HomeMy WebLinkAboutCorrespondence - Item 20 Becerra, Alexis
From: Alan Hess <
Sent: Friday, June 19, 2026 2:07 PM
To: eComment
Subject: re: letter in support of retaining Historic Resources Commission
Attachments: Hist Resources Commission.Santa Ana.POC Iet.26.06.13..pdf
Attention:This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Alan Hess
Board Chair
Preserve Orange County
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g] PRESERVE
ORANGE COUNTY
June 13, 2026
Mayor Amezcua and City Council
Santa Ana City Hall
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
re: Historic Resources Commission, Santa Ana
Dear Mayor Amezcua:
Preserve Orange County strongly supports continuing Santa Ana's Historic Resources
Commission as a separate commission. Of all Orange County cities, Santa Ana
understands and benefits from the value of its historic architectural heritage. The old
Courthouse and many other buildings give Santa Ana an appealing character that
attracts residents and tourists. Historic neighborhoods like Floral Park are among the
most distinctive and sought-after in the County.
Identifying and consistently advocating for these historic buildings and districts requires
a specific commission with the focus and the knowledge to understand the many
potential threats to their existence. The HRC has the historic knowledge to be able to
understand and communicate why they are important to the welfare of the city.
The Commission's purview and duties would be diluted if their role were to be combined
with the Planning commission. Its commissioners' specific knowledge and attention is
needed for Santa Ana to continue to protect and take advantage of its valuable historic
legacy. That requires steady and well informed attention.
Preserve Orange county is a county-wide organization promoting conservation of our
county's architectural and cultural heritage. Santa Ana's history is an important
component of our County's character that underpins our economic vitality as well as
livability. This character is easily lost if not actively and consistently monitored.
POC's interactions over the years with the Historic Resources Commission have shown
the HRC's effectiveness many times.
We urge the Council to continue the Historic Resources Commission as a separate city
commission. If the Council decides to combine its work with the Planning Commission,
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Preserve Orange County 615 N. Bush Street, #145 Santa Ana, California 92702
www.preserveoranciecounty.org info @preserveoc.org
however, we urge you to expand the Planning Commission with members specifically
knowledgable about historic resources and protections.
Sincerely,
Alan Hess
Board Chair
Preserve Orange County
2
Preserve Orange County 615 N. Bush Street, #145 Santa Ana, California 92702
www.preserveorangecounty.orq infoCo_preserveoc.orq