HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-19 Regular Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana, California
May 19, 2026
CLOSED SESSION MEETING - 5:00 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 5:04 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 19, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Phan, and Vazquez, Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza, and Mayor Amezcua
were present. Councilmembers Bacerra, Lopez, 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 consider the Closed Session items at 5:05 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. Santa Ana Short Term Rental Alliance v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County
Superior Court, Case No. 30-2024-014084861-CU-WM-WJC
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 — Initiation of Formal Complaint to California Public Utilities
Commission Regarding Southern California Edison
RECONVENE—City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to order at 5:59 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 2 MAY 19, 2026
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Pro Tem 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 Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Imam Hamza Abdalla
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced that Agenda Item Nos. 6 and 8 related
to the appointments to Boards and Commissions will be postponed.
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation presented by Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza Honoring and
Recognizing Sara Rita Ramos on Her 100th Birthday
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza presented a proclamation honoring and
recognizing Sara Rita Ramos on her 1001h birthday.
2. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Bacerra Declaring May 2026 as
Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra presented a proclamation declaring May 2026
as Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
CITY COUNCIL 3 MAY 19, 2026
3. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez to Voice of
Refugees OC for their Outstanding Support in Helping Refugee Families
Stabilize, Integrate, and Thrive
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented certificates of recognition to Voice of
Refugees OC for their outstanding support in helping refugee families stabilize,
integrate, and thrive.
4. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember Phan to Los Amigos
High School Students for Outstanding Academic Achievements
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan presented certificates of recognition to Los
Amigos High School Students for outstanding academic achievements.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT—The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported on Closed Session Agenda Item
No. 2 with respect to potential initiation of litigation, the City Council, by unanimous
vote, directed staff to pursue a formal complaint against Southern California Edison for
the many delays and costs that it has caused the City to incur due to its lack of action.
Mayor Amezcua reported an update regarding the Coach Royal Mobile Homes,
outlining the City's legal authority, status of petitions, assistance provided to tenants,
and expectations regarding conduct toward City staff.
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: one (1) Agenda Item No. 19, seven (7) Agenda Item No. 20, one (1) Agenda
Item No. 22, (28) Agenda Item No. 24, and (12) non-agenda comments.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to limit public speaking time to one minute,
seconded by Councilmember Lopez.
The motion carried, 4-3, by the following roil call vote
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 4-- 3 —Pass
CITY COUNCIL 4 MAY 19, 2026
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Pat Lenahan spoke in support of building a park in the Washington Square
Neighborhood.
2. Patricia Mendoza spoke on needing assistance on a client's building that went
bankrupt.
3. Jesus Gomez (translation: Spanish) requested assistance on the property she lost.
4. David Pulido presented early petition results regarding Noe Rodriguez and
requested justice.
5. Tomas Castro requested Council support bills to help with energy affordability for
working families.
6. Giovanni Chavez spoke in support of Agenda item Nos. 20 and 22 and spoke in
opposition to cuts to the Santa Ana Police Athletic and Activity League (PAAL)
program.
7. Ana Cruz (translation: Spanish) requested Council not cut funding for PAAL
programs.
8. Joey Figueroa spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program.
9. Lilia Fuentes requested Council not cut funding for PAAL programs.
10. Ginelle Hardy spoke regarding the Mills Act agreement program.
11.David Jirik spoke in support of building a park in the Washington Square
Neighborhood.
12.Jair L. spoke regarding ongoing concerns with Kingsley Corporation and requested
help from the city.
13.Jorge Rodriguez spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 20 and in support of the item.
14. Victor Romero spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 20 and in support of the item.
15.Abraham Q. (translation: Spanish) requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
16. Socorro Vargas spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program.
17.Diana Vargas Juarez spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program.
18.Autumn Overton spoke in opposition to the Flock contract and spoke in support of
Agenda item Nos. 20, 22, and 23.
CITY COUNCIL 5 MAY 19, 2026
19,Jesse Rodriguez requested the Youth Commission and the PAAL program not be
cut.
20.Santiago Orozco requested the Youth Commission and the PAAL program not be
cut.
21 .Miguel Martinez spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 20.
22.Bulmaro Vicente spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 20. 22, 23, and 24, requested
justice for Noe Rodriguez, and funding for the Police Oversight Commission.
23. Tanya Navarro spoke in support of Agenda item Nos. 20, 22, and 23, requested
justice for Noe Rodriguez, and requested the Flock contract be terminated.
24.Johanna P. spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 20, 22, and 23, requested justice
for Noe Rodriguez, and requested the Flock contract be terminated.
25.Karla Alvarado spoke regarding ongoing concerns with Kingsley Corporation and
requested help from the city.
26.Selica Diaz spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program and requested the
program not be cut.
27.Maria Enriquez spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program and requested
the program not be cut.
28.Sofia Gallegos spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program and requested the
program not be cut.
29.Rosie Arzola requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, her son Alberto Arzola,
Emmanuel Gonzales, Brandon Lopez, and all the fallen constituents.
30.Erika Armenta (translation: Spanish) requested justice for Noe Rodriquez.
31.Sandra DeAnda spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 20, 22, and 23.
32.Jose Perez spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 20,
33.Grace Arzola requested justice for Noe Rodriguez.
34.Matthew Compton spoke regarding the Coach Royal Mobile Homes and justice for
Noe Rodriguez.
35.Rain Mendoza (translation: Spanish) spoke of ongoing issues with Kingsley
Corporation and Coach Royal Mobile Homes.
36.Mihran Toumajan spoke in opposition to Agenda Item No. 20.
CITY COUNCIL 6 MAY 19, 2026
37.Joey L. spoke regarding ongoing issues with Kingsley Corporation.
38. Connie Major spoke in support of building a park in the Washington Square
Neighborhood and expressed concern regarding the lighting inside the elevator at
the Train Station.
39. Irma Jauregui spoke regarding the benefits of the PAAL program and requested the
program not be cut.
40.Dale Helvig spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 99 and spoke in opposition to Agenda
Item No. 20.
41. Mai Do spoke in support of Agenda Item Nos. 22 and 23.
42. Carl Benninger invited all to the Orange County Soccer game on May 23, 2026,
Comlink on June 25, 2026, spoke in opposition to Agenda item No. 20, requested
the PAAL program not be cut, and requested cameras along the Alton bike trail.
43.Kathia Canlas spoke regarding Agenda Item No. 20.
44.Diana T. spoke on ongoing issues with Kingsley Corporation and Coach Royal
Mobile Homes.
45. Vern Nelson spoke regarding the Coach Royal Mobile Homes and justice for Noe
Rodriguez.
46. Guadalupe Barragan (translation: Spanish) spoke on ongoing issues with Kingsley
Corporation and Coach Royal Mobile Homes.
47. Silvia Ayala (translation: Spanish) spoke on ongoing issues with Kingsley
Corporation and Coach Royal Mobile Homes.
48.Julie Herrick spoke on ongoing issues with Kingsley Corporation and Coach Royal
Mobile Homes and spoke in support of Agenda Item No. 23.
The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:
49.Pocha Pena spoke in support of cutting the PAAL program.
50. Victor Payan spoke regarding Agenda item No. 24,
51. Tim James spoke in opposition to Agenda Item No. 20.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho explained the City is actively addressing the Coach Royal
Mobile Homes matter through voter-adopted ordinances and processing filed petitions,
explained the City does not have legal authority to initiate civil action against private
entities and efforts to contact attorneys regarding potential civil litigation options, and
offered to meet with residents to discuss concerns and review information.
CITY COUNCIL 7 MAY 19, 2026
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 20 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES: At 8:01 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 17 as the listed entity, All
American Asphalt, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Councilmember Hernandez pulled Agenda Item No. 17 for separate discussion and
consideration
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza moved to approve Consent Calendar Item
Nos. 5 through 20 with the exception of Agenda Item No. 17 pulled for separate
discussion and consideration and Agenda Item Nos. 6 and 8 that were
postponed, 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
5. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6 REMOVED FROM CONSIDERATION
6. Appoint Rogelio Reyes Nominated by Councilmember Hernandez as the Ward
5 Representative to the Arts and Culture Commission for a Partial Term
Expiring December 12, 2028
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Rogelio Reyes to the Arts and Culture
Commission as the Ward 5 representative and administer the Oath of
Office. (Pursuant to SAMC Sec. 2-326(a), requires five affirmative votes)
CITY COUNCIL 8 MAY 19, 2026
7. Appoint Ben Salazar Nominated by Councilmember Lopez as the Ward 3
Representative to the Rental Housing Board for a Partial Term Expiring
December 31, 2027
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Ben Salazar to the Rental Housing Board as the
Ward 3 representative and administer the Oath of Office.
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall administered the Oath of Office to Ben
Salazar.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8 REMOVED FROM CONSIDERATION
8. Appoint Sailee Charlu Nominated by Councilmember Vazquez as the Ward 2
Representative to the Youth Commission for a Partial Term Expiring
December 8, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Sailee Charlu to the Youth Commission as the
Ward 2 representative and administer the Oath of Office. (Pursuant to SAMC Sec.
2-326(a), requires five affirmative votes)
9. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of the Planning Commission on January
27, 2025, February 10, 2025, February 24, 2025, March 6, 2025, March 10, 2025,
March 24, 2025, April 14, 2025, April 28, 2025, May 12, 2025, June 23, 2025,
July 14, 2025, July 28, 2025, August 11, 2025, August 25, 2025, September 8,
2025, September 22, 2025, October 13, 2025, October 27, 2025, November 10,
2025, December 8, 2025, February 9, 2026, February 23, 2026, March 9, 2026,
March 23, 2026, and April 13, 2026 and the Regular Meeting of the
Environmental and Transportation Advisory Commission on December 9,
2025
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
10.Report of Settlements up to $50,000 for General Liability Claims and up to
$150,000 for Worker's Compensation Claims Authorized by the City Manager,
City Attorney, and Human Resources Director as Permitted by City Council
Resolution 2018-04
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Receive and file Report of Settlements entered into
between January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026.
CITY COUNCIL 9 MAY 19, 2026
11.Quarterly Report of Investments as of March 31, 2026
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
12.Purchase Order Contract with Quadient, Inc. for Postage, Supplies, and
Shipping Parcels (Specification No. 26-061) (General Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Award a Purchase Order Contract to Quadient for
postage, supplies, and parcel shipping services in an amount of $375,000, for a
one-year term beginning May 19, 2026 and expiring May 18, 2027, with provisions
for four (4), one (1) year renewal options, in a total amount not to exceed
$1,575,000.
13.Purchase Order Contract to BorderLAN, Inc. for Computer Endpoint
Protection Software Subscription Renewal (Specification No. 26-056) (Non-
General Fund)
Department(s): Information Technology
Recommended Action: Authorize a Purchase Order Contract to BorderLAN, Inc.
for Endpoint Protection Software Subscription Renewal for a one-year term,
beginning June 2, 2026 and expiring June 1, 2027, in an amount not to exceed
$62,872 (Agreement No. A-2026-073).
14.Amend the Purchase Order to River View Golf Course, LLC for Existing River
View Golf Course Equipment in Connection with the River View Golf Course
Management Transition (General Fund)
Department(s): Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Recommended Action: Authorize an amendment of the Purchase Order to River
View Golf Course, LLC to increase the not to exceed amount by $14,322 for the
sales tax associated with the purchase of the existing River View Golf Course
equipment for a total of $169,147.
15.Purchase Order Contract to CDCE, Inc. for Computer Tablets for Police
Motorcycles (Specification No. 26-006) (General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize a Purchase Order to CDCE, Inc. for a Mobile
Data Computer refresh for police motorcycles in an amount not to exceed $208,390.
CITY COUNCIL 10 MAY 19, 2026
16.First Amendment to the Conditional Grant Agreement with Illumination Health
+ Home (formerly Illumination Foundation) for the Richard Lehn
Intergenerational Housing Project to Amend Disbursement Provisions for
Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program Funds (Non-General
Fund)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment
to the Conditional Grant Agreement with Illumination Health + Home (Formerly
Illumination Foundation) to amend certain disbursement provisions related to the
Richard Lehn Intergenerational Housing Project located at 918 North Bewley Street
and allow expenditure of remaining Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention
Program funds prior to the State of California's expenditure deadline (Agreement
No. A-2026-074).
AGENDA ITEM NO. 17 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
17.Award a Construction Contract to All American Asphalt for the Construction
of the Raitt Street Improvements Project (Project Nos. 23-6998, 19-6947, 26-
6716) (General Fund and Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing Active Transportation
Program (ATP) grant funding in the amount of $4,610,000 into the Active
Transportation Program, State Grant-Direct revenue account(14817002-52025)
and appropriate the same amount into the Active Transportation Program,
Improvements Other Than Building expenditure account (14817613-
66220). (Requires five affirmative votes)
2. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement
Program to include an additional $4,610,000 in construction funds for the Raitt
Street Improvements Project (Nos. 23-6998, 19-6947, 26-6716).
3. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost
of $9,810,624, which includes $7,848,499 for the construction contract,
$1,177,275 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $784,850 for
unanticipated or unforeseen work.
4. Award a construction contract to All American Asphalt, the lowest responsible
bidder, in accordance with the base bid and bid alternates in the amount of
$7,848,499, subject to change orders, for construction of the Raitt Street
Improvements Project (Nos. 23-6998, 19-6947, 26-6716), for a term beginning
May 19, 2026 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.
CITY COUNCIL 11 MAY 19, 2026
5. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption
Environmental Review No. ER-2023-2, ER-2020-35, and ER-2026-29 will be
filed for Project Nos. 23-6998, 19-6947, and 26-6716, respectively.
MINUTES: At 8:02 P.M. Councilmember Phan left the dais due to her recusal
from Item No. 17.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in support of the item.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item No. 17, seconded by Mayor Amezcua.
The motion carried, 6-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM
PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6 — 0— 1 — Pass
18.Award a Construction Contract to Hardy & Harper, Inc. for the Construction
of the McFadden Avenue Rehabilitation Project from Flower Street to Grand
Avenue (Project No. 23-6706) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $2,118,510 in prior-year fund
balance in the Residential Street Improvements, Prior Year Carry Forward
revenue account and appropriate the same amount into the Residential Street
Improvements, Improvements Other Than Buildings, expenditure
account. (Requires five affirmative votes)
2. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Improvement
Program to include an additional $2,118,510 in construction funds for the
McFadden Avenue Rehabilitation Project (No. 23-6706).
3. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost
of $2,118,510, which includes $1,692,100 for the construction contract,
$257,200 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $169,210 for
unanticipated or unforeseen work.
4. Award a construction contract to Hardy & Harper, Inc., the lowest responsible
bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of$1,692,100, subject to
CITY COUNCIL 12 MAY 19, 2026
change orders, for construction of the McFadden Avenue Rehabilitation Project
(No. 23-6706), for a term beginning May 19, 2026 and authorize the City
Manager to execute the contract.
5. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended actions are exempt from further review, Categorical Exemption
Environmental Review No. ER-2026-30 will be filed for Project No. 23-6706.
19.Resolution Accepting Grant Funding from the California State Coastal
Conservancy for Santiago Park Trail and Habitat Improvements Project
(Project No. 24-6601) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution accepting grant funds from the State
Coastal Conservancy for the Santiago Park Trail and Habitat Improvements Project
in the amount of $2,925,000.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-015 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING THE GRANT OF FUNDS
FROM THE STATE COASTAL CONSERVANCY FOR THE SANTIAGO PARK
TRAIL AND HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
20.Second Reading of an Ordinance Establishing Staffing and Operational
Standards for Self-Service Checkout Stations in Drug and Food Retail
Establishments
First reading on May 5, 2026 City Council Meeting and approved by a vote of 7-0.
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Conduct a second reading and 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
2. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from further environmental analysis
under Section 15301 (Class 1 — Existing Facilities) of the CEQA Guidelines. The
regulations contained in this Ordinance apply to existing retail establishments
and their operations within, not resulting in any expansion of the facilities or any
intensification of environmental impacts. Any new retail establishments subject
to this Ordinance will be evaluated for environmental impacts pursuant to CEQA
CITY COUNCIL 13 MAY 19, 2026
as individual applications are submitted to the City for review and consideration.
A notice of exemption will be filed for this Project.
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
RECESS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting at 8.06 P.M.
RECONVENE
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council meeting to order at 8:17
P.M. with all Councilmembers present.
PUBLIC HEARING
MINUTES: At 8:17 P.M., the Public Hearing was considered.
21.Public Hearing - Resolutions Approving the 2025 Urban Water Management
Plan and the 2025 Water Shortage Contingency Plan
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on May 4, 2026 and May 11, 2026.
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt a resolution approving the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-016 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ADOPTING THE 2025 URBAN
WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
2. Adopt a resolution approving the 2025 Water Shortage Contingency Plan
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-017 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA ADOPTING THE 2025 WATER
SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN FOR THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 8:18 P.M.
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced there were no email comments received
and no speakers.
Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 8:18 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL 14 MAY 19, 2026
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended
action for Public Hearing Item No. 21, seconded by Councilmerber Vazquez.
The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER
HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER VAZQUEZ,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA
Status: 6— 0 — 0 — 1 Pass
**END OF PUBLIC HEARING**
COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEM
22.Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Reaffirm Santa Ana Police
Department Policy and to Prepare an Ordinance to Codify the Prohibition of
Immigration Related Secondary Employment- Mayor Valerie Amezcua and
Councilmember Phil Bacerra
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua gave a brief presentation regarding Santa Ana
Police Department (SAPD) policy and requested staff prepare an ordinance to
codify the prohibition of immigration related secondary employment, inquired
regarding SAPD training, outside employment processes, and whether
immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are California POST-
certified.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed concerns regarding reduced ICE training
standards and supported codifying restrictions prohibiting officers from engaging
in secondary employment related to immigration enforcement to maintain
community trust and accountability.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez explained the training for SAPD, outside
employment process, and ICE agents not being California POST-certified.
Councilmember Vazquez spoke in support of item.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item and suggested expanding
the ordinance to include private contractors, subcontractors, volunteers,
reserves, and all city employees, while adding enforcement provisions and
closing potential loopholes to strengthen protections and accountability.
Councilmember Hernandez expressed support for the item.
CITY COUNCIL 15 MAY 19, 2026
Councilmember Bacerra requested simple and broad ordinance language
covering immigration enforcement activities to maintain community trust.
Councilmember Phan expressed support for the item.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza spoke in support of the item and requested clear
definitions and language to ensure the ordinance is narrowly tailored and does
not unintentionally restrict employment opportunities with unrelated federal
agencies when the item is brought back.
Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding SAPD's involvement with FBI and ICE
involvement.
Police Chief Rodriguez explained SAPD sometimes works with the FBI and not
ICE.
23.Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk to
Draft a Resolution Expressing the City of Santa Ana's Support for Assembly Bill 1537
(Bryan), the No Side Jobs for ICE Act, Which Would Close a Loophole in State Law
by Prohibiting California Law Enforcement Officers from Working Secondary
Employment with Federal Immigration Enforcement Agencies or Private Entities
Engaged in Immigration Enforcement — Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez and
Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
MINUTES: Councilmember Vazquez gave a brief presentation regarding drafting
a resolution expressing the City's support for Assembly Bill 1537 (Bryan), the No
Side Jobs for iCE Act, which would close a loophole in state law by prohibiting
California law enforcement officers from working secondary employment with
federal immigration enforcement agencies or private entities engaged in
immigration enforcement.
Mayor Amezcua inquired about the Santa Ana Police Department's (SAPD)
uniform colors.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez explained how SAPD's uniforms differ in color
and appearance from those of other agencies, such as border patrol and county
officers, which helps distinguish departments and identify personnel roles.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed support for the bill, however suggested
proposing amendments to ensure there is no interference with officers serving
in military reserve duties.
Councilmember Hernandez spoke in support of the item.
Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza echoed Councilmember Bacerra's comments.
Councilmember Phan spoke in support of the item.
Councilmember Lopez spoke in support of the item.
CITY COUNCIL 16 MAY 19, 2026
RECESS
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed the City Council meeting and convened the
Housing meeting at $:46 P.M.
RECONVENE
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the Housing Authority meeting and
reconvened the City Council meeting to order at 8:47 P.M.
WORK STUDY SESSION
24.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 Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget.
Councilmember Bacerra inquired regarding the Washington Square land,
expressed support for a park in Washington Square but raised concerns about
proceeding with a $4 million purchase without further analysis, and suggested
exploring alternatives such as land swaps orphased acquisition. He emphasized
the need to evaluate funding priorities citywide, including tourism, sidewalk
maintenance, and parking enforcement and proposed reallocating funds within
Option 2 from supporting pension contributions, to augmenting parking
enforcement services and interim improvements for park-related sites.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez explained staff has initiated outreach to property
owners and completed a preliminary cost and zoning review of the park site in
response to Council direction and feasibility is under evaluation regarding the
Washington Square land.
Councilmember Vazquez spoke in support of budget balancing measures
including fee adjustments, elimination of vacant positions, dissolution of non-
mandated commissions, and reducing the PAAL program due to cost concerns
and efficiency comparisons. He expressed support for exploring a Washington
Square park but emphasized the need for a strong, well-developed plan, and
requested additional consideration of infrastructure needs, including drainage
and neighborhood lighting improvements.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza expressed concerns with the hotel feasibility study,
expressed support for prioritizing Washington Square park, and outlined
alternative options including city-owned land on Bristol Street, joint-use
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agreements with nearby schools, potential land swaps, and proposed budget
measures. He suggested exploring additional funding sources, including cell
tower revenues, and emphasized the importance of securing park land before
development opportunities are lost.
City Manager Nunez explained the hotel feasibility study.
Mayor Amezcua thanked staff for their work on the proposed budget. She
expressed support for Washington Square Park (Option 1) and revisiting Option
2 in the future, requested additional information regarding affordable housing
options, inquired regarding the PAAL program costs, spoke in opposition of
cutting parking validations for City Council meetings, and suggested working with
school districts to look into different youth options.
Assistant City Manager Kathryn Downs explained the PAAL program cost
savings.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked staff for their work on the proposed budget
and expressed support for increasing stadium usage fees, dissolving non-
mandated boards and commissions, expanding youth services, Washington
Square Park (Option 1), sidewalk maintenance, Fairview Street rehabilitation,
and installation of a book kiosk at Pio Pico Elementary. He echoed comments
regarding Option 2 and requested reinstatement of bollards on Louise Street and
Civic Center following completion of construction.
Councilmember Phan spoke on cutting the PAAL program, in opposition to
Washington Square Park (Option 1) and inquired regarding funds being cut that
are being suggested to acquire Washington Square Park as an option, and spoke
in support of Option 2.
Director Trinidad and Assistant City Manager Downs explained where funds
were being allocated from in order to support Washington Square Park (Option
1).
Mayor Amezcua requested continued SAPD involvement if the PAAL program is
reduced or eliminated in order to maintain community engagement and build
trust within the community and spoke in opposition to cutting youth programs.
City Manager Nunez explained funding options regarding Washington Square
Park.
Councilmember Vazquez spoke on SAPD mentorship within the youth in the
community, requested bringing back information of all suggested options in order
to acquire funding for the Washington Square Park project, and in support of the
Pia Pico Elementary book kiosk.
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Councilmember Lopez acknowledged staffs efforts in developing the proposed
budget to avoid furloughs and requested additional information regarding
impacted vacant and part-time positions, and expressed support for dissolving
non-mandated boards and commissions, while requesting consideration for
retaining the Arts and Culture Commission. She encouraged continued
collaboration between staff and the community on budget recommendations and
voiced support for infrastructure improvement projects.
Director Trinidad and Assistant City Manager Downs explained the positions
impacted by the proposed budget.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE — If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for
members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board
or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza thanked staff and City departments on their work for
the proposed budget and suggested looking into the Council's budget to contribute rather
than cutting the PAAL program, spoke on continued efforts correlated with the budget, and
requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and
Nader Awad.
Councilmember Vazquez congratulated the Zoo and Parks and Recreation Department on
the success of the Brew at the Zoo event and acknowledged his aide, Karina, for her work.
He announced the upcoming OC Soccer Club event on May 23, 2026 and his
Neighborhood Associations workshop on May 28, 2026, and congratulated local high
school graduates, his nephew Noah, and former student Carolina Molina on earning their
master's degrees, and spoke on justice for Noe Rodriguez.
Councilmember Lopez spoke on ongoing work related to the Orange County Housing
Finance Trust and thanked staff for their efforts. She recognized Memorial Day and those
impacted by it, acknowledged the Class of 2026, offered condolences for those affected by
the San Diego incident and emphasized the importance of community safety, particularly
for those celebrating Eid, and invited the community to attend the LGBTQ Pride flag raising
on May 22, 2026.
Councilmember Phan acknowledged her council aides, Jazly and Amanda, on their work,
recognized the success of Brew at the Zoo, and thanked staff for their hard work.
Councilmember Bacerra announced travel to the SCAG Regional Conference on May 7
8, 2026, was City-funded and thanked staff for their work on the budget. He announced the
Santa Ana College baseball championship game on May 23, 2026, celebrated the
activation of the traffic signal at Segerstrom and Spruce Street, and honored military
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personnel in recognition of Memorial Day.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked staff for their work on the proposed budget,
emphasized respectful and civil public discourse despite disagreements, invited the
community to the LGBTQ Pride flag raising on May 22, 2026 and the Chinatown Memorial
on May 23, 2026, and thanked Councilmember Phan for her collaboration on the memorial.
Mayor Amezcua announced the Memorial Day flag raising ceremony on May 24, 2026,
congratulated the Class of 2026, requested a meeting with staff regarding E-bike and
pocket bike ordinance issues, expressed concerns regarding the proposed Workforce Re-
entry Center in the City, and requested a meeting with Supervisor Sarmiento and staff to
discuss the matter.
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting.
MINUTES: MayorAmezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 10:47 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
H 1 , MC
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 20 MAY 19, 2026