HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes (Final) 7.13.26Planning Commission
Regular Meeting Agenda Minutes
July 13, 2026
5:30 P.M.
Council Chamber
22 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA
ISURI S. RAMOS
Chair, Ward 3 Representative
CARL BENNINGER
ViceChair,
Ward 4 Representative
CHRISTOPHER LEO
Citywide Representative
VACANT
Ward 2 Representative
JENNIFER OLIVA
Ward 6 Representative
BAO PHAM
Ward 1 Representative
ALAN WOO
Ward 5 Representative
Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP
Executive Director
Melissa M. Crosthwaite
Legal Counsel
Ricardo Soto, AICP
Planning Manager
Gema Zapien
Recording Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,
contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable
the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supporting
documentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, Chair
Carl Benninger, ViceChair
Christopher Leo
Jennifer Oliva
Bao Pham
Alan Woo
Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP
Legal Counsel Melissa M. Crosthwaite
Planning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICP
Recording Secretary Gema Zapien
ROLL CALL
Minutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM and
Commissioner Oliva absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservation
fees that became effective on July 1, 2026.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
a.Minutes
Recommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026.
b.Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Consent Calendar*
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Business – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):
1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATED
AT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.
Project Applicant:City of Santa Ana
Proposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting Planning
Commission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 to
rename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and Irene
Palomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significant
contributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistency
with the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified School
District to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.
Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject to
CEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of a
public facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical
change in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 of
the State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQA
pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significant
effect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMING
ROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 N
NEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)
Recommended Action:
Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 2026
0001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank and
Irene Palomino Park.
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos to
Approve.
YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 1 – Bao Pham
ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Business Calendar*
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027
TERM.
Recommended Actions:
1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo to
appoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appoint
Vice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
WORK STUDY SESSION
3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning Division
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for the staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
*End of Work Study Session Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had comments for the staff.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tenday
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
Go to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
1 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,
contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable
the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supporting
documentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, Chair
Carl Benninger, ViceChair
Christopher Leo
Jennifer Oliva
Bao Pham
Alan Woo
Executive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP
Legal Counsel Melissa M. Crosthwaite
Planning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICP
Recording Secretary Gema Zapien
ROLL CALL
Minutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM and
Commissioner Oliva absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Minutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservation
fees that became effective on July 1, 2026.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
a.Minutes
Recommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026.
b.Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Consent Calendar*
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Business – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):
1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATED
AT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.
Project Applicant:City of Santa Ana
Proposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting Planning
Commission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 to
rename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and Irene
Palomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significant
contributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistency
with the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified School
District to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.
Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject to
CEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of a
public facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical
change in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 of
the State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQA
pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significant
effect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMING
ROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 N
NEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)
Recommended Action:
Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 2026
0001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank and
Irene Palomino Park.
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos to
Approve.
YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 1 – Bao Pham
ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Business Calendar*
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027
TERM.
Recommended Actions:
1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo to
appoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appoint
Vice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
WORK STUDY SESSION
3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning Division
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for the staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
*End of Work Study Session Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had comments for the staff.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tenday
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
Go to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
2 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.CALL TO ORDER Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, ChairCarl Benninger, ViceChairChristopher LeoJennifer OlivaBao PhamAlan WooExecutive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICPLegal Counsel Melissa M. CrosthwaitePlanning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICPRecording Secretary Gema ZapienROLL CALLMinutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM andCommissioner Oliva absent.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTSMinutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservationfees that became effective on July 1, 2026.CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMSa.MinutesRecommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026. b.Excused AbsencesRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Consent Calendar*
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Business – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):
1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATED
AT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.
Project Applicant:City of Santa Ana
Proposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting Planning
Commission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 to
rename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and Irene
Palomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significant
contributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistency
with the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified School
District to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.
Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject to
CEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of a
public facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical
change in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 of
the State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQA
pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significant
effect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMING
ROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 N
NEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)
Recommended Action:
Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 2026
0001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank and
Irene Palomino Park.
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos to
Approve.
YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 1 – Bao Pham
ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Business Calendar*
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027
TERM.
Recommended Actions:
1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo to
appoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appoint
Vice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
WORK STUDY SESSION
3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning Division
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for the staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
*End of Work Study Session Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had comments for the staff.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tenday
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
Go to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
3 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.CALL TO ORDER Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, ChairCarl Benninger, ViceChairChristopher LeoJennifer OlivaBao PhamAlan WooExecutive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICPLegal Counsel Melissa M. CrosthwaitePlanning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICPRecording Secretary Gema ZapienROLL CALLMinutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM andCommissioner Oliva absent.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTSMinutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservationfees that became effective on July 1, 2026.CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMSa.MinutesRecommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026. b.Excused AbsencesRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Consent Calendar*BUSINESS CALENDARBusiness – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATEDAT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.Project Applicant:City of Santa AnaProposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting PlanningCommission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 torename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and IrenePalomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significantcontributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistencywith the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified SchoolDistrict to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental QualityAct (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject toCEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of apublic facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physicalchange in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 ofthe State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQApursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seenwith certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significanteffect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXA RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTAANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMINGROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 NNEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)Recommended Action:Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 20260001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank andIrene Palomino Park.
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos to
Approve.
YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 1 – Bao Pham
ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass
*End of Business Calendar*
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027
TERM.
Recommended Actions:
1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.
Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo to
appoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appoint
Vice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.
YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl Benninger
NO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer Oliva
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
WORK STUDY SESSION
3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning Division
Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.
Commission had questions for the staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
*End of Work Study Session Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had comments for the staff.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tenday
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
Go to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
4 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.CALL TO ORDER Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, ChairCarl Benninger, ViceChairChristopher LeoJennifer OlivaBao PhamAlan WooExecutive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICPLegal Counsel Melissa M. CrosthwaitePlanning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICPRecording Secretary Gema ZapienROLL CALLMinutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM andCommissioner Oliva absent.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTSMinutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservationfees that became effective on July 1, 2026.CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMSa.MinutesRecommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026. b.Excused AbsencesRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Consent Calendar*BUSINESS CALENDARBusiness – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATEDAT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.Project Applicant:City of Santa AnaProposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting PlanningCommission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 torename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and IrenePalomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significantcontributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistencywith the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified SchoolDistrict to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental QualityAct (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject toCEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of apublic facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physicalchange in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 ofthe State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQApursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seenwith certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significanteffect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXA RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTAANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMINGROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 NNEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)Recommended Action:Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 20260001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank andIrene Palomino Park.Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for staff.Staff answered questions from the Commission.Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos toApprove.YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 1 – Bao PhamABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Business Calendar*ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027TERM.Recommended Actions:1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo toappoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassMoved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appointVice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassWORK STUDY SESSION 3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning DivisionMinutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for the staff.
Staff answered questions from the Commission.
*End of Work Study Session Calendar*
STAFF COMMENTS
Minutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Minutes: Commission had comments for the staff.
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the
Council Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
APPEAL INFORMATION
The formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tenday
appeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645
holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the day
following the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision or
requirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, or
group. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the required
filing fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of the
Commission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observed
holiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the next
day City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government Code
Sec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public
hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or
someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by
the Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.
MEETING INFORMATION
If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.
1. Connecting directly from your computer:
Click on the link on top of this agenda OR
Go to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
5 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.CALL TO ORDER Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, ChairCarl Benninger, ViceChairChristopher LeoJennifer OlivaBao PhamAlan WooExecutive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICPLegal Counsel Melissa M. CrosthwaitePlanning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICPRecording Secretary Gema ZapienROLL CALLMinutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM andCommissioner Oliva absent.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTSMinutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservationfees that became effective on July 1, 2026.CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMSa.MinutesRecommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026. b.Excused AbsencesRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Consent Calendar*BUSINESS CALENDARBusiness – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATEDAT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.Project Applicant:City of Santa AnaProposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting PlanningCommission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 torename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and IrenePalomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significantcontributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistencywith the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified SchoolDistrict to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental QualityAct (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject toCEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of apublic facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physicalchange in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 ofthe State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQApursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seenwith certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significanteffect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXA RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTAANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMINGROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 NNEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)Recommended Action:Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 20260001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank andIrene Palomino Park.Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for staff.Staff answered questions from the Commission.Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos toApprove.YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 1 – Bao PhamABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Business Calendar*ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027TERM.Recommended Actions:1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo toappoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassMoved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appointVice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassWORK STUDY SESSION 3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning DivisionMinutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for the staff.Staff answered questions from the Commission.*End of Work Study Session Calendar*STAFF COMMENTSMinutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.COMMISSIONER COMMENTSMinutes: Commission had comments for the staff.ADJOURNMENTThe next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in theCouncil Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.APPEAL INFORMATIONThe formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tendayappeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the dayfollowing the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision orrequirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, orgroup. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the requiredfiling fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of theCommission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observedholiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the nextday City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government CodeSec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a publichearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (orsomeone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received bythe Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.MEETING INFORMATION If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.1. Connecting directly from your computer:Click on the link on top of this agenda ORGo to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The Meeting
ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
2. Connecting via the Zoom App:
Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.
Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, your
name, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us know
you wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.
3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:
Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed at
the top of this agenda.
To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being is
discussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.
Submit a written comment
You are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:
Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.
Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –
M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials for
consideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of the
meeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to the
Commission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submit
written comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commission
members during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.
TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48
hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public comments
sections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the
City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and
consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to
address the Commission at the podium.
Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
6 Planning Commission
7/13/2026
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda MinutesJuly 13, 20265:30 P.M.Council Chamber22 Civic Center PlazaSanta Ana, CA ISURI S. RAMOSChair, Ward 3 RepresentativeCARL BENNINGERViceChair,Ward 4 Representative CHRISTOPHER LEOCitywide RepresentativeVACANTWard 2 Representative JENNIFER OLIVAWard 6 RepresentativeBAO PHAMWard 1 Representative ALAN WOOWard 5 RepresentativeAli Pezeshkpour, AICPExecutive DirectorMelissa M. CrosthwaiteLegal Counsel Ricardo Soto, AICPPlanning Manager Gema ZapienRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found on the City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.CALL TO ORDER Commissioners: Isuri S. Ramos, ChairCarl Benninger, ViceChairChristopher LeoJennifer OlivaBao PhamAlan WooExecutive Director Ali Pezeshkpour, AICPLegal Counsel Melissa M. CrosthwaitePlanning Manager Ricardo Soto, AICPRecording Secretary Gema ZapienROLL CALLMinutes: Quorum was reached at 5:30 PM with Chair Ramos arriving at 5:33 PM andCommissioner Oliva absent.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTSMinutes: Resident, Edward Murashie, raised concerns regarding the historic preservationfees that became effective on July 1, 2026.CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMSa.MinutesRecommended Action: Approve Minutes from the meeting of June 22, 2026. b.Excused AbsencesRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.Moved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Benninger to Approve.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Consent Calendar*BUSINESS CALENDARBusiness – Miscellaneous (NonPublic Hearing):1.PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 FOR ROSITA PARK LOCATEDAT 706 NORTH NEWHOPE STREET.Project Applicant:City of Santa AnaProposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting PlanningCommission approval of Public Facilities Naming (PFN) No. 20260001 torename Rosita Park, located at 706 N. Newhope Street, to Frank and IrenePalomino Park, in recognition of Frank and Irene Palomino’s significantcontributions to the civil rights movement and the City, and to maintain consistencywith the adjacent school, which was renamed by the Garden Grove Unified SchoolDistrict to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School.Environmental Impact:In accordance with the California Environmental QualityAct (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the proposed action is not subject toCEQA pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) because the naming of apublic facility will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physicalchange in the environment and is not a “project,” as defined in Section 15378 ofthe State CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the action is exempt from CEQApursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seenwith certainty that there is no possibility the proposed action may have a significanteffect on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed for this project.RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXA RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTAANA APPROVING PUBLIC FACILITIES NAMING NO. 20260001 RENAMINGROSITA PARK AS FRANK AND IRENE PALOMINO PARK LOCATED AT 706 NNEWHOPE STREET (APN: 10025201)Recommended Action:Adopt a resolution approving Public Facilities Naming No. 20260001 renaming Rosita Park located at 706 N. Newhope Street as Frank andIrene Palomino Park.Minutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for staff.Staff answered questions from the Commission.Moved by Commissioner Leo, seconded by Commissioner Ramos toApprove.YES: 4 – Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 1 – Bao PhamABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 4 – 1 – 0 – 1 – Pass*End of Business Calendar*ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS2.ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION 20262027TERM.Recommended Actions:1. Elect a Chairperson for the 20262027 term.2. Elect a Vice Chairperson for the 20262027 term.Moved by Commissioner Benninger, seconded by Commissioner Woo toappoint Chair Ramos as Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassMoved by Commissioner Woo, seconded by Commissioner Pham to appointVice Chair Benninger as Vice Chair for the 20262027 term.YES: 5 – Bao Pham, Isuri Ramos, Alan Woo, Christopher Leo, Carl BenningerNO: 0 – ABSTAIN: 0 – ABSENT: 1 – Jennifer OlivaStatus: 5 – 0 – 0 – 1 – PassWORK STUDY SESSION 3.Historic Preservation 101 – Pedro Gomez, Planning DivisionMinutes: Staff provided a short presentation.Commission had questions for the staff.Staff answered questions from the Commission.*End of Work Study Session Calendar*STAFF COMMENTSMinutes: Staff had comments for the Commission.COMMISSIONER COMMENTSMinutes: Commission had comments for the staff.ADJOURNMENTThe next meeting of the Planning Commission will be on July 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in theCouncil Chambers located at 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.Minutes: Meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.APPEAL INFORMATIONThe formal action by the Planning Commission shall become effective after the tendayappeal period, unless the City Council in compliance with section 41643, 41644 or 41645holds a public hearing on the matter, then the formal action will become effective on the dayfollowing the hearing and decision by the City Council. An appeal from the decision orrequirement of the Planning Commission may be made by any interested party, individual, orgroup. The appeal must be filed with the Clerk of the Council, accompanied by the requiredfiling fee, and a copy sent to the Planning Department, within ten days of the date of theCommission's action, by 5:00 p.m. If the final day to appeal falls on a City Hall observedholiday or a day when City hall is closed, the final day to appeal shall be extended to the nextday City Hall is open for public business. Please note: Under California Government CodeSec. 65009, if you challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a publichearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (orsomeone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received bythe Planning Commission or City Council at or before the hearing.MEETING INFORMATION If you would like to learn how to use Zoom before the meeting, visit Zoom Video Tutorials.1. Connecting directly from your computer:Click on the link on top of this agenda ORGo to Zoom.us and click "Join a Meeting" at the top. Enter the Meeting ID. The MeetingID is listed at the top of this agenda.To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being isdiscussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us knowyou wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.2. Connecting via the Zoom App:Download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings app from your favorite app store.Launch the app and click on the blue Join a Meeting button. Enter the Meeting ID, yourname, and the blue Join button. The Meeting ID is listed at the top of this agenda.To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being isdiscussed, click on the button next to your name to virtually raise your hand and let us knowyou wish to speak. You will have 3 minutes.3. Dialing in from a mobile phone or landline:Dial (669) 9006833. When prompted, enter the meeting ID. The Meeting ID is listed atthe top of this agenda.To speak during the meeting: When you wish to comment on an item that is being isdiscussed, press *9 on your phone to virtually raise your hand. You will have 3 minutes.Submit a written commentYou are invited to submit a written comment in one of the following ways:Email PBAecomments@santaana.org and reference the topic in the subject line.Mail to Gema Zapien, Recording Secretary, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza –M20, Santa Ana, CA 92701.Deadline to submit written comments, including any supplement materials forconsideration by the Planning Commission, is 3:30 p.m. on the day of themeeting.Comments received after the deadline may not be distributed to theCommission but will be made part of the record. All attendees wishing to submitwritten comments or supplemental materials for distribution to Planning Commissionmembers during the inperson meeting must provide 15 printed copies.TRANSLATION SERVICES Members of the public may request an interpreter 48hours in advance to assist a nonenglish speaker during the public commentssections of the meeting. Notification of 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable theCity to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets andconsecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing toaddress the Commission at the podium.Los miembros del público pueden solicitar un intérprete con 48 horas de
anticipación para asistir a una persona que no habla inglés durante la sección de
comentarios públicos de la reunión. La notificación con 48 horas de anticipación
permitirá a la Ciudad hacer los arreglos razonables necesarios para garantizar el
acceso a esta reunión. La interpretación simultánea al español se ofrece por medio
del uso de audífonos y la interpretación consecutiva (español a inglés) también está
disponible para cualquiera que desee dirigirse a la Comisión en el podio.
7 Planning Commission
7/13/2026