HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 05 - Minutes from the Regular Meeting of March 4, 2025 DRAFT Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
March 4, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 5:00 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 5:03 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, Hernandez, Lopez, Penaloza, and Phan, and Mayor
Amezcua were present. Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez arrived during Closed Session.
CITY COUNCIL 1 MARCH 4, 2025
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: None.
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed
Session items.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall stated there were no comments.
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 5:04 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. Anchor Stone Christian Church v. City of Santa Ana, et al., United States District
Court Case No 8:25-cv-215
B. City of Santa Ana Personnel Board Appeal 2022-01 (Marban)
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will reporton any action(s)from Closed
Session.
RECONVENE —City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.
CITY COUNCIL 2 MARCH 4, 2025
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to order at 6:14 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.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Penaloza
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Pastor David Correa, Eden Church OC
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced Item No. 18, Habitat for Humanity
has been withdrawn from consideration by City Manager Alvaro Nunez.
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember Bacerra honoring
Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Lori Smith In Recognition of her Retirement and
44 Years of Dedicated Service to the City of Santa Ana and the Orange County
Fire Authority
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented a certificate of recognition honoring
Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Lori Smith in recognition of her retirement and 44 years
of dedicated service to the City of Santa Ana and the Orange County Fire Authority.
CITY COUNCIL 3 MARCH 4, 2025
2. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez to the Santa
Ana Lawn Bowling Club for their Outstanding Contributions to the
Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a certificate of recognition to the
Santa Ana Lawn Bowling Club for their outstanding contributions to the community.
STAFF PRESENTATIONS
3. Development Streamlining Presentation
MINUTES: Acting Planning and Building Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour gave
a presentation regarding the development streamlining update and shared the
award won by the City.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho announced there was no reportable action.
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: one (1) Agenda Item No. 13, one (1) Agenda Item No. 18, and three (3) non-
agenda comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Kimberly Duran expressed concern regarding ranking and scoring from the Arts and
Culture Commission.
2. Dale Helvig praised the Public Works and Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services Agencies regarding the Main Street Corridor, spoke regarding the Thornton
Park ribbon cutting ceremony, and in support of Agenda Item No. 23.
3. Aida Espinoza expressed concern regarding students' safety and spoke regarding
community policing, public safety, and giving additional resources to the Police
Department.
CONSENTCALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 4 through 19 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES:At 7:03 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
CITY COUNCIL 4 MARCH 4, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez pulled Agenda Item Nos. 8 and 9 for separate discussion
and consideration.
Councilmember Bacerra pulled Agenda Item No. 9 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Councilmember Penaloza pulled Agenda Item No. 17 for separate discussion and
consideration.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos.
4 through 19 with the exception of Agenda Item Nos. 8, 9, and 17 pulled for
separate discussion and consideration and Agenda Item No. 18 withdrawn,
seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN
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 February 18, 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 December 5, 2024, Environmental and
Transportation Advisory Commission on January 14, 2025, and Planning
Commission on January 27, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
CITY COUNCIL 5 MARCH 4, 2025
7. Receive and File Boards and Commissions Biannual Attendance Report for
July Through December 2024
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Receive and file Boards and Commissions Annual Attendance Report.
2. Provide other direction to staff, if/as needed.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8 WAS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
8. Fiestas Del Mariachi Post-Event Summary and Analysis
Department(s): Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
MINUTES: Councilmember Hernandez expressed concern regarding the Santa
Ana Stadium and asked that the City Manager's Office and Parks and Recreation
Agency collaborate and explore strategies to generate revenue and mitigate future
losses. He recommended partnering with well-experienced organizations and high-
profile figures, suggested partnering with profit-driven entities, and reaffirmed his
support of stadium use.
Mayor Amezcua asked for clarification regarding the rental fees of the stadium.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated the stadium is rented out at$130,000 for permit
and flooring.
Mayor Amezcua expressed her support of Councilmember Hernandez's comments
and the importance of collaborating with agencies who have the ability to cover
fees for the use of the Santa Ana Stadium.
Councilmember Penaloza expressed support of stadium usage and the importance
of prioritizing investing in the stadium.
Councilmember Lopez expressed support of revenue generation and partnerships
with capable organizations, and voiced concern regarding revenue loss and its
impact on taxpayers'dollars.
Councilmember Bacerra requested that the City Manager evaluate revenue-
generating options, investment costs, and the overall direction of the stadium while
considering taxpayers'dollars.
CITY COUNCIL 6 MARCH 4, 2025
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez expressed appreciation to the City Manager for building
a strong team and suggested they continue working together to execute the vision
for the stadium.
Councilmember Phan asked whether staff had determined that partnering with the
non-profit was a valuable investment for assessing stadium updates and expressed
support of future events.
City Manager Nunez confirmed that partnering with a non-profit organization for the
stadium's first event was a worthwhile investment to identify necessary updates.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 8, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez.
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. 9 WAS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
9. Contract Parking Enforcement Services with LAZ Parking California LLC
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra expressed concern regarding citations issued
by LAZ for the absence of front license plates, officers standing at parking meters
waiting to issue citations, and whether LAZ is receiving compensation for citations.
He emphasized the upcoming contract should define parking enforcement
responsibilities and ensure citations are issued only for specified parking violations.
Police Commander Joseph Marty spoke regarding the LAZ-issued citations for
missing front license plates and expired tags, noting that the Police Department
trained LAZ ambassadors and parking control officers, and confirmed LAZ receives
no additional compensation.
Mayor Amezcua acknowledged the impact of citations on community care, thanked
staff and LAZ, and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that upholds
customer service while supporting enforcement.
CITY COUNCIL 7 MARCH 4, 2025
Councilmember Lopez echoed Councilmember Bacerra's comments and
emphasized the importance of considering businesses, residents, and new city
patrons. She highlighted that the upcoming contract should clearly define parking
enforcement responsibilities.
Councilmember Phan spoke in support of LAZ enforcing parking laws.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke regarding LAZ's lack of customer service, in
support of opening up an additional Request For Proposal (RFP) for parking
enforcement, and asked whether the Police Department has received complaints
regarding LAZ.
Police Commander Marty confirmed that the Police Department has received
complaints regarding LAZ and stated that the Police Department provided a three-
hour training to LAZ staff in an effort to mitigate complaints.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke regarding LAZ's lack of customer service and in
support of opening an RFP.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke regarding LAZ's lack of customer service and
spoke in favor of in-house parking enforcement as well as opening an RFP.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 9, 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
10.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 October 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024.
CITY COUNCIL 8 MARCH 4, 2025
11.Receive and File Quarterly Report of Investments as of December 31, 2024
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
12.Approve the Transfer of $1,153,976 in Non-Refunded Expired Street Work
Permit Deposits from Deposit Fund to Street Improvement Fund
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve an appropriation adjustment authorizing an
interfund budgetary transfer from the City Services Fund to the Residential Street
Improvement Fund and appropriate the same amount for non-building
improvements. (Requires five affirmative votes)
13.Approve Additional Funds in the Amount of $380,000 for the Legacy Square
Transportation Improvements Project (No. 22-9001)with an Estimated Project
Delivery Cost of $2,178,079 (General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $380,000 of accumulated
fund balance in Residential Street Improvements, Prior Year Carry Forward
revenue account (05817002-50001) that will be appropriated for spending in the
Residential Street Improvements, Improvements Other Than Buildings
expenditure account (05817660-66220). (Requires five affirmative votes)
2. Approve an amendment to the Project Cost Analysis in the amount of$380,000
for a new estimated total construction delivery cost of $2,178,079.
3. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Capital Improvement
Program to include $380,000 of Acquisition & Construction funds for the Legacy
Square Transportation Improvements Project (22-9001).
14.Purchase Order Contract to PB Loader Corporation for One 2025 Ford F-750
Supercab Utility Service Body Truck (Spec No. 25-015) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve a purchase order to PB Loader Corporation for
one, new/unused 2025 Ford F-750 Supercab Utility Service Body truck, in an
amount of $332,070 plus a contingency amount of $20,000, for a total amount not
to exceed $352,070.
CITY COUNCIL 9 MARCH 4, 2025
15.Purchase Order Contracts to National Auto Fleet Group for One 2025 Ford F-
150 Lightning Truck and One Ford Transit Passenger Van (Specification No.
25-014 & 25-017) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve a purchase order to National Auto Fleet Group for one, new/unused
2025 Ford F-150 Lightning Truck in an amount of $68,294 plus a contingency
amount of $5,000, for a total amount not to exceed $73,294.
2. Approve a purchase order to National Auto Fleet Group for one, new/unused
2025 Ford Transit Passenger Van in an amount of$119,150 plus a contingency
amount of $15,000, for a total amount not to exceed $134,150.
16.Agreement for Public Works Cityworks On-Call Maintenance (General Fund)
(Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve agreement with Woolpert, Inc. to provide on-call
Cityworks maintenance and project implementation for a term beginning March 4,
2025 and ending on March 3, 2028, with the option of two one-year extensions, for
a total amount not to exceed $300,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-021).
AGENDA ITEM NO. 17 WAS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
17.Appropriation Adjustments, Construction Contract to Sully-Miller
Contracting Company, and Construction Management Agreement to Cannon
Corporation for Bristol Street Improvements (Phase 4) from Warner Avenue
to St. Andrew Place Project (Nos. 11-6741, 19-6499)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1 . Approve four appropriation adjustments recognizing:
• $770,440 in the New Transportation System Improvement Area E, Prior Year
Carry Forward revenue account to New Transportation System Improvement
Area E, Improvements other than Building expenditure account.
• $33,747 in the New Transportation System Improvement Area E, Prior Year
Carry Forward revenue account to New Transportation System Improvement
Area E, Improvements other than Building expenditure.
• $1,196,886 in the Residential Street Improvement, Prior Year Carry forward
Revenue account to Residential Street Improvement, Improvements other
than building expenditure account.
CITY COUNCIL 10 MARCH 4, 2025
• $25,198 in Local Drainage Area IV, Prior Year Carry Forward revenue
account to Public Works Storm Drain Construction, Improvements other than
building expenditure account.
(Requires five affirmative votes)
2. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Capital Improvement
Program to allocate an additional $10,283,196 in construction funds to complete
the Bristol Street Improvements & Widening: Phase 4 — Warner Avenue to St.
Andrew Project (Nos. 11-6741 & 19-6499).
3. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated completion cost of
$26,994,144, which includes $22,354,493 for the construction contract,
$2,803,930 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and a 10%
($2,235,449) project contingency for unanticipated or unforeseen work due to
the complexity and extensive scope of this project.
4. Reject Bid Protest received by Nationwide Contracting Services and award a
construction contract to Sully-Miller Contracting Company, the lowest
responsible bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of
$22,354,493, subject to change orders as approved by the City, for construction
of the Bristol Street Improvements from Warner Avenue to St. Andrew Place and
Bristol Street (Phase 4)Water Main Improvements Project (Nos. 11-16741 & 19-
6499) and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.
5. Approve an agreement with Cannon Corporation for Construction Management
and Inspection services for the Bristol Street Improvements Projects, in an
amount not to exceed $1,998,642 for a term beginning March 4, 2025, and
expiring March 3, 2027, with an option for one, one-year extension (Agreement
No. A-2025-022).
6. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption
Environmental Review No. EIR 89-01 was filed for the Bristol Street
Improvements Projects.
MINUTES: Public Works Director Nabil Saba provided a presentation regarding the
Bristol Street Improvements Project— Phase 4.
Councilmember Penaloza expressed excitement for the completion of Phase 4 and
asked whether the City will be acquiring additional property. He stated that the
community does not want additional parks and landscaping in grass areas along
Bristol Street, and asked if the contractor has completed other projects in the City.
Director Saba stated the City will not acquire additional property and clarified the
contractor has not completed any other project in the City.
Mayor Amezcua emphasized the importance of outreach and project completion,
and asked how Public Works planned on delivering notices.
CITY COUNCIL 11 MARCH 4, 2025
City Engineer Rudy Rosas spoke regarding community outreach efforts and project
completion.
Mayor Amezcua asked what efforts are being made to mitigate the impact to the
community, specifically the effects of dust on homes in the area.
City Engineer Rosas shared the measures that are in place to minimize and
suppress dust at construction sites that are conducted both by City staff and the
contracted company.
Mayor Amezcua asked whether the contract for the project stipulates whether or
not the contractor can be removed from the project if deadlines are not met by the
contractor.
City Engineer Rosas explained that the contract lists a liquid damage amount of
$11,420 that can be assessed for each day the project exceeds the agreed upon
deadline and that staff works closely with the City Attorney's Office in those
instances.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke in support of designating the new greenspaces as
parks to allow for more structure, and suggested redesignating the existing
greenspaces on Bristol Street as parks.
Councilmember Penaloza suggested that, given the size and scope of the project,
notices be provided further than the 1000 feet project radius, and asked whether
the community could expect to experience black-out periods during the removal
and installation of electrical components.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez explained that Edison will likely install temporary power
lines to mitigate power disruptions.
Councilmember Penaloza expressed the importance for staff and the contractor to
mitigate the impact of dust on the homes in the area and asked whether the sound
walls would mirror the existing walls on Bristol and whether the bike lanes would
be landscaped.
City Engineer Rosas spoke regarding the sound wall and protected bike lanes.
Councilmember Penaloza shared his hopes that Bristol would look appealing to
both residents and non-residents, and that the project would be conducted properly
and quickly.
Councilmember Phan spoke in support of the project, suggested notification to
residents through means other than mailers, expressed the importance of having a
bikeable and walkable city, and requested periodic updates on the project at future
meetings.
CITY COUNCIL 12 MARCH 4, 2025
Councilmember Bacerra spoke regarding a lack of cleanliness at construction sites
and expressed a need to ensure the sites are given more attention in that respect.
Councilmember Penaloza suggested noticing on social media.
City Manager Nunez acknowledged the comments made by the Council.
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 17, 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. 18 WAS WITHDRAWN
18.Approve a Pre-Commitment of $9,807,571 in HOME Program Funds for the
Development of 40 New Affordable Ownership Units Located at 621 W. Alton
Avenue, and Approve a Pre-Commitment of up to $920,000 in Inclusionary
Housing Funds for Eligible Homebuyers to Purchase Nine (9) Existing Rental
Units that will be Converted into Affordable Ownership Condominium Units
Located at 425 E. Wellington Avenue for a total of $10,727,571
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a pre-commitment letter with Habitat for
Humanity of Orange County for $9,807,571 in HOME Investment Partnerships
Program funds for the development of 40 new affordable ownership units
located at 621 W. Alton Avenue, Santa Ana, CA (APN 410-351-02) (Agreement
No. A-2025-XXX).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a pre-commitment letter with Habitat for
Humanity of Orange County for up to $920,000 in Inclusionary Housing Funds
for eligible homebuyers to purchase nine (9) existing rental units that will be
converted into affordable ownership condominium units located at 425 E.
Wellington Avenue, Santa Ana, CA (APN 398-028-12) (Agreement No. A-2025-
XXX).
MINUTES: Item withdrawn, no action taken.
CITY COUNCIL 13 MARCH 4, 2025
19.Second Reading of the Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Santa Ana
Amending Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code by Adding Section 2-
112 Prohibiting the Award of Agreements, Contracts, or Grants to Immediate
Family Members of the Mayor, City Council Members, or City Officials
First Reading at the February 18, 2025, City Council meeting and approved by a
vote of 7-0. Published in the OC Reporter on February 28, 2025.
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Conduct a second reading and adopt an ordinance
amending Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code by adding Section 2-112,
which prohibits awarding agreements, contracts, or grants to immediate family
members of the Mayor, City Council Members, or City Officials.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3077 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF THE SANTA ANA
MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING A NEW SECTION 2-112 CONCERNING THE
PROHIBITION AGAINST AWARDING OF AGREEMENTS, CONTRACTS OR
GRANTS TO ANY IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBER OF THE MAYOR, CITY
COUNCIL MEMBERS, OR CITY OFFICIALS
*END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 8.45 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
20.Fiscal 2024-25 Mid-Year Budget Update, Appropriation Requests, and
Workforce Changes
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action:
1 . Receive and file the FY2024-25 Mid-Year Budget Update.
2. Approve the recommended Appropriation Adjustments. (Requires five
affirmative votes)
3. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-007 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO EFFECT CERTAIN CHANGES
TO THE CITY'S CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN
4. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-008 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO AMEND THE CURRENT FISCAL
YEAR 2024-25 ANNUAL BUDGET TO ADJUST FULL-TIME POSITIONS IN
THE CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE, HUMAN RESOURCES, THE FINANCE &
MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGENCY, PARKS, RECREATION &
CITY COUNCIL 14 MARCH 4, 2025
COMMUNITY SERVICES PLANNING & BUILDING AGENCY, AND PUBLIC
WORKS AGENCY, INCLUDING ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, AND/OR
REALLOCATIONS
MINUTES: Acting Finance and Management Services Director Alex Trinidad
provided a presentation regarding the Mid-Year Budget Update.
Councilmember Lopez requested an analysis to show the impact of sales tax and
the auto industry, as a result of the new tariffs. She opposed reductions to alley
improvement programs and advocated for yearly improvements, requested that the
Public Works Agency prioritize sidewalk repairs, and spoke in support of allocating
$1 million to cover City debt.
Councilmember Hernandez echoed Councilmember Lopez's concerns regarding
sidewalks and emphasized liability and safety concerns. He opposed reducing alley
improvements, spoke in support of Civic Center rehabilitation, increased Library
and Zoo funding, fully staffing the City Manager's Office, sidewalk repairs on Flower
Street, Fairview corridor repairs, and requested staff prioritize park feasibility in
Washington Square.
Mayor Amezcua asked for confirmation regarding the date for future budget
discussions.
City Manager Nunez confirmed the next budget meeting is scheduled for March 18,
2025.
Councilmember Bacerra spoke regarding the Gas Tax fund, and suggested future
sidewalk improvements in revenue generating areas and leasing available spaces
within the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center. He expressed support for an
in-house construction crew.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez supported economic development, and suggested
marketing for cannabis, the Auto Mall, and used car dealerships located on Harbor
Boulevard. He opposed reducing alley improvements funding, and expressed
support of Santiago Gym floor improvements, increased Zoo funding, and
expansion of the Quality of Life Team (QOLT) contract.
Mayor Amezcua spoke in support of the 13 full-time positions and requested
clarification regarding QOLT.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez shared information related to QOLT and increased
outreach efforts.
Mayor Amezcua asked if City staff are collaborating with County staff to ensure the
County fulfills its QOLT responsibilities.
City Manager Nunez confirmed the collaboration of City and County staff.
CITY COUNCIL 15 MARCH 4, 2025
Mayor Amezcua stated Measure X will sunset soon and is confident that staff is
diligently preparing for it.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke in favor of workforce increases and emphasized
the importance of prompt Civic Center Drive improvements in order to effectively
address the budget.
Councilmember Phan spoke in support of the alley improvement program and
suggested focusing improvement efforts in revenue-generating areas. She
expressed interest in youth and community programming and cannabis sales in
future budget discussions.
Councilmember Lopez voiced concerns regarding the unfunded pension liability
and requested an analysis on whether the general fund could sustain grant-funded
positions and essential services without Federal funding.
City Manager Nunez explained current budget allocations and measures to
proactively prepare for potential future budget cuts.
Councilmember Lopez expressed concern regarding proposed workforce changes
and the budget's ability to sustain grant-dependent positions without grant funding.
City Manager Nunez clarified the workforce proposal reflects staff restrictions and
readjustments.
Mayor Amezcua emphasized the importance of Measure X sunset preparation.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 20, 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
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item Nos. 21 and 22
and left the dais at 9:21 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 16 MARCH 4, 2025
PUBLIC HEARINGS
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Members of the public may address the City Council on each of
the Public Hearing items.
MINUTES: At 9:21 P.M., the Public Hearing was considered.
21.Public Hearing for Five-Year Economic Development Subsidy Report for
TACenergy
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on February 21 , 2025.
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Conduct public hearing to consider any written or oral comments on the
information contained in the Five-Year Economic Development Subsidy report for
TACenergy.
2. Receive and file report.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 9:22 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall stated there were no comments.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 9.23 P.M.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 21, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 6-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,
COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6 — 0— 1 — Pass
CITY COUNCIL 17 MARCH 4, 2025
22.Public Hearing for Five-Year Economic Development Subsidy Report for
THRIVE Santa Ana, Inc.
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on February 21, 2025.
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1 . Conduct public hearing to consider any written or oral comments on the
information contained in the Five-Year Economic Development Subsidy report
for THRIVE Santa Ana, Inc.
2. Receive and file report.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua opened the Public Hearing at 9:24 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out four (4) email comments received.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 9:24 P.M.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke in support of the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 22, seconded by Councilmember Lopez.
The motion carried, 6-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,
COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6 — 0— 1 — Pass
**END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS**
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan returned to the dais at 9:27 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 18 MARCH 4, 2025
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
23.Discuss and consider directing the City Manager to direct City staff to draft
and bring back an ordinance for Council consideration that would require
applicants for contracts, licenses, permits, or other entitlements for use to
disclose pending or prior FPPC and FEC enforcement actions
— Councilmember Bacerra
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra spoke regarding bringing back an ordinance for
Council consideration that would require applicants for contracts, licenses, permits, or
other entitlements for use to disclose pending or prior FPPC and FEC enforcement
actions.
Councilmember Phan spoke in support of the item. She suggested the ordinance
follow the language in the Levine Act to ensure consistency with existing law and
expressed concern for applicants who may have a frivolous pending action against
them.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke in support of the item. He asked whether there would
be measures in place that would ensure an impartial process, should an applicant
disclose any pending FPPC and/or FEC actions against them.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho explained that, in instances where the applicant may be
pending or appealing an action, the Council would be reminded to consider any
resolved actions.
Mayor Amezcua expressed support of the item.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: City Manager Alvaro Nunez announced that the Santa Ana Police Department
has launched a new text messaging system to provide residents real-time call for service
updates. He spoke regarding numerous complaints received related to red striping,
reported the ribbon cutting ceremony at George Upton All Access Park, and announced
there will be two Fair Housing meetings scheduled for March 5, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. and
6:00 P.M., held in the Council Chamber.
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: Councilmember Hernandez spoke regarding the cul-de-sac construction at
loth and Flower Street, provided an update on the Angels Park renovations, which
include new restrooms and a playground featuring early childhood education amenities
provided by UCI, and stated details regarding the ribbon-cutting ceremony will be
shared at a later date. He shared that El Salvador Park will also see renovations to the
community garden and new restrooms, and thanked the public for their patience during
the construction along the Civic Center corridor.
CITY COUNCIL 19 MARCH 4, 2025
Councilmember Lopez reminded residents that pets must be leashed while in public
spaces, announced her community office hours on March 15, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. to
11:00 A.M. at Fisher Park, and urged the City Manager's Office and the Arts and
Culture Commission to work with local artists to ensure that funds from the commission
stay in the City. She wished all the women in the City and in her family a Happy
International Women's Day.
Councilmember Penaloza echoed Councilmember Lopez's comments regarding the
Arts and Culture Commission, stated that he believes the planters along Santa Ana
Boulevard are a liability, and requested reflective stickers be placed on the planters to
help mitigate accidents. He reminded everyone that Sunday, March 9, 2025 is Spring
Forward and for those who practice, March 5, 2025 is Ash Wednesday, the first day of
Lent.
Mayor Amezcua requested City Manager Nunez ensure the Orange County
Transportation Agency address the Santa Ana Boulevard planter issue during their
presentation at the March 18, 2025 City Council meeting.
Councilmember Phan reminded everyone that March 17, 2025 is St. Patrick's Day and
thanked staff for their hard work preparing the mid-year budget, announced the City
received various awards at the Orange County Business Council's Turning Red Tape
into Red Carpet Awards, and thanked staff for making the awards possible.
Councilmember Bacerra spoke regarding George Upton All Access Park, thanked
Senator Umberg for his help in obtaining grant funding for the park, as well as all those
who attended, and announced the Orange County Fire Authority would be hosting an
Open House on March 15, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at One Fire Road, in
Irvine. He thanked staff for the completion of the fence along the Flower Street bike
trail next to the County flood control channel and inquired regarding interviews for the
Police Oversight Commission's Independent Oversight Director position.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated that he is working with City Attorney Sonia Carvalho
on scheduling interviews for the Independent Oversight Director within the next 30
days, as well as updating the municipal code.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed the importance of moving forward with the hiring of
the position of the Independent Oversight Director as the original item passed by
unanimous vote. He requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Frank Lopez, a
parishioner of the Church of the Messiah who passed away recently.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked students at Valley High School for their awesome
behavior, shared he attended the event at George Upton All Access Park, and wished
everyone Happy International Women's Month and a Happy Birthday to
Councilmember Lopez. He thanked Supervisor Sarmiento for the Cal Optima Health
and Street Medicine Program.
CITY COUNCIL 20 MARCH 4, 2025
Mayor Amezcua clarified the Cal Optima Health Board of Directors has not yet voted
on the awarding of the Health and Street Medicine Program. In honor of Women's
History Month, she thanked the women on staff, and spoke regarding the unveiling of
the new mosaic mural at the Jerome Community Center took place on February 19,
2025 and encouraged everyone to visit and see the artwork. She spoke regarding her
Faith-Based meeting, where they discussed the topic of immigration, stated she met
with the Sober Living Recovery Task Force and discussed the sober living homes
currently in Santa Ana, and expressed her excitement for NOVA Academy's 20rn
anniversary and Santa Ana Pony Opening Ceremony. She announced her next Coffee
with the Mayor will be held on March 22, 2025 at the Boys and Girls Club, and asked
whether there have been any immigrations raids reported in the city.
City Manager Nunez confirmed there have been no known immigration raids in the city.
Mayor Amezcua spoke regarding the budget survey and encouraged the community to
respond and answer according to what is important to them.
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting in memory of Frank
Lopez at 10:07 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Jennifer L. Hall, CIVIC
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 21 MARCH 4, 2025