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Dale Helvig <br />Resident, Santa Ana CA 92706 <br />August 15, 2023 <br />Mayor Amezcua and Santa Ana City Councilmembers <br />City of Santa Ana <br />20 Civic Center Plaza, 81" Floor <br />Santa Ana CA 92702 <br />Subject: ITEM 14 —Public Intoxication and Substance Abuse Enforcement <br />I am in support of Item 14 which will address people who are in need of help as evidence by public <br />intoxication or incapacitated due to drug use. I think it is safe to say that we have all witnessed <br />individuals who need a need a helping hand. But what have we done? <br />By supporting this item, it shows the City is willing to support the vast majority of residents that are <br />tired of seeing what is currently happening. Santa Ana is a beautiful City, but hard decisions need to <br />be made before we reach the stage that other cities are seeing due to inaction. Detaining, providing <br />information and rehab assistance is a step in the right direction. <br />Doing nothing is not compassionate. <br />I agree with the analysis that police officers should have the discretion to determine whether an <br />arrest is necessary in public intoxication cases; are trained to assess the situation, consider individual <br />behavior, and evaluate potential risks to public safety. Officers can and should make informed <br />decisions based on their professional judgment. <br />Thank you for your thoughtful consideration. Stay safe, stay healthy. <br />Respectfully, <br />Dale A Helvig <br />Resident, Santa Ana <br />cc: Kristine Ridge, <br />City Manager, Santa Ana <br />Sonia Carvalho, <br />City Attorney, Santa Ana <br />Steven Mendoza, <br />Assist. City Manager, Santa Ana <br />Page 1 of 1 <br />2023-08-15 Letter to City Council -Item 14 <br />