HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-07-21 Regular Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana, California
,
July 21 , 2026
CLOSED SESSION MEETING — 4:30 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 4:41 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Council Members 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
CITY COUNCIL 1 JULY 21, 2026
ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.
Councilmembers Hernandez, Lopez, Phan, and Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were
present Councilmember Bacerra and Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza joined during Closed
Session.
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES. City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall noted for the record that a clerical correction was
made and posted for Closed Session Item No. 2 to more accurately reflect that both the
full-time and part-time units are part of the item.
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: MayorAmezcue recessed to consider the Closed Session items at 4:42 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. Anthony Cardenas v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court
Case No. 30-2022-01293127
B. John Kachirisky v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case
No. 30-2023-01348299
C. Nelson Menendez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court
Case No. 30-2023-01339637
D. Manuel Moreno v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case
No. 30-2024-0137127
2. 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)
CITY COUNCIL 2 JULY 21, 2026
2. Service 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 6:19 P.M.
ATTENDANCE Councilmembers Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Pro Tern David Penaloza
Mayor Valeria 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 Jennifer Wang
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Chaplain Daniel Park
ADDITIONSIDELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: None.
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificates of Recognition presented by Mayor Amezcua to Jaime Velasco of
Mazapan de la Rosa for Outstanding Contributions to the Community
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua presented a certificate of recognition to Jaime Velasco
of Mazapan de la Rosa for outstanding contributions to the community.
CITY COUNCIL 3 JULY 21, 2026
2. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez to the
student participants of the 2026 Lay's World Cup Soccer Tournament for
Outstanding Teamwork and Community Pride
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented certificates of recognition to the
student participants of the 2026 Lay's World Cup Soccer Tournament for
outstanding teamwork and community pride.
3. Certificates of Recognition presented by Councilmember Phan to M&Ocean
Youth Crossover Band from Taiwan for Outstanding Contributions to the
Community
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan presented certificates of recognition to M&Ocean
Youth Crossover Band from Taiwan for outstanding contributions to the community.
The M&Ocean Youth Crossover Band performed two songs and presented gifts to
the City Council.
4. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Hernandez to Deborah Burke and
Tiesha Hutchins-Utai recognizing July 12, 2026, as 714 Unity Day: Black and
Brown in the OC
MINUTES: Councilmember Hernandez presented a proclamation to Deborah Burke
and Tiesha Hutchins-Utai recognizing July 12, 2026, as 714 Unity Day. Black and
Brown in the OC.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT-The City Attorney will report on any action(s)from Closed
Session.
MINUTES: None.
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. 10, eight(8) Agenda Item No. 19, and six (6) non-
agenda comments.
The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:
1. Debra Vodhanel, Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, thanked the Council
for funding their programs and spoke regarding future arts shows.
2. Kim Forton spoke regarding her work with the City's southeastern communities
related to environmental problems, injustices, and policies.
CITY COUNCIL 4 JULY 21, 2026
3. Nina Jirik asked for an update regarding the status of negotiations with the property
owner, efforts to secure the remaining funding needed to purchase the property, and
guidance on how residents can assist in advocating for those additional funds related
to Washington Square Park
4. Yezenia Marrufo (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the
comprehensive zoning code and the lack of participation and community
engagement.
5. Maria Marin (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding the comprehensive
zoning code related to the Community Corner Village.
6. Elizabeth Cabanas (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding illegal
parking and the lack of street sweeping in her neighborhood.
7. Martha Molina expressed concern regarding the proposed Reentry Center in the
City.
8. Teodora M. (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding housing conditions,
encouraged increased City inspections of rental properties, highlighted community
resource fairs, and advocated for safe and well-maintained housing for residents.
9. Clemencia Zarco (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding new
management, rent, and living conditions at her apartment complex and requested
assistance to address these concerns.
10.Carl Benninger spoke in opposition to the proposed Reentry Center in the City.
11.Desi Reyes spoke in opposition to the proposed Reentry Center in the City.
12. Victor Mendez spoke in opposition to the proposed Reentry Center in the City,
suggested Irvine Regional Park as an alternate location, and spoke regarding
communication on transparency related to Measure X.
13.Susan Hurtado (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding her living
conditions at her apartment complex and requested assistance to address these
concerns with management.
14.Martha Garcia (translation: Spanish) expressed concern regarding a resident's living
conditions at their apartment complex and requested assistance to address these
concerns with management
The following speaker addressed City Council via teleconference:
15.Dale Helvig thanked the City and County for being proactive on Agenda Item No. 90
related to RHNA numbers and spoke in opposition to the proposed Reentry Center
in the City.
CITY COUNCIL 5 JULY 21, 2026
CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following
Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 18 and waive reading of all resolutions and
ordinances.
MINUTES:At 8:01 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.
Councilmember Bacerra recused himself from Agenda Item No. 12 due to a campaign
contribution and abundance of caution and pulled Agenda Item Nos. 9 and 15.
Councilmember Hernandez pulled Agenda Item No. 18.
Councilmember Phan recused herself from Agenda Item No. 14 as the listed entity,
Kleinfelder Inc., is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza pulled Agenda Item No. 11.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5
through 18 with the exception of Agenda Item Nos. 9, 11, 15, and 18 pulled for
separate discussion and consideration, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
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.
6. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of July 7, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.
CITY COUNCIL 6 JULY 21, 2026
7. Appoint Jacqueline Guzman Nominated by Councilmember Vazquez as the
Ward 2 Representative to the Planning Commission for a Partial Term
Expiring December 8, 2026
Department(s): City Clerk's Office
Recommended Action: Appoint Jacqueline Guzman to the Planning Commission
as the Ward 2 representative and administer the Oath of Office. (Pursuant to SAMC
Sec. 2-236(a), requires five affirmative votes)
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall administered the oath of office to Jacqueline
Guzman.
8. Appoint Member to the Workforce Development Board
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Appoint Alex Zamora (replacing Robert Ruiz) to the
Workforce Development Board, representing Labor (Laborers International Union
of North America (LIUNA)) as nominated by the Orange County Labor Federation,
for a four-year term expiring May 31, 2030.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
9. Comprehensive Zoning Code Update Public Communications and
Engagement
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file a comprehensive zoning code update
public communications and engagement briefing.
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra spoke regarding residents' concerns related
to environmental justice and the purpose of the zoning code update, and requested
an update on what staff has done regarding the comprehensive zoning code
update public communications and engagement.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez explained that presenting the item as a draft provides
transparency, increases public awareness, and allows for public outreach prior to
any future legislative action.
Planning and Building Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour explained the proposed
zoning code update is intended to implement General Plan land use policies,
streamline regulations, address compatibility between industrial and residential
uses, and improve development standards. He summarized the City's public
outreach efforts, noted opportunities for continued public participation through
future study sessions and hearings, and stated additional community meetings
would be available upon request.
CITY COUNCIL 7 JULY 21, 2026
Councilmember Lopez clarified the item is information only and stated additional
opportunities for public input would be provided before the proposed zoning
code update is considered for adoption.
Mayor Amezcua thanked staff for their outreach efforts and recognized the
achievement of approximately 800,000 community touchpoints related to the
proposed zoning code update.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item No. 9, seconded by Mayor Annezcua.
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
10.Proposed City Response to Orange County Grand Jury Report Titled
"California Housing Mandates: The Unintended Reshaping of Orange County
Neighborhoods"
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Approve the proposed City response to the Orange
County Grand Jury report titled "California Housing Mandates: The Unintended
Reshaping of Orange County Neighborhoods" and authorize the City Manager to
deliver the City's response to the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 11 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
11.Status Report on the Identification and Historic Evaluation of Public
Artworks by Emigdio Vasquez and Sergio O'Cadiz Moctezuma
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file this report.
MINUTES, Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza asked for clarification regarding the selection
of the two artists and plans for murals within private properties.
CITY COUNCIL 8 JULY 21, 2026
City Manager Alvaro Nunez clarified the selection of the two artists due to
specific plan requirements and spoke regarding the consistency and objectives
when selecting artists.
Planning and Building Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour explained the process
related to murals on private properties.
Councilmember Lopez thanked City staff for identifying the 12 properties,
requested prioritization of Chicano Gothic at Memorial Park and concrete relief
mural at City Nall, and spoke in support of the item.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza moved to approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item No. 11, seconded by Councilmember Lopez.
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
12.Certification of Approval by City Engineer of the Final Tract Map No. 2025-
01, County Tract Map No. 19337 at 2020 East First Street(Applicant: Meritage
Homes of California, Inc., a California Corporation)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file the certification of approval by City
Engineer of the Final Tract Map 2025-01, County Tract Map No. 19337 at 2020
East First Street.
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 12 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by
Councilmember Hernandez.
The motion carried, 6-0-1, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER
LOPEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, COUNCILMEMBER
VAZQUEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA, MAYOR
AMEZCUA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER BACERA (recusal)
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6—0— 1 —Pass
CITY COUNCIL 9 JULY 21, 2026
13.Agreement with PSI Water Technologies, Inc. for Sodium Hypochlorite
Generation, Maintenance, and Equipment (Specification No. 26-049) (Non-
General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Managerto execute an agreementwith
PSI Water Technologies, Inc. to provide sodium hypochlorite generation,
maintenance, and equipment in an amount beginning July 21, 2026, and expiring
July 20, 2027, with an estimated annual budget of $500,000 with provisions for
four, one-year extensions, in a total amount not to exceed $2,500,000 (Agreement
No. A-2026-100).
14.Agreements with AESCO, Inc., Kleinfelder Inc., Koury Engineering &Testing,
Inc., and Twining, Inc. for Construction Materials Testing and Special
Inspection Services (General Fund & Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute federally procured agreements with
AESCO, Inc., Kleinfelder Inc., Koury Engineering & Testing, Inc., and Twining,
Inc. to provide on-call materials testing and special inspections services for a
shared annual amount of $800,000, for a term beginning July 21, 2026 and
expiring July 20, 2027, with provisions for four, one-year extensions in a total
aggregate amount not to exceed $4,000,000 (Agreement No. A-2026-101).
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with AESCO, Inc.,
Kleinfelder Inc., Koury Engineering &Testing, Inc., and Twining, Inc. to provide
on-call materials testing and special inspections services for shared annual
amount of $800,000, for a term beginning July 21, 2026 and expiring July 20,
2027, with provisions for four, one-year extensions in a total aggregate amount
not to exceed $4,000,000 (Agreement No. A-2026-102).
MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for
Agenda Item No. 14 as part of the Consent Calendar, seconded by
Councilmember Hernandez.
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
CITY COUNCIL 10 JULY 21, 2026
AGENDA ITEM NO. 15 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
IS.Approve Designated Subrecipient Agreement with California Department of
Transportation to Receive RAISE Grant Funds for the Santa Ana Boulevard
Grade Separation Project (No. 26-6718) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Designated
Subrecipient Agreement with California Department of Transportation to receive
RAISE grant funds, in the amount of $25,000,000, for the Santa Ana Boulevard
Grade Separation Project (Agreement No. A-2026-103).
MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra stated the City was awarded $25 million
through a grant program, spoke in support of the item, and thanked the City's
lobbyist in D.C.
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item-No. 15, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.
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
16.Agreements with Independent Cities Risk Management Authority (ICRMA)
and Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services, LLC, Appropriation
Adjustment of $695,820, and Associated Insurance Premiums, Costs,
Programs, and Regulatory Fees for Total Estimated Payments of$14,837,440
(Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement between the City of
Santa Ana ("City") and Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services, LLC,
broker of record from September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2029, for insurance
brokerage services (Agreement Nos. A-2026-104).
CITY COUNCIL 11 JUL.Y 21, 2026
2. Authorize the City Manager to approve payment of insurance premiums and
associated programs to ICRMA in an amount not to exceed $10,659,925 for
the protection of City assets from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 including
but not limited to:
a. Excess Liability Program
b. Excess Workers' Compensation Program
c. Auto Physical Damage Program
d. Property and Equipment Program
e. Crime Program
f. Cyber Program
g. Associated Programs
3. Authorize the City Manager to approve payment of insurance premiums to
Arthur J. Gallagher, Broker, in an amount not to exceed $3,677,515 for ancillary
coverages of City's assets from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 including but not
limited to:
a. General Liability Buffer Program
b. Workers' Compensation Buffer Program
c. Earth Movement & Flood and Difference in Coverage (DIC) Program
d. Terrorism Insurance Program
e. Underground Storage Tank and Environmental Program
f. General Liability and Excess Liability Program
4. Authorize the City Manager to approve the City's obligation to pay the State of
California DIR estimated assessment in an amount not to exceed $500,000.
5. Approve an Appropriation Adjustment of $585,164 in the General Liability
internal service fund (account No. 08009051-64010) using fund
balance. (Requires five affirmative votes)
6. Approve an Appropriation Adjustment of $110,656 in the Workers
Compensation internal service fund (account No. 08209054-64010) using fund
balance. (Requires five affirmative votes)
17.Purchase Order to Convergint Technologies LLC for Milestone Camera
Software License (Specification No. 26-081) (General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize a Purchase Order to Convergint Technologies
LLC for Milestone Camera Software License for a five-year period from July 21,
2026 through July 20, 2031, in an amount not to exceed $158,957.
CITY COUNCIL 12 JULY 21, 2026
AGENDA ITEM NO. 18 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND
CONSIDERATION
18.Santa Ana Police Department's Annual Military Equipment Use Report for
2026-26
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:
1. Receive and file the Santa Ana Police Department's Annual Military Equipment
Use report for 2025-26.
2. Review and affirm Santa Ana City Ordinance NS-3020. _
MINUTES: Councilmember Hernandez expressed concern regarding the use of
military equipment by law enforcement, referenced prior discussions related to
Assembly Bill 481, and inquired regarding incidents involving the deployment of
military equipment, including whether any were associated with protests.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez responded that seven reported incidents
involved civil unrest, explained that military equipment is deployed based on
specific public safety threats, and confirmed there was one pending litigation
matter related to the reported use of the equipment during the reporting period.
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to not approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item No. 18, seconded by Councilmember Vazquez.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the
recommended action for Agenda Item No. 18, seconded by Councilmember
Bacerra.
Mayor Amezcua asked questions regarding the annual military equipment use
report, public outreach, prior reporting requirements, and the Police Department's
use of military equipment. She thanked staff for their efforts and expressed support
for the report.
Police Chief Rodriguez responded to questions regarding the timing of the
report, deployment practices, officer-involved shooting trends, and the
department's use of military equipment.
Commander Matthew Sorenson explained the purpose and deployment of military
equipment, provided examples of its use during tactical incidents, discussed
community outreach efforts, and confirmed recommendations from the Police
Oversight Commission were incorporated into the Department's military equipment
policy.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho clarified the outcome of prior litigation involving the
City and Anaheim Police Department.
CITY COUNCIL 13 JULY 21, 2026
City Manager Alvaro Nunez confirmed the report was reviewed through the City's
agenda review process and noted the military equipment policy had also been
presented to the Police Oversight Commission.
Councilmember Bacerra expressed support for the annual military equipment use
report, emphasized the importance of transparency and public safety, thanked the
Police Department staff for their community outreach efforts, and expressed
support for the item.
Councilmember Lopez acknowledged the department's compliance with state
reporting requirements, encouraged public review of the report, suggested offering
a virtual option for future community meetings, and recognized the department's
decision not to participate in the federal surplus equipment program.
Councilmember Phan expressed support for providing virtual access to future
community meetings, suggested including additional information in future military
equipment reports regarding deployments and equipment use, encouraged
proactive public communication regarding the department's drone program,
emphasized the importance of transparency and de-escalation, and expressed
support for the item.
Councilmember Lopez expressed condolences to Councilmember Hernandez and
his family regarding the loss of his cousin.
Mayor Amezcua spoke in support of a separate report for drones.
Councilmember Vazquez thanked the Police Department for its efforts, suggested
evaluating military equipment through the Police Oversight Commission, and
emphasized prioritizing resources for community safety, children, and families.
Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza thanked staff for the report and spoke in support of a
separate report for drones and cost savings.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the
recommended action for Agenda Item No. 18, seconded by Councilmember
Bacerra.
The substitute motion carried, 5-2, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM PENALOZA,
MAYOR AMEZCUA
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER
VAZQUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5—2 — Pass
CITY COUNCIL 14 JULY 21, 2026
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR"
BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES:At 9:05 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.
19.Direction Regarding the Proposed Orange County Coordinated Reentry
Center at the Former Youth Guidance Center Site in Santa Ana
Department(s): City Manager's Office
Recommended Action:
1. Direct the City Manager to draft a resolution formally opposing the proposed
Orange County Coordinated Reentry Center at the former Youth Guidance
Center site located in the City of Santa Ana.
2. Direct the City Manager to communicate the City's opposition to the Orange
County Board of Supervisors, Orange County Executive Officer, and other
appropriate agencies, and to advocate for the identification and evaluation of
alternative locations elsewhere in Orange County.
3. Direct the City Attorney to evaluate and report to the City Council regarding any
legal remedies available to the City related to the proposed project, including,
but not limited to, applicable land use regulations, procedural requirements, and
any other potential legal or administrative actions.
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua expressed opposition to the proposed Orange County
Coordinated Reentry Center in Santa Ana, discussed concerns regarding the
County's planning and communication process, summarized the proposed project,
and proposed directing the City Manager and City Attorney to pursue actions
opposing the project and evaluate potential legal remedies.
Councilmember Lopez expressed support for reentry services and reducing
recidivism, raised concerns regarding the County's selection of the proposed
Santa Ana site without City consultation, expressed support for the resolution,
and requested City representation on the County committee involved in the
project.
Police Chief Robert Rodriguez stated his appointment to the County committee
occurred as part of a restructuring of the County Chiefs group and that he
volunteered to serve on additional committees, including the committee in
question.
Councilmember Bacerra thanked the Mayor and community members for
bringing attention to the proposed reentry center, expressed opposition to
locating the facility in Santa Ana, encouraged consideration of alternative
locations, emphasized the importance of community engagement, expressed
support for evaluating legal options, and supported the resolution.
CITY COUNCIL 15 JULY 21, 2026
Councilmember Phan discussed correspondence regarding the proposed
reentry center, emphasized the importance of ensuring the City is included in
County planning and decision-making, encouraged continued dialogue with the
County, and supported evaluating all available legal and environmental review
processes related to the proposed project.
City Manager Alvaro Nunez stated elected representatives serving Santa Ana
were aligned in opposing the proposed reentry center in the City and indicated
this position would be reflected in the proposed resolution.
Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza thanked the Mayor and staff for bringing the item
forward, expressed opposition to locating the proposed reentry center in Santa
Ana, encouraged regional distribution of reentry services throughout Orange
County, and emphasized pursuing all available legal options.
Councilmember Hernandez emphasized the importance of community
engagement and City involvement in decisions affecting Santa Ana, expressed
support for reentry services as a tool to reduce recidivism, opposed locating a
reentry center in Santa Ana without meaningful collaboration, encouraged the
County to evaluate alternative locations, and supported continued dialogue
between the City and County.
Councilmember Vazquez expressed support for the resolution, referenced
concerns based on prior experiences with the Yale Navigation Center, and
thanked staff, the Mayor, and the City Council for their work on the item.
Mayor Amezcua reiterated support for rehabilitation and reentry services,
expressed continued opposition to locating the proposed reentry center in Santa
Ana, encouraged the City to pursue all available actions to oppose the project,
and emphasized the importance of ongoing County communication with the City.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tern Penaloza moved to approve the recommended
action for Agenda Item No. 19, 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
CITY COUNCIL 16 JULY 21, 2026
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES:Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez invited the public to attend the Santa
Anita ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday at 10:00 A.M., highlighting the renovated
pool, basketball courts, community center, and activities hosted by Parks, Recreation,
and Community Services staff.
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.
1. July 14-16, 2026 Mayor Amezcua — National Association of Latino Elected and
Appointed Officials (NALEO) 43rd Annual Conference, Los Angeles, CA
2. July 17-19, 2026 Councilmember Bacerra — 2026 Asian American Pacific Islander
(AAPI) LEAD National Summit, Los Angeles, CA
3. July 14-16, 2026 Councilmember Hernandez— NALEO 43rd Annual Conference,
Los Angeles, CA
4. July 8-11, 2026 Councilmember Lopez—2026 Local Progress Impact Lab National
Convening, Baltimore, MD
MINUTES: Councilmember Vazquez announced an upcoming community resource fair at
Jerome Park, highlighted participating community organizations, City departments, and
local partners, acknowledged elected officials supporting the event, and invited the public
to attend.
Councilmember Hernandez recognized the opening of the Santa Anita Community Center,
acknowledged Councilmember Phan for supporting the project, stated the redevelopment
would benefit future generations of residents, encouraged the community to attend the
opening, and congratulated staff and Councilmember Lopez on the improvements at
Newhope Library and the Portola Park splash pad Councilmember Hernandez left the
meeting at 9:59 P.M.
Councilmember Phan highlighted the success of the recent Movies in the Park event,
announced the opening celebration for the Santa Anita Community Center, acknowledged
staff, residents, and funding partners for supporting the project's redevelopment,
encouraged the community to participate in the event's activities, and wished everyone a
safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.
Councilmember Lopez reported on her attendance at the Local Progress Impact Lab
National Convening, where she learned about community violence intervention strategies
and discussed applying data-driven approaches to improve public safetyin Santa Ana. She
announced a back-to-school backpack giveaway, thanked staff for the successful opening
of the Portola Park splash pad, and concluded by honoring those who recently lost their
lives while expressing support for immigrant families and available community resources.
CITY COUNCIL 17 JULY 21, 2026
Councilmember Bacerra reported on his attendance at the 2026 AAPI Lead National
Summit pursuant to AB 1234, announced his upcoming monthly community office hours at
Eugene Criset Park, and invited residents to attend.
Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza thanked City staff for the opening of the Portola Park splash pad
and expressed anticipation for the Santa Anita Community Center grand opening. He
requested a memorandum regarding the City's policies and eligibility requirements for
approving Council travel, including guidance related to nonprofit organizations sponsoring
conferences. He concluded by extending birthday wishes to his wife.
MayorAmezcua reported on her attendance at the NALEO conference pursuant to AB 1234,
noting the City paid only the registration fee while she personally covered lodging expenses.
She emphasized the value of conferences for sharing best practices, expressed support for
establishing clear guidelines for Council travel, thanked City staff for the Portola Park splash
pad opening, requested an update on Washington Square, announced upcoming community
events including a resource fair, Coffee with the Mayor, and a backpack-stuffing volunteer
event, and thanked staff and community members for their participation in the meeting.
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reminded Councilmembers that a 90-day pre-election
memorandum had been distributed outlining applicable campaign rules, restrictions on
the use of public resources, and guidance regarding campaign materials and social
media, and encouraged Councilmembers to review the memorandum and contact her
with any questions.
ADJOURNMENT—Adjourn the City Council meeting..
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 10.20 P.M.
Respectfully submitted: ~
nnifer . Ha I, C C
City Cle
CITY COUNCIL 18 JULY 21, 2026