Correspondence - Item 29 — Santa Ana City Council, July 1, 2025

Zuniga, Diana
From: Stephanie Gray <
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 3:04 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Comment- Item 29
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

To the Honorable Members of the City Council and Valeria Amezcua, I am writing today to express my deep concern and opposition to any proposal that would remove the Police Oversight Commission' s ability to independently investigate lawsuits and complaints against our city' s police department.

The unfortunate reality is that our police department has repeatedly demonstrated it is not reliable in investigating itself. Far too often, we see officers acting with excessive force, behaving rudely towards residents, and refusing to deescalate situations that could otherwise end peacefully. This department has shown a consistent pattern of believing its officers are above the law— a dangerous mindset that leads only to injustice and harm within our community.

Our officers are in dire need of basic training in human decency, dignity, and deescalation. Their behavior reflects a culture that lacks accountability, which is perpetuated by leadership. For example, in 2020, two off- duty officers were reported to have sexually harassed a minor at a local restaurant. The current chief of police failed to act on this serious matter until an anonymous complaint was filed, and even then, he protected these officers for nearly a year. This is not the conduct of a department with integrity or leadership with moral courage.

Additionally, with the recent protests in our city, officers have been trigger- happy and are using excessive force against peaceful protestors. It is deeply concerning that officers who carry guns and other lethal weapons claim to be afraid when water bottles are thrown at them. How does that make sense? While I do not condone anyone throwing objects, the disproportionate response from armed officers against unarmed protestors demonstrates their inability to manage public safety situations without escalating them into violence.

It is clear to many in this city that our officers are not upstanding members of the community they serve. Instead, they are quick to bring down and target those who do stand up to protect and serve their neighbors. Even council members who attempt to hold them accountable are met with disrespect and hostility from officers who refuse to accept that oversight is a necessary part of public service.
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At the last council meeting, officers were called out for swearing at and using obscene gestures towards a council member. I would like to ask the Mayor and Chief of Police directly: What was done to address this blatant act of disrespect and insubordination by those officers?
Removing the Police Oversight Commission' s authority to investigate complaints and lawsuits independently would only embolden this culture of abuse and silence. Police officers are not above the law. They must be held accountable for their wrongdoings just like any other public servant or citizen. Allowing them to operate without independent oversight would be a grave injustice to the people of this city who deserve protection, fairness, and transparency.

I urge you to reject any proposal that seeks to diminish the power of the Police Oversight Commission. Our community' s safety depends not just on policing, but on ensuring those entrusted with such power do not abuse it without consequence.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter
Respectfully,
Stephanie Gray- Ward 6 resident
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Johanna Perez Herrera <
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:01 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
I am writing to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

The original vision behind the Commission was to ensure that our city had independent oversight of police conduct, something the people of Santa Ana have long demanded. But these amendments would undermine that goal by:

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

These are not minor adjustments, they are deliberate efforts to weaken accountability and transparency. If passed, these changes will turn the Commission into a symbolic body with no real power to protect the public or prevent harm.
1 I urge you to vote NO on these amendments and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight, not more empty promises.

Johanna Perez Herrera
California
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Brijida Lopez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:05 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Brijida Lopez
Santa Ana cal , California 92706
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Margaret Teran < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:15 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Margaret Teran
Santa Ana, California 92705
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Laura Ramos < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:15 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Laura Ramos
Santa Ana , California 92707
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Alfonso Alvarez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:18 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Alfonso Alvarez
Santa Ana, California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Joana Olmedo < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:20 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Joana Olmedo
Santa Ana, California 92703
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Vern Nelson < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:20 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
WHAT THE HELL?
I urge you to vote NO on item 29 and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight, not more empty promises.

Vern Nelson
Anaheim , California 92805
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Maria Baeza < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:24 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Maria Baeza
Santa Ana , California 92707
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Yesenia Juarez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:29 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Yesenia Juarez
Orange , California 92866
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Lorena Cox < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:34 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Lorena Cox
Irvine, California 92612
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Jayde Estrada < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:40 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Jayde Estrada
Costa Mesa, California 92626
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Velia Barrera < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:46 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Velia Barrera
SANTA ANA, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Gissell Rodriguez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:48 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Gissell Rodriguez
Santa Ana, California 92704
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Joseph Saladino < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:52 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Joseph Saladino
Santa Ana, California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Terry Schwinge < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 4:53 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Terry Schwinge
Santa Ana, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Ellen Diamond < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 5:01 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Ellen Diamond
Santa Ana , California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Roxzel Tellez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 5:07 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Roxzel Tellez
Santa ana, California 92705
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: John Straw < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 5:07 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

John Straw
Santa Ana, California 92706- 1955
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Greg Camphire < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 5:10 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29 to Support the People' s Demand for the SAPID Oversight Commission
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Greg Camphire
Santa Ana, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Matthew Zimmerman < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 6:00 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Matthew Zimmerman
Orange, California 92868- 1662
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Catalina Lunn < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 6:11 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Catalina Lunn
Lake Forest , California 92630
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Marytza Rubio < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 6:34 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Marytza Rubio
Santa Ana, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Ariel Frias <
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 6:49 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

When will our city government actually work for its people, instead of against us? Ariel Frias
Santa Ana, California 92706
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Zuniga, Diana
From: lupe rivera < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 6:49 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

We need transparency at all times to ensure integrity, accountability and justice for all citizens!
Concerned Friend and Citizen of Santa Ana
Iupe rivera
santa ana, California 92706
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Jessenya Reyes < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 7:14 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
I am a lifelong resident of Santa Ana. I am writing to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Zip code: 92707
Jessenya Reyes
Santa Ana, California 92707
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Ashley Salgado < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 7:32 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Ashley Salgado
ORANGE, California 92865
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Bassim Atik < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 7:40 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Bassim Atik
Fountain valley , California 93708
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Roque rios < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 7:54 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Roque rios
Santa ana, California 92705
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Marybel Rios < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 7:55 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Marybel Rios
Santa Ana, California 92705
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Jean Okamoto < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 8:17 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Jean Okamoto
Santa Ana, California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Linnette Ramirez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 8:44 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Linnette Ramirez
Santa Ana , California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Maria Valencia <
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 8:54 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Maria Valencia
Santa Ana , Ca, California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Gerson Cortes < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 8:55 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
You must strongly oppose item 29.

Any member who votes to pass item 29 is doing so with the full intent to put santa ana residents at risk of mistreatment.

I urge you to vote NO on these amendments. Any government agent who is given our trust to physically restrain with the possibility of causing physical harm to Santa Ana residents deserves real oversight.

Gerson Cortes
Grsncortes@gmail. com
i
Zuniga, Diana
From: Ramon Vargas < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 9:39 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Ramon Vargas
Santa Ana, California 92701
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Zuniga, Diana
From: Derrick Tempraseut < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 9:58 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Derrick Tempraseut
Santa Ana, California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Flor Tena < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 10:40 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
During these incredibly dangerous times for our Santa Ana community, there should be more oversight than less over our tax payer funded police department. Especially because city residents do not have a full sense of how SAPID is cooperating with ICE agents, despite Santa Ana being a sanctuary city.

I am writing to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones. 1 These are not minor adjustments, they are deliberate efforts to weaken accountability and transparency. If passed, these changes will turn the Commission into a symbolic body with no real power to protect the public or prevent harm.

I urge you to vote NO on these amendments and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight, not more empty promises.

Flor Tena
Santa Ana , California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Teresa Saydak < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 10:53 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: we must defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission and protect Santa Ana
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Teresa Saydak
Santa Ana , California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 11:42 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

These are not minor adjustments, they are deliberate efforts to weaken accountability and transparency. If passed, these changes will turn the Commission into a symbolic body with no real power to protect the public or prevent harm. We don' t need more symbolic bodies or gestures in our city, we need true accountability and to protect each and every resident. 1 I urge you to vote NO on these amendments and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight, not more empty promises.

Sincerely,
A Santa Ana resident & community member
Santa Ana, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Tanya Navarro <
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 11:55 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Tanya Navarro
Santa Ana, California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Felicity Figueroa < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:35 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Felicity Figueroa
Irvine, California 92604
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Briana Mancilla < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 5:41 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Briana Mancilla
Santa Ana, California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Cat Quinn <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 8:04 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Cat Quinn
Santa Ana, California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Marisol Moreno < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 8:10 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Marisol Moreno
Santa ana, California 92701
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Joe Cristina < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 8:40 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Joe Cristina
Tustin, California 92780
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Dario Rodriguez < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 5:36 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Dario Rodriguez
Santa Ana , California 92706
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Maylene Diaz < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 9:43 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Maylene Diaz
Santa ana , California 92703
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Annie Knight < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 10:18 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Santa Ana City Council,
Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
I am writing as a concerned Santa Ana resident to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Thank you for your attention,
Annie Knight
Annie Knight
Santa Ana, California 92705
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Karla Navarro < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 10:23 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Karla Navarro
Santa Ana, California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Daisy Chavez <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 10:38 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Daisy Chavez
Anaheim, California 92805
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Andrea Diaz < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 10:40 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Andrea Diaz
Santa Ana, California 92703
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Hector Perez < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 11:04 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Hector Perez
Midway City, California 92655
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Bulmaro Vicente < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 11:31 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda Item 29: Police Oversight Commission Amendments Attachments: 7.1.25 Chispa Letter of Opposition_ Item 29 Police Oversight Amendments.docx.pdf Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Hello,
Please find Chispa' s Letter of Opposition to Item 29.

In Solidarity,
Boomer
Policy and Political Director I Chispa
e: boomerPchispaoc. org c: 714-747.4271
1505 E 17th Street Suite 117Santa Ana, CA 92705
Chispa is building a political home for young Latinxs in Orange County! Please consider making a donation to help us build our casita. Chispa is a project of Tides Advocacy, a 5oic4 non- profit organization. 0 .....
o ao... o....... F... o....,. Fom...........
i
I
July 1, 2025
Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
ecomment& Santa- ana. org
Via Email
RE: Oppose Agenda Item 29— Amendments to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
We write today to expressour strong opposition to Agenda Item 29, which proposesdamaging amendments to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance.

Chispais a grassrootsorganization building power for young Latinxs in Orange County through community organizing, leadership development, andpolicy advocacy. Our work is rooted in the belief that systems must be transformed— not reformed— to meet the needsof historically excluded communities.

The Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission was created in 2022 after years of community advocacy, including direct engagementfrom our members. It was designedto be independent, investigatory, and community-led. It was a long-overdueresponseto generationsof police violence, secrecy, andimpunity.

But now, that vision is under attack.

If passed, Agenda Item 29 would reduce the Commission to a toothless review board, stripped of its most vital powers. Theseamendmentswould:

Strip the Commission of its authority to conduct independentinvestigations into police misconduct;
Limit the scope of complaints it can review, and only after SAPD' s Internal Affairs has completed its investigation;
Eliminate its power to issue disciplinary recommendations; Cut off its communication with the City Manager and City Council; Prohibit it from holding community forums or educating the public; Force Commissioners to undergo SAPD- led training and ride- alongs instead of independent, community- rooted preparation.

This is not a good-faith effort to improve the Commission. This is a deliberate attempt to undermine community power and roll back hard- won progress.

We call on the Council to reject Agenda Item 29 and preservethe integrity, purpose, andpower of the Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight— not another symbolic gesture.

Sincerely,
Bulmaro Vicente
Policy and Political Director, Chispa
CC:
vamezcua@santa- ana. org
PBacerra@santa- ana.org
TPhan@santa- ana.org
DPenaloza@santa- ana.org
JessieLopez@santa- ana.org
JRyanHemandez@santa- ana.org
bvazquez@santa- ana. org
Zuniga, Diana
From: Teri Saydak <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 11:31 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Please vote NO on item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Dear Mayor Amezcua and the Santa Ana City Council,
I am writing to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPD has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

I urge you to vote NO on these amendments and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversite, not more empty promises.

Thank you,
Teri Saydak
Santa Ana resident
i
Zuniga, Diana
From: Daniela Rico < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 11:42 AM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Daniela Rico
Santa Ana, California 92704
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Maria Ceja <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:04 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda item # 29
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Mayor and City Council,
I strong oppose the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance. The main purpose of the commission is to be an independent entity that is community centered and led with the authority to investigate misconduct and provide necessary recommendations. It does not make sense for this commission to be trained by the same department it is support to hold accountable and ensure transparency from. The city should be expanding it' s independence to ensure it remains an objective commission, not taint it by infiltrating it with SAPIDtraining requirements. Police violence and misconduct has only increased and escalated since the inception of this commission, and the lack of accountability from SAPIDis enabled by the mayor and City council members that have purposely stalled the hiring of a director and are now proposing these harmful amendments to what should be an independent body that reviews misconduct, police complaints, and other forms, to ensure that necessary changes are made to ensure REAL public safety. As you all do this first reading, please do not lose sight of the purpose of this commission and what so many residents and community members have been advocating for. Please do not move forward with these amendments.

Sincerely,
Maria Ceja
Santa Ana Resident
1 Zuniga, Diana
From: roxana guajardo <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:36 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Public comment
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Mayor Amezcua and Santa Ana City Council,
I am writing to strongly oppose item 29, the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance being considered at your July 1st meeting.

The original idea behind the Commission was to ensure that our city had independent oversight of police conduct, something the people of Santa Ana have long demanded. But these amendments would undermine that goal by:

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPIDhas already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

These are NOT minor adjustments, they are deliberate efforts to weaken accountability and transparency. If passed, these changes will turn the Commission into a symbolic body with no real power to protect the public or prevent harm.

I urge you to vote NO on these amendments and honor the intent and purpose of the Police Oversight Commission. The people of Santa Ana deserve real oversight, not more empty promises.

Sincerely,
Roxana Guajardo
1 Zuniga, Diana
From: Nicci Castro < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:37 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Nicci Castro
Tustin, California 92782
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Lesley Velasco < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:42 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez, Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 29— Opposition to Police Oversight Commission Amendments Attachments: Ahri for Justice - Item 29 - Letter of Opposition . pdf Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Hello,
Please see the attached letter for public comment, thank you! Lesley Velasco
Civic Engagement Manager
She/ her/ hers
leslev@ah- ri. org
paving new pathways to collective justice"
1 L
July 1, 2025
Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
ecomment4santa- ana. org
RE: Oppose Agenda Item 29— Amendments to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
We arewriting to expressour strong opposition to Agenda Item 29, which proposesdamaging amendmentsto the City of SantaAna( City) Police Oversight Commission( Commission) Ordinance.

Ahri for Justice is a community- based organization advocating for collective justice for low- income immigrant communities through civic engagement, advocacy, and youth leadership. We are deeply committed to racial justice, accountability, and the protection of civil rights. We advocatefor policies that uplift historically marginalized communities and strengthendemocratic systems.

The Commission was createdin 2022 after years of community organizing by residentswho demanded meaningful accountability and transparency. The Commission remains the first and only civilian oversight body in Orange County with independent investigatory powers— a critical tool for addressing police misconduct and restoring public trust.

The proposed amendmentsunder Item 29 would dismantle the core functions of the Commission. These changes would:

Strip the Commission of its authority to conduct independentinvestigations into police misconduct;
Limit the scope of complaints it can review, and only after SAPD' s Internal Affairs has concluded its own review;
Eliminate the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations; Cut off communication with the City Manager and City Council, removing necessarychannelsof accountability;
Prohibit the Commission from engaging the public through forums or education; Mandate SAPD- led trainings and ride- alongs for Commissioners, rather than independent instruction;
Weaken public transparency by removing complaint data from annual reports.

These are not technical adjustments— they are a deliberate rollback of the oversight structure that Santa Ana residents fought for and deserve.

We urge the City Council to vote NO on Agenda Item 29 and uphold the original intent of the Commission: to serveas an independent, community- centered, and transparentbody capable of meaningful oversight.

Sincerely,
Lesley Velasco
Civic Engagement Manager
Alin for Justice
Zuniga, Diana
From: Leonel Flores < [email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:58 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Vote No on Item 29: Defend the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission Attention: This email originated from outside of City of SantaAna. Use caution when opening attachmentsor links.

Stripping the Commission of its power to conduct independent investigations.

Limiting its review powers to only certain types of complaints, and only after SAPID has already completed its own Internal Affairs review.

Eliminating the Commission' s ability to make disciplinary recommendations.

Cutting off communication between the Commission and City leadership.

Blocking the Commission from engaging with the public.

Requiring Commissioners to undergo police- led trainings instead of independent ones.

Leonel Flores
Santa Ana, California 92707
z
Zuniga, Diana
From: Arcelia Gutierrez <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 12:59 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Penaloza, David
Subject: Public Comments on Agenda Item 32 and Amendments to Oversight Committee Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Dear City Councilmembers and City Staff,
My name is Arcelia Guti6rrez and I am a resident of Santa Ana in Ward 6. I am writing to urge you to vote in favor of Agenda Item 32 and to vote against the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission.

At the last council meeting, Councilmembers Penaloza, Phan, and Bacerra stated there is nothing the city can do to help residents and oppose the militarization of our city. Voting appropriately on these agenda items are things you can actually do to support your constituents.

Councilmembers Penaloza, thank you for supporting Vibes Boutique and for calling out Rep.

Young. As one of your constituents, I urge you to do more by voting yes on Agenda Item 32 and no on the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission.

Sincerely,
Arcelia Gutierrez
1 Zuniga, Diana
From: Kelly Kraus- Lee <
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2025 1:01 PM
To: eComment; Amezcua, Valerie; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Vazquez, Benjamin; Phan, Thai; Bacerra, Phil; Hernandez, Johnathan
Subject: Item 29
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.

Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my deep concern and strong opposition to the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission. These changes, if enacted, will significantly weaken the Commission' s ability to hold law enforcement accountable, effectively watering down its powers and undermining the very foundation of what many of us in the community fought so hard to establish. The creation of the Commission was not merely a bureaucratic action— it was the result of years of advocacy, public engagement, and a collective commitment to ensuring that our city has a fair, transparent, and trustworthy system of police oversight. Diluting its authority now would be a serious betrayal of that process and of the community members who pushed for meaningful reform. We are not asking for symbolic oversight.

We are demanding real accountability, with the structural power necessary to investigate, review, and recommend disciplinary action when appropriate. Weakening the Commission strips it of its effectiveness and sends the wrong message to residents— that their voices and concerns can be disregarded once the spotlight fades.

I urge you to reconsider and reject any amendments that would diminish the power, independence, or transparency of the Police Oversight Commission. Our city deserves more than performative oversight— it deserves justice, fairness, and genuine accountability.

Please stand with the community, not against it.

Kelly Kraus- Lee
Ward 6
1 Flores, Dora
From: EmyTerusa <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July
To: eComment
Subject: OppositiontoLine29
Attention: ThisemailoriginatedfromoutsideofCityofSantaAna. Usecautionwhenopeningattachmentsorlinks.

DearMayorAmezcuaandtheSantaAnaCityCouncil,
I amwritingto stronglyopposeitem29, theproposedamendmentsto thePoliceOversightCommission ordinancebeingconsideredatyourJuly1stmeeting.

TheoriginalvisionbehindtheCommissionwasto ensurethatourcityhadindependentoversightof police conduct, somethingthepeopleof SantaAnahavelongdemanded. Buttheseamendmentswouldunderminethat goalby:

StrippingtheCommissionof itspowerto conductindependentinvestigations.

Limitingitsreviewpowersto onlycertaintypesof complaints, andonlyafterSAPDhasalreadycompletedits ownInternalAffairsreview.

EliminatingtheCommission’sabilityto makedisciplinaryrecommendations.

Cuttingoff communicationbetweentheCommissionandCityleadership.

BlockingtheCommissionfromengagingwiththepublic.

RequiringCommissionersto undergopolice-ledtrainingsinsteadof independentones.

I urgeyouto voteNOontheseamendmentsandhonortheintentandpurposeof thePoliceOversight Commission. Thepeopleof SantaAnadeserverealoversight, notmoreemptypromises.

ConcernedSantaAnaResident,
EmyTerusa
1 Flores, Dora
From: AdrianNunez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July1, 20251:41PM
To: eComment
Subject: VoteNoonItem29: DefendtheSantaAnaPoliceOversightCommission Attention: ThisemailoriginatedfromoutsideofCityofSantaAna. Usecautionwhenopeningattachmentsorlinks.

SantaAnaCityCouncil,
DearMayorAmezcuaandtheSantaAnaCityCouncil,
I amwritingtostronglyopposeitem29, theproposedamendmentsto thePoliceOversight Commissionordinancebeingconsideredat yourJuly1stmeeting.

TheoriginalvisionbehindtheCommissionwasto ensurethatourcityhadindependent oversightof policeconduct, somethingthepeopleof SantaAnahavelongdemanded. But theseamendmentswouldunderminethatgoalby:

StrippingtheCommissionof itspowerto conductindependentinvestigations.

Limitingitsreviewpowerstoonlycertaintypesof complaints, andonlyafterSAPDhas alreadycompleteditsownInternalAffairsreview.

EliminatingtheCommission’s abilityto makedisciplinaryrecommendations.

Cuttingoff communicationbetweentheCommissionandCityleadership.

BlockingtheCommissionfromengagingwiththepublic.

RequiringCommissionersto undergopolice-ledtrainingsinsteadof independentones.

Thesearenotminoradjustments, theyaredeliberateeffortsto weakenaccountabilityand transparency. If passed, thesechangeswillturntheCommissionintoa symbolicbodywithno realpowerto protectthepublicorpreventharm.
1 I urgeyoutovoteNOontheseamendmentsandhonortheintentandpurposeof thePolice OversightCommission. Thepeopleof SantaAnadeserverealoversight, notmoreempty promises.

AdrianNunez
SantaAna, California92704
2 Flores, Dora
From: KatieNewman <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July1, 20251:42PM
To: eComment
Subject: VoteNoonItem29: DefendtheSantaAnaPoliceOversightCommission Attention: ThisemailoriginatedfromoutsideofCityofSantaAna. Usecautionwhenopeningattachmentsorlinks.

SantaAnaCityCouncil,
DearMayorAmezcuaandtheSantaAnaCityCouncil,
I amwritingtostronglyopposeitem29, theproposedamendmentsto thePoliceOversight Commissionordinancebeingconsideredat yourJuly1stmeeting.

TheoriginalvisionbehindtheCommissionwasto ensurethatourcityhadindependent oversightof policeconduct, somethingthepeopleof SantaAnahavelongdemanded. But theseamendmentswouldunderminethatgoalby:

StrippingtheCommissionof itspowerto conductindependentinvestigations.

Limitingitsreviewpowerstoonlycertaintypesof complaints, andonlyafterSAPDhas alreadycompleteditsownInternalAffairsreview.

EliminatingtheCommission’s abilityto makedisciplinaryrecommendations.

Cuttingoff communicationbetweentheCommissionandCityleadership.

BlockingtheCommissionfromengagingwiththepublic.

RequiringCommissionersto undergopolice-ledtrainingsinsteadof independentones.

Thesearenotminoradjustments, theyaredeliberateeffortsto weakenaccountabilityand transparency. If passed, thesechangeswillturntheCommissionintoa symbolicbodywithno realpowerto protectthepublicorpreventharm.
3 I urgeyoutovoteNOontheseamendmentsandhonortheintentandpurposeof thePolice OversightCommission. Thepeopleof SantaAnadeserverealoversight, notmoreempty promises.

KatieNewman
SantaAna, California92704
4 Flores, Dora
From: GemaSuarez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July1, 20251:52PM
To: eComment
Cc: CarolinaSarmiento
Subject: opposeitem29, amendmentstothePoliceOversightCommissionordinance Attachments: Lettertoopposeitem29 .pdf
Attention: ThisemailoriginatedfromoutsideofCityofSantaAna. Usecautionwhenopeningattachmentsorlinks.

Attachedourletter
opposeitem29, theproposedamendmentsto thePoliceOversightCommissionordinance Thanks
GemaSuárez (She/They)
Organizing & CampaignCoordinator
elcentroculturaldemexico.org
1

Santa Ana City CouncilJuly 1, 2025

Santa Ana City Council
July 1, 2025