmembers and the commission meet
with staff individually and the Police Oversight Commission review the proposed
amendments on September 11, 2025 and submit a memo or send a representative to the
September 16, 2025, City Council meeting. He shared information about the Ayuda Sin
Fronteras program and upcoming events, including the outdoor library inauguration at
Jerome Park, quarterly bulk item drop-off at Carl Thornton Park and El Salvador Park on
August 23, 2025, the Chicano Heritage Festival at Centennial Park on August 24, 2025,
the Chicano Heritage Educational Celebration at City Hall on August 29, 2025, and
garage sale weekend on September 6-7, 2025.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE — If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for
members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board
or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke regarding field facility use, thanked staff for
their hard work, and invited all to attend the Chicano Heritage Festival on Sunday
August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park.
Councilmember Lopez announced her office hours on Saturday August 23, 2025 from
10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M., thanked everyone who participated and attended the Zoofari
event, spoke regarding the new school year traffic, wished intern Branden a happy
early birthday, invited all to attend the Colemena Market on Saturday August 23, 2025,
requested a receive and file for the YMCA building on 3rd Street, and invited all to attend
the celebration of Little Arabia in the City of Anaheim and the Chicano Heritage Festival
on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park. Councilmember Lopez left the
meeting at 10:43 P.M.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke regarding his service on Transportation Corridor and
Toll Roads Agency, an agreement approved between several agencies for the 241 Toll
Road and 91 Toll Road express connector, and stated the project will be a monumental
improvement once completed. He thanked staff who worked on the Delhi Library and
spoke regarding the field use permits and his impartiality to a fair and democratic
selection of approved field use permits.
CITY COUNCIL 22 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Phan spoke regarding the Zoofari event, thanked everyone who made
the event a success, commented on the legal clinic her team hosted, announced that
the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is currently in the process of
interviewing for a new director, and invited anyone who has questions about the
process to reach out to her office.
Councilmember Bacerra announced his upcoming community office hours will be on
Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Adams Park at 10:00 A.M. and Saturday, October
11, 2025 at Sandpointe Park at 10:00 A.M., and reminded everyone to attend the
quarterly bulk item drop off on Saturday August 23, 2025 at Carl Thornton Park and El
Salvador Park from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Councilmember Hernandez stated the City was the first to declare August as Chicano
Heritage Month and invited all to attend the Chicano Heritage Festival on Sunday,
August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park and the Jerome Park outdoor library inauguration.
He spoke regarding police oversight, accountability, and reported that he is against the
disrespect and harassment of police officers and members of the community.
Councilmember Hernandez left the meeting at 10:59 P.M.
Mayor Amezcua requested clarification on the Closed Session actions.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported that for item No 1A, Delfina Flores Robles V.
City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Hernandez
absent) to settle the case for $150,000. For Item 1B, JBW Enterprise, LLC v. City of
Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 5-0 (Councilmembers Hernandez absent and
Phan recused). For Item 3, the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Hernandez
absent) for potential censure process with potential legal consequences regarding
personnel complaints filed against Councilmember Hernandez to be reported at the
City Council meeting October 7, 2025.
Mayor Amezcua shared the Orange County Transportation Authority will be hosting
the following community presentations for the OC Streetcar. at Carver Elementary on
August 20, 2025 at 6:30 P.M., Garfield Elementary August 21, 2025, Lydia Romero-
Cruz Academy, and Santa Ana High School, August 28, 2025 at Comlink, and will
have a booth at Fiestas Patrias on September 13th and 14th. She invited everyone to
attend the Jerome outdoor library ribbon cutting ceremony on August 21, 2025,
commented on the approval of field use permits, reported the most recurring topics
during her community meetings are:homeless issues, crime, streets, and housing, and
reported that on August 8, 2025, she met with the Los Angeles City Attorney, Hydee
Feldstein, to help expand the coalition of cities joining the lawsuit against the federal
government over recent immigration enforcement in California. She thanked everyone
who attended the meeting.
CITY COUNCIL 23 AUGUST 19, 2025
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 11:03 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Jennifer L. Hall, CIVIC
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 24 AUGUST 19, 2025
DRAFT Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
September 16, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
REGULAR OPEN MEETING - 5:30 P.M.
(Immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
TELECONFERENCE INFORMATION:
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(b), Councilmember David Penaloza will participate in the
meeting via teleconference from World Swan Resort,1200 Epcot Resorts Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL
32830(with the room number posted in the lobby).The Agenda will be posted at the teleconference location
and any member of the public wishing to address the legislative body directly may do so at the
teleconference location pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.3.
CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua called the Closed Session meeting to order at 4:09 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tern Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
CITY COUNCIL 1 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Lopez and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were
present. Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, and Penaloza (via teleconference) arrived
during Closed Session.
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho announced under the Brown Act an item can be
added after the posting of the agenda with council approval. She stated her office was
contacted by the City of Los Angeles requesting the City join an additional amicus brief
and there is need for immediate action. She requested to add Closed Session Item No.
1(G): Conference with Legal Counsel- Existing Litigation: Newsom v. Trump.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to add Item No 1(G). CONFERENCE WITH
LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION Newsom v. Trump to the Closed
Session Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Lopez.
The motion carried, 4-0-0-3, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA
Status: 4- 0 - 0 — 3 — Pass
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed
Session items.
MINUTES: None.
RECESS — City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting
regular City business.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua recessed to considerthe Closed Session items at 4:11 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION ITEMS—The Brown Act permits legislative bodies to discuss certain
matters without members of the public present. The City Council finds, based on advice
from the City Attorney, that discussion in open session of the following matters will
prejudice the position of the City in existing and anticipated litigation:
CITY COUNCIL 2 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to
Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:
A. Jodi Thorn v. City of Santa Ana, Officer Cristal Gutierrez, et al., Orange
County Superior Court, Case No. 30-2024-01380358-CU-PA-CJC
B. Share Our Selves Corporation v. City of Santa Ana, United States District
Court Case No. 8:23-cv-00504-DOC-KES
C. Paloma Ortiz v. City of Santa Ana, et al., Orange County Superior Court
Case No. 30-2023-01348523-CU-WT-CJC
D. In re: Purdue Pharma L.P. et al., United States Bankruptcy Court (S.D. NY)
Case No. 19-23649 (SHL)
E. In re National Prescription Opiate Litigation, United States District Court
Case No. 1:17-and-2804 (MDL No. 2804)
F. Rita Ramirez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No.
30-2022-01287702-CU-OE-NJC
G. Gavin Newsom v. Donald Trump, United States District Court Case No.
3:25-cv-04870-CRB
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — POTENTIAL INITIATION OF
LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code
Section 54956.9:
• One (1) case — Union Pacific
3. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:
• Service Employees International Union, Full-Time Employees Unit (SEIU-
FT)
• Service Employees International Union, Part-Time Non-Civil Service
Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Lori Schnaider, Executive Director of Human Resources
Employee Organizations:
• Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)
• Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)
RECONVENE—City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.
CITY COUNCIL 3 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
TELECONFERENCE INFORMATION:
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(b), Councilmember David Penaloza
will participate in the meeting via teleconference from World Swan Resort,1200
Epcot Resorts Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 (with the room
number posted in the lobby). The Agenda will be posted at the teleconference
location and any member of the public wishing to address the legislative body
directly may do so at the teleconference location pursuant to Government Code
Section 54954.3.
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to orderat 5:41 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tern Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, Lopez, Penaloza (via teleconference), Phan,
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were present. Councilmember
Hernandez joined the meeting at 5:47 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Adrian A. Ezparza
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Pastor Jeff Schlieder, Cross of Grace Santa Ana
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua announced that the Santa Ana Zoo has received
accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
CITY COUNCIL 4 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation presented by Mayor Amezcua to the Orange County Hunger
Alliance declaring September 2025 as Hunger Action Month
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua presented a proclamation to the Orange County
Hunger Alliance declaring September 2025 as Hunger Action Month.
2. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Bacerra to the Kiwanis, Lyons,
Elks, and Rotary Clubs declaring September 2025 as Service Club
Organizations Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented a proclamation to the Kiwanis,
Lyons, Elks, and Rotary Clubs declaring September 2025 as Service Club
Organizations Month.
3. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez to Santa Ana
Unified School District — Family and Community Engagement Team for
Outstanding Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a certificate of recognition to Santa
Ana Unified School District — Family and Community Engagement Team for
outstanding contributions to the community.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will report on anyaction(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported the following actions for Closed
Session items:
• Item No. 1 G, Newson v. Trump, the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember
Hernandez absent) to join an amicus brief to be filed by the City of Los Angeles.
• Item No. 1 B, Share Our Selves Corporation v. City of Santa Ana, United States
District Court Case No. 8:23-cv-00504-DOC-KES, the City Council voted 6-1
(Councilmember Bacerra dissenting), to settle the case for$550,000.
• Item No. 1 C, Paloma Ortiz v. City of Santa Ana, et al., Orange County Superior
Court Case No. 30-2023-01348523-CU-WT-CJC, the City Council voted 6-0
(Councilmember Hernandez absent), to settle the case for$85,000.
• Item Nos. 1 D and 1 E,: In re: Purdue Pharma L.P. et al., United States
Bankruptcy Court (S.D. NY) Case No. 19-23649 (SHL) and In re National
Prescription Opiate Litigation, United States District Court Case No. 1:17-md-
2804 (MDL No. 2804), the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Hernandez
absent) to opt into a settlement and to waive certain claims for the acceptance
of settlement funds which are anticipated to be hundreds of thousands of
dollars incoming into the City.
CITY COUNCIL 5 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
• Item IF, Rita Ramirez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court
Case No. 30-2022-01287702-CU-OE-NJC, the City Council voted 6-0
(Councilmember Hernandez absent) to waive the attorney client privilege as to
specific personnel reports.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7 MOVED OUT OF ORDER
7. Appoint Ruben Reyes Nominated by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez as the Ward
Representative to the Measure X Citizen Oversight Committee for a Partial
Term Expiring December 8, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Ruben Reyes to the Measure X Citizen
Oversight Committee as the Ward 2 representative and administer the Oath of
Office. (Pursuant to SAMC Sec. 2-326(a), requires five affirmative votes.)
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced there were no public comments
for Agenda Item No. 7.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
actin for Consent Calendar Item No. 7, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 6-0 —0— 1 — Pass
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall administered the oath of office to Ruben
Reyes.
PUBLIC COMMENTS--Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for ALL comments on agenda and non-agenda items.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments
received: eight (8) Agenda Item No. 10, one (1) Agenda Item No. 15, one (1) Agenda
Item No. 30, and(29) non-agenda comments. She announced the public comment time-
limit would be two minutes.
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Nancy Robles spoke regarding Service Employees International Union, SEIU,
members'contributions and labor negotiations.
CITY COUNCIL 6 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
2. Oscar Reyes spoke regarding La Academia and the use of soccer fields.
3. David Arvizu spoke regarding La Academia and the use of soccer fields.
4. Ruben Lemus spoke regarding La Academia and the use of soccer fields.
5. Andy Morales spoke regarding La Academia and the opportunities and experiences
the academy offers.
6. Alejandro Licea (translation:Spanish) spoke regarding La Academia.
7. Noel Arvizu spoke regarding La Academia and the use of soccer fields.
8. Juan Lopez spoke regarding La Academia and the use of soccer fields.
9. Pedro Magallon spoke regarding the usage of soccer fields and due process.
10.Melissa Aburto spoke regarding gentrification and in opposition to La Academia.
11.Bryan Leos played audio related to MLS Next.
12.Jose Retiz spoke regarding La Academia.
13.Luis Roman spoke regarding La Academia and the usage of soccer fields.
14.Noe Arriola (translation: Spanish) spoke regarding La Academia.
15. Victoria Diego spoke regarding La Academia.
16.Israel R. (translation: Spanish) spoke regarding La Academia and the usage of
soccer fields.
17. Tommy Fernandez spoke regarding the usage of soccer fields, due process, public
records request, and the Brown Act.
18. Yumiko Hiromoto (translation: Spanish) spoke regarding the Brown Act and
expressed concern regarding meetings held by Oscar Reyes, City Manager Alvaro
Nunez, and Councilmember Penaloza.
19.Maricela Ortiz spoke regarding La Academia.
20.Julian Flores spoke regarding La Academia
21.Bruce Senator spoke regarding the use of soccer fields, food distribution, and the
Delhi Community need for truck.
22.David Pulido spoke regarding equitable access to the City's soccer fields, the officer
involved shooting of Noe Rodriguez, and requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
CITY COUNCIL 7 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
23.Erika Armenta (translation: Spanish) spoke regarding the officer involved shooting
of Noe Rodriguez and requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
24.Abraham Q. requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and spoke regarding the Police
Oversight Commission proposed ordinance.
25. Tanya Nava expressed concern regarding the proposed changes to the Police
Oversight Commission ordinance.
26.Jocelyn P. spoke about Mexican Independence Day, La Academia, and requested
justice for Noe Rodriguez and Henry Gonzalez.
27.Zury spoke regarding the officer involved shootings of Noe Rodriguez and Henry
Gonzalez and requested justice.
28.Mathew Compton spoke regarding equitable access to the City's soccer fields, the
officer involved shooting of Noe Rodriguez, and requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
29.Mayra Ruiz spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 15.
30.Shawn Verdin spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
31. Tracy Simons spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
32.Nina Jirik spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
33. Carol Frank spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
34.Karen Perez spoke regarding the usage of soccer fields and requested due process
and justice for Noe Rodriguez.
35.David Jirik spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
36.Sandra Cortez spoke regarding labor negotiations.
37.Pat Lenahan spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 10.
38.Jackie Cordova spoke regarding police funding, immigration enforcement in the City,
and grant funding.
39.Jesaiah Keenan expressed concern regarding downtown parking increases.
The following speaker addressed City Council via teleconference:
40.Jorge Reyes spoke regarding La Academia.
CITY COUNCIL 8 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho responded to comments alleging violations of
the Brown Act and the California Public Records Act. She reminded the public that the
Brown Act applies to elected officials, not City staff, and stated that the City has not
violated the Brown Act and there is no evidence a majority of the City Council has met
to discuss the soccer field usage or made any decision regarding soccer field usage.
She stated the City has received a public record request and staff has responded
accordingly, explaining under the California Records Act, records may be withheld if
they fall within the exemptions. She announced the officer involved shootings mentioned
during the public comments are being investigated by the Orange County District
Attorney's Office and California Attorney General's Office, and stated the City has not
released a statement announcing its position on these incidents.
PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEM NO. 28 MOVED OUT OF ORDER
PUBLIC HEARING
MINUTES:At 8:05 P.M., Public Hearing Item No. 28 was considered.
28.Public Hearing—Amendment Application (Zone Change) No. 2025-01, Vesting
Tentative Tract Map No. 2025-06, Development Agreement No. 2025-01, and
Overrule of the Orange County Airport Land Use Commission's
Determination of Inconsistency for The Village Santa Ana Specific Plan
Entitlements and Development Agreement (1561 W. Sunflower Avenue)
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on September 5, 2025 and notices
mailed on same date.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution: (1) certifying the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report No. 2025-01 (SCH No. 2020029087) for the Project; (2) adopting
Environmental Findings of Fact and a Statement of Overriding Considerations
for the Project; (3) adopting a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for
the Project; and (4) approving the Project;
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-041 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA: (1) CERTIFYING THE FINAL
SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE VILLAGE
SANTA ANA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT (SCH NO. 2020029087); (2)
ADOPTING ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS OF FACT AND A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE PROJECT PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT; AND (3) ADOPTING THE
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
2. Adopt a resolution approving Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. 2025-06 (County
Map No. 2023-159), as conditioned;
CITY COUNCIL 9 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-042 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING VESTING TENTATIVE
TRACT MAP NO. 2025-06 (COUNTY MAP NO. 2023-159), AS CONDITIONED,
FOR THE VILLAGE SANTA ANA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT GENERALLY
LOCATED AT 1561 W. SUNFLOWER AVENUE
3. Adopt a resolution overruling the Orange County Airport Land Use
Commission's determination that The Village Santa Ana Specific Plan is
inconsistent with the Airport Environs Land Use Plan of John Wayne Airport,
including supportive findings (requires two-thirds vote);
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-043 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA OVERRULING THE ORANGE
COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION'S DETERMINATION THAT
THE VILLAGE SANTA ANA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT GENERALLY
LOCATED AT 1561 W. SUNFLOWER AVENUE, IS INCONSISTENT WITH
THE AIRPORT ENVIRONS LAND USE PLAN FOR JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT,
INCLUDING SUPPORTIVE FINDINGS
4. Conduct a first reading and adopt an ordinance approving Amendment
Application No. 2025-01 establishing The Village Santa Ana Specific Plan
(Specific Plan No. 6) and approving a zone change for the Project Site at 1561
W. Sunflower Avenue from Specific Development No. 48 to Specific Plan No. 6;
and
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3086 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING AMENDMENT APPLICATION
NO. 2025-01 TO ESTABLISH THE VILLAGE SANTA ANA SPECIFIC PLAN
AND TO APPROVE A ZONE CHANGE FOR THE PROJECT SITE
GENERALLY LOCATED AT 1561 W. SUNFLOWER AVENUE, FROM
SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT NO. 48 TO THE VILLAGE SANTA ANA SPECIFIC
PLAN (SP-6)
5. Conduct a first reading and adopt an uncodified ordinance approving
Development Agreement No. 2025-01.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3087 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
NO. 2025-01 FOR THE VILLAGE SANTA ANA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT
GENERALLY LOCATED AT 1561 W. SUNFLOWER AVENUE, BETWEEN THE
CITY OF SANTA ANA AND SOUTH COAST PLAZA, A CALIFORNIA
GENERAL PARTNERSHIP
MINUTES: Planning and Building Director Ali Pezeshkpour gave a presentation
regarding the Village Santa Ana Specific Plan.
Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 8:32 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 10 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Justin McCusker, Applicant, stated he was available to answer any questions from
the public or council regarding the project.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall stated there were (49) e-comments received and
announced speakers would have two minutes to provide their comments.
The following individuals addressed City Council in-person:
1. Adrian Esparza spoke in support of the project.
2. Jimmy Elrod spoke regarding the benefits of the project to the community and
spoke in support of the project.
3. Carlos Castellanos expressed gratitude to the Segerstrom Foundation and to
City staff in the Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments for their
hard work, and spoke in support of the project.
4. Senorino Estrada (translation: Spanish) requested affordable housing for
families.
5. Long Nguyen expressed gratitude to the Segerstrom Foundation and spoke in
support of the project.
6. Jonah Breslaw expressed concern regarding the Specific Plan related to the
hotel usage.
7. Chris Reese spoke in support of the project.
8. Emilse Pineda (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the proposed
Specific Plan related to the by-right hotel usage.
9. Jake Sarenana expressed concern regarding the proposed Specific Plan related
to the hotel usage.
The following individuals addressed City Council via teleconference:
10.Jared Lindo spoke regarding Item No. 10 and spoke in support of the project.
11.Shuntel Andrews spoke in support of the project.
12.Dale Helvig spoke in support of the project.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 8:58 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 11 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Mayor Amezcua stated the City has met and exceeded affordable housing
requirements and spoke in support of the project.
Councilmember Bacerra thanked the applicant for his hard work and expressed
support for the project. He requested that 50% of the parking blocks be designated
for retail or commercial uses facing Bear Street, traffic signals be installed within 18
months of the project's effective dates, the same configuration implemented along
Sunflower Street be mirrored along Bear Street, and inquired regarding Figure 3-13
related to the commercial loading area along Bear Street.
Mayor Amezcua re-opened the public hearing at 9:08 P.M.
Justin McCusker, Applicant, clarified there is no commercial loading zone along
Bear Street.
Councilmember Bacerra asked regarding the community benefits fund.
City ManagerAlvaro Nunez confirmed the community benefits fund will be paid prior
to each demolition phase and appropriated during the City's budget process.
Councilmember Hernandez asked for clarification regarding the type of community
benefits investments and inclusionary housing funds included, he expressed
support for the proposed amendments, emphasized the hotel, if built, be union built,
and suggested striking the language from the project related to hotel usage. He
spoke in support of the project.
City Manager Nunez explained community benefit investments include libraries,
parks, street improvements, and possible housing in certain parts of the City with
inclusionary housing funds allowing for housing developments within the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke in support of the project, expressed gratitude for
the applicant's hard work and efforts, and stated any hotel proposals should be
brought before the Council for public input.
Councilmember Phan asked for clarification on the inclusion of hotel use in the
project plan, potential conversion versus new construction, labor group involvement
if a hotel were built, community concerns about density use, and the $5 per square
foot in-lieu fee rate.
CITY COUNCIL 12 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Planning and Building Director Pezeshkpour explained the proposal for hotel use
was included as a permissible option to provide flexibility should market conditions
create a demand for a hotel in the area, and any such proposal would require
approval and be subject to development standards and design review. He clarified
the $5 per square foot rate was established in the development agreement.
Justin McCusker, Applicant, stated there is no proposed plan for a hotel at the
project site at this time and they would continue to work with the same working
group if hotels were to be built, and assured the community the project prioritizes
quality over maximizing density.
Councilmember Lopez thanked City staff, the Applicant, the Segerstrom family, and
labor workers for project efforts. She requested moving away from the Ad Hoc
Committee formation and to have all members deliberate publicly for projects.
Mayor Amezcua went over the March 2025 housing fact sheet and explained the
City's efforts in working towards more affordable housing.
Councilmember Penaloza requested clarification on the use of the language
regarding hotel use being included as a permissible use if there was no initial intent
to build a hotel. He suggested striking the hotel language, echoed Councilmember
Lopez's comments regarding the Ad Hoc Committee, and thanked the applicant and
the Segerstrom family for the proposed project.
Justin McCusker, Applicant, clarified the language for hotels was placed in case of
the potential opportunity with future market changes, stated there is no potential or
discussion at this current time, and depending on market demand for a hotel, it
would be brought to the Council to address, and explained the conceptual
illustrations within the presentation.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed concern regarding the pedestrian scale along
Bear Street, asked whether the cross-section along Bear Street bike path would
reflect Sunflower Street, and requested traffic signals be built within 24 months.
Director of Architecture and Planning for CJ Segerstrom Bryce Osborne explained
that the reasoning for not placing the residential component along Bear Street was
to create a community atmosphere within the Village.
Acting Public Works Director Rudy Rosas confirmed a bike path could be
incorporated into the project, depending on the applicant's intent to add it.
CITY COUNCIL 13 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Justin McCusker, Applicant, expressed openness to adding a bike path, and
confirmed traffic signals would be constructed within 24 months during Phase One
of the project.
Councilmember Lopez thank the Applicant for their hard work and honesty.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 9:58 PM
MOTION: Councilmember Becerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 28, with amendments to Table 4.1 — hotel uses requiring a
CUP, Figure 3-8b related to sidewalk landscaping, and bike path on Bear
Street, Figure 3-16 related to the bike path on Bear Street, Figure 3-13 —
relating to loading zones, and traffic signals on Bear Street to be installed
within 24 months of the effective date of the ordinance, seconded by Mayor
Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7—0— Pass
**END OF PUBLIC HEARING**
RECESS
Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting at 10:05 P.M.
RECONVENE
Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council meeting at 10:18 P.M.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 4 through 26 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES:At 10:19 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
CITY COUNCIL 14 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez pulled Agenda Item Nos. 8 and 9 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Councilmember Lopez recused herself from Item No.12, as she is currently employed
by the office of Orange County Supervisor Vincente Sarmiento.
Councilmember Penaloza recused himself from Item No. 15 due to campaign
contributions from MetroPro Road Services, Inc.
Councilmember Bacerra pulled Item No. 9 for separate discussion and consideration.
Mayor Amezcua pulled Item No. 15 for separate discussion and consideration.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4
through 26, with the exception of Item Nos. 7 (already approved) 8, 9, and 15,
seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6- 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
4. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
5. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 19, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
6. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services Commission on January 23, 2025, February 27, 2025, March 27, 2025,
April 24, 2025 and May 22, 2025; the Special Meeting of the Youth Commission
on February 6, 2025; the Special Meeting of the Community Development
Commission on March 5, 2025; the Joint Special Meeting of the Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services and Youth Commission on March 8,
2025; the Regular Meetings of the Youth Commission on March 17, 2025, April
21, 2025, and May 19, 2025; the Regular Meeting of the Rental Housing Board
on April 16, 2025; the Regular Meetings of the Arts and Culture Commission
CITY COUNCIL 15 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
on April 17, 2025, June 19, 2025 and July 17, 2025; the Special Meeting of the
Workforce Development Board Youth Council on April 30, 2025; the Regular
Meetings of the Community Development Commission on May 28, 2025 and
June 23, 2025; the Regular Meeting of the Environmental and Transportation
Advisory Commission on July 8, 2025; and the Regular Meetings of the Police
Oversight Commission on May 8, 2025 and July 10, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
7. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7 MOVED OUT OF ORDER AND HEARD PRIOR TO PUBLIC
COMMENTS (SEE PAGE 6)
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8 PULLED FOR SEPARATION DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
8. Informational Report for the California Department of Social Services Child
Care Grant
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file informational report for the California
Department of Social Services (CDSS) child care grant.
MINUTES: Assistant City Manager Kathryn Downs gave a presentation regarding
the CDSS Information Report.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez asked why the City was not moving forward with the grant
and spoke in opposition to releasing the grant.
Assistant City Manager Downs clarified factors contributing to the return of the
grant included compliance requirements and timing. She explained $915,000
would not be sufficient for needed capital facilities and equipment, such as
restrooms for adults and children.
Mayor Amezcua thanked Assistant City Manager Downs for the presentation,
asked how much it cost the City to install new restrooms at El Salvador Park, and
expressed gratitude for giving up the grant, noting if the City had retained it, the
budget would not have allowed for the improvements. She spoke in favor of
releasing the grant.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez confirmed it cost almost half a million dollars to build
new restrooms for El Salvador Park.
Councilmember Phan requested all future items regarding the release of grants be
brought before the Council, recommended having a centralized grant administrator
for the City, and spoke in favor of releasing the grant.
CITY COUNCIL 16 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez echoed Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez's and
Councilmember Phan's sentiments.
Councilmember Lopez asked for clarification regarding City staffs efforts, research,
and preparation regarding the use and implementation of the grant during 2021-
2025. She requested clarification on the public records request process and
whether staff continues to seek grants for the community. She highlighted how a
grant like this could be beneficial for the community, echoed Mayor Pro Tem
Vazquez's sentiments, and requested the Council be communicated with regarding
decisions to release grants.
Assistant City Manager Downs clarified the original grant application was not
submitted to CDSS until fiscal year 2022-23, despite prior discussions, staff
preparations included plans to bring on experts and trusted personnel familiar with
CDSS terms and agreements to help navigate program implementation and create
job classifications; however, it was realized the City did not have the necessary
expertise on board to start the program. She explained the City was not fully
equipped to manage the grant.
City Manager Nunez clarified needing the level of expertise when initially accepting
a grant and understanding implications needed for the grant beforehand. He
confirmed staff will continue to search for grants in the interests of the community.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall clarified the public records request process.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked staff for their work for the grant and continuing
to search for grants for the City.
Mayor Amezcua explained the City's fiscal responsibility, noting releasing grants
may be necessary when additional factors were not considered at the time of
acceptance and the City cannot afford them due to ongoing budget constraints.
She expressed interest in exploring programs to support youth within the
community, asked about the grant process, and thanked the City Manager for their
work.
Assistant City Manager Downs went over the process of grants including bringing
forth to the City Council and Finance Department for a fiscal review.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho provided a time reminder for the meeting, including
the remaining agenda items and the pulled consent calendar items.
CITY COUNCIL 17 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 8, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0— Pass
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua asked whether there was a deadline for Item No. 27.
Community Development Director Mike Garcia clarified the Consolidated Annual
Performance and Evaluation Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 must be submitted 90
days following the close of the previous fiscal year on September 30.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to continue Item Nos. 9, 15, and
29 to the October 7, 2025 City Council Meeting, to hold a standalone meeting
for Item No. 30 related to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance, and to
hear Public Hearing Item No. 27, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6— 1 — Pass
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9 CONTINUED TO THE OCTOBER 7, 2025 CITY COUNCIL
MEETING
9. Approve the Naming of Park Located at the Southwest Corner of the
Intersection of Bristol and Tolliver Streets (712 S. Bristol Street)
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency, Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services
Recommended Action: Affirm the Planning Commission's adoption of a resolution
approving Public Facilities No. 2025-01 naming the park located at the southwest
corner of Bristol Street and Tolliver Street (712 S. Bristol Street) as "Nuestro Park."
CITY COUNCIL 18 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
10.Washington Square Park Feasibility Study
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file the Washington Square Park Feasibility
Study.
11.Agreement with Coast Community College District for the Strong Workforce
Program (SWP) Transforming Intermediary Partnerships for Student Success
(Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an agreement with Coast Community College District to implement the
Strong Workforce Program (SWP) Transforming Intermediary Partnerships for
Student Success Project, in an amount not to exceed $50,000, for a ten-month
period beginning September 16, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement
No. A-2025-147).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $50,000 in funds from
Orange County Grant Revenue State Grants-Indirect account (no. 12418002-
52027) and appropriating the same amount to OCCC Grant expenditure account
(No. 12418753-Various) (Requires five affirmative votes).
12.Historic Property Preservation Agreements for the Properties Located at 305
E. Washington Avenue and 1617 E. Fourth Street
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the
attached Mills Act agreements with the below-referenced property owners for the
identified structure(s) (Agreement No. A-2025-148 and A-2025-149). [Includes
determination that the proposed projects are exempt from further review in
accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act as Categorical
Exemption(s)/Environmental Review No. 2025-29 and 2025-50 will be filed for the
project.]
CITY COUNCIL 19 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
Table 1: Mills Act Agreements Approved by the Historic Resources
Commission HRC
Historic
Property Property
Owner(s) Preservation Address/House Vote by HRC
Agreement
No.
Daniel Phan
Nguyen, Trustee 5:0:0:2
The 3 E. 2025-02 305 E. Washington (Commissioners
to Washington Ave Avenue Rincon and
Grantor Trust Padilla absent)
Vincent F. 4:0:1:2
Sarmiento and (Commissioners
Eva Casas- Rincon and
Sarmiento, 2025-05 1617 E. Fourth Street Padilla absent and
Husband and Commissioner
Wife as Joint Escamilla
Tenants abstaining)
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 12 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilmember
Bacerra.
The motion carried, 5-0-1-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ (recusal)
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 5- 0 - 1 — 1 — Pass
13.First Amendment to Agreement with California Forensic Medical Group, Inc.
and Wellpath (General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the first
amendment to the agreement with California Forensic Medical Group, Inc. and
Wellpath to continue to provide health care services to inmates and detainees
housed at the Santa Ana Jail and exercise the first one-year renewal option to
extend the term through September 30, 2026 in an annual amount of $3,523,310
and an additional $250,000 for emergency services as necessary and at the City's
sole discretion, for a total aggregate amount not to exceed $13,843,556
(Agreement No. A-2025-150).
CITY COUNCIL 20 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
14.Agreement with Aramark Correctional Services, LLC for Inmate Food and
Commissary Services (Specification No. 25-038) (General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Aramark Correctional Services, LLC to provide inmate food and commissary
services in an amount not to exceed $5,070,842 for a three-year term beginning
October 1, 2025 and expiring September 30, 2028, with provisions for two (2), one
(1) year renewal options, and authorize use of a "pass-through" account enabling
payments to Aramark Correctional Services, LLC from the incarcerated person trust
account for commissary purchases with no fiscal impact to City funds (Agreement
No. A-2025-151).
AGENDA ITEM NO. 15 CONTINUED TO THE OCTOBER 7, 2025 CITY COUNCIL
MEETING
15.Third Amendments for Rotational Towing and Storage Services for the Police
Department
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the third
amendment to the agreements with the following rotational towing service
contractors and amend the scope of services to allow for the option and ability to
store and release vehicles and/or contents in an area close to, but outside of, the
corporate City limits (Agreement Nos. A-2025-XXX):
• Standard Enterprises, Inc., dba To' N' Mo';
• B&D Towing, Inc.; and
• MetroPro Road Services, Inc.
16.Agreement with Arcadis U.S., Inc. to Design and Build the Kraemer
Boulevard, Glassell Street, Grand Avenue Corridor Regional Traffic Signal
Synchronization Project (No. 25-6705) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Arcadis U.S., Inc. to
Design and Build the Kraemer Boulevard, Glassell Street, Grand Avenue
Corridor Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Project for an amount not to
exceed $5,680,658, for a term beginning September 16, 2025 and ending
September 15, 2028, with provisions for two one-year extensions (Agreement
No. A-2025-152).
2. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated delivery cost of
$5,710,658, which includes $5,680,658 for the design and build contract and
$30,000 for in-kind staff support.
CITY COUNCIL 21 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
17.Agreement with ProCore Technologies, Inc. for Construction Project
Management Software (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
ProCore Technologies, Inc., for the licensing of ProCore Technologies Project
Management Pro software in an amount not to exceed $444,607, for a term
beginning September 17, 2025 and expiring September 16, 2028 (Agreement No.
A-2025-153).
18.Agreement with the Municipal Water District of Orange County for Shared
Programs and Services (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the Master
Agreement for Shared Programs and Services with the Municipal Water District of
Orange County, for a three-year period with provisions for two one-year extensions
beginning upon approval by the Municipal Water District of Orange County and
expiring September 15, 2030, in an aggregate amount not to exceed of$1,500,000
(Agreement No. A-2025-154).
19.Agreement with EEC Environmental for Waste Discharge Requirement
Compliance Services (Specification No. 25-036) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
EEC Environmental to provide Waste Discharge Requirement compliance services,
in an amount not to exceed $1,800,000, for a term beginning September 16, 2025
and expiring September 15, 2028, with provisions for two, one-year extensions
(Agreement No. A-2025-155).
20.Agreement with Pacific International Electric Company Inc., dba Pacific
Industrial Electric, for Electrical Upgrade at the Corporate Yard (Specification
No. 25-075) (General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Pacific Industrial Electric to provide electrical improvements at the Corporate Yard
in an amount not to exceed $796,707, for a term beginning September 16, 2025
and expiring September 15, 2026, with the option for a single one-year extension
(Agreement No. A-2025-156)
CITY COUNCIL 22 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
21.Award a Construction Contract to Optima RPM, Inc. for the Santa Ana Zoo
Education Hub Building A— Phase 1 Project(No. 23-2601) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $166,000 in donations from
Friends of Santa Ana Zoo into the PRCSA Fees & Donations (02213002-
57081) revenue account and appropriate the same amount into the PRCSA
Fees& Donations (02213200-66200) building expenditure account for the Santa
Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A— Phase 1. (Requires five affirmative votes)
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $750,000 in revenue collected
in prior years into the Acquisition & Development-District 3 (31313002-
50001) revenue account and appropriate the same amount into the Acquisition
& Development-District 3 (31313260-66200) building expenditure account for
the Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A — Phase 1. (Requires five
affirmative votes)
3. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement
Program to include an additional $916,000 in construction funds for the Santa
Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A— Phase 1 Project (No. 23-2601).
4. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost
of $4,454,082, which includes $3,563,265 for the construction contract,
$534,490 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $356,327 for
unanticipated or unforeseen work.
5. Award a construction contract to Optima RPM, Inc., the lowest responsible
bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of $3,563,265, subject to
change orders, for construction of the Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A
— Phase 1 Project (No. 23-2601), for a term beginning September 16, 2025 and
ending upon project completion, and authorize the City Manager to execute the
contract.
6. Approve an Agreement with Berg & Associates, Inc., for Construction
Management and Inspection services for the Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub
Building A— Phase 1 Project, in an amount not to exceed $374,315 for a three-
year term beginning September 16, 2025 and expiring September 15, 2028, with
an option for two, one-year extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-157).
7. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption
Environmental Review No. ER-2025-62 will be filed for Project No. 23-2601.
CITY COUNCIL 23 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
22.Aggregate Agreement with Industrial Control Systems Online, LLC, DBA ICS
Online; KDC Inc., DBA KDC Systems; and Partners in Control, Inc. DBA
Enterprise Automation for Programmable Logic Controller Programming and
Consulting Services (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with
ICS Online, KDC Systems, and Enterprise Automation to provide Programmable
Logic Control programming and consulting services for a total aggregate amount
not to exceed $2,500,000, for a three-year term beginning September 16, 2025 and
expiring September 15, 2028, with provisions for two, one-year extensions (Core
Agreement No. A-2025-158).
23.Agreement with iWater, Inc. for Water System Mapping and Software Services
(Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
iWater, Inc. to provide water system mapping and software services, for an amount
not to exceed $1,750,000, for a three-year term beginning September 16, 2025 and
expiring September 15, 2028, with provisions for two, one-year extensions
(Agreement No. A-2025-159).
24.Appropriation Adjustments to Recognize Orange County Transportation
Authority Environmental Cleanup Program Grant for the Santa Ana Zoo and
10th and Flower Park Stormwater Capture Projects (Project Nos. 24-6604 and
26-6601) and Adopt a Resolution to Enter Into a Cooperative Implementation
Agreement with Caltrans for the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture Project
(Project No. 24-6604) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $2,500,000 in Orange County
Transportation Authority Tier 2 Environmental Cleanup Program funds for the
Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project in the Measure M2
Competitive-Street Construction Revenue Account (No. 03217002-52332) and
appropriate the same amount into the Measure M2 Competitive-Street
Construction expenditure account (No. 03217663-66220). (Requires five
affirmative votes)
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $600,000 in Orange County
Transportation Authority Tier 1 Environmental Cleanup Program funds for the
10th and Flower Park Stormwater Capture Project in the Measure M2
Competitive-Street Construction Revenue Account (No. 03217002-52332) and
CITY COUNCIL 24 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
appropriate the same amount into the Measure M2 Competitive-Street
Construction expenditure account (No. 03217663-66220). (Requires five
affirmative votes)
3. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Improvement
Program to add $600,000 of Orange County Transportation Authority Tier 1
Environmental Cleanup Program funds for the 10th and Flower Stormwater
Capture Project(No. 26-6601)and $2,500,000 of Orange County Transportation
Authority Tier 2 Environmental Cleanup Program funds for the Santa Ana Zoo
Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project (No. 24-6604).
4. Adopt a resolution authorizing the City to enter into a Cooperative
Implementation Agreement with Caltrans to receive grant funds to construct the
Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-040 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO
ENTER INTO A COOPERATIVE IMPLEMENTATION AGREEMENT WITH
CALTRANS TO RECEIVE STORMWATER REIMBURSEMENT FUNDS TO
CONSTRUCT THE SANTA ANA ZOO STORMWATER CAPTURE AND
DIVERSION PROJECT
25.Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and Ordinance Amendment No.
2025-01 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41 (Zoning) and Chapter 8 (Buildings
and Structures) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to Group Homes
and Land Use Definitions
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 20, 2025.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Conduct a second reading of and adopt an ordinance approving Zoning
Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01
to amend several sections of Chapter 41 (Zoning) and to add Article XXIII to
Chapter 8 (Buildings and Structures) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code relating
to the location, licensing, permitting, and operational requirements for group
homes and land use definitions.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3084 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41
(ZONING) AND CHAPTER 8 (BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES) OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO GROUP HOMES AND LAND
USE DEFINITIONS, REGULATING SUCH USES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE
DISABLED AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3), 15061(C)(2), 15060(C)(3),
AND/OR 15301
CITY COUNCIL 25 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
2. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
the project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3),
15061(b)(3), and 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines.
26.Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41
(Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to A-Frame Signs
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 20, 2025.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Conduct a second reading and adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance
Amendment No. 2025-02 to amend several sections of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of
the Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating to A-frame signs; and
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3085 entitled ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO.
2025-02 — AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41 (ZONING) OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO A-FRAME SIGNS AND
FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE CEQA
GUIDELINES 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3) AND 15061(b)(3)
2. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
the project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3),
and 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
PUBLIC HEARING
MINUTES:At 11:10 P.M., the Public Hearing was considered.
27.Public Hearing—Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report for
Fiscal Year 2024-25
Legal notice published in the OC Register and La Opinion on August 18, 2025 and
in Nguoi Viet on August 19, 2025.
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize submission of the Consolidated Annual
Performance and Evaluation Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 to the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 11:10 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 26 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced there were no email comments received
and there were no speakers.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 11:11 P.M.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to the recommended action for
Public Hearing Item No. 27, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0— Pass
**END OF PUBLIC HEARING**
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
AGENDA ITEM NO. 29 CONTINUED TO THE OCTOBER 7, 2025 CITY COUNCIL
MEETING
29.Discuss and Consider Providing Direction to the City Manager to Develop and
Implement a Santa Ana Police Department Policy Requiring the Installation
and Use of In-Car Video Recording Systems in all Patrol Vehicles, with
Automatic Activation during Vehicular Pursuits, Code-3 Responses, and
Other Critical Enforcement Activities, and to Return to the City Council within
90 Days with a Final Policy and Implementation Plan — Councilmember Lopez
WORK STUDY SESSION
AGENDA ITEM NO. 30 MOVED TO SPECIAL MEETING
30.Police Oversight Commission Ordinance Work Study Session
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Receive presentation on Police Oversight Commission
Ordinance, discuss options for an updated ordinance, and provide direction to staff.
CITY COUNCIL 27 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE — If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for
members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board
or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.
MINUTES: None.
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting in memory of Vicki
Tafoya, Lydia Salvetta, and Adrian Torres at 11:12 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Jennifer L. Hall, CMC
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 28 SEPTEMBER 16, 2025