HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 05 - Minutes from the Regular Meeting of December 2, 2025DRAFT Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
December 2, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
REGULAR OPEN MEETING - 5:30 P.M.
(Immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua called the Closed Session meeting to order at 4:12 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members
Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tern
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor
Valerie Amezcua
City Manager
Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney
Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk
Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Phan, and Penaloza, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor
Amezcua were present. Councilmembers Hernandez and Lopez joined during Closed
Session.
CITY COUNCIL 1 DECEMBER 2, 2025
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: None.
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed
Session items.
MINUTES: None.
RECESS — City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting
regular City business.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed to consider the Closed Session items at 4:13 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. City of Santa Ana v. Rose Marie Bizarro; and Does 1 to 10, OCSC Case No.:
30-2025-01522368-C U -PA-WJ C
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: Sunshine Village
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS
Government Code Section 54956.8:
Property: 209 W. Civic Center Dr, APN 005-184-25
Agency Negotiator: Michael L. Garcia, Executive
Development
Negotiating Parties: 209 West Civic Center, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
pursuant to
Director of Community
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL —POTENTIAL INITIATION OF
LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code
Section 54956.9: One (1) case
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Closed Session Item No. 3 as
the party is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker. She left the Closed Session
room at 4:37 P.M. and returned at 5:04 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 2 DECEMBER 2, 2025
4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:
1. Service Employees International Union, Full -Time Employees Unit (SEIU-
FT)
2. Serice Employees International Union, Part -Time Non -Civil Service
Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
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 6:03 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers
Mayor Pro Tern
Mayor
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
POI I CAI I
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.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Jennifer S. Wang
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Pastor Ivan Pitts, Second Baptist Church
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced a typographical correction to the name
"Gershon" on the agenda title for Item No. 17 and updates to exhibits for Item No. 34.
CITY COUNCIL 3 DECEMBER 2, 2025
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificate of Recognition presented by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez to
Relampago del Cielo in honor of their 50t" Anniversary
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez presented a certificate of recognition to
Relampago del Cielo in honor of their 50t" Anniversary.
2. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Lopez to RedBoy Productions
and the Heritage Museum of Orange County declaring November 2025, as
Native American Heritage Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a proclamation to RedBoy Productions
and the Heritage Museum of Orange County declaring November 2025 as Native
American Heritage Month.
3. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Penaloza to Monse
Santillan in honor of her Exceptional Athletic Achievements
MINUTES: Councilmember Penaloza presented a certificate of recognition to Monse
Santillan in honor of her exception athletic achievements.
STAFF PRESENTATIONS
4. Homelessness Update
MINUTES: Community Development Director Michael Garcia provided a presentation
regarding the CityNet point in time count and a homelessness update.
Councilmember Penaloza inquired regarding the types of employment held by the
homeless population.
Homeless Services Division Manager Kenneth Gominsky reported that staff did not
collect specific employment data unless volunteered by the participants and the
information was obtained for potential rehiring purposes only.
Councilmember Bacerra inquired regarding the difference between positive street exits
versus exit to shelters.
Manager Gominsky provided information regarding shelter exits.
Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding shelter costs, drug testing, foster care data,
veterans data, and Quality of Life Team (QOLT) operating hours.
Manager Gominsky clarified drug testing is not a common practice at the shelter and is
performed if an individual is exhibiting signs and symptoms of intoxication upon
returning to the shelter. He explained the shelter is not allowed to force drug testing
because it receives Public Housing Authority and Homeless Housing, Assistance and
CITY COUNCIL 4 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Prevention funding. He noted that connecting veterans to VA services is difficult
because many have issues with how they exited the military, affecting their eligibility
for VA access, and confirmed the adjustment to the CityNet schedule to match the
QOLT team's hours, extending their operation until 11:00 P.M.
Councilmember Lopez thanked the City Manager and staff for the detailed
presentation. She noted the data reflects a growing trend of elderly residents falling
into homelessness, mirroring a state trend released two years ago and encouraged
staff to utilize the information to implement policy. She requested clarification on the
120-day shelter limit, asking what transitional resources are available for a resident
whose time is up, is working part-time, but has not yet secured housing or a voucher.
Manager Gominsky clarified after the 120-days are complete, individuals are officially
exited from the program, and should the individual express a desire to return and is
showing forward movement in their plan, they are allowed back into the shelter,
provided there is availability.
Councilmember Lopez praised the improvements seen in the Santiago Creek over the
past five years, noting the City's proactive efforts including cleaning areas outside its
jurisdiction. She urged the City Manager to form a collaborative relationship with the
City Manager of Orange to share the workload on creek maintenance and issues, and
establish a cleaning schedule for the freeway underpass. She suggested the City
should acquire the property under the underpass since City staff is already performing
necessary cleanup and enforcement there.
Councilmember Hernandez stressed the shelter must uphold a housing -first approach,
requiring minimal and reasonable expectations for entry, and advocated for treating
substance abuse with referrals for detox, counseling, and supportive services. He
requested case management for work -ready residents focused on securing
employment and housing and an ethical drug testing strategy that encourages
voluntary participation and avoids discrimination.
Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez thanked staff for the thorough presentation and highlighted
Santa Ana achieved a 15% reduction in its unhoused population. He expressed
appreciation for the investment and work being done, and stated that as staff gathers
more data and focuses on specific demographics such as the elderly, domestic
violence survivors, and former foster youth, the City will get better at resolving these
issues.
Councilmember Bacerra followed up on a request made during the October meeting to
post the calls for service quarterly data for the City's Permanent Supportive Housing
developments, and asked whether the postings would be available for the community
to see by the end of the year.
Director Garcia confirmed the information would be made available by the end of the
year.
Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding services for individuals who are wheelchair bound.
CITY COUNCIL 5 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Manager Gominsky explained individuals must be able to perform their Activities of
Daily Living (ADLs) to enter any emergency shelter, and individuals incapable of
performing their ADLs are generally directed toward a recuperative care facility. He
stated if a person incapable of performing their ADLs refuses recuperative care, the
only available option to compel services is for a government agent to initiate a 5150
hold. He explained transportation to a shelter, program, or recuperative care is provided
by CityNet, as they are a much more appropriate alternative to using law enforcement
vehicles for transportation services.
Mayor Amezcua thanked the City Manager for the presentation and requested the
Council receive these comprehensive updates at minimum twice a year.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez committed to providing two comprehensive presentations
per year with the goal of showing continuous growth and improvement through
enhanced collaboration with non -profits, the County, and the City of Orange.
MayorAmezcua clarified the City spent $30 million to purchase and develop the shelter
four or five years ago, and confirmed the annual operating costs are for the Illumination
Foundation shelter contract and the CityNet contract, noting the amount does not
include QOLT, Public Works, or Code Enforcement costs. She questioned how the City
would continue funding the program once the HHAP funding is gone, noting that Santa
Ana bears more of the homelessness burden than any other city. She thanked staff for
implementing true wrap -around services and requested the next presentation include
data on the resources and assistance the County of Orange provides to Santa Ana for
homeless mental health services. She highlighted statistics from the QOLT team and
emphasized the City Manager must work with the County Supervisor and County
agencies to increase assistance provided to Santa Ana as the county seat.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT —The City Attorney will report on any action(s) from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported one action from the closed session:
By a vote of 5-0-0-2 (Councilmembers Hernandez and Lopez absent) on Item No. 2,
the City Council authorized the CityAttorney's Office to file a drug den abatement and
red-light abatement action concerning the property known as Sunshine Village.
PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting
for ALL comments on agenda and non -agenda items.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments
received: eight (8) non -agenda comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in -person:
1. Susana Rios thanked City staff for their work, addressed the response to her
MySantaAna app graffiti report, and extended an invitation to the Christmas Caroling
event at Lydia Romero -Cruz school.
CITY COUNCIL 6 DECEMBER 2, 2025
2. Bruce Senator spoke regarding a potential ballot initiative, homeless assistance on
railroad rights -of -way, railroad right-of-way fencing, and parking problem solutions.
3. Melissa Aburto thanked City staff for a recent meeting concerning their
organization's issues, highlighted recent championship victories of their soccer
teams, and wished staff a happy holiday season.
4. Bryan Leos thanked City staff for a recent meeting concerning their organization's
issues, highlighted recent championship victories of their soccer teams, and wished
staff a happy holiday season.
5. Alicia Rojas thanked the Council for art funding, and spoke regarding artist waiver
requirements, history of art loss in the City, and errors in contract processing.
6. Daniel Diaz spoke regarding pending Public Records Act requests.
7. Danielle Cano submitted documents and spoke regarding an encounter with a
Federal Agent and recent incidents involving Federal Agents.
8. Carl Benninger thanked the Police Department and Fire Department, spoke
regarding citizenship, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:
9. William Strand announced he was available to answer questions regarding Item No.
37.
10. Aurora Zavala spoke regarding King of Kings Christian Academy.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 37 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES: At 8:12 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Hernandez announced a "No" vote on Agenda Item No. 32.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Item No. 18 as the listed entities, Cities of
Irvine and Anaheim, are clients of her employer, Rutan and Tucker and Item No. 32 as
the listed entity, City of Anaheim, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Councilmember Bacerra pulled Item No. 18 for separate discussion and consideration.
CITY COUNCIL 7 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 5 through 37 with the exception of Agenda Item No. 18 pulled for separate
discussion and consideration, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 6-0-0— 1 —Pass
5. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
6. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 4, 2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
7. Budget Calendar and Community Engagement Plan for Fiscal Year 2026-27
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Approve the Budget Calendar and Community
Engagement Plan for Fiscal Year 2026-27 (FY26-27).
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 July 1, 2025 to September 30, 2025.
9. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Investments as of September 30, 2025
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
CITY COUNCIL 8 DECEMBER 2, 2025
10. Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Budget Update and Proposed Appropriation
Adjustments
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action:
1. Receive and file the First Quarter Budget Update.
2. Approve General Fund appropriation adjustments for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras
program that have a net zero impact as detailed in the body of this
report. (Requires five affirmative votes)
3. Approve $1.2 million in Non -General Fund appropriation adjustments as detailed
in the body of this report. (Requires five affirmative votes)
11.Approve an Additional $150,000 for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an additional $150,000 for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program.
2. Award Purchase Order Contract to PrePaid USA for prepaid cards to facilitate
Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program in a total amount not to exceed $150,000.
12.Annual Development Impact Fee Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file the Annual Development Impact Fee
Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
13.Award Purchase Order Contract to B&K Electric Wholesale for Electrical
Equipment, Hardware, and Related Materials for John Garthe Water Pump
Station (Specification No. 25-126) (Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Award a purchase order contract to B&K Electric
Wholesale for electrical equipment, hardware, and related materials for the John
Garthe Water Pump Station for a two-year term beginning in December 2, 2025 and
expiring December 1, 2027, in a total amount not to exceed $500,000.
14.Appropriation Adjustment and Agreement with the U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration for the Safe Routes to
Parks and Wheelchair Assessment Plan (Non -General Fund) (Project No. 26-
6100)
CITY COUNCIL 9 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with the U.S. Department
of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration for the Safe Routes to
Parks and Wheelchair Assessment plan, effective upon execution of the
agreement through September 30, 2028 in an amount not to exceed $651,200
(Agreement No. A-2025-217).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment accepting $651,200 in the Public Services
— Street Safety Projects, Federal Grant -Indirect revenue account and
appropriate the same amount into the Street Safety Projects, Improvements
Other Than Building expenditure account. (Requires five affirmative votes)
15. Mitigated Negative Declaration, Appropriation Adjustment, and Construction
Contract to Armstrong Cal Builders Inc. to Construct the Santa Ana Zoo
Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project (Project No. 24-6604) (Non -General
Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve and adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation and
Monitoring Reporting Program prepared for the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater
Capture and Diversion Project, in accordance with the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $3,700,000 in Caltrans
Cooperative Implementation Agreement funding in the Federal Clean Water
Protection Enterprise, Expense Reimbursement-Caltrans Account (No.
05717002-57021) and appropriate the same amount into the Federal Clean
Water Protection Enterprise, Improvements Other Than Building expenditure
account (No. 05717640-66220). (Requires five affirmative votes)
3. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Improvement
Program to add $3,700,000 of Caltrans funding for the Santa Ana Zoo
Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project (No. 24-6604).
4. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost
of $8,343,525, which includes $6,627,620 for the construction contract,
$1,053,143 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $662,762 for
unanticipated or unforeseen work.
5. Award a construction contract to Armstrong Cal Builders Inc., the lowest
responsible bidder, in the amount of $6,627,620, for construction of the Santa
Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project, for a term beginning
December 2, 2025 and an estimated completion date of March 2027, and
authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.
CITY COUNCIL 10 DECEMBER 2, 2025
16. Purchase and Sale Agreement with Enrique Ponce for the Sale of City -owned
Property Located at 1725 N. Bristol Street and Appropriation Adjustment
(Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase and sale agreement with
Enrique Ponce for the sale of City -owned property located at 1725 N. Bristol
Street (APN 399-085-22) in the amount of $4,521 (Agreement No. A-2025-
193).
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $1,516 in revenue from the
purchase and sale agreement into the Select Street Construction, Sale of Land
revenue account (No. 05917002-57071) and appropriate it to the OCTA Bristol
St Corridor Improvements, Improvements Other Than Buildings expenditure
account (No. 05917661-66220), and deposit $3,005 to the Measure M-Street
Construction, liability account (No. 03201001-20215). (Requires five affirmative
votes)
17.Agreements for Legal Counsel Services with Richards Watson & Gershon
APC and Goldfarb & Lipman LLP (General Fund)
Department(s): City Attorney's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a legal services agreement with the law
firm of Richards Watson & Gershon APC ("RWG") for legal services for
municipal advisory and litigation services including, but not limited to, elections
work for the period of December 2, 2025 until December 1, 2028 with an option
to extend for up to one year, in an amount not to exceed $350,000 (Agreement
No. A-2025-194).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a legal services agreement with the law
firm of Goldfarb & Lipman LLP for municipal advisory and litigation services,
including but not limited to, defending the City in litigation challenging the Rent
Stabilization and Just Cause Eviction Ordinance, administrative procedures,
housing, affordable housing, fair housing, rent stabilization, land use, and real
property issues for the period of December 2, 2025 to December 1, 2028, with
an option to extend for up to one year, in an amount not to exceed $400,000
(Agreement No. A-2025-195).
CITY COUNCIL 11 DECEMBER 2, 2025
AGENDA ITEM NO. 18 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
18. Memorandum of Understanding Between the County of Orange, acting as the
Administrative Entity for the County of Orange and the Orange County
Continuum of Care, the City of Anaheim, the City of Irvine, and the City of
Santa Ana for the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program
Regional Coordination
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the Memorandum
of Understanding with the County of Orange, the City of Anaheim, and the City of
Irvine, to support regional coordination to address homelessness challenges
(Agreement No. A-2025-196).
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself for Item No. 18 and left the dais
at 8:15 P.M.
Councilmember Bacerra highlighted the section in the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) which states the City of Santa Ana will provide outreach and
engagement to unsheltered individuals and will link persons to shelter and housing
"within their jurisdiction" and questioned why the corresponding subsections for the
County, the City of Anaheim, and the City of Irvine do not contain the same "within
their jurisdiction" language.
Community Development Director Michael Garcia noted there are minor
differences in language because jurisdictions, such as Irvine, do not contract for
outreach and engagement services in the same way the County, Anaheim, or Santa
Ana do, and explained the specific language in Santa Ana's section is written to
allow the City to continue conducting family reunification and transporting
individuals to their original jurisdictions.
Councilmember Bacerra questioned why the MOU does not require a single,
county -wide provider for street outreach, stating the current patchwork of separate
providers is inefficient and complex, and suggesting the County should act as an
umbrella for seamless engagement services across the entire region.
Director Garcia explained the City of Santa Ana contracts for a higher level of
outreach and engagement service than what the County provides and noted that
without the City's own funding, they would have to rely on the County's limited
funding and petition the County Supervisor to increase the number of outreach
members in Santa Ana.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed frustration with the County's perceived lack of
participation in its own flood control channels.
CITY COUNCIL 12 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 18, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 4-0-1-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO
TEM VAZQUEZ
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
Status: 4-0 — 1 —2—Pass
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan returned to the dais at 8:25 P.M.
19. First Amendment to the Agreement with the State of California Workforce
Development Board for the Prison to Employment (P2E) 2.0 Grant (Non -
General Fund)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment
to the Agreement with the State of California Workforce Development Board for the
Prison to Employment (P2E) 2.0 Grant, extending the contract term through
December 31, 2026, with no change in the total contract amount of $927,341
(Agreement No. A-2025-197).
20. First Amendments to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 Emergency Solutions Grant
(ESG) Subrecipient Agreements with Orange County United Way and
WISEPIace, and a First Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding
with the Santa Ana Police Department
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the
annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with
WISEPIace to serve additional Santa Ana residents experiencing homelessness
by $15,197, for a new annual amount not to exceed $72,197 for the current
contract term expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-198).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the
annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with the Orange
County United Way for Homeless Management Information System data
management by $15,197, for a new annual amount not to exceed $73,343 for
the current contract term expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-199).
CITY COUNCIL 13 DECEMBER 2, 2025
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the
annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with the Santa
Ana Police Department for the Homeless Evaluation Assessment Response
Team Program to serve additional Santa Ana residents experiencing
homelessness through street outreach and engagement by $15,197 for a new
total annual amount not to exceed $72,082 for the current contract term expiring
June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-200).
21. Purchase Order Contract to Hill's Bros. Lock and Safe Inc. for Locksmith and
Related Services (Specification No. 25-108) (General Fund & Non -General
Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Award Purchase Order Contract to Hill's Bros. Lock and
Safe Inc. for locksmith and related services for a two-year term beginning in
December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2027, with provisions for three, one-
year renewal options, in a total amount not -to -exceed $427,625.
22.Agreements with AdminSure, Inc. for Third Party General Liability and
Workers' Compensation Claims Administration Services (Specification No.
25-136) (Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with AdminSure, Inc. to
provide third party general liability claims administration services, in an amount
not to exceed $1,537,296, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring
June 30, 2029. (Agreement No. A-2025-201).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with AdminSure, Inc. to
provide third party workers' compensation claims administration services, in an
amount not to exceed $2,877,212, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and
expiring June 30, 2029. (Agreement No. A-2025-202).
23.Agreement with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP for Legal Advisory Services
for the City's Personnel Board (General Fund)
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP to provide legal advisory services for the City's
Personnel Board in an amount not to exceed $250,000, for a term beginning
December 2, 2025 and expiring November 30, 2027, with provisions for three (3),
one (1) year extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-203).
CITY COUNCIL 14 DECEMBER 2, 2025
24. Memorandum of Understanding Establishing the Terms and Conditions of
Employment for Classifications Represented by the Confidential Association
of the City of Santa Ana and Resolution Updating the Salary Schedule for
Associated Unrepresented Classifications
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:
Authorize the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with
the Confidential Association of the City of Santa Ana ("CASA") regarding wages,
hours, and other terms and conditions of employment effective July 1, 2025
through June 30, 2028 (Agreement No. A-2025-204).
2. Adopt a Resolution updating the salary schedule for associated unrepresented
classifications.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-051 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO EFFECT CERTAIN CHANGES
TO THE CITY'S CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN
25. Memorandum of Understanding Establishing the Terms and Conditions of
Employment for Classifications Represented by the Santa Ana Police
Management Association
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Santa Ana Police Management Association ("PMA")
regarding wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment effective
July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028 (Agreement No. A-2025-205).
26.Agreement with Peregrine Technologies, Inc. for Data Analytics and
Visualization Services (Non -General Fund - SLESA)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Peregrine Technologies, Inc. for data analytics and visualization services in the
amount of $760,200 for a three-year period beginning December 15, 2025, and
expiring December 14, 2028, with two optional one-year extensions at a cost of
$261,000 for the first extension, $268,830 for the second extension, and an
additional $100,000 for data sources, for a maximum amount not to exceed
$1,390,030 over a five-year term (Agreement No. A-2025-206).
27. Purchase Order to North American Rescue, LLC for Training Manikins
(Specification No. 25-125A) (Non -General Fund - UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
CITY COUNCIL 15 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Recommended Action: Authorize a purchase order to North American Rescue,
LLC for Training Manikins, in an amount not to exceed $117,528.
28.Agreements with Galls, LLC and L.N. Curtis & Sons, Inc. for Police Uniforms,
Accessories, and Miscellaneous Equipment (General Fund & Non -General
Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with
the following vendors for the purchase of police uniforms, accessories, and
miscellaneous equipment for an aggregate amount not to exceed $2,500,000 (Core
Agreement No. A-2025-207):
• Galls, LLC — in amount not to exceed $1,250,000 from December 2, 2025
through March 25, 2028 and option to exercise one (1), one-year extension
through March 25, 2029.
• L.N. Curtis & Sons, Inc. dba Curtis Blue Line — in an amount not to exceed
$1,250,000 from December 2, 2025 through November 7, 2026 and option
to exercise one (1), one-year extension through November 7, 2027.
29.Agreement with Meridian Rapid Defense Group, LLC, for Vehicle Mitigation
Mobile Barrier Kits (Specification No. 25-121A) (Non -General Fund - UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with
Meridian Rapid Defense Group, LLC to provide twenty (20) Vehicle Mitigation
Mobile Barrier Kits in a total amount not to exceed $2,792,109, over a three-year
term beginning on December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028 with
provisions for two, one-year renewal options (Agreement No. A-2025-208).
30.Agreements with Convergint Technologies LLC for Video Surveillance
System Upgrade and Maintenance and Repair Services and Appropriation
Adjustment (Specification No. 25-109A) (General Fund & Non -General Fund —
UASI, DOJ)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Convergint
Technologies LLC to provide video surveillance system upgrade and Customer
Support Program, in an amount not to exceed $3,043,768 for a term beginning
December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028, with provisions for two, one-
year extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-209).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Convergint
Technologies LLC to provide maintenance and repair services, in an amount not
to exceed $95,593, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring
CITY COUNCIL 16 DECEMBER 2, 2025
December 1, 2028, with provisions for two, one-year extensions (Agreement
No. A-2025-210).
3. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $220,000 of prior -year fund
balance in the U.S. Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Funds and
appropriate same to the Contract Services expenditure account. (Requires five
affirmative votes)
31.Agreements with Luis Raul Martinez, and Jacob Joseph and Jabez Family
Counseling and Professional Services Group Inc. for Incarcerated Persons
Counseling Services (Specification No. 25-103) (Non -General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with
the following consultants to provide incarcerated persons counseling services for a
term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028.
• Luis Raul Martinez — $140,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-211);
• Jacob Joseph and Jabez Family Counseling and Professional Services
Group Inc. — $140,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-212)
32. Resolution, Appropriation Adjustment, Agreement, and Memorandum of
Understanding Accepting FY2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant
Program Funds (Non -General Fund - UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager and the Chief of Police, or their
designee(s), to enter into agreements with the City of Anaheim for the FY 2024
Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-052 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER AND THE CHIEF OF POLICE OR THEIR DESIGNEE(S) TO
ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF ANAHEIM FOR THE
FY2024 URBAN AREA SECURITY INITIATIVE FUNDING PROGRAM
2. Authorize the City Manager and the Chief of Police to execute agreements
(transfer agreement and award agreement) with the City of Anaheim accepting
the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program in the amount of
$1,655,974 for the period of November 12, 2025 through March 31, 2027
(Agreement Nos. A-2025-213 and A-2025-214).
3. Approve and authorize the City Manager and the Chief of Police to execute the
Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Anaheim accepting the FY 2024
Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program. (Agreement No. A-2025-215)
CITY COUNCIL 17 DECEMBER 2, 2025
4. Approve an Appropriation Adjustment recognizing $1,655,974 in grant revenue
from the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative funding program revenue
account and appropriate same to the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative
Program Grant expenditures accounts. (Requires five affirmative votes)
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Item No. 32 as the listed
entity, City of Anaheim, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve the recommended
actions Nos. 1-3 for Agenda Item No. 32, as part of the consent calendar,
seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 4-1-1-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR
AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 4 — 1 —1 —1 —Pass
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve recommended action
No. 4 for Agenda Item No. 32, as part of the consent calendar, seconded by
Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion failed, 4-1-1-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR
AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 4 — 1 — 1 — 1 —Fail (requires five affirmative votes)
33. Resolution to Accept a $4,893,250 Award in Grant Funding from the State of
California Department of Housing and Community Development 2024
Homeownership CalHome Program and Appropriation Adjustment
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City of Santa Ana to accept a $4,893,250
award in grant funding from the State of California Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) 2024 Homeownership CalHome Program.
CITY COUNCIL 18 DECEMBER 2, 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-053 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF 2024
HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPER NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY (HOSN)
CALHOME PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS FOR THE MY FIRST HOME
PROGRAM
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with the State of California,
in the form of HCD's "Standard Agreement," for receipt of the 2024
Homeownership CalHome Program grant funding in the amount of $4,893,250,
and execute any other documents required by HCD to secure the grant
(Agreement No. A-2025-216).
3. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $4,893,250 in grant funding
from the State of California into the CalHome Program revenue account and
appropriate the same amount into the CalHome Program expenditure account
to provide down payment assistance and homebuyer education in the City of
Santa Ana (Requires five affirmative votes).
34. Resolution Declaring City -Owned Property as Exempt Surplus Land
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a Resolution declaring the City -owned portion of a
triangular area of driveway property south of 209 West Civic Center Drive as exempt
surplus land and directing the City Manager or designee to comply with the
requirements of Government Code §54220 et seq. for the transfer of ownership
accordingly.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-054 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DECLARING PROPERTY ON THE NORTHWEST
CORNER OF CIVIC CENTER DRIVE AND SYCAMORE STREET AS EXEMPT
SURPLUS LAND AND FINDING THAT THE FOREGOING ACTION IS NOT A
PROJECT SUBJECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
35. Resolution Amending the City's Classification and Compensation Plan in
Response to the State of California's Increased Minimum Wage Rate Effective
January 1, 2026
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution amending the City's Classification and
Compensation Plan to ensure compliance with the new State of California minimum
wage rate.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-055 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO EFFECT CERTAIN CHANGES TO THE CITY'S
CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN
CITY COUNCIL 19 DECEMBER 2, 2025
36. Resolution Certifying the Submission of the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Measure M2
Year -End Expenditure Report
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a Resolution certifying the Measure M2 Annual
Expenditure Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and authorize submission of the report
to the Orange County Transportation Authority as required by Measure M2 Funding
Eligibility Guidelines.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-056 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA CONCERNING THE MEASURE M2 (M2)
EXPENDITURE REPORT FOR THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
37. Resolution to Summarily Vacate Excess Fourth Street Right -of -Way —
Abandonment Number 2024-02
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution to summarily vacate excess Fourth
Street right-of-way — Abandonment Number 2024-02.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-057 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA SUMMARILY VACATING A STREET AND PUBLIC
RIGHT-OF-WAY ADJACENT TO 1030 E. FOURTH STREET (ABANDONMENT
NO. 2024-02)
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 8:24 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
38. Nominate and Appoint a Representative to Serve on the Orange County
Mosquito and Vector Control Board of Trustees to Serve Either a Two -Year or
Four -Year Term
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Nominate and appoint a representative to serve on the
Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control Board to Serve Either a Two -Year or
Four -Year Term, Effective January 5, 2026.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra inquired whether a staff member would be
allowed to serve on the board.
CITY COUNCIL 20 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed the representative would have to
be a Councilmember or a resident, but clarified the requirement would not exclude
a resident who is also a city employee from serving in that capacity.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho further clarified if a resident who is also an employee
is appointed to serve on the board, and they later cease to be an employee, they
cannot be removed from the board simply on that basis. She stated their status as
a resident is sufficient to continue serving.
MOTION: Councilmember Lopez moved to appoint Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez
to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control Board of Trustees for a
two-year term, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Vazquez.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
39. Resolution and Ordinance Adopting the Updated California and International
Building and Fire Codes with Local Conditions Amendments and Requisite
Findings
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Find that the proposed Ordinance is exempt under the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines
section 15061(b)(3).
2. Adopt a resolution of the City Council setting forth findings for required
amendments, modifications, and changes with respect to the local climatic,
geographical, and topographical conditions within the City of Santa Ana to the
California Building, Residential, Green Standards, Energy, Electrical,
Mechanical, Plumbing, and Fire Codes as amended by the State of California.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-058 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA SETTING FORTH FINDINGS WITH
RESPECT TO LOCAL CONDITIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
THAT JUSTIFY CERTAIN MODIFICATIONS AND CHANGES TO THE
CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE,
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, CALIFORNIA
ELECTRICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA
CITY COUNCIL 21 DECEMBER 2, 2025
PLUMBING CODE, CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE,
CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL
BUILDING CODE, AND INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
CODE, AS AMENDED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
3. Introduce an ordinance amending Chapters 8 and 14 of the Santa Ana Municipal
Code adopting the State Building Regulations, including the 2024 International
Property Maintenance Code, and certain modifications and changes with
respect to local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions with the City
of Santa Ana to the California Building, Existing Building, Residential, Green
Standards, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Historical Building, and
Fire Codes as amended by the State of California.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3088 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTERS 8 AND 14 OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT AND AMEND THE MOST
RECENTLY ENACTED CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA
RESIDENTIAL CODE, CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE,
CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE,
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE,
CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE,
CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, AND INTERNATIONAL
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
4. Authorize and direct the City Clerk to schedule a public hearing on said
Ordinance for January 20, 2026, and to publish notice of said public hearing
pursuant to Section 50022.3 of the California Government Code.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Item No. 39, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,
MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
CITY COUNCIL 22 DECEMBER 2, 2025
PUBLIC HEARING
MINUTES: At 8:30 P.M., the Public Hearing was considered.
40. Public Hearing — Resolution Authorizing Ceremonial Street Naming of Felipa
and Juan Sarinana Way (General Fund)
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on November 21, 2025.
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the Ceremonial Street Naming of Felipa and
Juan Sarinana, at 5th Street between Hawley Street and Sunset Street.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-059 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DIRECTING AND AUTHORIZING A
CEREMONIAL STREET NAME FELIPA AND JUAN SARINANA WAY ALONG
5TH STREET FROM HAWLEY STREET TO SUNSET STREET
2. Direct Staff to install two (2) Ceremonial Signs at the intersections of 5th Street
at Hawley Street and 5th Street at Sunset Street.
3. Waive the requirements of the application process, pursuant to Santa Ana
Municipal Code Section 33-262(e), including all applicable fees and charges in
the amount of $2,494.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua opened the Public Hearing at 8:33 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced there were no email comments received
and there were no speakers.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 8:33 P.M.
Councilmember Hernandez shared the request is to honor Felipa and Juan
Sarinana, recognizing the lasting impact their lives have had on Santa Ana and
Orange County. He stated the couple opened Sarinana Tamale Factory in 1939 in
the Artesia Pilar neighborhood, and is now the oldest Mexican restaurant in Orange
County.
CITY COUNCIL 23 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Item No. 40, 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
**END OF PUBLIC HEARING**
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS
41. Moratorium on New Smoke Shops — Councilmember Lopez
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez stated the item was brought forward directly from
community members, constituents, and some retailers following neighborhood meetings
and spoke regarding the City's lack of zoning tools to limit the number of smoke shops,
prevent cluster, or restrict their proximity to sensitive uses like schools and parks and a
lack of a clear land use category creates enforcement and management challenges for
the Police Department and Code Enforcement. She expressed anticipation for the City
Manager to bring forward code changes, updates, and recommendations to the council.
Mayor Amezcua thanked Councilmember Lopez for bringing the item forward and
recommended a more permanent solution in the form of an ordinance. She inquired on
the potential turnaround time for ordinance consideration.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez expressed confidence in bringing forward an ordinance with
the requested aspects within 90 days, noted certain language already exists in Chapter
18 and Chapter 41, and stated staff will work with the City Attorney's office to establish
due process.
Councilmember Vazquez thanked Councilmember Lopez for bringing the item forward
and the Mayor for proposing a more stringent solution and stressed the importance of
preventing smoke shops from being built near schools.
Councilmember Bacerra asked the City Manager to consider bringing back
recommendations that include establishing required distances from sensitive uses,
establishing separation buffers between smoke shops themselves, conditional use permit
process, requiring public hearings, and ensuring residents within a certain radius are
notified of these uses.
CITY COUNCIL 24 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez expressed full support for the item. He noted concerns
regarding the black market, certain smoke shops are selling hemp products, and
requested enforcement of applicable laws against anyone not in accordance with the
city's cannabis ordinance, as well as ensuring that there is no flavored tobacco and no
nitrous oxide for sale. He requested an aggressive code enforcement approach targeting
smoke shops along specific streets like 17th, Grand, and Bristol to ensure support for the
city's legal, tax -paying cannabis industry.
Councilmember Penaloza thanked Councilmember Lopez for agendizing the item and
stated his ultimate preference would be for a full ban. He noted staff has been working
on Main Street, shutting down many shops in Ward 6 including illegal dispensaries and
smoke shops, expressed full support for bringing back an enforceable solution, and asked
if the regulatory framework being developed for smoke shops could also be applied to
other types of uses residents have expressed concerns about such as adult stores and
massage parlors.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho confirmed the Council is able to institute a moratorium to
allow staff time to study the issues, clarified an entire ban on a business use must be
decided on a case -by -case basis with justifiable reasons, as uses cannot be banned
arbitrarily, and noted certain uses, like adult shops, have the benefit of First Amendment
protections, therefore the city cannot completely ban them.
City Manager Nunez stated staff will focus on a comprehensive ordinance and studying
the issue rather than implementing an emergency moratorium as doing so would
consume staff time and require rapid follow-up, while leveraging existing code would be
more effective.
Councilmember Penaloza expressed support for the proposed smoke shop moratorium
and highlighted the need for regulations against undesirable businesses such as adult
stores and massage parlors.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: City Manager Alvaro Nunez reminded residents about the Community
Priorities Survey to gather input for budget and service prioritization, and promoted the
Shop Local Shop Santa Ana campaign launched by the Economic Development Division
for the holiday season. He announced the Police Department's annual Pancakes with
Santa event on December 6t" and garage sale weekend happening this Saturday and
Sunday. He invited the community to the grand opening of the Santa Ana Zoo's largest
expansion, The River's Edge, on Saturday, December 20th, at 11:00 a.m.
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.
CITY COUNCIL 25 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked the Council for appointing him to OC Vector
Control, expressed gratitude for seeing the community service efforts of fellow
councilmembers at local food distributions last week, and announced his support for artists
who do not wish to waive their Visual Artist Rights Act protections.
Councilmember Lopez expressed gratitude for interns Brandon and Joe, the Public Works
Director, and the Parks and Recreation Director, requested a meeting with the City
Manager to discuss supporting artists in the community, and wished everyone a Happy
New Year and her father a Happy Birthday.
Councilmember Penaloza thanked city staff for their assistance with food distribution,
thanked Chief Rodriguez for his leadership, and wished everyone a safe and joyous holiday
season.
Councilmember Hernandez wished all neighbors a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,
stressed the importance of the arts to the city, and spoke in favor of ensuring the City is not
asking artists to waive their Visual Artist Rights Act protections. He uplifted the family of Noe
Rodriguez, and wished his cousin, Brandon Lopez, and daughter, Evoni, a Happy Birthday.
Councilmember Bacerra thanked his colleagues for approving a budget appropriation
adjustment utilizing NPDES permit revenue, thanked the Community Development staff for
being awarded $4.8 million in CaIHOME funds that will go towards promoting affordable
home ownership, and thanked Commanders Gutierrez and Lopez and the QOLT team for
allowing him to join a ride -along. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah,
and Happy Holidays.
Councilmember Phan shared a recent story of a senior living in Konai Mobile Home Park
in Ward 1. She wished everyone a wonderful Christmas, holiday season, and a safe and
Happy New Year.
Mayor Amezcua expressed appreciation for and support of the artists, thanked the City
Manager, Chief, and all staff for progress made in the last 18 months, and thanked the City
Manager, his staff, the Chief, Deputy Chiefs, and all officers for their work in 2025 dealing
with the criminal element, homelessness, and immigration and CalFresh issues. She
detailed the recent large-scale effort with Mosaic, the Labor Federation, volunteers,
Councilmembers Penaloza and Becerra, the Police Department, POA, and Legado 7,
where they gave out 2,000 turkeys and food boxes. She announced a toy giveaway on
Saturday, December 13th, at the Downtown Santa Ana Tamalada and another food
distribution on the 14th at Salgado Park. She stated she will likely ask the City Manager in
two months to put another $150,000 on the agenda for Ayuda Sin Fronteras, wished
everyone a very happy holiday, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. She congratulated
her son, Michael, and his wife, Stephanie, on their upcoming marriage.
CITY COUNCIL 26 DECEMBER 2, 2025
ADJOURNMENT — Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 9:14 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Jennifer L. Hall, CIVIC
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 27 DECEMBER 2, 2025