HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-05 Regular, Special HA Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana, California
4'
May 5, 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 4:14 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Pro Tern David Penaloza
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
CITY COUNCIL 1 MAY 5, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Nall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Lopez, Phan, and Vazquez, Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza, and Mayor
Amezcua were present. Councilmembers Bacerra and Hernandez joined during Closed
Session.
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS 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: MayorAmezcua recessed to considerthe Closed Session items at 4:15 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 LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:
1. Service Employees International Union, Part-Time Non-Civil Service
Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
2. Police Officers Association (POA)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6(a):
Agency Negotiator: Lori Schnaider
Employee Organizations:
1. Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)
2. Santa. Ana Middle Management I Administrative Management Association
(SAMA)
3. Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)
4. Seasonal Part-Time Employees
CITY COUNCIL 2 MAY 5, 2026
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to
Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:
A. Rita Ramirez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No.
30-2022-01287702
B. Javier Flores v. _City of Santa Ana, et al., Orange County Superior Court
Case No. 30-2024-01395292-CU-PA-WJC �-
4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — POTENTIAL INITIATION OF
LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code
Section 54956.9:
Two (2) cases
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 6:00 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Pro Tern David Penaloza
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nunez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, Lopez, Phan, and Vazquez, Mayor Pro Tem
Penaloza, and Mayor Amezcua were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Gloria Alvarado
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Rajan Zed, Universal Society of Hinduism
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua spoke regarding the Coach Royal situation, the status of
the petitions, and the City's role in the situation.
CITY COUNCIL 3 MAY 5, 2026
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4 OUT OF ORDER
4. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez Recognizing
Airborne System for their Outstanding Contribution to the Successful
Landing of Artemis II Orion Capsule
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a certificate of recognition to Airborne
System for their outstanding contribution to the successful landing of Artemis !1
Orion Capsule.
1. Certificates of Recognition presented by Mayor Amezcua Recognizing Santa
Ana's Annual Youth Poster Contest Winners
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua presented certificates of recognition to Santa Ana's
Annual Youth Poster Contest winners.
2. Certificates of Recognition presented by Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza
Recognizing Isaac Alegria and Christian Cuatlayotl for Outstanding Academic
Achievements
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza presented certificates of recognition to Isaac
Alegria and Christian Cuatlayotl for outstanding academic achievements.
3. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Bacerra to Orange County Fire
Authority and Parks and Recreation Department declaring May 2026 as
Drowning Prevention Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented a proclamation to Orange County
Fire Authority and Parks and Recreation Department declaring May 2026 as
Drowning Prevention Month.
4. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4 WAS MOVED OUT ORDER AND HEARD PRIOR TO
AGENDA ITEM NO. 1
5. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Vazquez to Southern California
Coalition for Occupational Safety & Health Recognizing April 28 as Workers'
Memorial Day
MINUTES: Councilmember Vazquez presented a proclamation to Southern
California Coalition for Occupational Safety & Health recognizing April 28 as
Workers' Memorial Day.
CITY COUNCIL 4 MAY 5, 2026
STAFF PRESENTATIONS
6. Economic Development Presentation
MINUTES: Community Development Director Michael Garcia provided a
presentation regarding the City's Economic Development Division.
Councilmember Bacerra inquired regarding the Hotel Feasibility study, suggested
looking into improvements to existing hotels, looking into bringing in more hotels to
the City, and incentives to attract people and more revenue to the City.
Director Garcia explained the Hotel Feasibility timeline.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the initiatives for vacant lands and
diversifying businesses throughout the City.
Councilmember Vazquez thanked staff for the presentation and their hard work.
Mayor Amezcua echoed Councilmember Lopez's comments regarding vacant
properties.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported Council action by a vote of 6-0
(Councilmember Hernandez absent) regarding Closed Session Agenda Item No. 3B
to settle the case for$60,000.
Councilmember Phan announced her recusal regarding Closed Session Agenda Item
No. 4.
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(14) Agenda item No. 10, three (3) Agenda Item No. 11, (11) Agenda Item No.
28, (14) Agenda item No. 29, six (6) Agenda Item No. 30, and six (6) non-agenda
comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Nancy Robles spoke in support of Agenda item No. 28 and spoke regarding Agenda
item No. 30 against furloughs.
2. Jared Lindo requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
3. Ed Murashie spoke in support of Agenda item No. 29 and the Historic Resources
Commission.
CITY COUNCIL 5 MAY 5, 2026
4. Nina Jirik requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
5. Alyssa Amey requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
6. Jeff Dolle requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
7. Nicole Gee requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood and spoke
regarding the benefits of a park.
8. Tracy Simons requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
9. Sue Palik voiced concerns regarding Harvey Milk Day.
10.Johan Lopez spoke regarding affordable dental care in the City.
11 . Victor Bermejo spoke regarding Commissioner vacancies within the Arts and Culture
Commission.
12. Giovanni Chavez spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 28 and in support of the
ordinance.
13.Miguel Martinez spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 28 and in support of the
ordinance.
14.Jorge Rodriguez spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 28 and in support of the
ordinance.
15.Jose Perez spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 28 and in support of the ordinance.
16.Carlos Camacho spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 28
17.Beth Thomas requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood.
18.Alicia Rojas spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 10 and 29.
19.Shawn Verdin requested a park at Washington Square Neighborhood and spoke
regarding the benefits of a park.
20.lsuri Ramos spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 10, 28, and 29, budget decisions,
and requested a park at Washington Square.
21 .Carl Benninger spoke regarding the Orange County Soccer Club game at the City's
stadium on May 23, 2026, ComLink awards taking placing on June 25, 2026, and
Agenda Item No. 30.
22.Dale Helvig spoke regarding the celebration of Constitution Day on May 17, 2026.
CITY COUNCIL 6 MAY 5, 2026
The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:
23. Victor Mendez spoke regarding vacant property activations throughout the City.
24. Courtney Carranza spoke in opposition to Agenda Item No. 28.
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 7 through 26 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES:At 8:18 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Hernandez announced a "No"vote on Agenda Item No. 24.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 24 as the listed entity, City
of Anaheim, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Councilmember Lopez pulled Agenda Item No. 10 for separate discussion and
consideration
Mayor Amezcua pulled Agenda Item No. 25 for separate discussion and consideration.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 7 through 26 with the exception of Agenda Item Nos. 10 and 25, seconded by
Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
7. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
CITY COUNCIL 7 MAY 5, 2026
8. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of April 21, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
9. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services Commission on October 23, 2025, January 22, 2026, and February
26, 2026; the Special Meeting of the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services Commission on December 4, 2025; the Regular Meetings of the
Youth Commission on November 17, 2025 and December 15, 2025; the Special
Meetings of the Youth Commission on January 26, 2026 and February 23,
2026; the Special Meetings of the Personnel Board on January 23, 2025, March
6, 2025, May 28, 2025, June 25, 2025, August 14, 2025, and August 18, 2025;
the Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission on April 13, 2026; and the
Regular Meetings of the Police Oversight Commission on August 14, 2025,
September 11, 2025, October 9, 2025, November 13, 2025, December 11, 2025,
January 8, 2026, February 12, 2026, and March 12, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 10 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
10.Public Art and Preservation Policy
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file the Public Art and Preservation Policy.
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez thanked staff, the community, artists, and the
Arts and Culture Commission for their advocacy regarding the item, voiced
concerns regarding the Public Art Trust Fund, requested a proposal on funding for
public art policy, recognized the Historic Preservation Framework as a tool, and
spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked staff and community artists for their advocacy
on the item and spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Bacerra thanked former Arts and Culture Commissioner, Robin
McNair, for their advocacy on creating the Arts and Culture Master Plan and staff
for their work.
CITY COUNCIL 8 MAY 5, 2026
MOTION: Councifinember Lopez moved to approve the recommended action
for Agenda item No. 10, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER,
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
11.2025 Travel Santa Ana Annual Report
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
12.Select Locally Preferred Alternative for the First Street Multimodal Boulevard
Study
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Select Option 2 — Enhanced Bicycle and Pedestrian Zone
Concept as the Locally Preferred Alternative for the First Street Multimodal
Boulevard Study and direct staff to advance this concept into final engineering and
design.
13.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 January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026.
14.Purchase Order Contract to Staples Contract & Commercial, Inc. for Office
Supplies (Specification No. 26-054) (General Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Award Purchase Order Contract to Staples Contract &
Commercial, Inc. for a 19-month term beginning on May 5, 2026 and expiring
December 31, 2027, in a total amount not to exceed $175,000.
CITY COUNCIL 9 MAY 5, 2026
15.Agreement with CSG Forte Payments, Inc. for an Online Payment Services
System for Accela, the City's Enterprise Land Management System
(Specification No. 26-042) (General Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a payment
processing agreement with CSG Forte Payments, Inc. (CSG Forte) to provide
online payment services integrated with the Accela Civic Platform in an amount of
$203,464, for a term beginning May 5, 2026 and expiring May 4, 2027, with
provisions for four (4), one (1) year extensions in a total amount not to exceed
$1 ,017,317 (Agreement No. A-2026-055).
16.Purchase Order Contract with Simpler Systems Inc. for Simpler Platform
Maintenance & Licenses (Specification No. 26-055) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Information Technology
Recommended Action: Award Purchase Order Contract to Simpler Systems, Inc.
for Simpler Platform Maintenance and Licenses, in an amount not to exceed
$120,000, for a term beginning July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2031.
17.Historic Property Preservation Agreements for the Properties Located at 2117
N. Greenleaf Street and 2214 N. Westwood Avenue
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the
attached Mills Act agreements with the below-referenced property owners for the
identified structures (Agreements Nos. A-2026-056 and A-2026-057). Includes
determination that the proposed projects are exempt from further review in
accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act as Categorical
Exemption/Environmental Review Nos. 2026-13 and 2026-12 will be filed for the
projects.
Table 1: Mills Act Agreements Approved by the Historic Resources
Commission HRC
Historic
Property e
Property Owner preservation Address/House HRC by
Agreement No.
Travis Beck Allen-Walter 7:0:1:0
and Charles Reuben 2117 N (Commissi
Allen-Walter, Co- 2026-2 Greenleaf Street oner
Trustees, or their Almendral
successors in Trust, abstaining)
CITY COUNCIL 10 MAY 5, 2026
under the Travis and
Charles Allen-Walter
Revocable Living Trust
Michael Atkinson and
Steve Doughty, as 7:0:1:0
2214 N. (Commissi
Trustees of the Patricia
Atkinson 2026-1 Westwood over
Avenue Almendra!
Revocable Living Trust, abstaining)
dated July 28, 2025
18.Purchase Order Contract to Superior Pavement Markings LLC for On-Cal!
Roadway Sign and Striping Maintenance, Repair, and Installation (Spec No.
26-025) (General Fund and Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Award a Purchase Order Contract to Superior Pavement
Markings LLC for on-call roadway sign and striping maintenance, repair, and
installation for a one-year term beginning July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2027,
with an annual average budget of $643,000 with provisions for two, one-year
renewal options, in a total amount not to exceed $1,929,000.
19.First Amendment to the Agreement with Landscape West Management
Services, Inc. for Median Landscaping, Right of Way, and Quality of Life Team
Debris Removal Services (Genera! Fund and Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment
to the agreement with Landscape West Management Services, Inc. and increase
the annual compensation by $500,000, to provide homeless debris removal
services as part of the existing scope for the Median and Right of Way Landscaping
Maintenance Services agreement in an amount not to exceed $11,370,000 for the
remaining term expiring June 30, 2028 and renewal options (Agreement No. A-
2026-058).
20.Grant of Easements to Southern California Edison for the Purpose of
Implementing the Charge Ready Transport Program Provision to Provide
Electrical Power to Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at the Santa Ana
Corporate Yard and Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize City Manager to execute a grant of easement and right of way to
Southern California Edison for the purpose of implementing the Charge Ready
Transport Program provision to provide electrical power to vehicle charging
stations at the Santa Ana Corporate Yard (Agreement No. A-2026-059).
CITY COUNCIL 11 MAY 5, 2026
2. Authorize City Manager to execute a grant of easement and right of way to
Southern California Edison for the purpose of the Charge Ready Transport
Program provision to provide electrical power to vehicle charging stations at the
Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center (Agreement No. A-2026-060).
21.Amendment to the Agreement with Bernards Bros, Inc. for Construction
Management at Risk Services for the State Building and Plaza Demolition
Project, Land Transfer Agreement with County of Orange to Acquire Plaza of
the Fountains Parcel, and Granting a Future Access Easement to the County
on Said Parcel (Project No. 24-9002) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the agreement with
Bernards Bros, Inc. to provide Construction Management at Risk services for
the State Building Demolition project in the amount of $839,160, with $83,916
for unforeseen conditions, for a total amount of $923,076 and a new total
contract value of $1,773,076, for a two-year term beginning May 5, 2026, and
expiring May 4, 2028, with an option for two, one-year extensions (Agreement
No. A-2026-061).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Land Transfer Agreement between the
City of Santa Ana and the County of Orange, a political subdivision of the State
of California, for transfer of the Plaza of the Fountains parcel in the Civic Center
(Agreement No. A-2026-062).
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute an easement deed to convey access
rights to the County of Orange over the Plaza of the Fountains parcel.
22.Approve Appropriations Adjustments and a CIP Amendment, and
Agreements with Mark Thomas, Southern California Regional Rail Authority
(SCRRA), the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Caltrans for Design
Phase Services and Grant Funding for the Santa Ana Boulevard Grade
Separation Project (No. 26-6718) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing Transit and Intercity Rail
Capital Program (TIRCP) grant funding in the amount of $7,000,000 into the
Select Street Construction, State Grant-Direct revenue account (05917660-
52025) and appropriate the same amount into the Select Street Construction,
Improvements Other Than Building expenditure account (05917660-
66220). (Requires five affirmative votes)
CITY COUNCIL 12 MAY 5, 2026
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $134,176 in prior-year fund
balance in the Transit Zoning Code, Prior Year Carry Forward revenue account
and appropriate the same amount into the Transit Zoning Code, Improvements
Other Than Buildings expenditure account. (Requires five affirmative votes)
3. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $90,742 in prior-year fund
balance in the Local Drainage Area Fees— IV, Prior Year Carry Forward revenue
account and appropriate the same amount into the Local Drainage Area Fees —
IV, Improvements Other Than Buildings expenditure account. (Requires five
affirmative votes)
4. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement
Program to include TIRCP grant funding in the amount of $7,000,000, Local
Drainage Area Fees — IV in the amount of $90,742 and Transit Zoning Code
funding in the amount of $134,176 for the inclusion of Santa Ana Boulevard
Grade Separation Project. (Project No. 26-6718)
5. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Mark Thomas &
Company, Inc. to provide Professional Design Phase Services in an amount not-
to-exceed $6,859,918, which includes $6,471,318 in Design costs and $388,600
for unanticipated or unforeseen work, for a three-year term beginning May 5,
2026 and expiring May 4, 2029„ with provisions for two, one-year extensions
(Agreement No. A-2026-063).
6. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Southern California
Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) to provide Design Support in an amount not-
to-exceed $315,000 for a three-year term beginning May 5, 2026 and expiring
May 4, 2029, with provisions for two, one-year extensions (Agreement No. A-
2026-064).
7. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with U.S Department of
Transportation (USDOT) and the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans) to receive RAISE Grant funds for the Santa Ana Boulevard Grade
Separation project (Agreement No. A-2026-065 and Agreement No. A-2026-
066).
23.Purchase Order to Sarkar Tactical, Inc. for Ballistic Helmets, Ballistic Plates,
and Plate Carriers (Specification No. 26-007A) and Appropriation Adjustment
(Non-General Fund — U.S. Dept. of.justice)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize a Purchase Order to Sarkar Tactical, Inc. for ballistic helmets, ballistic
plates, and plate carriers in an amount not to exceed $395,218.
2. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $345,960 of prior-year fund
balance in the U.S. Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Funds and
CITY COUNCIL 13 MAY 5, 2026
appropriate same to the Miscellaneous Operating Expenses expenditure
account. (Requires five affirmative votes)
24.Resolution and Appropriation Adjustment Accepting Additional FY 2024
Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program Funds (Non-General Fund -
UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution authorizing and directing the City Manager and the Chief of
Police or their designee(s)to accept an additional $4,614 in FY 2024 Urban Area
Security Initiative funding, increasing the sub-recipient award from $1,655,974
to $1,660,588.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-011 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ACCEPTING ADDITIONAL FY2024
URBAN AREA SECURITY INITIATIVE SUB-RECIPIENT FUNDING AND
APPROPRIATION ADJUSTMENT
2. Approve an Appropriation Adjustment recognizing an additional $4,614 in grant
funds from the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative in the revenue account
and appropriate same to the FY 2024 Urban Areas Security Initiative grant
program expenditure account. (Requires five affirmative votes)
3. Authorize the Chief of Police to execute the Grant Sub-Recipient Award
Amendment #1 with the City of Anaheim for the FY 2024 Urban Area Security
Initiative grant program (Agreement No. A-2026-067).
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 24 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by
Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 5-1-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM
PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5- 1 - 1 -,0 - Pass
AGENDA ITEM NO. 25 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DICUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
CITY COUNCIL 14 MAY 5, 2026
25.Consideration of the Positive Performance Evaluations for City Clerk, City
Manager, and City Attorney, and Related Salary Adjustments, Contract
Extension, Bonus Payments for Designated City Attorney Office Confidential
Employees, and Compliance with the California Public Employees'
Retirement System (CaIPERS) and Title 2 of the California Code of
Regulations Section 570.5
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution reflecting the positive City Clerk, City Manager, and City
Attorney performance evaluations conducted on April 21, 2026 and approving
an adjusted annual salary for the City Clerk and a three-year extension to the
term for the City Manager, and
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-012 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AFFIRMING POSITIVE
PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS FOR THE CITY ATTORNEY, CITY CLERK,
AND CITY MANAGER; APPROVING A SALARY ADJUSTMENT FOR THE
CITY CLERK; AND APPROVING AN AMENDED AND RESTATED
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE CITY MANAGER THROUGH 2O30
2. Approve amendment to City Clerk employment agreement to reflect adjusted
annual salary in the amount of $215,004 (Agreement No. A-2026-068), and
3. Approve an amended and restated employment agreement with the City
Manager (Agreement No. A-2026-069), and
4. Adopt a resolution to amend Resolution No. 2021-026 creating a new
classification to the unrepresented confidential middle management and
approve special assignment pay for confidential employees in the City Attorney's
Office; and
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-013 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 TO AMEND
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-026 TO CREATE A NEW CLASSIFICATION AND TO
PROVIDE SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT PAY FOR SPECIFIED CONFIDENTIAL
EMPLOYEES IN THE CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
5. Adopt a resolution updating the City's Classification and Compensation Plan
with the amended annual salary for City Clerk, and approving the Council
Appointee Salary Schedule in compliance with the California Public Employees'
Retirement System (CaIPERS) and Title 2 of the California Code of Regulations
section 570.5 including documentation of the annual salary for the previous
Acting City Clerk.
CITY COUNCIL 15 MAY 5, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-014 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 AND
RECOGNITION OF SALARY FOR THE PREVIOUS ACTING CITY CLERK
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua thanked City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall, City Manager
Alvaro Nunez, and City Attorney Sonia Carvalho for their work.
Councilmember Vazquez echoed MayorAmezcua's comments.
Councilmember Phan thanked City Clerk Hall for all her hard work, and City
Manager Nunez and City Attorney Carvalho for their service.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall, City Manager
Alvaro Nunez, and City Attorney Sonia Carvalho for their work.
Pursuant to Government Code §54953(d)(3)(i), City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
reported that approval of Item No. 25 includes documentation of the Acting City
Clerk annual salary of $159,000 effective September 1, 2022 through February
26, 2023; and a salary increase for the City Clerk to the annual amount of
$215,004, effective April 21, 2026; and an Amended and Restated Employment
Agreement for the City Manager extending the term of the agreement an
additional three years to August 5, 2030.
Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza thanked City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall, City Manager Alvaro
Nunez, and City Attorney Sonia Carvalho for their work.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 25, seconded by Councilmember Vazquez.
The motion carried, 6-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ COUNCILMEMBER
PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,COUNCILMEMBER
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR
AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6— 1 — Pass
26.Second Reading and Adoption of Zoning Ordinance Amendment (ZOA) No.
2026-02 — Bella Terra Residential Community and Temple Project(4006, 4010,
and 4018 West Hazard Avenue)
First reading April 21, 2026, City Council Meeting and approved by a vote of 7-0.
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
CITY COUNCIL 16 MAY 5„ 2026
Recommended Action: Conduct a second reading and adopt an ordinance
approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2026-02.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3094 entitled ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO.
2026-01 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT NO. 53 (SD-
53) TO UPDATE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS AND ALLOW
PLACES OF WORSHIP SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4006, 4010, AND 4018 WEST HAZARD
AVENUE (APNS: 100-261-20, 100-261-19 AND 100-261-18)
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 8:38 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered
27.Ordinance Amending Municipal Code to Allow Permitted Users to Serve and
Consume Beer, Wine, and Distilled Spirits at City Facilities and to Increase
Permit Threshold Related to Picnics of Fifty (50) or More Persons
Department(s): Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Recommended Action:
1. Approve first reading of an ordinance (Exhibit 1) amending Chapter 31
(Recreation, Parks and Playgrounds to allow for permitted users to serve and
consume beer, wine, and distilled spirits at City facilities with the expressed
written consent of the City Manager or designee and to increase permit
threshold related to picnics to fifty (50) or more persons.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-XXXX entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTER 31 OF THE SANTA
ANA MUNICIPAL CODE
2. Determine that, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines, the project is categorically exempt from
further review per Section 15301 (Class 1 — Existing Facilities).
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 27, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra voiced concerns regarding the code and
policies regarding facilities, requested a proposed policy to be brought back in 30
days, and spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Amezcua requested clarification on alcohol permits, voiced concerns
regarding alcohol consumption, and echoed Councilmember Bacerra's comment
CITY COUNCIL 17 MAY 5, 2026
to bring back information in 30 days.
Councilmember Lopez spoke regarding language in the policy for picnic permits
and requested clarity on SB946 regarding push cart operations when information
is brought back in 30 days.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to continue Agenda
Item No. 27 for 30 days, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza.
The substitute motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass
28.Ordinance Establishing Staffing and Operational Standards for Self-Service
Checkout Stations in Drug and Food Retail Establishments
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action: Adopt an ordinance of the City Council establishing
staffing and operational standards for self-service checkout stations in drug and
food retail establishments within the City of Santa Ana.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-3095 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ADDING ARTICLE XXV TO CHAPTER 8 OF THE
SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING THE STAFFING OF SELF-
SERVICE CHECKOUT OPERATIONS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua gave a brief presentation regarding the proposed
ordinance, thanked the members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW),
and spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Bacerra thanked the members of UFCW and spoke in support of
the item.
Councilmember Vazquez thanked the members of UFCW and spoke in support of
the item.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked the members of UFCW and spoke in support
of the item.
CITY COUNCIL 18 MAY 5, 2026
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item and requested a policy analysis
in staff reports.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza echoed Councilmember Lopez's request regarding staff
reports.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 28, seconded by Councilmember Bacerra.
The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEM
29.Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Direct Staff to Identify,
Evaluate, and Prepare Nominations to the City Register of Historical
Properties for Public Artworks by Sergio O. Cadiz Moctezuma and Emigdio
Vasquez Located Within the City of Santa Ana— Councilmember Jessie Lopez
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez gave a brief presentation regarding
identifying, evaluating, and preparing nominations to the city register of historical
properties for public artworks by Sergio O. Cadiz Moctezuma and Emigdio
Vasquez located within the City of Santa Ana.
Mayor Amezcua announced her support for the item.
Councilmember Phan requested clarification on the City's legal and financial
responsibilities regarding private properties and the impacts of historic
preservation requirements on private property owners.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza spoke in support of the item, echoed Councilmember
Phan's comment regarding private property responsibilities, asked whether the
item applies only to these two artists or if the City can bring on additional artists
to expand the program, and requested more artists be added to the program.
Councilmember Lopez clarified why the item focuses specifically on the two
artists.
CITY COUNCIL 19 MAY 5, 2026
City Manager Alvaro Nunez highlighted the City's commitment to preserving the
murals and implementing the mural policy.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in support of the item and requested focusing
on historical murals older than 25 years.
Councilmember Vazquez spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Bacerra announced his support for the item.
RECESS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting and convened the
Housing Authority meeting at 9.04 P.M.
RECONVENE
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the Housing Authority meeting and
reconvened the City Council meeting to order at 9:05 P.M.
RECESS
Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting at 9:06 P.M.
RECONVENE
Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council meeting at 9:16 P.M.
WORK STUDY SESSION
30.Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Work Study Session
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Discuss and provide direction to staff.
MINUTES: Finance and Management Services Director Alex Trinidad provided
a presentation regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget.
Mayor Amezcua spoke in support of the Washington Square land purchase for
future park development, public safety, pavement repairs, and thanked staff for
their work.
Councilmember Bacerra inquired regarding the technology fee and lighting on 1 St,'
Street and Jefferson Street, spoke in support of abatements of sober living homes,
improvements along Bristol and Wilshire Street, requested clarification regarding
concerns with potential development of existing vacant property in Washington
CITY COUNCIL 20 MAY 5, 2026
Square, looking into revenue growth within the City, and improvements within his
Ward.
Executive Director Trinidad clarified the technology fee.
Public Works Acting Director Rudy Rosas clarified the cost behind lighting along
181h Street and Jefferson Street.
Planning and Building Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour explained property
development on existing vacant properties.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in support of road and sidewalk repairs,
maximizing revenue for the Santa Ana train station, a trap/neuter/release program
for cats, additional veterinarian staff at the zoo, condensing the Historic Resources
Commission to the Planning Commission, paramedic service charges with condition
of not decreasing firefighter services, requested prioritizing completing projects,
speed humps within the Washington Square area and land purchase for future
park development, generating revenue through the stadium, and voiced concerns
with residents jaywalking between Figueroa and First Street and traffic and
pedestrian safety along 6th and Raitt Street.
Councilmember Vazquez spoke on housing issues regarding public safety and
investing in the youth, spoke in support of the Washington Square land purchase
for future park development, and requested increasing funds for the Police
Oversight Commission and a book kiosk at Pio Pico Elementary.
Councilmember Phan voiced concerns regarding budget-related costs and the need
to make expenditure reductions, including cuts affecting the Police Athletic and
Activities League (PAAL) at certain community centers and part-time positions,
while stating opposition to furloughs. She spoke in support of cost-saving measures
such as consolidating the Historic Resources Commission with the Planning
Commission, implementing application fees for historic properties, and eliminating
the Environmental and Transportation Advisory Committee and Parks, Recreation,
and Community Services Commission. She spoke in opposition to the Washington
Square land purchase for future park development and the Bristol-Wilshire
activations, and requested the one-time $3 million fund be used toward recurring
City costs.
Mayor Amezcua asked for information regarding animal shelter costs within the City
and expressed support for including additional veterinarian staff at the zoo to
provide spaying services as part of the next budget cycle.
Executive Director Trinidad explained the animal shelter costs.
Councilmember Lopez thanked staff for their work on the budget proposal, inquired
about proposed cuts to the park maintenance cycle and the elimination of the
navigation center contribution, and expressed opposition to park security cuts. She
requested a per-capita cost analysis regarding the use of efficient programs,
CITY COUNCIL 21 MAY 5, 2026
suggested reducing the printing of Cultura magazines to achieve cost savings, and
recommended identifying reductions across other City departments. She expressed
support for improvements along 98th Street and Jefferson Street, paramedic rate
alignment, TOT taxes, and funding projects that provide community benefits.
Acting Director Rosas explained the park maintenance cycle cuts.
Executive Director Trinidad explained the navigation center contribution
elimination.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez asked for clarification regarding requested department
cuts direction.
Councilmember Lopez clarified her request on department cuts.
Councilmember Penaloza spoke in support of the increase of TOT taxes, Willowick
Golf Course, investing in economic development throughout the City, spoke
regarding the Washington Square land purchase for future park development and
suggested land swapping to acquire the property, spoke in opposition to additional
dog parks being created, and inquired regarding a 7-Eleven gas station opening.
Planning and Building Director Ali Pezeshkpour explained the causes of delay on
the opening of the 7-Eleven gas station.
Councilmember Vazquez echoed Councilmember Penzaloza's comment regarding
investment in economic development, land swapping, TOT tax increases, and
spoke in support of no park security cuts, paramedic realignment, consolidating
boards and commissions, reducing the PAAL program to allow for other resources
to be added for the youth within the City, and spoke of opposition to furloughs,
however in support of defunding vacant positions.
City Manager Nunnez clarified all departments within the City are up for discussions
regarding furloughs.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in opposition to furloughing employees, however
would be supportive if there is an equitable approach across all departments and
suggesting meeting with labor groups to discuss regarding the budget, echoed
Councilmember Phan's comments regarding the PAAL program, spoke in support
of the Willowick Golf Course, the TOT tax increase, investing in a book kiosk at Pio
Pico Elementary, and investing into the Police Oversight Commission.
Councilmember Phan spoke on removing the Personnel Board and removing
subsidizing costs for the City.
Mayor Amezcua thanked staff on their work on the budget proposal.
CITY COUNCIL 22 MAY 5, 2026
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES:None.
COUNCILCOMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE — If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for
members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board
or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.
MINUTES: Councilmember Vazquez stated he is looking forward to upcoming summer
events and is hosting a workshop for the Neighborhood Association applications at
Southwest Senior Center on May 28, 2026.
Councilmember Lopez inquired regarding the Bowers Museum marquee activation,
thanked staff, Fisher Park Neighborhood Association, OC Habitats, and Orange County
Supervisor, Vicente Sarimento, for working with the county on the pass creek cleanup, staff
for the tree planting ceremony at Edna Park, recognized Teacher's Appreciation Week,
Indigenous Women's Month, and gave her condolences and spoke in memory of Matilde
de Santiago Reyna.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated the activation will be discussed at the next City Council
meeting during Closed Session.
Councilmember Phan spoke on the tree planting ceremony, Black April commemoration,
and wished everyone a Happy Mother's Day.
Councilmember Bacerra clarified his vote regarding Item No. 25 and thanked the City Clerk
and City Manager for their work; thanked staff and Public Works Water Division for their
help during the OC Marathon, and congratulated the Santa Ana College baseball team for
their victories during regionals.
Councilmember Hemandez requested the meeting to be adjoumed in memory of Matilde
de Santiago Reyna, gave his condolences regarding Jay Isaias Nieves Renteria and Briana
Ruvalcaba, and requested the adjournment of the meeting in memory to these three
individuals.
Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza spoke on advertising on digital billboards to bring in revenue to
the City, thanked the Public Works Department for their work along Wamer Street, wished
a Feliz Dia De Las Madres and Happy Mother's Day to his wife, and wished a Happy
Birthday to his council aide, Madisson,
MayorAmezcua spoke regarding the vacancies within Boards and Commissions, thanked
everyone who helped for the Dia Del Nino at George Upton Park, announced Coffee with
the Mayor at the Santa Ana Senior Center on May 16, 2026, wished everyone a Happy
Mother's Day, spoke regarding the recent shootings within the community, requested a
meeting to discuss related concerns, thanked the Police Chief, Santa Ana Police
Department, and the City Manager for their work in the community, and offered
CITY COUNCIL 23 MAY 5, 2026
condolences to the victims and families affected by the recent shootings.
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 11:06 P.M.
Respectfully submitted
nifer L. Il, C C
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 24 MAY 5, 2026