HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-08-19 Regular. Special HAMinutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
6
August 19, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
REGULAR OPEN MEETING - 5:30 P.M.
(immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua called the Closed Session meeting to order at 4:09 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members
Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tem
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor
Valerie Amezcua
City Manager
Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney
Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk
Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Penaloza, and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor
Amezcua were present. Councilmember Lopez arrived during Closed Session.
Councilmember Hernandez was absent.
CITY COUNCIL 1 AUGUST 19, 2025
ADDITIONSWELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Closed Session Agenda Item No.
1B as the listed entity, JBW Enterprise, LLC, is a client of her employer, Rutan and
Tucker.
PUBLIC COMMENTS.— Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed
Session items.
MINUTES: None.
RECESS — City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting
regular City business.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua recessed to considerthe Closed Session items at 4:10 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION ITEMS — The Brown Act permits legislative bodies to discuss certain
matters without members of the public present. The City Council finds, based on advice
from the City Attorney, that discussion in open session of the following matters will
prejudice the position of the City in existing and anticipated litigation:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to
Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:
A. Delfina Flores Robles v. City of Santa Ana et al Orange County Superior
Court, Case No. 30-2023-01352256-CU-PA-CJC
B. JBW Enterprise,_ LLC v. City of Santa Ana, et al., Orange County Superior
Court, Case No. 30-2025-01498020
C. Kim McPeck v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court, Case No.
30-2024-01370874
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan left the closed session room at 4:28 P.M. for
Council consideration of Closed Session Agenda Item No. 1 B and returned to
the closed session room at 4:43 P.M.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — POTENTIAL INITIATION OF
LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code
Section 54956.9:
* One (1) case — Union Pacific
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE TO
LITIGATION pursuant to Section 54956.9(d)(2) of the Government Code:
Three (3) Matters [Personnel Complaints]
CITY COUNCIL 2 AUGUST 19, 2025
4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:
• Service Employees International Union, Full -Time Employees Unit (SEIU-
FT)
• Service Employees International Union, Part -Time Non -Civil Service
Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
5. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Lori Schnaider, Executive Director of Human Resources
Employee Organizations:
• Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)
• Santa Ana Middle Management 1 Administrative Management Association
(SAMA)
• Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)
RECONVENE — City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to order at 6:19 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers
Mayor Pro Tern
Mayor
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
ROLL CALL
Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Valerie Amezcua
Alvaro Nunez
Sonia R. Carvalho
Jennifer L. Hall
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, Lopez, Penaloza, and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem
Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were present.
CITY COUNCIL 3 AUGUST 19, 2025
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
WORDS OF INSPIRATION
Joe Vargas
Miguel Hernandez, OCCCO
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced Public Hearing Agenda Item No. 24
has been withdrawn from consideration as the property owner has paid the outstanding
amount.
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificates of Recognition presented by Mayor Amezcua recognizing Vex
Robotics World Championship Participants for Outstanding Academic
Accomplishments
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua presented certificates of recognition to Vex Robotics
World Championship Participants for outstanding academic accomplishments.
2. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember
Bacerra recognizing Saddleback High School Students for Outstanding
Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented certificates of recognition to
Saddleback High School students for outstanding contributions to the community.
3. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez recognizing
the Lit League for Outstanding Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a certificate of recognition to Lit
League for outstanding contributions to the community.
4. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Hernandez to the Guzman Family
declaring August 2025 as Chicano Heritage Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Hernandez presented a proclamation to the Guzman
Family declaring August 2025 as Chicano Heritage Month.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT — The City Attorney will report on any action(s) from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported that for item No 1 A, Delfina Flores
Robles v. City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember
Hernandez absent) to settle the case for $150, 000. For Item 1 B, JBW Enterprise, LLC
v. City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 5-0 (Councilmembers Hernandez
absent and Phan recused) to file a motion to determine whether the plaintiff's law firm
Rutan and Tucker may legally and ethically continue to sue the City of Santa Ana with
a current employee on the City Council.
CITY COUNCIL 4 AUGUST 19, 2025
City Attorney Carvalho reported that for item 3, the City Council voted 6-0
(Councilmember Hernandez absent) for potential censure process with potential legal
consequences regarding personnel complaints filed against Councilmember
Hernandez be reported at the City Council meeting of October 7, 2025. She further
reported Item Nos. 2, 4, and 5 were not heard.
PUBLIC COMMENTS.— Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for ALL comments on agenda and non -agenda items.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments
received: four (4) Agenda Item No. 10, one (1) Agenda Item No. 25, and two (2) non -
agenda comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in -person:
Joe Vargas spoke in support of Agenda item No. 25 and spoke regarding his father,
Jose Vargas.
2. Bulmaro Vicente expressed concern regarding the lack of transparency regarding
the annual military equipment reports, spoke in opposition to the drone program, and
requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
3. Sandra De Anda spoke regarding 1. C.E. raids and in support of Agenda item No. 13.
4. Abraham Quintana requested the military equipment policy not be approved, spoke
regarding the policy, and requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
5. Patty Cabada requested Council look into AB495.
Councilmember Penaloza addressed comments regarding relationships.
6. Tommy Fernandez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's
relationship with the Reyes family.
7. Yumiko Hiromoto (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive
use and access to City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember
Penaloza's relationship with the Reyes family.
S. Josh Nuno expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City fields
by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship with the
Reyes family.
9. Karen Perez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
CITY COUNCIL 5 AUGUST 19, 2025
1 U. Victor Quiroga expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields to La Academia organization, Councilmember Penaloza's relationship with
the Reyes family, and requested Council not take away the use of fields by the
community.
11. Maria Bahena expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
12. Ricardo Sandoval (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive
use and access to City fields by La Academia organization and requested Council
not take away the use of fields by the community.
13. Hector Hernandez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization.
14. Jose Meza (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive use
and access to City fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember
Penaloza's relationship with the Reyes family and requested transparency and
Council not take away the use of fields by the community.
15. Joaquin Olvera expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested the Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
16. Johnny Mejia expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family, and requested equality for the use of fields by all soccer
organizations.
17. Melissa Aburto requested Council not take away the use of fields by the community.
18. Guadalupe Romero (translation. Spanish) requested the Council not take away the
use of fields to the community.
19. Bryan Leos expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City fields
by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use of fields
by the community.
20. America Saucedo (translation: Spanish) requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
21. Sonia Olivarrias expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community
22. Danalin Gonzalez expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to
City fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 19, 2025
23. Christian Castellenos expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access
by City fields to La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the
use of fields by the community.
24. Leonel Perez (translation. Spanish) expressed concern regarding the exclusive use
and access to City fields by La Academia organization and requested equality and
transparency for the use of fields by all soccer organizations.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated the City does not have a contract with an
organization and for a contract to be in place it would need to be brought to Council for
discussion.
25. Bruce Senator requested an online platform for the community to be able to share
their thoughts anonymously as well as recipes. He expressed concerns regarding
the construction on Warner Street, digital billboards, and field use within the
community.
26. Victor Mendez expressed gratitude to Chief Robert Rodriguez in regards to Item 11.
He requested that appropriate inspectors be assigned regarding Item 18 and that
quarterly reports be utilized and reviewed for possible field use within the community
regarding Item 8.
27. Joel Fuentes expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
28. Gerardo Rangel expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
29. Lupe Lopez spoke regarding Native American Heritage Month and invited the
Council to join her in celebration on November 2.
30. Claudia Acosta expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and requested Council not take away the use
of fields by the community.
31. Daniel Aguilar expressed concern regarding the exclusive use and access to City
fields by La Academia organization and Councilmember Penaloza's relationship
with the Reyes family.
The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:
32. Kayla Asato spoke in opposition to item 10 and in support of Item 13. They requested
equality and transparency for the use of fields by all soccer organizations.
33. AL spoke in opposition to Ordinance No. NS-3020 and Agenda Item No. 10.
34. Fabi Jacome spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 13.
CITY COUNCIL 7 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES: At 8:47 P.M., Mayor Amezcua moved Agenda Item No. 25 out of order and
prior to consideration of the Consent Calendar,
AGENDA ITEM NO. 25 MOVED OUT OF ORDER
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
25. Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Prepare a Resolution for
Consideration Naming the PAAL Center Located on McFadden Avenue as the
Jose Vargas PAAL Center in Recognition of his Legacy of Service to Santa
Ana's Youth, Immigrant Community, and Public Safety —Mayor Pro Tem
Benjamin Vazquez
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke regarding Jose Vargas' legacy in the
City of Santa Ana and years of service and dedication to the immigrant community.
Councilmember Penaloza thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez forpresenting the item,
spoke in support of the item, and requested the Vargas family be invited to the
unveiling ceremony.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez for presenting the
item and spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua thanked Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez for presenting the item, spoke
in support of the item, and echoed Councilmember Penaloza's request to invite the
Vargas family to the unveiling ceremony.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked the Council for their support.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 20 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES: At 8:56 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Lopez pulled Agenda Item Nos. 10 and 19 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 18 as the listed entity,
Bernel, Inc. dba VFS Fire & Security, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Councilmember Bacerra pulled Agenda Item Nos. 16 and 19 for separate discussion
and consideration.
CITY COUNCIL 8 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez pulled Agenda Item No. 10 for separate discussion and
consideration.
Mayor Amezcua pulled Agenda Item Nos. 14 and 19 for separate discussion and
consideration.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5
through 20, with the exception of Item Nos. 10, 14, 16, and 19, seconded by
Councilmember Penaloza.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
5. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
6. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
7. Appoint Oscar Rodriguez Nominated by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez as an At -
Large Representative to the Rental Housing Board for a Partial Term Expiring
in 2027
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Oscar Rodriguez to the Rental Housing Board as
an at -large representative and administer the Oath of Office (Pursuant to SAMC
Sec. 2-326(a), requires five affirmative votes).
CITY COUNCIL 9 AUGUST 19, 2025
8. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Contracts up to $50,000 for Non -Public
Works and up to $500,000 for Public Works Authorized by the City Manager
as Permitted by Charter Section 421
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file Quarterly Report of Contracts entered
into between April 1, 2025 to June 30, 2025.
9. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Investments as of June 30, 2025
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
10. Annual Military Equipment Use Reports for 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Receive and file the Santa Ana Police Department's Annual Military Equipment
Use reports for 2022-23,2023-24, and 2024-25 for existing equipment.
2. Review and affirm Santa Ana City Ordinance No. NS-3020.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua inquired whether the item included a proposal for the
purchase of drones.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez clarified that the item being considered did not
include a proposal for the purchase of drones.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked members of the public for participating and
spoke in opposition to the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to not approve the
recommended action for Item No. 10.
Motion died due to lack of second.
MayorAmezcua inquired regarding Chief Rodriguez's start date, the posting of the
reports from 2022-23 and 2023-24, and whether there have been new purchases
of military equipment.
Chief Rodriguez confirmed his start date as Chief on December 19, 2024 and
stated reports from 2022-23 and 2023-24 were not originally posted for the
community. He clarified the department was tracking internal compliance and
usage to ensure compliance and transparency with AB 481 and explained changes
in leadership within the last few years caused data not to be reported to the
community.
CITY COUNCIL 10 AUGUST 19, 2025
Commander Sorenson confirmed no new equipment has been purchased and
provided a presentation regarding the annual military equipment use report.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez requested information related to the increase from .015%
the first year, .054 % the second year, and .023% this current year regarding total
calls for service. He expressed concern regarding the deployment of military
equipment used during protests related to ICE on June 9, 2025 and requested the
Police Oversight Director create a report and policy on the use of weapons.
Councilmember Lopez asked whether a member within the department has been
designated to conduct yearly reports and clarification on the events in which the
military equipment had been used. She requested a Zoom option be available for
residents at the next community meeting, parking validations be offered, and a
physical presentation be provided for future meetings.
Chief Rodriguez confirmed multiple members within the department have been
assigned.
Commander Sorenson stated a data report was created in the department's RMS
system to provide reporting access to all personnel and increased enforcement on
East First Street related to the service of search warrants. He clarified the number
of times the equipment was reported as being used as a force option and explained
deployment refers to the removal of a 40mm launcher and projectile from a police
vehicle, as opposed to the actual use of the equipment as a force option.
Councilmember Penaloza echoed Councilmember Lopez's request regarding
future community meetings and expressed gratitude to Chief Rodriguez for his
efforts putting forth the policy.
Councilmember Phan expressed gratitude to Commander Sorenson and
acknowledged the department for taking responsibility for previous shortcomings
while demonstrating a commitment to fixing the issue. She requested clarification
on the purpose of each equipment item and emphasized the importance of
transparency. She voiced support for Ordinance No. 3020 regarding the use of
equipment when necessary and confirmed there have been no discussions within
the City Council about purchasing drones.
Councilmember Bacerra requested data regarding hate crimes be presented on
the City website and echoed Councilmember Phan's comments..
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in opposition to the item, voiced concerns
regarding the potential harm to the community from the use of military equipment
and the need for compliance, and asked when the protocol for deploying equipment
is applied in a given situation.
Chief Rodriguez stated proper approval from the commander is required for certain
situations, such as SWAT deployments..
CITY COUNCIL 11 AUGUST 19, 2025
Mayor Amezcua requested clarification regarding incidents where equipment was
deployed and categorized as a force option in the report, whether the department
had received any community complaints or noted any loss of life related to the use
of equipment, and under what circumstances an armored vehicle could be
deployed. She echoed Councilmember Lopez's comments regarding accessibility
for future community meetings and requested translators be available in Spanish
and Vietnamese. She spoke in support of the item and thanked the Santa Ana
Police Department for their service.
Commander Sorenson clarified the data is based on deployment versus
employment, such as incidents where rifles were removed from vehicles or
deployed during a SWAT call but not used as a force option. He confirmed the
department had not received any community complaints and there had been no
loss of life due to the equipment. He provided an example of using a high-speed
pursuit intervention to block an individual and safely ending the pursuit without
endangering the community.
Councilmember Lopez requested clarification regarding the most recent report
covering May 2024 to April 2025 and not including data from the month of May,
while previous reports (May 2023—May 2023 and May 2023—May 2024) did. She
asked why the reported cost of military equipment has remained the same each
year in the data.
Commander Sorenson stated there was a misprint in the report and clarified the
data covers the periods of May 1, 2022 — May 1, 2023; May 1, 2023 April 30,
2024; and May 1, 2024 — April 30, 2025. He explained when the report was printed,
"April" was listed instead of "May, " and confirmed the data reflects the full month of
April, not May. He noted that future reports should display the periods as May 1 —
April 30, explained annual costs, and stated the department has not ordered any
new military equipment.
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez stated the City should prioritize investing in youth
programs and community sports rather than the police department and its
equipment.
MOTION: Councilmember Phan moved to approve the recommended action
for Item No. 10, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 4-3, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN„ MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCiLMEMBER HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER
LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 4 — 3 -- Pass
CITY COUNCIL 12 AUGUST 19, 2025
11.Agreement with 02X Human Performance, LLC for On -Site Physical Health
and Wellness Services (Specification No. 25-104) (Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
02X Human Performance, LLC to provide on -site physical health and wellness
services in an amount not to exceed $215,000, for a one-year term beginning
September 1, 2025 and expiring August 31, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-134).
12. Fourth Amendment to Agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc. (Non -General
Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a fourth
amendment to the agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc. for the installation of
additional security camera infrastructure on Bristol Street and extending the
agreement for an additional two (2) month period from November 1, 2025 through
December 31, 2025, in the additional amount of $42,274 for a total aggregate
amount not to exceed $3,462,144 (Agreement No. A-2025-135).
13.Agreement with Immigrant Defenders Law Center for Immigration Legal
Defense Services (Specification No. 24-137) (General Fund)
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Immigrant Defenders Law Center to provide immigration legal defense services to
Santa Ana residents in the amount of $250,000 for the term of August 19, 2025 to
August 18, 2026, with provisions for two, one-year extensions at an amount of
$250,000 per extension, for a total aggregate amount not to exceed $750,000 over
a three-year period (Agreement No. A-2025-136).
14.Agreement between the City of Santa Ana, the Housing Authority of the City
of Santa Ana, and Orangewood Foundation for Services Coordination for
Transitional Age Youth and Former Foster Youth (Specification No. 25-057A)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Approve and authorize the execution of an agreement
between the City of Santa Ana, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Ana, and
Orangewood Foundation to provide services coordination for transitional age youth
and former foster youth, aged 18 through 24, who are experiencing homelessness
or at risk of homelessness and who have been matched with a Foster Youth to
Independence voucher, in an amount not to exceed $632,839, for a three-year term
beginning August 19, 2025, and expiring August 18, 2028, with the option for a one-
year extension. (Agreement No. A-2025-137) (related to Housing Authority Agenda
Item No. 3)
CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua asked whether other cities are implementing initiatives
for transitional -age youth and if the allocated amount would be sufficient for the
youth, and suggested potentially partnering with other cities as part of the project.
Community Development Director Mike Garcia stated the 10% of HHAP funding is
required to be set aside for cities that receive these funds and the allocation is
formulated based on the City's demographics, with those funds directed toward this
specific population.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 14, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6-0-0-1 —Pass
15.Agreement with MDG Associates, Inc. to Provide On -Call Comprehensive
Financial, Grant Monitoring, Administrative, and Technical Support Services
for the CDBG, HOME, and ESG Programs (General & Non -General Funds)
(Specification No. 25-076A)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
MDG Associates, Inc. to provide on -call comprehensive financial, grant monitoring,
administrative, and technical support services for the Community Development
Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Solutions
Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $300,000 over a three-year period,
beginning August 19, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2028, with the option for an
extension (Agreement No. A-2025-138).
16.Agreement with KABOOM! to Provide Updated Playground Equipment at
Sandpointe Park
Department(s): Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to approve a community
partner agreement with KABOOM!, Inc. for new playground equipment at
Sandpointe Park in the amount of $8,500 (Agreement No. A-2025-139).
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra spoke in support of the item, inquired
regarding the start date, and thanked the KABOOM Foundation for their
collaboration.
CITY COUNCIL 14 AUGUST 19, 2025
Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Director Hawk Scott confirmed the
event will take place on October 11, 2025.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 16, seconded by Mayor Amezcua,
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6 — 0 — 0 —1 — Pass
17.Amendment to the Bristol -Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project Cost
Analysis to add $115,000 in Residential Development District 4 - Acquisition
and Development funds and $176,000 in Community Development Block
Grant Funds for a New Total Construction Delivery Cost of $4,872,808 and
Change Order to add $115,000 to an Existing Construction Contract with
Legion Contractors, Inc., for the Construction of the Basketball Court at the
Project (Project No. 24-6600) (Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
Approve an amendment to the Bristol -Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project
Cost Analysis to add $115,000 in Residential Development District 4
- Acquisition and Development funds, and $176,000 in Community
Development Block Grant funds for a new total construction delivery cost of
$4,872,808.
2. Approve a Change Order to add $115,000 to an existing construction contract
with Legion Contractors, Inc., for the construction of the basketball court at the
Bristol -Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project.
18. Service Agreements for Fire Alarm and Sprinkler Systems Inspection, Repair,
and Maintenance Services (General Fund & Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve service agreements with Viking Automatic
Sprinkler Company dba Kimble Fire Protection, Bernel, Inc. dba VFS Fire &
Security, HCI Systems, Inc., and Cal Building Systems, to provide as -needed fire
alarm and sprinkler systems inspection, repair, and maintenance services for
shared aggregate not -to -exceed total of $880,000 for the term beginning September
1, 2025 and expiring August 31, 2028, with a provision for one, two-year extension
(Core Agreement No. A-2025-140).
CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 19, 2025
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 18 as the
listed entity, Bernet, Inc. dba VFS Fire & Security, is a client of her employer, Rutan
and Tucker.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for Item
No. 18 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilmember Penaloza.
The motion carried, 6-0-1-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6-0— 1 — 0 — Pass
19. Encampment Delegated Maintenance Agreement with the California
Department of Transportation for Right -of -Way Maintenance Services and
Appropriation of $400,000 in Reimbursement Funding (Project No. 26-6423)
(Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an Encampment Delegated Maintenance Agreement with the
California Department of Transportation for the City to provide encampment
abatement, litter and debris removal, weed abatement, and graffiti removal
within Caltrans' right-of-way, with Caltrans reimbursing the City up to $200,000
annually for two years through June 30, 2027 for a total amount not to exceed
$400,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-141).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment in the amount of $400,000 to the Public
Works Agency Services, Contract Services -Professional expenditure account
(No. 05317021-62300), funded by reimbursements recorded in the City Services
Expense Reimbursement revenue account (No. 05317002-57000) (Requires
five affirmative votes).
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement and any subsequent
related documents, including amendments and exhibits, in a form approved by
the City Attorney.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra thanked staff for their help in bringing the item
for consideration and spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua thanked City staff for all their hard work, spoke in support of the
item, and asked how the MySantaAna App would reflect the Caltrans request page.
CITY COUNCIL 16 AUGUST 19, 2025
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated requests through the app do not need to provide
additional information.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item and thanked city staff for their
hard work and efforts.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 19, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6-0-0— 1 —Pass
20. Resolution and Agreement Authorizing Police Corporal Ryan Johnson to
Purchase a Retired Santa Ana Police Department K-9
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution authorizing the purchase agreement between Santa Ana
Police Corporal Ryan Johnson and the City of Santa Ana for the sale of a retired
Santa Ana Police Department K-9.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-038 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING THE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN CORPORAL RYAN JOHNSON AND THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
RELATING TO THE PURCHASE OF A RETIRED SANTA ANA POLICE
DEPARTMENT K-9
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase agreement with Santa Ana
Police Corporal Ryan Johnson for the sale of a retired Police Department K-9 in
the amount of $1 (Agreement No. A-2025-142).
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
CITY COUNCIL 17 AUGUST 19, 2025
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 10.16 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
21. Nominate and Appoint a Representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed
Executive Committee and an Alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood
Protection Agency
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Nominate and appoint a representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed
Executive Committee.
2. Nominate and appoint an alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood Protection
Agency.
MOTION: Councilmember Phan moved to nominate and appoint Rudy Rosas
as the representative to the Upper Newport Bay Watershed Executive
Committee and Cesar Barrera as the alternate to the Santa Ana River Flood
Protection Agency, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
Status: 6-0-0-1 -Pass
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
PUBLIC HEARINGS
MINUTES: At 10:19 P.M., the Public Hearings were considered.
22.Public Hearing - Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and Ordinance
Amendment No. 2025-01 to amend portions of Chapter 41 (Zoning) and
Chapter 8 (Buildings and Structures) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code relating
to Group Homes and Land Use Definitions and a Resolution to Amend the
Miscellaneous Fees Schedule for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 to Establish
Planning and Building Agency Review Fees for Group Home Special Use
Permit Applications and Group Home Operator's Permit Applications
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 8, 2025.
CITY COUNCIL 18 AUGUST 19, 2025
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
Adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 and
Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-01 to amend several sections of Chapter 41
(Zoning) and to add Article XXIII to Chapter 8 (Buildings and Structures) of the
Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating to the location, licensing, permitting,
and operational requirements for group homes and land use definitions.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3084 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41
(ZONING) AND CHAPTER 8 (BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES) OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO GROUP HOMES AND LAND
USE DEFINITIONS, REGULATING SUCH USES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE
DISABLED AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3), 15061(C)(2), 15060(C)(3),
AND/OR 15301(C)
2. Adopt a resolution to establish a Group Home Special Use Permit application
review fee and a Group Home Operator's Permit review fee.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-039 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ESTABLISHING FEES FOR A
GROUP HOME SPECIAL USE PERMIT AND A GROUP HOME OPERATOR'S
PERMIT
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua opened the Public Hearing at 10:20 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments received.
one (1) Agenda Item No. 22.
The following individual addressed the City Council in person:
1. Shahan Suzmeyan spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 10:22 P.M.
Councilmember Bacerra spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke in support of the item and thanked the leadership
in the City of Costa Mesa,
CITY COUNCIL 19 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 22, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
23.Public Hearing - Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to Amend
Portions of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to
A -Frame Signs
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 8, 2025.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance
Amendment No. 2025-02 to amend several sections of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the
Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating to A -frame signs.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3085 entitled ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO.
2025-02 — AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41 (ZONING) OF THE SANTA ANA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO A -FRAME SIGNS AND FINDING THE ACTION
TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(CEQA) UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES 15060(C)(2), 15060(c)(3) AND
15061(b)(3)
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua opened the Public Hearing at 10.27 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall stated there were no comments.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 10:27 P. M.
CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 19, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearina Item No. 23. seconded by Mavor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER
PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
AGENDA ITEM NO. 24 WITHDRAWN
24.Public Hearing - Recovery of Uncollected Costs Incurred by the City Related
to the Abatement of Dangerous and Abandoned Buildings
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter and mailed on August C, 2025.
Departments): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution affirming the Fiscal Year 2024-2025
Dangerous and Abandoned Building Program Report and authorize the transmittal
of uncollected charges incurred by the City related to the abatement of dangerous
and abandoned buildings to the office of Auditor -Controller, County of Orange.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA CONFIRMING THE COSTS OF SECURING
AND/OR DEMOLITION OF VARIOUS STRUCTURES DECLARED TO BE PUBLIC
NUISANCES; MAKING, CONFIRMING AND LEVYING ASSESSMENTS FOR
SUCH COSTS; AND ORDERING SUCH COSTS TO BE RECORDED WITH THE
ORANGE COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced Public Hearing Agenda Item No. 24
has been withdrawn from consideration as the property owner has paid the outstanding
amount.
**END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS**
RECESS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting and convened the
Special Housing Authority meeting at 10:29 P.M.
RECONVENE
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the Special Housing Authority meeting and
reconvened the City Council meeting to order at 10: 30 P. M.
CITY COUNCIL 21 AUGUST 19, 2025
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
25. Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Prepare a Resolution for
Consideration Naming the PAAL Center Located on McFadden Avenue as the
Jose Vargas PAAL Center in Recognition of his Legacy of Service to Santa
Ana's Youth, Immigrant Community, and Public Safety Mayor Pro Tern
Benjamin Vazquez
MINUTES: Item No. 25 was moved out of order and considered prior to the Consent
Calendar (See page 8).
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: City Manager Alvaro Nunez announced the requested Joint Special Meeting
could not be scheduled due to scheduling conflicts among the Police Oversight
Commission and City Council and suggested Councilmembers and the commission meet
with staff individually and the Police Oversight Commission review the proposed
amendments on September 11, 2025 and submit a memo or send a representative to the
September 16, 2025, City Council meeting. He shared information about the Ayuda Sin
Fronteras program and upcoming events, including the outdoor library inauguration at
Jerome Park, quarterly bulk item drop-off at Carl Thornton Park and El Salvador Park on
August 23, 2025, the Chicano Heritage Festival at Centennial Park on August 24, 2025,
the Chicano Heritage Educational Celebration at City Hall on August 29, 2025, and
garage sale weekend on September 6-7, 2025.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE — If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for
members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board
or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez spoke regarding field facility use, thanked staff for
their hard work, and invited all to attend the Chicano Heritage Festival on Sunday
August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park.
Councilmember Lopez announced her office hours on Saturday August 23, 2025 from
10:00 A. M. to 11:00 A.M., thanked everyone who participated and attended the Zoofari
event, spoke regarding the new school year traffic, wished intern Branden a happy
early birthday, invited all to attend the Colemena Market on Saturday August 23, 2025,
requested a receive and file for the YMCA building on 3rd Street, and invited all to attend
the celebration of Little Arabia in the City of Anaheim and the Chicano Heritage Festival
on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park. Councilmember Lopez left the
meeting at 10:43 P.M.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke regarding his service on Transportation Corridor and
Toll Roads Agency, an agreement approved between several agencies for the 241 To//
Road and 91 Toll Road express connector, and stated the project will be a monumental
improvement once completed. He thanked staff who worked on the Delhi Library and
spoke regarding the field use permits and his impartiality to a fair and democratic
selection of approved field use permits.
CITY COUNCIL 22 AUGUST 19, 2025
Councilmember Phan spoke regarding the Zoofari event, thanked everyone who made
the event a success, commented on the legal clinic her team hosted, announced that
the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is currently in the process of
interviewing for a new director, and invited anyone who has questions about the
process to reach out to her office.
Councilmember Bacerra announced his upcoming community office hours will be on
Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Adams Park at 10:00 A.M. and Saturday, October
11, 2025 at Sandpointe Park at 10:00 A.M., and reminded everyone to attend the
quarterly bulk item drop off on Saturday August 23, 2025 at Carl Thornton Park and El
Salvador Park from 9: 00 A. M. to 12: 00 P. M.
Councilmember Hernandez stated the City was the first to declare August as Chicano
Heritage Month and invited all to attend the Chicano Heritage Festival on Sunday,
August 24, 2025 at Centennial Park and the Jerome Park outdoor library inauguration.
He spoke regarding police oversight, accountability, and reported that he is against the
disrespect and harassment of police officers and members of the community.
Councilmember Hernandez left the meeting at 10:59 P.M.
Mayor Amezcua requested clarification on the Closed Session actions.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported that for item No 1A, Delfina Flores Robles v.
City of Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Hernandez
absent) to settle the case for $150,000. For Item 1 B, JBW Enterprise, LLC v. Cit r of
Santa Ana, et al., the City Council voted 5-0 (Councilmembers Hernandez absent and
Phan recused). For Item 3, the City Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Hernandez
absent) for potential censure process with potential legal consequences regarding
personnel complaints filed against Councilmember Hernandez to be reported at the
City Council meeting October 7, 2025.
Mayor Amezcua shared the Orange County Transportation Authority will be hosting
the following community presentations for the OC Streetcar: at Carver Elementary on
August 20, 2025 at 6:30 P.M., Garfield Elementary August 21, 2025, Lydia Romero -
Cruz Academy, and Santa Ana High School, August 28, 2025 at Comlink, and will
have a booth at Fiestas Patrias on September 13th and 14th. She invited everyone to
attend the Jerome outdoor library ribbon cutting ceremony on August 21, 2025,
commented on the approval of field use permits, reported the most recurring topics
during her community meetings are: homeless issues, crime, streets, and housing, and
reported that on August 8, 2025, she met with the Los Angeles City Attorney, Hydee
Feldstein, to help expand the coalition of cities joining the lawsuit against the federal
government over recent immigration enforcement in California. She thanked everyone
who attended the meeting.
CITY COUNCIL 23 AUGUST 19, 2025
ADJOURNMENT —Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjoumed the City Council Meeting at 11:03 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
CITY COUNCIL 24 AUGUST 19, 2025