HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 09 - Minutes From Various Boards Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
•;v
a.
October 23, 2025
REGULAR OPEN MEETING — 5:30 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 1 10/23/2025
Commission
MINUTES:At 5:35 p.m. Executive Director Hawk Scott requested a chairperson be
named in Chair Herrera's absence.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Diaz to nominate Commissioner Jogwe as
Interim Chair of tonight's meeting in Chair Herrera's absence, seconded by
Commissioner Rodriguez.
The motion carried, 7-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, , COMMISSIONER REYES,
COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE
CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES,
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 7 — 0 — 0 - 2 — Pass
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Interim Chairperson Jogwe called the meeting to order at 5:36 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members:
Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Suzi Furjanic, Park & Landscape Design Manager
Ethan Fisher,
Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
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MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.
Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe, Nelson (arrived at 5:37 p.m.), Reyes,
Rodriguez, Woo, and Vice Chair Zacarias Torres were present. Chair Herrera was
absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Interim Chair Jogwe led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive Director Hawk Scott requested a motion to have a special presentation prior
to the presentations on the agenda.
MOTION: Moved by Interim Chair Jogwe to have a special presentation prior to
the agenda presentations, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.
The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER NELSON,
COMMISSIONER REYES, COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ,
COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES,
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 8 - 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott welcomed Park & Landscape Design
Manager Suzi Furjanic up for the special presentation of announcing her retirement
from the City of Santa Ana. The Commissioners thanked her for her service to the City
and presented her with sign.
PRESENTATIONS Employees of the Month
MINUTES: The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month to
Alexander Mosqueda, Evelyn Rodriguez, and Itzel Reyes thanking them for all their
hard work and efforts.
Next, Planning and Building Senior Planner, Siri Champion presented the Zoning Code
Update Presentation.
Commissioners Woo, Diaz, Reyes, Nelson, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and Interim
Chair Jogwe asked questions about open spaces, privately owned spaces, residential
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 3 10/23/2025
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verses commercial zones, the study itself and workshops, raising concerns about
parking, multi person housing and single family housing.
Senior Planner Champion responded to all questions and concerns with more
information, explained the stage they are at in the study and workshops, and gathered
all of the feedback from the commissioners.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 6:22 P.M.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 25 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.
2. Excused absences.
Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve Consent Calendar items 1
and 2, seconded by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres.
The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER NELSON,
COMMISSIONER REYES, COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ,
COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 8 - 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission Meeting
Schedule and Locations.
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 4 10/23/2025
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MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott presented 2026 Parks, Recreation,
and Community Services Commission Meeting Schedule and Locations.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres requested to add two more offsite locations to the
schedule and supported Roosevelt-Walker Community Center being one of them.
Interim Chair Jogwe requested Salgado Recreation Center as the second
additional location.
Executive Director Hawk Scott proposed to change the location of the May 28t"
meeting to Salgado Recreation Center, and August 27t" meeting to Roosevelt-
Walker Community Center.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve the 2026 Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services Commission Meeting Schedule and
Locations with the changes to the locations of the May 28t" and August 27tn
meetings, seconded by Commissioner Nelson.
The motion passed, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER NELSON,
COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER REYES,
COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 8 - 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
4. Bristol Recreation Corridor.
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott presented the Bristol Recreation
Corridor as an update from what was presented at last meeting.
5. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.
MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana
Public Library Staff report to the commission.
Interim Chair Jogwe asked if there is a public schedule for the Mobile Library bus
and asked Director Sternberg why he does what he does and why it is important.
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 5 10/23/2025
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Director Sternberg responded with the future plans for the knowledge mobile and
told the commission how essential libraries are to Cities.
6. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Zoo Deputy Director
Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report to the Commission.
Commissioner Gonzalez asked about what volunteer opportunities are available.
Deputy Director Fisher provided more information.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked for an update on the Eco Center project.
Deputy Director Fisher responded.
Interim Chair Jogwe asked how does someone become a deputy director of a
zoo. Deputy Director Fisher responded that a lot of people start as a volunteer, or
come from the Business or Hospitality industry.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott mentioned the El Salvador Harvest Fest
tomorrow, Saturday there is Spooktacular at Jerome Center and Boo at the Zoo too.
Also he mentioned there is 4 football games in 3 days happening at the stadium and
thanked the commission for all the support.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz is sad that Suzi Furjanic is retiring, thanked Director
Sternberg for the new book mobile and all the library workshops. She is also excited
about the different improvements and new animals at the Zoo. Finally, she mentioned
the new stadium seats are very comfortable and the facility is well kept and clean, and
thanked the team for the community center programming.
Commissioner Gonzalez thanked Executive Director Scott for the information and for all
the library and zoo activities.
Interim Chair Jogwe mentioned recreation, sport and knowledge all helps our city and
thanked everyone for all that they are doing.
Commissioner Nelson was shocked about Suzi Furjanic's retirement and asked about
her position, and he is excited for the new library and zoo improvements.
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Commissioner Reyes thanked everyone, she loves going to the Zoo with her grandkids
and cannot wait to see the improvements at the Library too. She is also excited for the
projects coming up for Parks and Recreation too.
Commissioner Rodriguez thankful for everything the team does, looking forward to the
Zoo accessibility of the new pathways and Boo at the Zoo. She also mentioned October
being breast cancer awareness month.
Commissioner Woo gave additional details about the Harvest Festival and appreciated
the help from Parks and Recreation. She also was happy about the Bristol Recreation
Corridor, and hoped to have a presentation in her neighborhood community for that
project.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres thanked everyone for the updates, is looking forward to
seeing follow ups about the preserving murals policy, and mentioned ICE information
and contact info.
Interim Chair Jogwe lastly mentioned the upcoming FASFA meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is
scheduled for Thursday, December 4th at 5:30 pm at the City Hall Council Chamber, 22
Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
MINUTES: Interim Chair Jogwe adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community
Services Commission meeting at 7:25 pm.
Respectfully submitted:
lyl"*t� G( n
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 7 10/23/2025
Commission
Minutes of the Special Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
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a.
December 4, 2025
SPECIAL OPEN MEETING — 5:30 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 1 12/04/2025
Commission
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members:
Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Michael Ortiz, Public Works Deputy Director
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.
Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe, Reyes, Woo, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and
Chair Herrera were present. Commissioners Nelson and Rodriguez were absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PRESENTATIONS Employees of the Month
MINUTES: The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month and
Volunteers of the Quarter to Lisa Maldonado, Jose Rangel, Leo Santos, Itxel Espinoza,
Jill Rodgers, Sabrina Gastelum, Anthony Cortez, Mary Long, Jennifer Miranda, Cecilia
Smith, Francisco Arroyo, thanking them for all their hard work and efforts.
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 2 12/04/2025
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: Gay Olivos spoke against the choice for the park name chosen for Willard
Park, asked for football equipment for flag football.
Jeff emailed a comment requesting the plant choices in our parks are more native and
economical plants.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:54 P.M.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Item 1.
1. Excused absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve Consent Calendar item 1,
seconded by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres.
The motion carried, 7-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,
COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES,
CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
Status: 7— 0 — 0 — 2 — Pass
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
2. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Public Works
Deputy Director Michael Ortiz presented the Public Works Park Services Staff
Report.
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Executive Director Hawk Scott mentioned the Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday at noon
for Santiago Park.
Chair Herrera thanked the team for getting the Rosita sign lit up, then asked
about phase 3 for Santiago park and about the design plant selection.
3. loth & Flower St. Park Naming.
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott presented the 10t" & Flower St Park
Naming specified that they are going to re-do the park naming process, and have
outlined the full process.
Chair Herrera commented that it is good to have a process in place for this,
asked about including the Youth Commission on the process and suggested a
virtual option for community engagement.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres suggested a post card for a QR survey to be available
nearby the park.
4. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report
to the Commission.
Commissioner Woo asked about the coffee sponsor and talked about the
community gardens. She also thanked staff for the harvest festival and
announced there will be a festival on December 13 at El Salvador Park.
Commissioner Reyes commented on today's Kiwanis event at Target, and how
wonderful it was.
Commissioner Diaz asked if we plan to collaborate with Kaboom! for other parks
and if there is funding allocated for sports equipment. Deputy Director Pagano
responded that they do hope to partner with them again and provided details
about the process of asking for sports equipment.
Commissioner Jogwe asked about the sponsorship of KaBoom! and if there is
more representation of their branding.
Commissioner Gonzalez asked how people ask for equipment and supplies.
Deputy Director Pagano gave more details on how they do that.
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Chair Herrera commented that they are excited for the Santa Anita Community
Center opening and that they noticed the logo change on Instagram.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott mentioned the Asian Clawed Otters arrival
and invited everyone to the River's Edge Grand Opening on December 20t". Also
highlighted the senior center talent show and the ribbon cutting next Tuesday at
Santiago Park. He ended with Happy Holidays and is looking forward to the next year.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz thank you for everything you are doing and thanks for
listening to the public, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Commissioner Jogwe asked how he could get involved with naming opportunities and
wished everyone Happy Holidays.
Commissioner Gonzalez thanked for the hard work this year, and all the learning she
has been doing, wished everyone a happy safe, fun,joyous holiday.
Commissioner Reyes thanked and wished everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New
Year.
Commissioner Woo no comments but wished happy holidays.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres thanked for all the updates, she also noticed the water refill
station at Santiago park, echoed the importance of local native plants and to be safe
and have happy holidays.
Chair Herrera asked to calendar our commission meetings and get them on social
media, asked about the public art policy, thanked Suzi Furjanic for her work and talents
for this community and was sad that they missed her retirement in the previous
meeting. Finally thanked our PRCS staff for all that they do and service they provide
and wished happy holidays to everyone.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is
scheduled for Thursday, January 22"d at 5:30 pm at the Santa Ana Senior Center, 424
W 3rd St, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
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MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission meeting at 7:06 pm.
Respectfully submitted:
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 6 12/04/2025
Commission
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
•;v
a.
January 22, 2026
REGULAR OPEN MEETING — 5:30 P.M.
Santa Ana Senior Center
424 3rd St, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 1 1/22/2026
Commission
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:32 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members:
Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Michael Ortiz, Public Works Deputy Director
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.
Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe, Reyes, Rodriguez, Woo, Vice Chair Zacarias
Torres and Chair Herrera were present. Commissioner Nelson was absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: Jared Lindo commented urging the City of Santa Ana to purchase the
vacant land at the end of Lowell St and 15th St, for public Green space and recreation.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:36 P.M.
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RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items 1 through 3.
1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of October 23rd, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
2. Minutes of the Special Meeting of December 4th, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
3. Excused absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Diaz to approve Consent Calendar items 1
through 3, seconded by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres.
The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,
COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE
CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 8— 0 — 0 — 1 — Pass
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
4. Senior Services Section Highlight.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano introduced Recreation and Community Services Manager, Juan Lara to
present the Senior Services Highlight.
Vice Chair Torres and Commissioner Diaz asked about the food distributions.
Manager Lara provided more details about the food distribution services.
Chair Herrera commended their team's work and asked about the excursion
program attendance. Manager Lara responded with some statistics and how
changes in the budget has impacted them.
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Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked if there are any plans for opening an additional
senior center since our centers are at capacity. Manager Lara mentioned they
hope to provide programs at community centers for seniors, but another senior
center could be in the master plan based on available funding.
Commissioner Jogwe asked how our two Santa Ana Senior Centers compare to
other cities. Manager Lara responded that Santa Ana having two is not the
normal thing compared to other cities, but there are many seniors in the city that
we still cannot fully support.
Chair Herrera asked about the transportation program and how it fits into the
budget. Manager Lara and Deputy Director Pagano provided more details on the
program structure and the pressing needs as far as funding programs like that in
the future.
5. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report
to the Commission.
Commissioner Diaz asked about stadium events going on. Director Pagano
talked about the reservations that are planned for the stadium and how they are
trying to optimize the use of the stadium.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about events coming up for the World Cup and
the e-sports program. Director Pagano said they have been in dialog for the
World Cup and the e-sports program has been put on the backburner with
staffing changes.
Commissioner Woo asked about having the Movies in the Park program in her
neighborhood. Director Pagano responded that he is always happy to collaborate
with the neighborhoods on those events.
Commissioner Diaz asked for consideration of Roosevelt-Walker for a movie
night. Executive Director Scott responded that unfortunately it is too small and
has some lighting challenges.
Commissioner Jogwe asked about the Fun Run and supported the ideas for the
World Cup. Director Pagano provided more details.
Chair Herrera commended the Cultura magazine.
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6. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Public Works
Deputy Director Michael Ortiz presented the Public Works Park Services Staff
Report.
Commissioner Gonzalez asked about construction at Memorial park and if fishing
is allowed at Centennial Lake. Deputy Director Ortiz responded.
Commissioner Diaz thanked them for the sandbags during the rain and spoke on
behalf of the Pacific park residents in regards to the ground breaking on Walnut
Street in June and the study with the Fire Department was already done.
Commissioner Jowwe asked about the flooding our parks experienced and how it
was handled. Superintendent Acevedo responded with the process when the
parks get flooded and what they are doing to prevent it. Commissioner Jogwe
also asked about the mural and the budget for the aquatic center.
Commissioner Woo asked about the cost of the splash pad and shade structures.
Executive Director Scott provided details on the budget and selection process for
an area to receive a splash pad. Director Ortiz responded they are trying to bring
the cost down of shade structures to be able to provide more of them.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about submitting anonymous reports through
the MySantaAna app. Superintendent Acevedo responded that the app is
designed to not provide follow up reports for anonymous submissions.
Chair Herrera finally commented about the Santa Anita park opening and asked
about the Rosita Park field renovation and parking lot. Superintendent Acevedo
and Director Pagano responded.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott wished everyone Happy New Year,
commended the community engagement team for the Cultura magazine, mentioned
Delhi Park got more lighting and a lot more things to come this year for Parks and Rec.
Finally he thanked the commissioners for the advocacy for more funding and things to
improve our parks, and for attending the Santa Ana Zoo's River's Edge Grand Opening.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz thanked the team for everything they are doing,
especially at the senior centers and with the Cultura magazine. Thanked Public Works
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Commission
for their great response for things on the MySantaAna app and finally thanked them for
the urban greening project.
Commissioner Gonzalez thanked everyone for their hard work and for all the projects
coming up.
Commissioner Jogwe thanked the team for all the detail on the reports and advocated a
specific park for a movie in the park.
Commissioner Reyes thanked everyone for the information and for teaching her things
about the city. She loves seeing all the projects going on in the city and wished good
blessings for everyone and their families.
Commissioner Rodriguez thanked everyone for their work, for the dates for upcoming
events and thanked the team for the membership exchange with the Zoo.
Commissioner Woo commented on ward 5 projects, renovation of the Angel Court
basketball court, and would like to get an update on the Washington square property.
Thanked everyone for all the information from the staff.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres was happy about the Santiago Park playground area and
the trail. She saw a lot of families in that area of the park more and is looking forward to
seeing the next phase of that park.
Chair Herrera thank the departments for what they do to keep the parks clean, safe,
and green, asked for a budget presentation at an upcoming meeting, and hopes for a
parks tour in the coming months. They also spoke out about the return of$7 million to
Parks and Recreation programming and would like support from this commission
advocating for that.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is
scheduled for Thursday, February 26th at 5:30 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers,
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission meeting at 7:19 pm.
Respectfully submitted:
A �J
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 6 1/22/2026
Commission
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
•;v
a.
February 26, 2026
REGULAR OPEN MEETING — 5:30 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 1 2/26/2026
Commission
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members:
Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Ethan Fisher, PRCSA Deputy Director, Zoo
Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.
Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Reyes, Rodriguez, Woo, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres
and Chair Herrera were present. Commissioners Jogwe and Nelson were absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chair Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:33 P.M.
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Commission
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 22, 2026.
Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.
2. Excused absences.
Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Diaz to approve Consent Calendar items 1
and 2, seconded by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres.
The motion carried, 7-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,
COMMISSIONER REYES, COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ,
COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES,
CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 7 — 0 — 0 - 2 — Pass
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
3. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.
MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana
Public Library Staff report to the commission.
Commissioner Diaz asked when the Main Library will be ready for the Grand
Opening. Director Sternberg responded that construction should be done by July,
soft opening hopefully in September, and then a grand opening after that.
Newhope Library is targeting March or April, soft opening hopefully in May.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about the book clubs participation and
computer resources at the Delhi Library. Director Sternberg responded that the
book club participation is going well and that there are lots of resources still
available while the Main Library and Newhope Library are under construction.
Commissioner Rodriguez asked about library cards. Director Sternberg
responded with more information.
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Chair Herrera commended the library staff on their work at the Knowledge
mobile, thanked Director Sternberg for the Dia de Los Nino's event, and asked
about parking for that event. Director Sternberg responded with more information
about the event parking options.
Chair Herrera asked about scheduling a parks tour for the commission and about
a budget presentation for the various departments. Director Sternberg and
Executive Director Scott responded that they plan to provide the Library and
Parks and Rec budgets at upcoming meetings.
4. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Zoo Deputy Director
Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report to the Commission.
Commissioner Woo commented about the Santa Ana Enthusiasts and asked
about the City Nature Challenge.
Chair Herrera asked about the wall plans that were submitted to cal trans. Deputy
Director Fisher provided more details about the fence that plans to be installed on
the North End of the Zoo.
Commissioners Diaz, Reyes, Woo and Chair Herrera asked about the Brew at
the Zoo event details, tickets, zoo closing time prior to the event and about the
food options for the event. Deputy Director Fisher responded with more
information. Commissioners Reyes and Woo also suggested some vendors and
asked about volunteers for the event.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott talked about Santa Ana Enthusiasts, the
Seniors Natural History Museum visit, the Santa Ana Fun Run on April 11 t", girls
basketball sign-ups are happening at Jerome and they are partnering with the sparks
again this year. He also mentioned that the adult kickball league is starting up again, as
well as, the emerging lifeguards program at Jerome pool. Also the teen excursion to the
ducks hockey game and hiring fair is coming up. Lastly he announced that Parks and
Rec is working on an agreement to take over the management of Riverview Golf
Course and plans to present to City Council soon.
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 4 2/26/2026
Commission
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz thanked Director Sternberg for the events at the
community centers and is looking forward to Brew at the Zoo. She is happy about all
the added features at the zoo and recommended that the Chicano Heritage event is
earlier this year.
Commissioner Gonzalez thanked everyone for all their hard work.
Commissioner Reyes thanked Director Sternberg for the information, she is excited
about the Library renovation, and thanked Deputy Director Fisher for everything at the
zoo and hopes to go to the Brew at the Zoo.
Commissioner Rodriguez thanked all for the updates, hopes that the membership
exchange continues in the future.
Commissioner Woo urged the public to participate so that the city is made aware of the
problem areas of the community and talked about an event she attended at the
Riverview golf course that supported a local charity.
Vice Chair Zacarias Torres thanked all for the updates, and asked if the hours of the
community centers could be reconsidered so they are better utilized for cooling centers.
Executive Director Scott mentioned that the budget survey is open and he will send it to
them.
Chair Herrera seconded the comment from Vice Chair about the center hours being
considered and asked about planning budget presentations and parks tour.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is
scheduled for Thursday, March 26th at 5:30 pm at the Santa Anita Community Center,
300 S Figueroa St, Santa Ana, CA 92703.
MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission meeting at 6:38 pm.
Respectfully submitted:
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Parks, Recreation and Community Services 5 2/26/2026
Commission
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
November 17, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
Youth Commission 1 11/17/2025
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:
Alyin Luis
Neylen Munoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson
Staff:
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Robert Aguirre, Public Works Senior Civil Engineer
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Wyatt Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order
at 6:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.
All Youth Commissioners were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES:At 6:03 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Chair Malfavon moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 through 3,
seconded by Vice Chairperson Benitez.
Youth Commission 2 11/17/2025
The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUNOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE
CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5 — 0 — 0 — 0 Pass
1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of October 20t", 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
2. Excuse Absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
3. Revised 2026 Youth Commission Meeting Schedule and Locations.
Recommended Action: Approve location changes to the proposed 2026 Youth
Commission Meeting Schedule and Locations.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
5. Public Works Agency Parks Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano requested to have the Public Works Agency Parks Services Staff Report
Present first. Chair Malfavon approved.
Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Public Works Senior Civil
Engineer Robert Aguirre presented the Public Works Agency Park Services Staff
report to the Youth Commission.
4. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
Commissioner Rodriguez asked about youth programming participation. Deputy
Director Pagano responded with more information on how to reach more youth.
Youth Commission 3 11/17/2025
Commissioner Luis asked about the Life Guard Program. Deputy Director
Pagano responded with more information about the program.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
COMMISSION MEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
MINUTES: Vice Chair Benitez lead the Future Youth Commission Planning Discussion
asking about budget, donations, and proposed an idea about creating a media podcast
program for the youth.
Deputy Director Pagano responded that there is no youth commission budget and
donations cannot be requested, but encouraged the commissioners to research their
own ideas and bring them back to future meetings.
***END OF COMMISSION MEMER REQUESTED ITEMS***
DEPUTY DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy Director Pagano was happy to see the youth commissioners
wanting to take action and make an impact. He also mentioned Plaza Navidena coming
up and wished everyone a good Thanksgiving.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES:
Youth Commissioner Luis said she hopes the Vice Chair Benitez podcast would impact
the youth.
Youth Commissioner Munoz is happy that they can propose their own ideas to impact
the youth in Santa Ana.
Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thanked everyone in attendance for their support and
engagement, thanked everyone for participating in events and thanked Suzi Furjanic for
her service to the City.
Vice Chairperson Benitez thanked everyone for coming out, is hoping that these
discussed projects move forward and is looking forward to all the ideas.
Chairperson Malfavon thanked everyone for attending the meeting, thanked Hawk for
the experiences and lessons along the way and thanked the other commissioners and
staff at all the events out in the city for their hard work.
Youth Commission 4 11/17/2025
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday,
December 15th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic
Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:58
P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Youth Commission 5 11/17/2025
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
December 15, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
Youth Commission 1 12/15/2025
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:
Alyin Luis
Neylen Munoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Ethan Fisher, PRCSA Deputy Director, Zoo
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order at
6:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.
Youth Commissioners Luis, Rodriguez, Vice Chair Benitez and Chair Malfavon were
present. Youth Commissioner Munoz was absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES:At 6:01 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2,
Youth Commission 2 12/15/2025
seconded by Chairperson Malfavon.
The motion carried, 4-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
RODRIGUEZ, VICE CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ,
CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: YOUTH COMMISSIONER MUIVOZ
Status: 4 — 0 — 0 — 1 Pass
1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 17t�', 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
2. Excuse Absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
3. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director, Zoo
Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
Chair Malfavon asked about the timeline for the roof renovation of the ticket
booth. Deputy Director Fisher responded with timeline details.
4. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.
MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana
Public Library Staff Report.
Commissioner Rodriguez asked if there was better signage they can have for the
book mobile. Director Sternberg responded.
Chair Malfavon asked what additional services are provided with the new larger
version of the Book Mobile. Director Sternberg said there will be more room for
technology, books, snacks and materials, as well as, a larger canopy to provide
shade.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
Youth Commission 3 12/15/2025
COMMISSION MEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
MINUTES: Vice Chair Benitez lead the discussion providing the research for her
podcast idea, she concluded there was no other youth commissions lead podcast.
Commissioner Luis brought an Art Walk opportunity that happens on the first of the
month every month, and encouraged the youth commissioners to volunteer with the
event.
Chair Malfavon suggested making a youth commission lead Instagram account to
engage with the youth that way. He suggested the youth commissioners posting on it
all together, selecting the content, and it could continue on for future Youth
Commissions.
Vice Chair Benitez asked for more details behind the idea of the Instagram account.
Executive Director Hawk Scott responded that he would talk to his team about the
ideas and bring it back to the commission.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott thanked the commissioners for being at
events and being on the commission this year. He announced that coming up on Friday
there is open house event at El Salvador Park and Saturday is the Zoo grand opening
of the Rivers Edge exhibit. Finally talked about the PRCS team down in Laguna Niguel
for a parade and he is looking forward to the next year of these meetings to be on the
road and the events in 2026.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Luis was thankful to be on the youth commission this
year, and wished everyone happy holidays and good luck on finals.
Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thanked for everyone for presenting today and for the
information. He hopes to see most of the youth commissioners at the Zoo on Saturday,
and wished everyone happy holidays and see you in 2026.
Vice Chairperson Benitez wished happy holidays and good luck on finals.
Chairperson Malfavon thanked everyone for attending the meeting and wished
everyone happy holidays. He said it was great to see everyone at the Plaza Navidena
event and hope to see them at the Zoo grand opening, and noted that Santa Ana
residents are free on Saturday and Sunday at the Zoo.
Youth Commission 4 12/15/2025
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, January
19t", 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic Center
Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:30
P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Youth Commission 5 12/15/2025
Youth Commission
Special Meeting Minutes
January 26, 2026
Santa Ana Senior Center
424 W 3rd St, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
fi-.,�k::may►
Youth Commission 1 1/26/2026
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:
Alyin Luis
Neylen Munoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Robert Aguirre, Public Works Senior Civil Engineer
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order at
6:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.
Youth Commissioners Luis, Rodriguez, Vice Chair Benitez and Chair Malfavon were
present. Youth Commissioner Munoz was absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
Youth Commission 2 1/26/2026
MINUTES:At 6:02 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2,
seconded by Chairperson Malfavon.
The motion carried, 4-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
RODRIGUEZ, VICE CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ,
CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: YOUTH COMMISSIONER MUNOZ
Status: 4 — 0 — 0 — 1 Pass
1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of December 15th, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
2. Excuse Absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
3. Senior Services Section Highlight.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano introduced Parks, Recreation and Community Services Manager Juan
Lara to present the Senior Services Section Highlight to the Youth Commission.
5. Public Works Agency Parks Services Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano requested to have the Public Works Agency Parks Services Staff Report
Present first. Chair Malfavon approved.
Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Public Works Senior Civil
Engineer Robert Agiurre presented the Public Works Agency Park Services Staff
report to the Youth Commission.
4. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
Youth Commission 3 1/26/2026
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim
Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.
Chair Malfavon asked about if there is a boy's option for volleyball while the girls
is going on. Deputy Director Pagano responded that they switch with basketball.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
COMMISSION MEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
6. Future Youth Commission Planning Discussion — Vice Chair Benitez
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott followed up about the separate
Instagram account. The youth commissioners thanked him for looking into it.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott talked about the Santa Ana Zoo Rivers Edge
Grand opening, the upcoming Tet Festival, and gave compliments to the community
engagement team and the new Cultura magazine. He will continue to invite the youth
commissioners to future events, as well.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Luis thanked the Parks and Rec Department and
Community Engagement team for making the community better, especially for the
youth and seniors.
Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thanked for everyone for presenting today, and he was
very happy to see the engagement at the Santa Ana Zoo for the grand opening of
Rivers Edge.
Vice Chairperson Benitez thanked everyone for coming out, and was happy to see the
girls' volleyball program.
Chairperson Malfavon thanked everyone for attending the meeting tonight.
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of Monday, February 16t" for the Youth Commission has been
cancelled due to Presidents Day Holiday, and a special meeting of the Youth
Commission has been scheduled for Monday, February 23rd, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the
City Hall Ross Annex Room 1600, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Youth Commission 4 1/26/2026
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:53
P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Y�lae4,ea ��7n
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
Youth Commission 5 1/26/2026
Youth Commission
Special Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2026
City Hall Ross Annex Room 1600
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
Youth Commission 1 2/23/2026
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:
Alyin Luis
Neylen Munoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson
Staff:
Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Ethan Fisher, PRCSA Deputy Director, Zoo
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Wyatt Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order
at 6:08 P.M.
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.
All Youth Commissioners were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES:At 6:09 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2,
seconded by Youth Commissioner Rodriguez.
Youth Commission 2 2/23/2026
The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUNOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE
CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5 — 0 — 0 — 0 Pass
1. Minutes from the Special Meeting of January 26t", 2026.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
2. Excuse Absences.
Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
3. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.
MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana
Public Library Staff Report.
4. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director, Zoo
Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.
Chair Malfavon asked about the construction of the new multipurpose building at
the Zoo. Deputy Director Fisher provided more details.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott provided some additional information about
the Santa Ana Senior Centers and the events they have going on, as well as, the
aquatics program. He also mentioned that the memorial aquatic center construction is
coming along, adult kickball and girls basketball programs are starting up, and the teen
excursion to the Ducks game is coming up. Lastly, he talked about some upcoming
events like the hiring fair on March 19t" and April 9t" at Jerome's Center, the Brew at
the Zoo fundraiser, and the Fun Run on April 11 t". He ended his comments providing
Youth Commission 3 2/23/2026
details about the proposal to be presented at the next City Council Meeting for a
management agreement for Riverview Golf Course.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Luis said she plans to participate in the City Nature
Challenge.
Youth Commission Member Munoz loved the festival event and thought it was an
overall good meeting.
Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thanked everyone for coming out today and for the
good insight. He also said it was good to see the turnout at the Tet Festival.
Vice Chairperson Benitez is excited about the upcoming programs and events, and
wants to try some of them out.
Chairperson Malfavon thanked everyone for the information and for the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, March
16t", 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Santa Anita Community Center, 300 S Figueroa St, Santa
Ana, CA 92701.
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:38
P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
61/
Hannah Wayne O
Recording Secretary
Youth Commission 4 2/23/2026
Personnel Board
Special Meeting Minutes
March 6, 2025
CITY HALL CONERENCE ROOM 511
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:30 PM
�.e
ERNESTO GOMEZ
Chair
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- VACANT
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Vice Chair Ward 6
Ward 3
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA),if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact
®Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www.santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 3/6/2025
i
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Ernesto Gomez
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Lauren Hirano, Human Resources Staff
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
Minutes: The Personnel Board meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m. on March 6, 2025,
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on March 6, 2025, except for Board Member Rivera.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Secretary, James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
1. Excused Absences
Minutes: All Board Members are present on March 6, 2025, except for Board Member
Rivera, who is excused.
Moved by Boardmember Gomez, seconded by Boardmember Crockett to Approve.
Personnel Board 2 3/6/2025
j
YES: 4—Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, Ernesto L Gomez, David Crockett
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 1 —Angie Rivera
Status: 4-0-0— 1 -Pass
2. Approve the minutes of the meeting of the Personnel Board for Janaury 23, 2025.
Moved by Boardmember Ballinas, seconded by Boardmember Gomez to Approve.
YES: 3—Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, Ernesto L Gomez
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 1 —David Crockett
ABSENT: 1 —Angie Rivera
Status: 3-0-1 —1 —Pass
3. Discuss the Personnel Board scheduling for upcoming cases.
Minutes: Board Secretary Murray discussed the importance of member availability and
reviewed the Boards and Commissions rules, which stipulate that members must meet at
least twice a month.
Board Chair Gomez emphasized the need for a consistent schedule. He suggested that
Personnel Board members should agree on a schedule that allows all members to attend
meetings.
Board Secretary Murray proposed extending the meeting time beyond 10:00 p.m. when
necessary for hearings, especially when hearing cases and witnesses. In addition, Board
Secretary Murray suggested starting Personnel Board meetings earlier at 6:00 p.m. to
ensure cases are handled more efficiently. Upon further discussion with the Personnel
Board, Board Secretary Murray tentatively scheduled regular Personnel Board meetings
for the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, which will start in April.
Board Member Ballinas recommended concurrently scheduling two cases at once to
ensure the swift progression of all cases. Additionally, Board Member Ballinas suggested
attaching Personnel Board rules when communicating with attorneys to streamline
processes.
Board Member Hernandez-Castillo proposed revisiting the Personnel Board rules and
procedures, specifically focusing on the timelines for all cases (e.g., discovery, witnesses),
to improve organization and efficiency.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMENTS
4. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Member Ballinas thanked Staff for their hard work. I
Personnel Board 3 3/6/2025
5. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: There were no Staff Member comments.
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board regular meeting was adjourned at 7:14 p.m. on March 6, 2025.
Respectfully submitted 2
Jame -r ay, Board Secretary
1
Personnel Board 4 3/6/2025
i
i
Personnel Board
Special Meeting Minutes
January 23, 2025
CITY HALL CONFERENCE ROOM 511
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:30 PM
ERNESTO GOMEZ
Chair
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- NATHANIEL GREENSIDES
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Ward 3 Ward 6
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting, contact
91 Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator.at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www,santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 1/23/2025
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Ernesto Gomez
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Nathaniel Greensides
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
Minutes: The Personnel Board meeting was called to order at 6:43 p.m. on January 23, 2025.
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on January 23, 2025, besides Board Member
Crockett.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Secretary, James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
Minutes: There were no consent calendar items.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR'
BUSINESS CALENDAR
1. Excused Absences
Moved by Boardmember Gomez, seconded by Boardmember Ballinas to Approve.
Personnel Board 2 1/23/2025
YES: 5—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, Ernesto L Gomez,
Nathaniel Greensides
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 2— David Crockett, Michelle Cisneros
Status: 5—0—0—2—Pass
2. Approve the minutes of the meeting of the Personnel Board for October 17, 2024.
Moved by Boardmember Gomez, seconded by Boardmember Ballinas to Approve.
YES: 5—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, Ernesto L Gomez,
Nathaniel Greensides
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 2—David Crockett, Michelle Cisneros
Status: 5-0-0—2— Pass
3. Elections for Board Vice Chair (open session)
Minutes: The Board Secretary informed the Board Members of Vice Chair Cisneros'
resignation from the Personnel Board.
Board Chair Gomez announced that Board Member Crockett has expressed interest in
being considered for Vice Chair. Board Member Greensides also expressed interest in
being considered for the Vice Chair position. After the nominations, Board Member
Crockett was confirmed as Vice Chair.
4. CLOSED SESSION—Consistent with California Government Code section 54957 Public
Employee Discipline (Pre-Hearing Conference the matter of Case No. 2022-01) Government
Code section 54957 (b)(1).
Minutes: The Personnel Board regular meeting recessed into closed session on January
23, 2025, at 6:47 p.m.
The Personnel Board recessed from closed session on January 23, 2025, at 7:10 p.m.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMENTS
5. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Member Hernandez-Castillo inquired about the Board's availability after
March 13 for the case. Board Member Ballinas proposed that legal counsel submit their
availability before February to expedite the process. Board Secretary Murray informed the
Board that additional dates will be scheduled as the time approaches.
Personnel Board 3 1/23/2025
6. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: There were no Staff Membercomments.
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board regular meeting was adjourned at 7:14 p.m. on January 23,
2025.
Respectfully submitted
Jan
urray, Board Secretary
Personnel Board 4 1/23/2025
Personnel Board
Special Meeting Minutes
May 28, 2025
ROSS ANNEX ROOM 1600
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:30 PM
I`♦y
r
VACANT
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- VACANT
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Vice Chair Ward 6
Ward 3
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA),if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting, contact
®Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www,santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 5/28/2025
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
Minutes: The Personnel Board meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m, on May 28, 2025,
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on May 28, 2025.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board Secretary James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. Excused Absences
Minutes, All Board Members were present on May 28, 2025,
2. Approve the minutes of the meeting of the Personnel Board for March 6, 2025.
Moved by Boardmember Crockett, seconded by Boardmember Ballinas to Approve.
YES: 4—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, David Crockett
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 2—Ernesto L Gomez, Nathaniel Greensides
Status: 4-0—0-2—Pass
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
Personnel Board 2 5/28/2025
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. Discuss the Personnel Board scheduling for Case 2022-02.
Minutes: Both the City's and the Appellant's attorneys acknowledged reading the
Personnel Board rules. The parties discussed the timeline and expressed their concerns
regarding the scheduling of Case 2022-02 and a//other pending Personnel Board cases.
Legal Advisor Bums clarified that the current meeting is the Personnel Board Rule 2.4
meeting for Case 2022-02. The City acknowledged this and indicated a willingness to
proceed with scheduling the hearing if the Appellant's attorney and his client were ready.
The Appellant's attorney stated their client is currently medically unavailable to attend, but
was open to scheduling a future prehearing date. Appellant's attorney noted that his client is
unable to sit for extended periods due to medical reasons. The City's attorney objected to
Appellant's assertion that he is unable to attend the hearing due to medical reasons and
offered for Appellant to attend the hearing virtually.
Vice Chair Crockett inquired whether other cases could proceed, given the Appellant's
attorney's representation that their client is unable to attend the hearing either virtually or in-
person. The City requested a medical document from the Appellant's physician confirming
their unavailability for both in-person and virtual meetings. Vice Chair Crockett expressed
that he would like to move quickly and efficiently, and asked to hear the City's position
regarding moving forward with Case No. 2022-04 prior to Case No. 2022-02. The City
objected to proceeding with another case until a medical document from Appellant's
physician is provided. Vice Chair Crockett asked for input from the other Board members.
Board Member Hernandez-Castillo supported postponing Case 2022-02 and proceeding
with Case No. 2022-04 before Case No. 2022-02. She noted that since the Board has
generally heard cases in-person, it should continue to do so. Board Member Ballinas
agreed with Board Member Hernandez-Castillo and believed proceeding even with a
medical clearance from the Appellant in Case No. 2022-02 could create further
complications. Board Member Rivera agreed with the previous two statements. The Board
declined to seek medical documentation from the Appellant.
With the consensus from the Board to proceed with Case No. 2022-04 before 2022-02,
Legal Advisor Bums advised that the Personnel Board Rule 2.4 meeting for Case 2022-04
would be added to the agenda for the next meeting. After consultation with the parties and
the Board as to availability, it was determined to hold a special meeting for June 25 at 6:30
p.m. for the Personnel Board Rule 2.4 meeting for Case No. 2022-.04. The Secretary
noted that the Board now meets regularly on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month,
with meetings starting at 6:b0 p.m. to maximize available time.
Vice Chair Crockett encouraged all parties to review the Personnel Board rules prior to the
next meeting.
Per correspondence dated April 4, 2025, the City noted for the record that the Appellant
Personnel Board 3 5/28/2025
notified the City that the Appellant was medically unavailable to attend the hearing. The
parties agreed that the continuation of Case 2022-02, as of May 25, 2025, was due to the
Appellant's request
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMENTS
4. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Member Castillo-Hernandez expressed appreciation to staff for
documenting the concerns and issues in the official record.
5. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: There were no staff membercomments.
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board regularmeeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m. on May 28, 2025.
Respectfully submitted
James urr Ay,�oard Secretary
Personnel Board 4 5/28/2025
Personnel Board
Special Meeting Minutes
June 25, 2025
ROSS ANNEX ROOM 1600
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:30 PM
Q
VACANT
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- VACANT
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Vice Chair Ward 6
Ward 3
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting, contact
®Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www.santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 6/25/2025
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
M i n utes: The Personnel Board meeting was called to order at 7:14 p.m. on June 25, 2025,
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on June 25, 2025.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board Secretary James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. Excused Absences
Minutes: There were no excused absences.
Z Approve the minutes of the meeting of the Personnel Board for May 28, 2025.
Moved by Boardmember Ballinas, seconded by Boardmember Crockett to Approve.
YES: 4—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, David Crockett
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0—
Status: 4—0—0 Pass
Personnel Board 2 6/25/2025
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR'
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. Discuss the Personnel Board scheduling for Case 2022-04,
Minutes: The City's attorneys were present to discuss scheduling for Case 2022-04, Due to
the delayed meeting start time to meet the requirement for quorum, the counsel for the
Appellant was unable to remain on the Zoom virtual attendance for the start of the meeting,
Acting Chair Crockett asked whether the Personnel Board rules had been distributed to
both parties. Board Secretary Murray confirmed that the rules were provided to both the
City's attorneys and the counsel for the Appellant.
Acting Chair Crockett inquired whether discovery for Case 2022-04 had begun. The City
confirmed that it had not received a request for discovery and would not initiate the process
until the Appellant does, since the City is the party imposing the discipline.
The City's attorneys indicated that subpoenas for documents and witnesses will be
necessary for the case, They also noted that the hearing will be closed.
The City's attorneys stated that availability was discussed with the counsel for the Appellant
and presented potential dates that worked for both parties. They suggested holding the pre-
hearing conference on August 18, and starting the hearing during the week of September
2-5, with continuation into the week of October 6-9, depending on the Board's
availability, The Board confirmed its availability for the pre-hearing conference on August
18, and for the hearing dates on September 3-4 and October 6-9.
Board Member Ballinas emphasized that it is important for both the City's attorneys and
Appellant's counsel to attend Personnel Board meetings in person, rather than virtually via
Zoom. Board Member Ballinas stated that all Board members, attorneys, and staff have
committed their time to be physically present, and while unforeseen circumstances occur,
adherence to agreed-upon meeting times is expected.
The City's attorneys commented that they were unaware that Board Member Hernandez-
Castillo would be arriving later. The Secretary clarified that while he was aware in advance
of Board Member Hernandez-Castillo's delayed arrival, he provided both parties with an
update regarding the delay and lack of quorum when both parties were present.
Board Member Ballinas requested clarification on the official meeting start time. Board
Secretary Murray clarified that Personnel Board meetings typically begin at 6:00 p.m. The
current meeting began at 6:30 p.m, due to a prior agreement, as confirmed in an earlier
meeting.
Board Secretary Murray announced that the next regular meeting will be held on July 24 to
conduct the Vice Chair and Board Chair elections. That meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.
Personnel Board 3 6/25/2025
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR'
COMMENTS
4. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Members expressed theirgratitude to Staff for their hard work and ongoing
support.
5. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: Board Secretary Murray expressed appreciation to all Board Members for their
continued dedication to the Personnel Board, He also apologized for the unforeseen
circumstances surrounding the absence of the Appellant's counsel at tonight's meeting,
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board's regular meeting was adjourned at 7:39 p.m. on June 25, 2025.
Respectfully submitted
James ray, 13 :aT retary
Personnel Board 4 6/25/2025
Personnel Board
Regular Meeting Minutes
August 14, 2025
CITY HALL 5TH FLOOR ROOM 511
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
ADRIAN ANGUTANO
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- VACANT
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Vice Chair Ward 6
Ward 3
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact
®Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www.santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 8/14/2025
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Adrian Anguiano
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
Minutes: The Personnel Board regularmeeting was called to orderat 6:03 p.m. on August 14, 2025.
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on August 14, 2025.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board Secretary James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. Excused Absences
Minutes: There were no absences.
2. Approve the minutes of the meeting of the Personnel Board for June 25, 2025.
Minutes: Moved By Boardmember Crockett, seconded by Boardmember Ballinas to
Approve.
Moved by Boardmember Crockett, seconded by Boardmember Ballinas to Approve.
YES: 5—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, David Crockett,
Adrian Anguiano
Personnel Board 2 8/14/2025
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 0— Status: 5—0—0—0— Pass
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR'
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. Elections for Board Vice Chair and Board Chair (open session)
Minutes: Per the annual requirement, the Personnel Board conducted elections for Board
Chair and Vice Chair positions.
Board Member Ballinas nominated Vice Chair Crockett to serve as Chair. The nomination
was seconded by Board Member Castillo-Hernandez. All members voted in favor, and Vice
Chair Crockett was elected Chair.
Board Member Anguiano nominated himself for the position of Vice Chair; however, no
formal motion was made.
Board Member Castillo-Hernandez nominated Board Member Ballinas to serve as Vice
Chair. The nomination was seconded by Chair Crockett. All members voted in favor, and
Board Member Ballinas was elected Vice Chair.
Moved by Boardmember Ballinas, seconded by Boardmember Hernandez-Castillo to
Appoint Board Member Crockett as Board Chair..
YES: 5—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, David Crockett,
Adrian Anguiano
NO: 0• ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 0— Status: 5—0—0—0— Pass
Moved by Boardmember Hernandez-Castillo, seconded by Boardmember Crockett
to Appoint Board Member Ballinas as Vice Chair..
YES: 5—Angie Rivera, Berenice Ballinas, Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo, David Crockett,
Adrian Anguiano
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 0— Status: 5—0—0—0— Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR'
COMMENTS
4. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Member Castillo-Hernandez inquired about travel reimbursement for
Personnel Board members. Board Secretary Murray explained that other commissions
receive travel reimbursement because they are required to travel off-site for their meetings.
Vice Chair Ballinas kindly reminded both the City Attorney and the Appellant's Attorney to
review the Personnel Board rules. Board Secretary Murray stated that he has already
issued this reminder to both parties.
Personnel Board 3 8/14/2025
Board Chair Crockett welcomed new Board Member Adrian Anguino to the Personnel
Board and expressed his enthusiasm about serving as Chair.
Vice Chair Ballinas inquired whether concurrent dates for hearings are an option, to help
avoid delays and to accommodate Board Members'schedules. Board Secretary Murray
responded that scheduling is dependent on the availability of Board Members as well as
both attorneys.
Board Member Castillo-Hernandez expressed concern that both parties had been
previously notified not to attend meetings virtually. Board Secretary Murray stated that he
will notify both parties that the Board prefers attorneys to attend meetings in person.
The Personnel Board confirmed that Special Meetings and Regular Meetings will begin at
6:00 p.m.
5. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: Board Secretary Murray expressed gratitude to the Board Members for their
continued commitment to the Personnel Board and stated that he will do his best to
schedule as many hearing dates as possible to ensure cases are resolved promptly.
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board's regular meeting was adjourned at 6:23 p.m. on August 14,
2025.
Respectfully submitted
s
Jame rray, Board Secretary
Personnel Board 4 8/14/2025
Personnel Board
Special Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2025
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
22 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
ADRIAN ANGUTANO
City-wide Rep
VACANT BERENICE BALLINAS
Ward 1 Vice Chair
Ward 4
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ- VACANT
CASTILLO Ward 5
Ward 2
DAVID CROCKETT ANGIE RIVERA
Chair Ward 6
Ward 3
JAMES MURRAY
Board Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA),if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact
®Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624.Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting documentation can be found
on the City's website—www.santaana.org/city-meetings.
Personnel Board 1 8/18/2025
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
Board Members:
Gabriela Hernandez-Castillo
David Crockett
Angie Rivera
Berenice Ballinas
Adrian Anguiano
Staff:
James Murray, Board Secretary
Josephine Ho, Human Resources Staff
Minutes: The Personnel Board special meeting was called to order at 6:14 p.m. on August 18, 2025.
ROLL CALL James Murray, Board Secretary
Minutes: All Board Members were present on August 18.. 2025.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Minutes: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board Secretary James Murray.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. Excused Absences
Minutes: There were no absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR'
BUSINESS CALENDAR
2. CLOSED SESSION —Consistent with California Government Code section 54957 Public
Employee Discipline (Pre-Hearing Conference in the matter of Case No. 2022-04)
Government Code section 54957 (b)(1).
Personnel Board 2 8/18/2025
Minutes: The Personnel Board regular meeting recessed into closed session on August
18, 2025, at 6:18 p.m.
The Personnel Board recessed from closed session on August 18, 2025, at 6:45 p.m.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMENTS
3. Board Member Comments
Minutes: Board Member Hernandez-Castillo expressed that the Board is willing to be
flexible with dates and scheduling to ensure Personnel Board cases are heard in a timely
manner. This flexibility has been communicated to both the City's attorneys and the
Appellant's attorneys. She emphasized that any delays are not due to the Board's
availability.
4. Staff Member Comments
Minutes: There are no Staff Member comments.
ADJOURNMENT
Minutes: The Personnel Board's special meeting was adjourned at 6:47 p.m. on August 18,
2025.
Respectfully submitted
Ja urray, Board Secretary
Personnel Board 3 8/18/2025
1 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting Agenda Minutes
April 13, 2026
5:30 P.M.
Council Chamber
22 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA
ISURI S. RAMOS
Chair, Ward 3 Representative
CARL BENNINGER CHRISTOPHER LEO
Vice-Chair, Citywide Representative
Ward 4 Representative
MANUEL J. ESCAMILLA JENNIFER OLIVA
Ward 2 Representative Ward 6 Representative
BAO PHAM ALAN WOO
Ward 1 Representative Ward 5 Representative
Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP
Executive Director
Melissa M. Crosthwaite Ricardo Soto, AICP Gema Zapien
Legal Counsel Planning Manager Recording Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,
®contact Michael Ortiz,City ADA Program Coordinator,at(714)647-5624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable
the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.The City Council agenda and supporting
documentation can be found on the City's website—www.santa-ana.org/city-meetings.
2 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, Chair
Carl Benninger, Vice-Chair
Christopher Leo
Manuel J. Escamilla
Jennifer Oliva
Bao Pham
Alan Woo
Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP
Legal Counsel Melissa M. Crosthwaite
Planning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICP
Recording Secretary Gema Zapien
ROLL CALL
Minutes: Quorum was reached at 5:33 PM with Commissioner Escamilla arriving at 5:43
PM.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: Resident, Gay Olivos raised concerns regarding WarnerAvenue Improvements
and One Broadway Plaza.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
a. Minutes
Recommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of March 23, 2026.
b. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to Approve.
YES: 6— Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Manuel J. Escamilla, Jennifer
Oliva
3 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0 — ABSENT: 1 — Carl Benninger
Status: 6 - 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
*End of Consent Calendar*
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Public Hearing: The Planning Commission decision on Conditional Use Permits,
Variances, Tentative Tract and Parcel Maps, Minor Exceptions, Site Plan Review, and
Public Convenience or Necessity Determinations are final unless appealed within 10
days of the decision by any interested party or group (refer to the Basic Meeting
Information page for more information). The Planning Commission recommendation
on Zoning and General Plan amendments, Development Agreements, Specific
Developments, and Specific Plans will be forwarded to the City Council for final
determination. Legal notice was published in the OC Reporter on April 3, 2026 and
notices were mailed on said date.
1. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2026-06 FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 2311 SOUTH BRISTOL STREET LOCATED WITHIN THE GENERAL
COMMERCIAL (C2) ZONING DISTRICT.
Project Applicant: Terri Dickerhoff with CGR Development, representing
Sprouts Farmers Market (Applicant) and NMC Santa Ana, LLC (Property Owner)
Proposed Project: The Applicant is requesting approval of Conditional Use
Permit No. 2026-06 to allow the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-
premises consumption through the operation of a Type-21 Alcoholic Beverage
Control license at a new Sprouts Farmers Market grocery store (Project). In
addition, a determination of Public Convenience or Necessity is required for this
Project.
Environmental Impact: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines, the Project is exempt from further review
pursuant to Section 15301 (Class 1 - Existing Facilities) of the CEQA Guidelines.
A Categorical Exemption, ER No. 2026-20, will be filed for this Project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2026-06 AS
CONDITIONED AND MAKING A DETERMINATION OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE
OR NECESSITY TO ALLOW A TYPE-21 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL
LICENSE FOR THE SALE OF BEER, WINE, AND DISTILLED SPIRITS FOR
OFF-PREMISES CONSUMPTION AT SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET
LOCATED AT 2311 SOUTH BRISTOL STREET (APN: 410-431-02)
4 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
Recommended Actions:
1. Adopt a resolution approving Conditional Use Permit No. 2026-06, as
conditioned, and making a determination of Public Convenience or
Necessity to allow a Type-21 Alcoholic Beverage Control license for the sale
of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption; and
2. Authorize staff to issue a Letter of Public Convenience or Necessity to the
State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Escamilla to
Approve.
YES: 6— Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Manuel J.
Escamilla, Jennifer Oliva
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 1 — Carl Benninger
Status: 6 -0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Commission had questions for the Applicant.
Applicant, Terri Dickerhoff, answered questions from the Commission.
2. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2025-23 FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 2513 WEST EDINGER AVENUE LOCATED WITHIN THE COMMUNITY
COMMERCIAL (C1) ZONING DISTRICT.
Project Applicant: Noe Quinones with 8th Level Design Group, representing
Playa Dorada Restaurant & Bar (Applicant) and 2513 W. Edinger Ave, LLC
(Property Owner)
Proposed Project: The Applicant is requesting approval of Conditional Use
Permit No. 2025-23 to allow the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for on-
premises consumption through a Type-47 Alcoholic Beverage Control license at a
new eating establishment, Playa Dorada Restaurant & Bar.
Environmental Impact: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines, the Project is exempt from further review
pursuant to Section 15301 (Class 1 - Existing Facilities) of the CEQA Guidelines.
A Categorical Exemption, ER No. 2025-102, will be filed for this Project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2025-23 AS
CONDITIONED TO ALLOW THE SALE OF BEER, WINE, AND DISTILLED
SPIRITS FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION THROUGH A TYPE-47 LICENSE
5 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL FOR AN
EATING ESTABLISHMENT LOCATED AT 2513 WEST EDINGER AVENUE
(APN: 407-014-35)
Recommended Action:
Adopt a resolution approving Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-23 for the
sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for on-premises consumption, as
conditioned.
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Commission had questions for the Applicant.
Applicant, Noe Quinones, answered questions from the Commission.
Resident, Gay Olivos, expressed a neutral position on the project.
Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to
Approve.
YES: 6— Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Manuel J.
Escamilla, Jennifer Oliva
NO: 0— ABSTAIN: 0— ABSENT: 1 — Carl Benninger
Status: 6 -0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
*End of Business Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had no comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had no comments for staff:
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on April 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chamber located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:32 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
6 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the ten-day
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41-643, 41-644 or 41-645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
• Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
• Go to and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
• Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
• Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
• Dial (669) 900-6833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
7 Planning Commission
4/13/2026
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
• E-mail PBAecomments@santa-ana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
• Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza —
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting. Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the in-person meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES - Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a non-english speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (Spanish-to-English) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del publico pueden solicitar un interprete con 48 horas de
anticipation para asistir a una persona que no habla ingles durante la section de
comentarios publicos de la reuni6n. La notificaci6n con 48 horas de anticipation
permitira a la Ciudad hater los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reuni6n. La interpretaci6n simultanea al espanol se ofrece por medio
del use de audifonos y la interpretaci6n consecutiva (espanol a ingles) tambien esta
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisi6n en el podio.
Respectfully submitted:
9-4
sz�
Gema Zapien
Planning Commission Secretary
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
December 11 , 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 DECEMBER 11, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Perea (arrived at 5:22 P.M.), Said, and Vega, and Chair
Carpenter were present. Vice Chair Castillo Laughton and Commissioner Mejia were
absent
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: The following individual addressed the Commission via teleconference:
1. Manuel Arreguin inquired regarding Commissioner Gawronski reviewing previous
meetings transcripts from this past year and thanked the Commission for their work.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 'I and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:05 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Chair Carpenter spoke regarding an error on page eight of minutes and requested the
minutes be updated to reflect the appropriate chair of the commission.
MOTION: Commissioner Gawronski moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, as amended, seconded by Commissioner Vega.
The motion carried, 4-0-0-3, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON
Status: 4-0 - 0 — 3 -- Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of November 13, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 DECEMBER 11, 2025
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 5:08 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
3. Recommendation to SAPD Procedure 4130 U-Visa Certification Procedures
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and approve the recommended
procedure to the City Manager for changes to the Santa Ana Police Department's
U-Visa Procedure No. 4130 prepared by the Police Oversight Director.
MINUTES: Independent Police Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provided a
presentation regarding SAPD Policy 4130 U-Visa Certification Procedures
recommended revisions.
Commissioner Perea arrived at 5:22 P.M.
Commissioner Gawronski asked what CID stood for.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated CID stood for Criminal
Investigation Division and SAPD is the entity who reviews the U-Visa applications.
Commissioner Vega thanked staff and Independent Police Oversight Director Morse
for their efforts on the U-Visa policy documents and asked whether the outcome of
an investigation affects U-Visa qualifications.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained it does not affect U-Visa
applications.
Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding page five of the presentation
regarding an official consulting the USCIS Resource Guide as a superseding guideline
and SAPD's victim-centered and trauma-informed approach to investigations, and
spoke in support of limitations of forwarding cases to the DistrictAttorney's(DA) office,
appeal process, and annual report.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse spoke regarding the USCIS Resource
Guide where SAPD will be trained on with assessing U-Visa applications and those
who need clarity on decision making for U-Visas and explained SAPD's victim-
centered and trauma informed approach to investigations is to reduce the risk of
retraumatizing victims who suffered traumatic experiences during interviews.
Commissioner Perea thanked Independent Police Oversight Director Morse for
bringing back a revised U-Visa policy, echoed Commissioner Said's comments
regarding limiting cases sent to the DA office, explained the importance of USCIC
Resource Guide, and stated he looks forward to the implementation of the policy,
future reports, and impact on U-Visa applications. He asked whether the policy
would be an administrative policy change or codified into the ordinance.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 DECEMBER 11, 2025
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the policy would be an administrative
policy change and explained the process.
Commissioner Perea recommended the Commission send the policy to the City
Council to be adopted as an ordinance once it has been administratively changed.
Commissioner Vega asked whether the policy would be sent to the City Council for
approval.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the policy process gets reviewed by the
City Manager and can be sent for review to the City Council if the Commission is
not satisfied with the response provided by the City Manager.
Chair Carpenter asked for clarification regarding U-Visa procedures in Section
4130.5, the last paragraph of Section 2, and asked what happens when U-Visas
are revoked after approval due to determining the victim is no longer helpful and
deadlines are not met by SAPD,
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the Chief of Police or designee
informs the USC1S of victims no longer being helpful.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated violation of policy is subject to review and/or
potential discipline with possible termination depending on factors leading to missed
deadlines.
MOTION: Commissioner Vega moved to approve the recommended action
for Item No. 3, seconded by Commissioner Perea.
The motion carried, 5-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER PEREA,
COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, CHAIR
CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON
Status: 5-0 — 0— 2 — Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
STAFF PRESENTATIONS
4. AB 847 and POC Complaint Process
MINUTES. Independent Police Oversight Director T, Jack Morse provided a
presentation regarding AB 847: Police Personnel Records and Police Oversight
Commission Complaint Process.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 DECEMBER 11, 2025
Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding the submitted complaints
related to other agencies.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the information presented is
strictly informational.
Commissioner Vega asked how complaints will be received and processed.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the complaint process and
stated the complaints will be sent via email.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the Police complaint portal is
accessible to all via the City website.
Commissioner Said asked whether Commissioners may review body-worn camera
footage related to complaints, whether such footage is considered part of an
officer's personnel file, how decisions are made without disclosing confidential
information, and the closed session process for handling complaints.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated body-worn camera footage
may be requested as part of the investigation and reviewed by the Commission in
closed session to determine whether further investigation is warranted, relevant
footage is considered part of the officer's personnel file, the Commission may direct
the Independent Police Oversight Director to proceed or not proceed with further
investigation, and Internal Affairs (IA) is conducting a parallel independent
investigation.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the process for complaints for the
upcoming Closed Session meeting.
Commissioner Perea requested a report on complaints from late 2023 and 2024.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated complaints must be
investigated within the one-year limitation however, a report could be presented to
the Commission.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated complaints received from 2023 and 2024 were
investigation by Santa Ana Police Department(SAPD).
Commissioner Perea requested IA outcomes related to the complaints filed prior to
2025.
Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding the voting process for the
complaints to be investigated and data related to complaints filed prior to 2025.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the one-year timeframe
limitation for complaints prior to 2025.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 DECEMBER 11, 2025
Commissioner Vega asked whether feedback can be relayed to those who filed
complaints and whether the public is notified of the results from investigations.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the process for email
communications regarding filed complaints, the creation of annual reports
summarizing investigation outcomes without disclosing confidential information,
and stated investigation outcomes may be requested through a public records
request.
Chair Carpenter asked what effect AB847 has on the Police Oversight Commission
ordinance.
Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the AB 847 does not affect the
ordinance rather clarifies the responsibility of the Commission.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez further elaborated on AB 847.
***END OF STAFF PRESENTATIONS***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez wished everyone a Merry Christmas
and Happy Holidays.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade announced Chief Rodriguez swore in three new officers to
the department, Pancakes with Santa was successful, and thanked everyone.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard
work and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Commissioner Vega wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Commissioner Said thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished
everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Commissioner Perea thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished
everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.
Chair Carpenter thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished
everyone Happy Holidays.
ADJOURNMENT-Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at
6:21 P.M.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 DECEMBER 11, 2025
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for January 8, 2026
at 5:00 P.M.
Respe ally submitted:
Ib g it Icala
R can Secretary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 DECEMBER 11, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
January 8, 2026
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 JANUARY 8, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Diana Zuniga conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo
Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission via in person:
1. David Pulido requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and the police officers involved be
held accountable, and spoke regarding Noe Rodriguez's incident.
2. Erika Armenta (summary of Spanish comment) requested an independent
investigation for Noe Rodriguez and cameras be installed in police vehicles.
3. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and the police officers
involved be held accountable, and spoke regarding Noe Rodriguez's incident.
4. Matthew Compton requested the Police Department hold community meetings to
promot awareness of the Commission, spoke regarding the Freddy D'Angelo
Washington incident, and requested an independent investigation for Noe Rodriguez.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES: At 5:20 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON
CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 JANUARY 8, 2026
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of December 11, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
RECESS — Police Oversight Commission will recess to Closed Session.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter recessed to consider the Closed Session item at 5:23 P.M.
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. CLOSED SESSION — Consistent with California Government Code section
54957 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COMPLAINTS (review of citizen complaints
submitted to Police Oversight Commission, complaints dated: 1/28125, 2/8/25,
3/13/25, 5/29/25, 6/13/25, 6/20/25, 6/22/25, 9111/25, 12/12/25) Government Code
section 54957
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
RECONVENE — Police Oversight Commission will reconvene to continue regular City
business.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter reconvened the Police Oversight Commission meeting to
order at 7:26 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT-The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES:Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the Commission requested
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provide additional information regarding
three of the eight complaints.
STUDY SESSION
4. Vehicle Pursuit Statistics Presentation
MINUTES: Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provided a presentation
regarding Vehicle Pursuit Statistics.
Commissioner Mejia inquired whether traffic collision have ended in a fatality and
which were the most common vehicle code violations that lead to pursuits.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 JANUARY 8, 2026
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated that, to his knowledge, no pursuits have
resulted in fatal collisions. He clarified that because vehicle code violations are not
a specific field in the reporting system, identifying the initial cause of each pursuit
would require a manual review of every individual case file.
Commissioner Perea requested an emailed report detailing the specific violations
that initiated pursuits, categorized by race.
Commissioner Vega inquired how often officers take City vehicles home and
whether the City could be liable if an off-duty officer is involved in a collision in a
City vehicle.
Deputy Chief Andrade clarified that officers are assigned a City vehicle based on
their assignment.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated an employer may still be held
liable for an off-duty employee's accidents, as the employer is the legal owner of
the vehicle.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether there was data on the number of
pursuits that were justified and requested a breakdown of violations categorized by
infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. He expressed concern over the $1.2
million in settlements involving off-duty officers in City vehicle incidents and
requested a detailed report on those specific collision cases.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez reminded the Commission that the current focus
of the discussion should be police pursuits and stated that Commissioners could
submit a request via memo to review additional department policies.
Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on whether the $5.16 million in
settlements were exclusively from police pursuits or included all incidents involving
police vehicles. She expressed concern over the total settlement amount, and
requested a data breakdown of pursuits by specific vehicle code violations and
whether the incidents resulted in collisions.
Assistant City Attorney Martinez clarified the $5.16 million settlement amount
includes all police vehicle involved incidents.
Commissioner Said spoke in support of the installation of dash cameras in police
vehicles and requested additional information regarding the topic.
Commissioner Perea inquired whether the following language "extended pursuits
of violators for misdemeanors not involving violence, risk of serious harm, or
weapons (independent of the pursuit) are generally discouraged." had been
removed from the policy.
Independent Oversight Director Morse confirmed the language had been removed
from the current policy.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 JANUARY 8, 2026
Commissioner Vega asked whether there is additional training required for officers
who are involved a vehicle collision.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated additional training may be recommended for the
officer depending on the type of collision and currently the department is providing
additional emergency vehicle driving training for all field operations bureau.
Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding the majority of pursuits being
the results of vehicle code violations, requested a breakdown of pursuit reasons by
vehicle code violations, and further analysis to compare the information to
comparable jurisdictions and how those jurisdictions have resolved the issue.
Commissioner Said stated the additional training for an additional emergency
vehicle is positive for the department and the police vehicle dash cameras could
help reduce liability for the City.
Commissioner Perea requested data regarding reasons of pursuits by race,
expressed concern regarding the $1.2 million in settlements for three collisions
involving off-duty officers, requested additional information on the off-duty collision
cases, and expressed support of a proposal for police vehicle dash cameras.
Chair Carpenter inquired whether there is a policy for police vehicle collisions involving
an off-duty officer in a City vehicle, recommended not receiving additional information
on data, and requested additional information regarding the $1.2 million in settlements
for collisions involving off-duty officers.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated there is a policy which results in a traffic collision
investigation and administrative investigation.
Discussion ensued regarding the need for further data and the possibility of
reviewing additional department policies.
Commissioner Gawronski requested a guide for police department acronyms.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the new Police Oversight Commission
Management Analyst will provide a list of acronyms.
***END OF STUDY SESSION***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez wished everyone a Happy New Year
and stated the Commission is off to a good start with reviewing complaints and is looking
forward to the coming year.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez reminded the Commission that discussions
in the closed session are confidential and stated he is looking forward to reviewing
complaints with the Commission.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 JANUARY 8, 2026
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their work and the Commission for their
different opinions. He stated he is looking forward to reviewing complaints, and wished
everyone a Happy New Year.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton stated he is looking forward to reviewing the complaints
and working with the Commission.
Commissioner Mejia thanked staff for the report.
Commissioner Said thanked staff for their work and stated she is looking forward to the
February Commission meeting.
Commissioner Perea wished everyone a Happy New Year and stated he is looking
forward to future meetings.
Chair Carpenter thanked everyone for the evening.
ADJOURNMENT-Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at
8:46 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for February 12,
2026 at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
r✓,Goti� .
Diana Zuni
Recording Secretary
Attest:
i I ala, CMC
As ' t n City Clerk
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 JANUARY 8, 2026
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
February 12, 2026
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 FEBRUARY 12, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, and Said, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton
(arrived at 5:06 P.M.), and Chair Carpenter were present. Commissioner Vega was
absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission via in-person:
1. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and an independent
investigation, and spoke regarding Noe Rodriguez's incident.
2. David Pulido requested an independent investigation for the Noe Rodriguez incident
and spoke regarding Henry Gonzalez's incident.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton arrived at 5:06 P.M.
3. Stef requestedjustice for Noe Rodriguez and an independent investigation, and spoke
regarding Noe Rodriguez's incident.
4. Matthew Compton requested an independent investigation into the incident of Noe
Rodriguez and spoke regarding Noe Rodriguez's incident.
5. Bulmaro Vicente spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 4 and requested justice and
accountability for the Noe Rodriguez incident.
Chair Carpenter asked for an update on the list of requested acronyms.
Commander Lopez stated the list is in process.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:95 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Chair Carpenter requested the minutes be amended to reflect his comments regarding
requests for information or data.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 FEBRUARY 12, 2026
MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and
2, as amended, seconded by Commissioner Gawronski.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER VEGA
Status: 6-0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of January 8, 2026.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
RECESS — Police Oversight Commission will recess to Closed Session.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter recessed to consider the Closed Session item at 5:18 P.M.
BUSINESS CALENDAR
3. CLOSED SESSION — Consistent with California Government Code section
54957 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COMPLAINTS (review of citizen complaints
submitted to Police Oversight Commission, complaints dated: 1/28125, 218/25,
3/13/25, 5129/25, 6/13/25, 6/20/25, 6/22/25, 9111125, 12/12/25) Government Code
section 54957
RECONVENE -- Police Oversight Commission will reconvene to continue regular City
business,
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter reconvened the Police Oversight Commission meeting to
order at 9:09 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT-The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the Commission reviewed
four complaints and by vote decided to not investigate three of the four complaints
reviewed, and requested by vote that Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse
provide additional information regarding one complaint.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 FEBRUARY 12, 2026
4. City Manager Response to U-Visa Certification Procedures
Recommendations
Recommended Action: Accept the City Manager response to the Police Oversight
Commission recommendations for Santa Ana Police Department Procedure 4130,
U-Visa Certification Procedures.
MINUTES:At 5:18 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provided a brief summary of the item.
Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification on Section 4130.3.1 regarding qualifying
victims for U-Visas, Section 4120.5 regarding time limit for individuals reporting a
crime, and whether there are issues if an individual files a complaint later in time.
City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained Section 4130.3.1 stemmed from the City
Manager's Office wanting clarity for an underlying crime that actually occurred in
order to qualify for the U-Visa, individuals to report crimes as quickly as possible so
passage of time and evidence to avoid issues, and there is no statue of limitations
when it pertains to the U-Visa process.
Commissioner Perea thanked staff for their hard work on their collaboration of the
U-Visa policy and requested the Commission receive email notifications when the
Criminal Investigations Division provides the report regarding the number of victims
that requested 1-918 Supplement B certifications.
MOTION: Commissioner Perea moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 4, seconded by Vice Chair Castillo Laughton.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER VEGA
Status: 6-0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse thanked the Commission for
all their hard work.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade reported the Santa Ana Police Department hired four new
Police Officers who finished the academy and were officially sworn in by the Police Chief
on February 20, 2026.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 FEBRUARY 12, 2026
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Mejia thanked staff for all their hard work and efforts.
Commissioner Gawronski expressed gratitude to staff.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked staff for all their hard work and efforts.
Chair Carpenter thanked staff for all their hard work and efforts.
ADJOURNMENT-Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at
9:22 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for March 12, 2026
at 5:00 P.M.
Resp ctful submit ed:
/ 1
it Y al CM
CMC
R c rdi Secretary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 FEBRUARY 12, 2026
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
w ov
March 12, 2026
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 MARCH 12, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Diana Zuniga conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea (arrived at 5:03 P.M.), Said (arrived at 5:01
P.M.), and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton (arrived at 5:01 P.M.), and Chair
Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:02 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Commissioner Gawronski moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, , seconded by Vice Chair Castillo Laughton.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER PEREA
Status: 6- 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of February 12, 2026.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 MARCH 12, 2026
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 5:03 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
3. Santa Ana Police Department Military Equipment Policy No. 707 and
Unmanned Aerial System Policy No. 606
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and provide input on Santa Ana
Police Department's updated Military Equipment Policy No. 707, including the
amendment pertaining to the use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and
Unmanned Aerial System Policy No. 606.
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez introduced Military Equipment
Policy No. 707 and Unmanned Aerial System Policy No. 606.
Commander Jorge Lopez provided a presentation regarding Military Equipment
Policy No. 707 and Unmanned Aerial System Policy No. 606.
Commissioner Gawronski inquired whether the military conducts the training for
officers to operate the drones.
Commander Lopez clarified the military does not administer the drone training and
instead selected Police Department personnel are trained and certified through
various drone operator schools.
Commissioner Vega inquired whether drones are considered military equipment,
the cost of maintenance, the process of acquiring additional drones, and whether
drones could be used to investigate illegal fireworks or code violations and
requested the Police Department host workshops to educate the community on the
new drone program.
Commander Lopez stated state law classifies drones as military equipment, and
clarified the cities drone program will not be used, provided or trained by the military.
Additionally, he stated the projected yearly cost for drone damages and repairs are
$15,000 to $20,000.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade outlined drone limitations regarding flight times, and
clarified that drones could be dispatched for calls of service regarding illegal
fireworks and will not be used to inspect for code enforcement cases. Additionally,
he stated there are plans for a marketing campaign to familiarize the community
with the drone operations.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested clarification regarding the training drone
operators will receive and the number of police officers currently licensed for drone
operations. Additionally, he expressed concern regarding the costs, inquired
regarding the measures in place to protect drones from damage or destruction, the
overall utility of the technology, and the availability of a warranty, and raised concern
regarding privacy. He recommended the policy define specific usage scenarios
rather than relying solely on an officer's judgment.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 MARCH 12, 2026
Commander Lopez clarified that personnel is trained and certified through various
drone operator schools which abide by federal aviation requirements.
Deputy Chief Andrade spoke regarding operators being required to obtain an
Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate before operating
the drones and noted that while there is currently no set number of operators, the
program will allow for several backups. He stated that precautions will always be
taken to avoid drone damage and while accidents are not always avoidable, the
drone is a tool that often prevents officers from entering dangerous situations. He
clarified there is a service model in place regarding warranties, drones only record
when activated by an officer, any recordings not classified as evidence will be
purged, and the department will continue to strictly abide by Fourth Amendment
protections.
Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding privacy, the use of thermal
technology, the broadness of the policy language, and allowing drone support to
other agencies without language requiring those agencies to abide by Santa Ana's
sanctuary policy. She requested clarification regarding Section N of the policy.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated Section N includes safeguards to allow command staff
to authorize use for unlisted scenarios, the drone policy does not include language
prohibiting assistance with immigration cases, and the Police Department will
continue to abide by the City's Sanctuary Policy or any court ruling prohibiting
specific uses, including thermal technology.
Commissioner Said stated that technology can be helpful to assess or deescalate
situations and there are legal remedies if the drone is used in violation of the Fourth
Amendment.
Commissioner Perea questioned whether there is a current Annual Military
Equipment report, whether drone data would be stored internally, whether the
company maintains access to the footage, and whether the policy prohibits the sale
of collected data. He expressed concern regarding privacy, and third-party server
storage, and stated the current policy is overly broad and could allow for potential
overreach.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the current Annual Military Equipment report
has been presented to the commission and the new report will be presented at an
upcoming meeting.
Commissioner Gawronski asked regarding the total number of drones purchased
and whether the drones are capable of simultaneous operation. She expressed
concern regarding the city-wide use of illegal fireworks, and stated she hopes the
drone program might help alleviate this issue.
Commander Lopez stated there are five drones in total, and clarified two smaller
units are assigned to the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for field
operations, while the remaining three are designated for calls for service. He stated
multiple drones could be deployed simultaneously, confirmed the drones could be
exact operational
r calls related to illegal fireworks p
utilized for g , and stated the exa
procedures remain to be determined.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 MARCH 12, 2026
Chair Carpenter asked whether there are variations in altitude between transit flight
and active observation, whether the drones are deployed to destinations via a pilot
or automatically through coordinates, and whether the cameras remain active
throughout the duration of the flight. He requested clarification regarding the
evidentiary validity of the captured footage and the reasoning behind the prohibition
of drone use for code enforcement purposes.
Commander Lopez clarified drone altitude is scenario-dependent, will navigate to
locations autonomously, and stated that while the camera is active during flight, a
remote operator takes control upon arrival to initiate recording when necessary. He
clarified drone footage is admissible as evidence, similar to body-worn camera or
other surveillance video, and drone use for code enforcement is prohibited as it
would constitute a violation of the Fourth Amendment.
Commissioner Vega asked whether the drone could be used by the Quality of Life
Team (QOLT) to monitor or communicate with unhoused encampments and
whether pilots are required to be sworn officers.
Commander Lopez stated the current policy does not allow the drone to be used for
enforcement purposes and limits drone use to investigative purposes only.
Deputy Chief Andrade clarified first responder drones will be operated by sworn
officers and other department professionals may use the drones to survey or
photograph a scene, and stated drones may be used for an encampment if the call
for service involves potential illegal activity.
Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding the use of drones for
surveillance of people who are unhoused, the misuse of surveillance enforcement,
and the expansion of operational use to include responding to calls for service, and
stated the current policy provides no usage on frequency guidelines, no minimum
threshold for deployment and no cap on expansion. She recommended developing
a protocol for conducting criminal investigations involving drones, and an annual
usage report to the City Council and the Commission, and she asked whether there
was any data to support to a reduction of use of force due to drones.
Commander Lopez clarified there is currently no data that supports a reduction of
use of force due to drones.
Commissioner Said stated drones would allow for quick situational awareness
which is beneficial and could allow officers to respond more precisely and possibly
reduce use of force. She recommended review of the policy within the year to
determine if changes are needed and suggested reviewing policies of other cities
who have already implemented a drone program.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 MARCH 12, 2026
Commissioner Perea expressed concern regarding the drone program's community
impact and timing, particularly given the known use of drones by federal agencies
for immigration enforcement. He recommended adding language that prohibits the
service provider from selling data or the unauthorized use of data, including video
footage and recommended limiting authorized flight types to specific categories,
such as search and rescues, missing person, explosive device investigation,
firefighting support, and disaster or mass casualty support.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez confirmed the vendor contract includes
a prohibition for the dissemination of the city's data and clarified that including any
prohibition in the policy would have no binding effect on the third party.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton expressed concern regarding potential Fourth
Amendment violations, noted similarities to previous court cases involving
equipment such as helicopter and X-rays, and asked whether there are any
protections in place to prevent Fourth Amendment violations and whether there was
any research done on cases related to use of drones in other jurisdictions. He
recommended strengthening the language in the policy in regards to when drones
can be used for investigatory purposes.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated officers will continue to abide by the Fourth
Amendment and clarified drones will maintain their camera in the upward position
during transit to a destination, once the drone arrives, an officer will manually initiate
recording if necessary, and any footage not considered evidence will be purged. He
stated there was no research done on litigations but obtained data from other
agencies and was unable to locate an instance of resident complaints regarding
drone usage and noted one known case involving a drone in the in Los Angeles
area.
Chair Carpenter expressed concern regarding privacy, cost, overall efficiency of the
drone program and removing officer from the field solely for drone operation. He
asked whether there would be enough operators to operate all five drones at one
time, whether the budget includes the training for the operators, whether there is a
recurring cost for the certification, and whether it would be possible for underutilized
drone to be reassigned to a high service call area of the city.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated the quantity of drones purchased was based on the
size and population of the city, and operators will be a mix of assigned staff, noted
that in preparation for the potential drone program some officers have already
received their certification, and notes it is uncertain if there are any recurring costs
for the certification. He stated adjustments could be made in the future to improve
drone program's efficiency if needed.
Commissioner Mejia asked whether the drone has the ability to focus in on what it
is intending to capture in order to avoid inadvertently capturing unrelated footage.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated the drone has the capability to zoom into the intended
area.
Commissioner Perea recommended the annual report include a map highlighting
the most common areas the drone was deployed to.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 MARCH 12, 2026
Independent Oversight Director Jack T. Mores stated the Military Equipment Use
policy contains gaps concerning mechanisms to ensure compliance, clarity on
which independent persons or entities hold oversight authority, and what legally
enforceable sanctions are in place. He stated the policy must include procedures
for members of the public to register complaints, concerns, or questions regarding
the use of each specific type of military equipment and noted the policy must
explicitly state the determinations used to justify the deployment of such equipment.
He stated state law allows for the use of military equipment only when no
reasonable alternative exists and it is unclear whether a formal analysis or study
has been conducted to support that assertion.
MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have Oversight Director to conduct
additional research on Policy Nos. 606 & 607 and bring back the item as a
work study session, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
NOES: LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
NONE
Status: 7— 0— Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMISSIONER REQUESTED ITEMS
4. Discuss and Consider Placing an Item(s) on a Future Agenda Regarding
Santa Ana Police Department Policy Nos. 311 and 303 — Commissioner Mejia
MINUTES: Commissioner Mejia provided a brief report regarding Police
Department Policy Nos. 311 and 303.
Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding the language presented in the
memo regarding the application of Assembly Bill 40 in the field.
Commissioner Mejia clarified the wording is intended to ensure the Commission
can review data to confirm policy compliance and recommended reviewing one to
two years of related data to identify patterns or issues that need to be addressed.
Independent Oversight Director Jack T. Mores stated the Commission could do a
formal review of the policy and an audit of the Police Department's use of less-lethal
devices.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 MARCH 12, 2026
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the item could consist of a review
of Policies 311 and 303 as they apply to the Assembly Bill, followed by a
Commission decision on whether to conduct an audit of Policy 303.
Discussion ensued regarding the optimal presentation for the item and the
necessity of providing supporting data.
MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to bring Santa Ana Police Department
Policy Nos. 311 and 303 for review as a work study session item, seconded by
Commissioner Vega.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
NOES: LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have an audit of Santa Ana Police
Department Policy No. 303 to ensure compliance in policy and practice with
AB48 based on readily available information as a work study session item,
seconded by Commissioner Perea.
The motion carried, 6-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
NOES: COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON
ABSTAIN: CHAIR CARPENTER
ABSENT: NONE
NONE
Status: 6— 1 — Pass
STAFF COMMENTS
i
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez differed her comments to the Police
Department to share with the commission their upcoming Community Police Academy
taking place May 13 through July 15, 2026.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade announced and spoke regarding their Community Police
Academy.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 MARCH 12, 2026
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski thanked everyone for an interesting evening.
Commissioner Mejia thanked staff and the commissioners for being involved with the
policy, stated it sets a good precedent on how policy should be analyzed, and reiterated
her concern regarding the usage of drones, views the Commission's role as ensuring
there is a good policy, and warns that increased surveillance could be a false illusion
of safety.
Commissioner Said thanked staff for the presentation and stated she looks forward to
review of policy, and analyzing the future drone report to determine whether it can
reduce crimes and use of force.
Chair Carpenter thanked staff for the presentation and expressed concern regarding
the infringement of freedoms.
ADJOURNMENT -Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at
7:29 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for April 9, 2026 at
5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Diana Zuniga
Recording Secretary
Attest:
i it AI la, CMC
Assi t City Clerk
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 9 MARCH 12, 2026
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
August 14, 2025
REGULAR MEETING — 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:06 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 AUGUST 14, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo
Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission in person:
1. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and spoke regarding Police
Officer Luis Casillas.
2. David Pulido requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and an independent investigation
be commenced regarding the incident.
3. Carina Munoz spoke regarding an incident involving Police Officer Kavendish and
demanded justice.
4. Emma Gottfried expressed concern regarding police violence with the Officer Luis
Casillas regarding Mario Diaz's arrest and Noe Rodriguez's death.
5. Victor Mendez spoke in favor of the new direction the commission is taking and wished
them success in the upcoming Special Joint Meeting with the City Council.
6, Erika Armenta spoke regarding her husband Noe Rodriguez's incident, stated she is
scared for her life and her families, and requested the Commission due their due
diligence and complete independent investigation related to Noe Rodriguez's.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:25 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 AUGUST 14, 2025
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7—0 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of July 10, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
STUDY SESSION
MINUTES:At 5:27 P.M., the Study Session was considered.
3. U-Visa Work Study Session
Recommended Action:
1. Receive presentations the from the following nonprofit grassroots organizations
that work to respond to immigration enforcement activities and police, in order
to discuss their experiences with SAPD's U-Visa process/procedures and
provide input for recommendations:
a) Sandra De Anda of the Orange County Rapid Response Network
b) Faby Jacome of the Orange County Justice Fund
2. Review and discuss proposed/redline changes to SAPD Procedure No. 4130
prepared by Police Oversight Director Jack Morse.
MINUTES: Sandra De Anda, Orange County Rapid Response Network (OCRRN),
and Faby Jacome, Orange County Justice Fund (OCJF), provided a presentation
regarding data, community experiences and a path forward regarding U-Visas in
the City.
Commissioner Mejia requested clarification regarding wrongful investigations given
to the District Attorney's (DA) office and information regarding the determination of
a domestic violence crime case within the policy.
Sandra De Anda and Faby Jacome answered the Commissioner's questions and
provided clarification.
Commissioner Perea thanked the presenters for their presentation and requested
the Commission be provided annual reports including the number of cases, data
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 AUGUST 14, 2025
related to denials and approvals, clearer guidelines for determining helpfulness, and
process for appealing denials including data and language, number of cases
referred to DA's office, and accessibility and transparency of U-Visa resources on
the City website.
Sandra De Anda and Faby Jacome stated there are no immigration attorneys or
experts assisting with U-Visa applications, and recommended establishing a
Sanctuary Board.
Commissioner Said requested clarification regarding the requirement for referring
cases to differentjurisdictions, why referral data from 2017-2023 is difficult to obtain,
what the standard turnaround time is for U-Visa follow-ups, the number of staff
involved in processing U-Visas, and whether training has been provided for making
determinations on applications. She requested an analyst be assigned to track
applications, referrals, and denials, suggested the appellant review process be
conducted by a different individual rather than the person who is processing the
application within SAPD, more accessibility on City's website such as language
options, recommended providing accurate contact information to applicants, and
voiced concern regarding discretion in helpfulness determination.
Commander Jorge Lopez stated there is no requirement to refer cases and cases
sometimes are deferred to the DA's office when there is an ongoing prosecution
involving the victim and there is no defined turnaround time requirement. He
confirmed there is a unit dedicated for overseeing U-Visas with a crime analyst
responsible for inputting all received information, and a sergeant who reviews and
assigns cases to detectives for further review.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade spoke regarding data from 2017, the appeals
process, and clarified the U-Visas applications process.
Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on "helpfulness"and "usefulness."She
suggested the following the revisions to the U-Visa policy: in Section 4130.3.1,
adding language to include "Have been the victim, the bystander, or indirect'; in
Section 4130.3.3, changing the title from "Victim's Responsibility to be Helpful" to
"Guidance on Helpfulness"or"Definition on Helpfulness"; Section 4130.4, removing
the language "such as the Department, verifying the applicant is the victim of
qualifying criminal activity and has been helpful, is being helpful or is likely to be
helpful to the investigation..."to avoid redundancy; and Section 4130.5, providing
further explanation as to why applications are sent over to the DA's office.
Commissioner Vega asked for information regarding the process for handling a
victim's complaint against SAPD and whether such a cose could be handled by PD
or DA.
Deputy Chief Andrade clarified the investigating entity is responsible for the
investigation, therefore, if a victim alleges a crime involving SAPD, the responsibility
would fall on SAPD.
Commissioner Perea asked whether the commission would be an appropriate entity
to conduct the investigation in cases where SAPD is the alleged perpetrator,
specifically for certifying a U-Visa for the victim.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 AUGUST 14, 2025
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed U-Visa certifications is determined
by the police department.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked presenters for their presentation, supported
the recommendations made by fellow commissioners to the U-Visa policy, and
suggested trainings be conducted once policy is finalized.
Chair Carpenter thanked presenters for their presentation and suggested adding
consequences for deadlines not met by SAPD within the policy.
Chair Vega thanked presenters, requested additional information on U-Visa denials,
and clarification on SAPD's role in determining helpfulness and whether a victim's
case falls within a qualifying crime.
Deputy Chief Andrade clarified SAPD's role regarding helpfulness determination
and the qualifying levels of crime needing to be met during the certification U-Visa
process.
Commissioner Mejia stated she supports the initial set of revisions presented in the
policy and is working toward clarifying the concept of helpfulness during the
certification process.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton suggested moving the excerpt in Section 4130.3.3
explaining determination factors to Section 4130.5 regarding procedures,
recommended the wording related to Form 1-918 in Sections 4130.3.3 and 4130.5
be consistent, rather than using "may sign and certify..."in one section and "shall
provide a written explanation..." in another, correcting the wording in Section
4130.5.10 from "repeal"to "appeal', and requested clarification on certifications for
denials.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. clarified in Section 4130.3.3, the
wording "may sign and certify" regarding Form 1-918 refers to the Police Chiefs
determination of helpfulness, while Section 4130.5.8 addresses situations where
forms are not certified and requires a reason to be provided for the application not
being certified for U-Visas.
***END OF STUDY SESSION***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES:Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated invitations to upcoming meetings
with Councilmembers, the City Attorney, Police Chief, Police Oversight Director, and the
City Manager regarding the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission
ordinance will be sent to commissioners.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES:Commissioner Gawronski asked regarding the citizens academy and whether
commissioners need to retake the academy.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION AUGUST 14, 2025
Commissioner Vega thanked staff, presenters, and members of the public who provided
comments, and requested information on SAPD's policies regarding arrests and
interactions with individuals experiencing mental health issues, as well as whether a
policy exists governing language use during encounters, such as the use of English or
Spanish.
Deputy Chief Andrade confirmed there is no policy in place to utilizing languages other
than English during encounters.
Commissioner Mejia thanked presenters, colleagues, and individuals who made a public
comment, and inquired regarding community notification of upcoming meetings and
whether meetings can be scheduled at more reasonable times to encourage greater
attendance. She asked whether a future meeting will provide additional information on
reports made during the previous community meeting regarding military equipment under
AB 481,
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed reports from 2022-2023 and 2023-2024
were not presented during the community meeting due to compliance issues, and stated
the City of Santa Ana and Police Chief Rodriguez are working to ensure compliance with
laws and regulations for future meetings. She clarified the reports currently presented are
those available and identifiable at this time.
Commission Said thanked presenters and staff, and requested viewing body worn
camera footage regarding Noe Rodriguez's case.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained he would need to look into Penal
Code 832.7 of confidential peace officer records and whether viewing footage is possible
with no violation of codes and a qualifying case
Chair Carpenter asked whether the Police Oversight Director can be directed to further
investigate incidents such as Noe Rodriguez's case.
Independent Oversight Director Morse Jr. confirmed SAPD is investigating.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton suggested independent Oversight Director and SAPD work
in conjunction regarding Noe Rodriguez's investigation.
Commissioner Mejia requested the Independent Oversight Director have a separate
investigation from SAPD.
Commissioner Perea thanked everyone for their work on the U-Visa policy over the last
few meetings, suggested the Commission review previous City Council discussions
regarding the Police Oversight Commission ordinance, and stated he looks forward to the
upcoming joint session with the City Council.
Chair Carpenter thanked the presenters, staff, and the independent Oversight Director,
and emphasized the need for a clearer definition of helpfulness.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 AUGUST 14, 2025
ADJOURNMENT-Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at
T:32 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for September 11,
2025 at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
i � Y. c` la
Recgr, in ecretary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 AUGUST 14, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
sy
a
September 11 , 2025
TELECONFERENCE INFORMATION:
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(b), Commissioner Carlos Perea will participate in the
meeting via teleconference from Hotel Villa Florida Puebla(lobby)in Puebla, Mexico, Blvd Atlixcayotl,
Acceso a la Zona Angelopolis 1100, 72810 San Andres Cholula, Pue. 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.
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo
Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission in person:
1. David Pulido spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission
Ordinance, requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, and an independent investigation
regarding the incident.
2. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, an independent investigation
regarding the incident, and the commission explore police-related ordinances
implemented in other cities.
3. Carina Munoz spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight
Commission Ordinance.
4. Emma Gottfried spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight
Commission Ordinance, requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, and an independent
investigation regarding the incident.
5. Bulamaro Vicente spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight
Commission Ordinance.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:21 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Vega.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7—0 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of August 14, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
STUDY SESSION
MINUTES:At 5:22 P.M., the Study Session was considered.
3. Police Oversight Commission Ordinance Work Study Session
Recommended Action: Receive presentation on the Police Oversight Commission
Ordinance and provide input to staff.
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the commissions' input
would be presented to the City Council at a future meeting.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse gave a presentation regarding the
Police Oversight Commission ordinance highlighting the hybrid oversight model:
investigating incidents and problematic patterns.
Commissioner Gawronski asked whether Santa Ana has an investigative process to
determine crime percentages and community support in cities that have seen policy
changes implemented.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Independent Oversight Director Morse stated there was both trust and distrust
segments of the public and that using a pattern-and-practice method to identify
persistent, ongoing problems and implement solutions.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade clarified the Police Department has not used an
investigative process to determine crime percentages.
Commissioner Mejia asked whether the hybrid model's parallel investigation would
apply to all cases and if the Independent Oversight Director must wait for the Police
Department to finish their investigations. She prioritized improving community
relations with Internal Affairs, cautioned against limiting the ordinance, voiced
concerns about the mandatory ride-along, and recommended funding police
lawsuits via Police Officers Association (POA) contract changes.
Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the hybrid model allows for
independent investigations of individual incidents that are considered of great bodily
harm. He clarified the investigation would be conducted alongside the Internal
Affairs investigation due to Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Rights (POBAR)
limitations and stated long term change comes from identifying problematic patterns
and investigating all individual incidents would not be possible due to limited
resources.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether the current policy allows for policy
review and the benefits of adoption of a new ordinance. He expressed concern with
removing the flexibility for the Commission to choose the approach and states the
proposed changes would remove authority to investigate individual incidents. He
asked whether there are any disadvantages to the hybrid model and for clarification
regarding conflicts the current ordinance has with the City Charter.
Independent Oversight Director Morse clarified the current policy allows for review
and the proposed changes would add priority and framework for a pattern-and-
practice model. He stated there would be resource constraints with every model,
and regardless of the model, the director's role is purely advisory.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified the existing ordinance conflicts with the City
Charter, as the Charter only allows for the appointment of up to three directors. She
stated any additional directors would require an amendment to the Charter.
Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding the investigative process for
the Independent Oversight Director and the cases that would be investigated. She
expressed concern regarding the lack of resources to investigate all complaints,
noting most involve officer-involved shootings or use-of-force resulting in death or
serious injury. She stated the hybrid model offers a good balance, recommended
additional training to provide more insight and reviewing tort claims to find common
trends, and asked if the proposed changes address POBAR violation concerns.
Independent Oversight Director Morse clarified the cases that would be investigated
are officer-involved shootings or use-of-force resulting in death or great bodily injury
and the investigation process would consist of responding to the scene, conducting
a parallel investigation with Internal Affairs, writing a report of findings to the
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Commission, and submitting the Commission's recommendations to the City
Manager.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the hybrid model would address the initial
concerns regarding possible POBAR violations.
Senior Assistant City Attorney Tamara Bogosian stated the hybrid model process
would have to be reviewed to determine if any components need to be met and
conferred with the Police Union.
Commissioner Vega recommended the public watch the Council meeting of July
15, 2025 and spoke in support of the additional trainings and ride-along
requirements proposed. He asked Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse
to provide insight into the proposed trainings, whether the proposed changes
presented at the July 15t" City Council meeting are considered pattern-and-practice
investigations, whether there would be any other changes needed, and whether
removing restrictions would put the City at risk of liability.
Independent Oversight Director Morse spoke regarding his experience with ride-
alongs and attending the reserve academy. He stated the proposed changes
represent a pattern-and-practice model, and while he had concerns about its current
restrictiveness, he acknowledged it would be an effective starting point due to
resource limitations.
Senior Assistant City Attorney Bogosian stated removing restrictions would affect
privacy protections which does not allow those records to be disclosable to the
public and the Independent Oversight Director would have to schedule closed
session in order to discuss that information.
Commissioner Perea asked whether the draft ordinance had been presented to City
Council and emphasized the current ordinance is compliant with state law. He asked
for clarification regarding the current issue between the Sheriff's office and the
Sheriff's Oversight Commission, expressed concern regarding how that the
proposed ordinance changes would strip the commission of its investigatory powers
but appreciated the hybrid model. He expressed concern regarding previous Police
Officer Associations Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) and would like the
commission to retain the ability to make recommendations. He also requested the
ordinance be updated to require consistent posting on the website of a redacted
summary of complaints submitted to the Commission.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified the draft ordinance has not been presented
to City Council and any recommendations by the Commission would be used to
refine the language and create a draft ordinance to present to City Council.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez clarified that while the ordinance is
currently in compliance with state law, issues could arise with the dual-track
investigation, which might violate POBAR, therefore, the amendments are intended
to create a process that avoids the possibility of lawsuits.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the case between the Sheriff's office
and the Sheriff's Oversight Commission is regarding Penal Code 832.7. and is
currently being litigated.
Senior Assistant City AttorneyBogosian clarified thatalthough the Commission may
discuss the MOU, they must avoid making suggestions, changes, or otherwise
interfering with the City Manager's right to negotiate, as the City Charter sets the
terms of that authority.
Chair Carpenter voiced concern that previous Commission recommendations were
not reflected in the proposed ordinance changes and spoke in favor of the hybrid
model presented to the Commission.
Commissioner Mejia expressed concern with instances where culture is built into
department practices and trainings and asked whether there was a way to ensure
mechanisms for accountability. She voiced concern regarding required ride-alongs
and requested legal protections for Commissioners when they participate. She
recommended adding the scope of work to the Commission's bylaws instead of
changing the ordinance to avoid stripping the Commission of its power, and asked
whether the changes proposed by the Ad Hoc committee would remove the
Commission's investigative powers.
Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the pattern-and-practice model is the
most beneficial, clarifying that the Ad Hoc changes permit pattern-and-practice
investigations but not individual ones, and stated this revised structure would still
allow the Director to review Internal Affairs findings and issue recommendations.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether the auditor model allows for the review
of individual complaints and whether the Independent Oversight Director's input
would be factored into the final decision of the findings. He expressed concern
regarding removing the Commission's ability to give recommendation on individual
cases and recommended the Commission be allowed to operate under the current
ordinance first to determine if the existing process works before implementing the
limitations of the auditor model.
Independent Oversight Director Morse confirmed the Independent Oversight
Director would be able to review individual complaints after Internal Affairs
concludes its investigation and issue recommendations based on the findings, but
would not be able to conduct a parallel investigation. He confirmed the auditor
model would not allow for recommendations on individual cases.
Discussion ensued regarding the process and restrictions of the auditor model
investigation.
Commissioner Said spoke regarding prioritization of complaints and the potential
for an overburdened workload under the investigatory model. She added that any
pattern of overly long Internal Affairs investigations should be specifically looked
into.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated the Police Department is fully prepared to support the
Council's decision and adjust as needed in order to be effective, whether that be
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
staff changes or putting safe guards in place to ensure Internal Affairs investigations
do not reach the one-year statute of limitations.
Commissioner Perea requested a copy of the letter Commissioner Carpenter wrote
regarding the proposed ordinance changes and requested clarification regarding
the process for distributing a commissioner's correspondence from the City
Manager's Office to the rest of the Commission. He stated his belief that the hybrid
model better reflects the resources available to the Commission, and requested
officer threats of bodily harm and sexual harassment complaints against a member
of the public be investigated. He also asked for clarification regarding the deciding
factor used to determine which complaints the Commission investigates and
expressed his wish to maintain some investigatory power.
Assistant City Attorney Martinez stated that because bylaws have not yet been
adopted, staff is still working on establishing policies. He clarified the Director and
Commission will not automatically investigate every complaint, rather the
Commission must first pass a majority vote to direct the Director on which complaint
to investigate.
Commissioner Vega requested clarification on who originally requested the
ordinance amendments and spoke regarding the potential ramifications of
conducting an improper investigation.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified City staff worked collaboratively to request
the amendments, not the City Council.
Chair Carpenter inquired whether the Commission would see a draft of the
ordinance before it is presented to the City Council.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez spoke regarding Council's discretion to amend the
ordinance and indicate the Commission's roles and responsibility.
***END OF STUDY SESSION***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: None.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski requested a key of the acronyms used
throughout the ordinance to facilitate her review.
Commissioner Mejia inquired regarding the use of her personal email to conduct City
business, the feasibility of having a City issued email address published, and
suggested investigating the Noe Rodriguez incident under the guidance of the current
ordinance. She commented on allegations that Internal Affairs has deleted footage
and stressed the importance of trust between the community and Internal Affairs.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Commissioner Perea spoke in support of the hybrid model and the need to maintain
investigatory power, echoed Commissioner Mejia's comments regarding the Noe
Rodriguez investigation, and reported he will be requesting to agendize a public
hearing at the October meeting related to the Police Departments use of military
equipment at the June protests. He commented on recent Supreme Court ruling on
Noem v. Vasquez-Perdomo and how the decision will affect many City residents.
Commissioner Said thanked staff and the public for their input and participation.
Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their hard work and stated his preference for
the pattern-and-practice investigation model. He stated that regardless of the model
that is implemented, the Commission will do great work and should not wait for City
Council to approve the ordinance.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked everyone for the productive dialogue, and
thanked Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse for his in-depth
presentation. He spoke in opposition to the ordinance amendment proposed by the
AdHoc, indicated that if a change must be made he is in favor of the hybrid model,
and requested clarification on the Independent Oversight Director's ability to
investigate the Noe Rodriguez incident
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the Noe Rodriguez incident is
currently being investigated by the Attorney General and due to existing internal
policies and procedures, the City is unable to continue its own investigation until the
Attorney General's investigation is complete.
Chair Carpenter stated he is not in favor of the evisceration of the original ordinance
and hopes the Commission can reach a consensus to move the issue forward.
ADJOURNMENT-Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting
at 8:02 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for October 9,
2025 at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
l
roid
Y.Rein ecretary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
� J
October 9, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 OCTOBER 9, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.
Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea (arrived at 5:07 P.M.), Said, and Vega, Vice
Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES:None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:04 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and
2, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER PEREA
Status: 6—0 — 0 -1 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of September 11, 2025.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 5:06 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 OCTOBER 9, 2025
3. Senate Bill 719 and Santa Ana Police Department Policies 307 & 308
Recommended Action; Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police
Department's Vehicle Pursuit and Response to Calls policies and provide input for
staff consideration.
MINUTES: Commander Joe Weber gave a presentation regarding Senate Bill 719
and Santa Ana Police Department Policies 307 and 308.
Commissioner Said requested traffic collision statistics from the past three years,
asked what the four-hour training for officers includes, and whether it addresses
distractions such as phones and laptops to help prevent accidents. She inquired
whether there is an internal traffic review board and what measures are in place to
assist officers with multiple collisions in improving their driving.
Commander Weber stated he does not have current traffic collision statistics, spoke
regarding the four-hour training provided to officers and distractions, and explained
progressive disciplinary action is used for officers who have multiple collisions and
remediate ways to help officers avoid collisions.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD)
does not have a traffic review board, explained the levels of review conducted for
collision reports, and noted Chief Robert Rodriguez has mandated all sworn officers
to complete EVOC training again to help mitigate traffic collisions.
Commissioner Mejia requested information on the decision-making process
covered during the four-hour training and whether pursuit data can be made
available on the Department's website. She inquired about the authorization of
pursuits fornonviolent or property crimes such as stolen vehicles or traffic violations,
what risk analysis is conducted prior to authorization, the process and training guide
to officers' decision-making when initiating a pursuit, the factors leading pursuits to
escalate to use of force or deadly force, whether additional training is provided to
address language barriers, and what measures SAPD is taking to ensure pursuits
do not result in excessive use of force. She requested information on body-worn
cameras and in-vehicle cameras used during pursuits, and whether SAPD utilizes
Artificial Intelligence (Al) to review body-camera footage.
Commander Weber explained the authorization analysis for nonviolent or property
crimes, what leads officers to pursue an individual, discretion behind the pursuit,
procedures in place to minimize risks among officers and individuals during pursuits
and custody, policy for excessive use of force and process if an officer is accused
of excessive use, and explained activation on body-worn cameras and equipment.
He stated training on languages is not offered and the department does not utilize
Al.
Deputy Chief Andrade further explained the process behind officers pursuing an
individual and ongoing evaluation during pursuits.
Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding officer vehicle training in
the rain and the number of freeway pursuits by SAPD.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 OCTOBER 9, 2025
Commissioner Vega requested traffic collision statistics and clarification regarding
Policy 308.
Commander Weber spoke regarding vehicle training in the rain, freeway pursuits,
and provided clarification regarding Policy 308 regarding traffic laws.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked for clarification regarding police officer
discretion in vehicle pursuits, who is responsible for reviewing and investigating
pursuits, whether the California Highway Patrol (CHP) conducts its own pursuit
investigations, the definition of "due regard" in pursuits, and how use of force is
applied to end vehicle pursuits.
Commander Weber explained discretion regarding vehicle pursuits, process of
investigating pursuits, confirmed pursuits are reported to the CHP and stated they
do not conduct their own investigation, `do-regard pursuit' definition and practice,
and different circumstances justifying use of force in terminating pursuits.
Chair Carpenter asked why pursuit reports are provided and what the connection is
between CHP and SAPD. He requested clarification regarding the use of force
during and after a pursuit.
Commander Weber stated reports given to CHP are for statistical purposes and
explained use of force during and after a pursuit.
Commissioner Perea requested data regarding traffic collisions and traffic pursuits
that resulted in a death from 2015 to now, and asked what laws are in place for
pursuits happening outside the City's jurisdiction.
Commander Weber explained there is no current policy for the department to be
involved in outside pursuits unless requested.
Commissioner Said asked whether cameras within department vehicles are turned
on once sirens are initiated.
Commander Weber stated the department vehicles are not equipped with dash
cameras.
Commissioner Mejia asked whether information is available to assist in decision-
making related to use of force or deadly force, and what tools are provided to officers
for taking individuals into custody at the termination point of a pursuit. She inquired
how often pursuits occur for minor offenses and requested information on the cost
of traffic collisions within SAPD.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. asked how often trivial pursuits
occur.
Commander Weber explained uses of force are determined on a case-by-case
basis.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained the available traffic collision
statistics only include settlement costs resulting from traffic collisions.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 OCTOBER 9, 2025
Deputy Chief Andrade explained different scenarios relating to termination point of
pursuits regarding use of force when needed.
Commissioner Gawronski asked whether SAPD has their own helicopter to use
during pursuits, where these helicopters are held, and how many are available.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD obtains police helicopter services from the
Orange County Sheriff's Department, which operates four helicopters, and
explained the factors considered when deploying helicopters during pursuits.
Commander Weber stated helicopters are held at John Wayne Airport and
explained the process behind using air support during pursuits.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether SAPD collaborates with news station
helicopters during pursuits and how the Department coordinates with other
agencies if no helicopters are available, and requested data on the use of force
employed to end pursuits over the past five years.
Commander Weber confirmed SAPD does not collaborate with news agencies
during pursuits.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated use of force to end pursuits is not common.
Chair Carpenter asked regarding the potential effects of not pursuing individuals
and requested more information on policies regarding pursuits involving vehicles
with children.
Commander Weber explained the necessity behind pursuits and the discretionary
factors dealing with children within vehicles during pursuits.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton inquired regarding drone use during pursuits and how
many drones are to be obtained for the department.
Deputy Chief Andrade explained the possible instances drone use could be
beneficial and stated the department is looking into how many drones are to be
obtained.
Commissioner Perea requested clarification regarding the purchase of drones in
the military budget proposal.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed there has not been any budget
approval or proposal presented to City Council regarding drone policies,
procedures, and implementations.
Commissioner Vega asked whether a warning system could be sent to those within
the area of a high-speed pursuit taking place.
Deputy Chief Andrade explained sending alerts during pursuits would be difficult
due to high-speed pursuits happening so quickly.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 OCTOBER 9, 2025
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 3, seconded by Commissioner Vega.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7—0 — Pass
4. Police Oversight Commission Bylaws
Recommended Action: Approve Police Oversight Commission Bylaws.
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez presented the Bylaws
incorporating comments provided by Commissioners in previous meetings.
Commissioner Vega asked whether the Police Oversight Director is able to add
items to the agenda.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the Director is able to add to the agenda after
consulting with the City Manager to build an agenda together.
Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on the process for consulting with the
Police Oversight Director and the City Manager regarding memos to be placed on
future agendas.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the process behind consultations.
Commissioner Castillo Laughton requested a highlighted overview of any significant
changes made to the bylaws.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez noted a significant change regarding excused
absences.
Chair Carpenter noted Article 3, Section 1 B was added to the bylaws and asked
whether this bylaw applies to all Commissions regarding special meetings, and
requested the Appointments and Boards Division 2, Article 2—Section 1, be updated
on the City's website to include current Commission information.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained Article 3, Section 1B was added to allow
the Commission to bring a special meeting forward.
Assistant City Attorney Martinez further explained other commissions do not have
the ability to hold special meetings, but the newly added article provides this
Commission to have the ability to do so.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 OCTOBER 9, 2025
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 4, as amended to consider the bylaws upon ordinance
approval, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, ViCE CHAiR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN, NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 —0 — Pass
Chair Carpenter requested to reconsider the bylaws upon ordinance approval.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez expressed enthusiasm with the
bylaws moving forward and encouraged continuing to bring back data and previously
discussed items, and noted the special meeting with City Council regarding the Police
Oversight Commission ordinance review work study has not yet been scheduled.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated seven recruits recently graduated from the
Sheriff's Academy and will be joining SAPD, and invited the Commission to attend
SAPD's Trunk-or-Treat event on October 16, 2025.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski suggested the Commission visit the yard to
observe police vehicles involved in pursuits, and thanked everyone for theirhard work
and Commander Weber for his presentation.
Commissioner Mejia asked whether memos sent to the City Manager within the last
few months need to be resent, requested additional data on vehicle pursuits to allow
for any recommendations, and suggested the Commission establish email
addresses to facilitate communication with community members who wish to contact
a Commissioner.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the process for resending memos
and stated general email correspondence should be sent to the Independent
Oversight Director to ensure communication is directed to the Commission as a
whole.
Commissioner Perea requested data from 2010 to 2025 on settlements related to
officer complaints, deaths, and injuries, and requested the establishment of a general
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 OCTOBER 9, 2025
email address for the Police Oversight Commission, rather than routing
correspondence through the Independent Oversight Director.
Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained general communication from the public is
to be sent in or done as a public comment.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez suggested members of the community
come speak during public comments or submit e-comments to avoid conflicts of
violating the Brown Act.
Commissioner Said thanked staff for their work, requested data regarding arrests
made under Penal Code 148, asked how many cases the District Attorney is moving
forward with, and wished everyone a safe Halloween.
Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their hard work and inquired regarding arrests
and their effects in relation to Proposition 36.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated arrests have been made under Proposition 36,
but it is too early to determine the effects to date.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked staff their efforts and the presentations.
Chair Carpenter requested previously discussed agenda items be brought to a future
meeting, suggested the possibility of adding a whiteboard, and thanked staff for the
presentation.
ADJOURNMENT -Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting
at 6:57 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for November
13, 2025 at 5:00 P.M.
Resp 'ctfull ub +tt
i
bigail Ic
Rec r ing Se retary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 OCTOBER 9, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
A1Jr
November 13, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:09 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Kelly Flores
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Kelly Flores conducted roll call.
Commissioners Perea (arrived at 5:02 P.M.), Gawronski, Mejia, Said, and Vega, Vice
Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chair Carpenter requested an update regarding accident reports for the past three
years, demographics and number of police pursuits, use of force after traffic stops,
pursuits that result in death, cost of collisions due to pursuits, use of force to stop
pursuits, requested agenda items list, and current complaint list.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the reports will be provided at the
December 8, 2025 meeting and future meetings.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. confirmed the requests are currently
being worked on_
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the agenda includes the final item from
the request list and the Commission will be notified of incoming complaints, which will
be brought forward in closed session.
PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any
agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.
MINUTES:The following speaker addressed the Commission in person:
Sandra De Anda spoke regarding ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE)
operations within the city, recent incidents involving masked individuals potentially posing
as agents, and police interactions with federal agents on public property.
The following speaker addressed the Commission via teleconference:
Manuel Arreguin spoke regarding not being unable to join a prior Police Oversight
Commission meeting and his complaint submitted to the commission.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: t and 2.
MINUTES:At 5:20 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 1 and 2, as amended to add Chair Carpenters comments on reconsideration
of bylaws to the minutes, seconded by Chair Carpenter.
The motion carried, 7-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7- 0- 0 - 0 — Pass
1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of October 09, 2026.
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 5.22 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
3. Santa Ana Police Department Policy 413
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police
Department's Policy 413 Immigration Violations and provide input to staff.
MINUTES: Commander Jorge Lopez and Jail Manager Ken Willard gave a
presentation regarding Santa Ana Police Department's (SAPD) Policy 413
Immigration Violations.
Commissioner Gawronski requested clarification on contract inmates.
Jail Administrator Ken Willard explained contract inmates refers to the
intergovernmental service agreement with the United States Marshal to receive a
per diem number of inmates going to federal court and necessary transportation
to/from court.
Commissioner Vega asked about procedures for Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE) impersonators.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated personnel is sent to verify identities when
dispatch is unable to confirm government status.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested clarification on information provided to ICE
and raised concerns regarding policy language.
Jail Administrator Willard stated only publicly available information is provided.
Commissioner Perea asked whether inmate release dates are provided and
whether individuals could be held solely for immigration status.
Jail Administrator Willard stated release dates are not provided and only individuals
with criminal charges are booked. He stated civil immigration detainers are not
accepted.
Commissioner Perea asked whether SAPD has prepared a policy regarding CA Bill
627 and requested the policy be presented to the Commission once finalized. He
requested quarterly reports regarding the frequency of ICE requests for retainers,
holds, interviews, the number of police calls for service related to ICE, and a
summary of ICE activities in the city.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated the SAPD legal advisor reviews and creates training
regarding legal updates.
Commissioner Said asked whether there is an online system to view current
inmates.
Jail Administrator Willard stated there is currently no online system.
Commissioner Mejia stated the policy language should be reviewed to clearly state
limitations in orderto avoid discrepancies and asked whether there was a possibility
for inmates to be detained in the Santa Ana Jail due to immigration status.
Jail Administrator Willard stated judicial warrants are required and all inmates are
in custody for criminal offences.
Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification regarding SAPD's ability to manage ICE
officer's violent behaviors and asked whether it is possible for information to be
accessed by ICE through the Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD is not documenting criminal behavior as it
relates to federal agents but officers can provide contact information for federal
agencies if the public would like to submit a complaint. He clarified SAPD does not
disclose information to federal agencies for immigration enforcement purposes.
Commissioner Mejia asked if detainer requests have increased.
Jail Administrator Willard stated detainers and inquires have declined.
Chair Carpenter asked whether SAPD would provide rescue aide to ICE agents.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD provides aid to anyone whose life is threatened.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Commissioner Perea requested a future agenda item regarding abandoned
vehicles linked to ICE detentions.
Commissioner Mejia recommended policy review regarding ICE interviews and
requested clarification.
Jail Administrator Willard clarified they inform detainees the ICE interviews are
voluntary, and they have a right to refuse.
MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have Director further research and
investigate the definitions on policy 413.1.1 in regards to criminal violation,
seconded by Commissioner Perea.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,
COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,
COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO
LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 -0 — 0 — 0 — Pass
4. Santa Ana Police Department Policy 429
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police
Department Policy 429 First Amendment Assemblies policy and provide input to
staff.
MINUTES: Commander Garry Couso gave a presentation regarding Santa Ana
Police Department Policy 429 First Amendment Assemblies policy.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested information on the effects of police
presence on peaceful gatherings, monitoring procedures for police-wary groups,
use of a tiered dispersal system, and criteria for the use of protective gear.
Commander Couso stated the effects vary by crowd and protective gear decisions
are based on monitoring for criminal activity.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated each protest is unique and the protocol is often
to monitor from a distance without engaging. He stated a dismissal order only
occurs when triggered by criminal activity and when a single agitator is identified.
He clarified a dismissal order applies to all protesters, including those who are
peaceful.
Commissioner Mejia asked whether having an amplified device is prohibited due to
a Califomia Penal Code and whether it is prohibiting amplified devices in general or
at protest.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Commander Couso cited Santa Ana Municode 10-153 and stated the prohibition
varies on intent.
Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on required media credentials, seizure
of cameras under Section 429.3 (c), protections for media, improvements to
amplified announcement devices, and a list of chemical agent ingredients.
Commander Couso stated media credentials are typically issued by news
organizations for planned events, but verification is not possible during dispersal of
events, and seizure of materials occurs when they may contain evidence. He
explained SAPD trains officers to support media safety, improvements to amplified
devices may be beneficial, and chemical agent ingredient list will be provided.
Commissioner Said shared personal observations of Santa Ana Police Department
(SAPD) at an organized gathering.
Commissioner Perea acknowledged SAPD's progress and requested: actions
ensuring media safety at assemblies, clarification regarding on frequency of
dismissal orders, information on responses to civil disobedience, documentation of
non-lethal devices deployments, and summary reports for each gathering, and
number of disciplinary actions for failures to follow demonstrations protocols.
Commander Couso stated SAPD maintains a welcoming posture towards media,
and dismissal orders are repeated in both English and Spanish. He stated
approaches to civil disobedience vary and all non-lethal device uses are
documented.
Deputy Chief Andrade stated Assembly Bill 48 requires public availability of crowd
control reports and these are posted on the City website.
Commissioner Perea moved to have Oversight Director provide data of the past 10
to 15 years regarding discipline of officers not following procedure or protocol to
public demonstrations, seconded by Commissioner Mejia.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez clarified the motion exceeds the scope
of the item, Motion was dismissed.
Chair Carpenter asked whether dispersal orders apply to all individuals present.
Commander Couso confirmed they apply to everyone in attendance.
Commissioner Vega asked whether the dispersal orders apply citywide or separate
protests are handled individually and shared concerns based on past experience
with riots.
Commander Couso stated each demonstration is treated separately.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether officers receive bias training and
whether the training is re-emphasized before officers respond to protests.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 NOVEMSER 13, 2025
Commander Couso stated officers are given annual advanced officer training on
implicit bias policing and the training is reemphasized daily at roll calls and before
critical incidents.
Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding the bias between different types
of demonstrations.
5. Commissioner Requested Item - Submitted by Chair Keith Carpenter
Recommended Action: Discuss and Consider Placing an Item on a Future Agenda
Regarding Public Legal Rights and Requirements During Police Encounters.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter clarified his item is for SAPD to provide information on
citizen requirements during police stops.
Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. recommended using an outside
constitutional law entity to provide the presentation.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested clarification on whether the request is for
training or policy adoption.
Chair Carpenter stated they are related and agreed with the recommendation.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton recommended having information available on the
Commission's website.
Chair Carpenter opposed posting information online, stating it is outside the
Commission's purview and would defer that decision to the City Attorney.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the item does not require changes
and may proceed to discussion and a vote. He recommended allowing comments
before voting.
Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification on the requested item.
Chair Carpenter stated he is willing to modify his request and change constitutional
rights to "know your rights"from constitutional rights.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton recommended training on "Know Your Rights" and
publish best practices on the Commission's website.
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez recommended proceeding with
discussion and a vote.
Commissioner Mejia supported "Know Your Rights" infonnation, but opposed
directing public behavior.
Commissioner Said supported "Know Your Rights" information, and posting it
online, but opposed adopting a policy or giving legal advice.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Commissioner Perea supported the proposal and suggested a community forum or
training at a community center.
Chair Carpenter stated commission meetings are open to the public for information
and comment and did not support posting information online.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton supported posting information online to maximize
impact of the commission and clarified he is riot recommending policy adoption.
MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to approve recommended action for Item
No. 5, seconded by Commissioner Said.
The motion carried, 6-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER PEREA,
COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE
CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6— 1 — 0 —0 — Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the process for
establishing Commissioner email addresses as requested by the Commission.
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade announced the Paws and Nuggets event with Chick-
Fil-A has been rescheduled due to potential rain during the event, and Pancakes
with Santa is taking place in December:
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Vega wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked everyone for their presence and the
productive dialog.
Commissioner Mejia requested an update regarding the U-Visa, spoke regarding
public engagement, and the Commission's goal to help with the community
relationship and trust.
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the U-Visa item may return at the
December commission meeting.
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Commissioner Said spoke regarding her positive experience attending the Santa Ana
Police Department Trunk-or-Treat event, wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving,
and thanked staff for their hard work.
Commissioner Perea thanked staff for the presentations and echoed Commissioner
Mejia's comments regarding community engagement.
Chair Carpenter spoke regarding opportunities for public engagement at
neighborhood associations, encouraged the commission to become involved with
their neighborhood association, and thanked staff for the information provided.
ADJOURNMENT -Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting
at 8:35 P.M.
The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for December
11, 2025 at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Kelly Flores
Recording Secretary
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 9 NOVEMBER 13, 2025