Agenda packet — Santa Ana City Council, January 20, 2026 (part 1 of 8)

City Council, Special Housing Authority, and
Special Successor Agency Meeting Packet
January 20, 2026
CLOSED SESSION MEETING – 4:00 PM
REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 PM
(Immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701
Valerie Amezcua
Mayor
Thai Viet Phan
Councilmember – Ward 1
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Pro Tem Ward 2
Jessie Lopez
Councilmember Ward 3
Phil Bacerra
Councilmember Ward 4
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Councilmember Ward 5
David Penaloza
Councilmember Ward 6
Mayor and Council telephone: 7146476900
Agenda item inquiries: 7146476520
Sonia R. Carvalho
City Attorney
Alvaro Nuñez
City Manager
Jennifer L. Hall
City Clerk
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/agendasandminutes.

CITY VISION AND CODE OF ETHICS
The City of Santa Ana is committed to achieving a shared vision for the organization and its community. The Vision, Mission and Guiding Principles (Values) are the result of a thoughtful and inclusive process designed to set the City and organization on a course that meets the challenges of today and tomorrow, as follows:

VisionThedynamiccenterofOrangeCountywhichisacclaimedforour:Investmentin City Council 1 1/20/2026
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/agendasandminutes.

Vision The dynamic center of Orange County which is acclaimed for our: Investment in youth • Safe and healthy community • Neighborhood pride • Thriving economic climate • Enriched and diverse culture • Quality government services Mission To deliver efficient public services in partnership with our community which ensures public safety, a prosperous economic environment, opportunities for our youth, and a high quality of life for residents.

Guiding Principles Collaboration • Efficiency • Equity • Excellence • Fiscal Responsibility • Innovation • Transparency
Code of Ethics and Conduct At the Special Municipal Election held on February 5, 2008, voters approved an amendment to the City Charter which established the Code of Ethics and Conduct for elected officials and members of appointed boards, commissions, and committees to assure public confidence. The following are the core values expressed: • Integrity • Honesty • Responsibility • Fairness • Accountability • Respect • Efficiency Members of the public may attend the City Council meeting inperson or join via Zoom. As a courtesy to the public, the City Council meeting will occur live via teleconference Zoom webinar. You may view the meeting from your computer, tablet, or smart phone via YouTube LiveStream at https://www.youtube.com/cityofsantaanavideos/ or on CTV3, available on Spectrum channel 3.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public who wish to address the City Council on closed session items, items on the regular agenda, or on matters which are not on the agenda but are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council, may do so by one of the following ways:

MAILING OPTION written communications – Public comments may be mailed to:

Office of the City Clerk, 20 Civic Center Plaza M30, Santa Ana, CA 92701. All written communications received via mail two (2) hours before the scheduled start of the meeting will be distributed to the City Council and imaged into the City’s document archive system which is available for public review.

SENDING EMAIL OPTION – Public comments may be sent via email to the City Clerk’s office at eComment@santaana.org. Please note the agenda item you are commenting on in the subject line of the email. All emails received two (2) hours before the scheduled start of the meeting will be distributed to the City Council and imaged into the City’s document archive system which is available for public review.

LIVE VIRTUAL OPTION – As a courtesy, members of the public may provide live comments during the meeting by Zoom or Conference Call. To join by Zoom click on or type the following address into your web browser
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/315965149. To join the Conference Call: Dial (669) 900 9128 and enter MEETING ID: 315 965 149#. You will be prompted by the City Clerk when it is time for a: i) closed session item, ii) agenda/general comments, iii) public hearing item, iv) special agenda item, or v) for Housing Authority item. You may request tospeakbydialing*9fromyourphoneoryoumayvirtuallyraiseyourhandfromZoom City Council 2 1/20/2026
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voters approved an amendment to the City Charter which established the Code of Ethics and Conduct for elected officials and members of appointed boards, commissions, and committees to assure public confidence. The following are the core values expressed: • Integrity • Honesty • Responsibility • Fairness • Accountability • Respect • Efficiency Members of the public may attend the City Council meeting inperson or join via Zoom. As a courtesy to the public, the City Council meeting will occur live via teleconference Zoom webinar. You may view the meeting from your computer, tablet, or smart phone via YouTube LiveStream at https://www.youtube.com/cityofsantaanavideos/ or on CTV3, available on Spectrum channel 3.

MAILING OPTION written communications – Public comments may be mailed to:

After the Clerk confirms the last three digits of the caller’s phone number or Zoom ID and unmutes them, the caller must press *6 or microphone icon to speak. Callers are encouraged, but not required, to identify themselves by name. Each caller will be provided three (3) minutes to speak, unless due to the number of speakers wanting to speak a decision is made to provide a different amount of time to speak.

INPERSON OPTION Members of the public can provide inperson comments at the podium in the Council Chamber. The Council Chamber will have seating available for members of the public to attend the meeting inperson. Public comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker, unless a different time is announced by the presiding chair. Speakers who wish to address the Council must do so by submitting a “Request to Speak” card by 4:00 p.m. for Closed Session items and by 5:45 p.m. for all other designated public comment periods as listed below. Cards will not be accepted after the Public Comment Session begins without the permission of the presiding chair.

The following designated public comment periods are:

1. LIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS – You can provide live comments on closed session items by joining Zoom or the Conference Call as described in the LIVE or INPERSON PUBLIC COMMENTS OPTION above. Speaker queue will open at 3:30 p.m. YOU MUST JOIN ZOOM OR THE CONFERENCE CALL and raise your hand BY 4:00 p.m. Speakers who are not in the speaker queue with their hand raised by 4:00 p.m. will not be permitted to speak.

City Council 3 1/20/2026
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“Request to Speak” card by 4:00 p.m. for Closed Session items and by 5:45 p.m. for all other designated public comment periods as listed below. Cards will not be accepted after the Public Comment Session begins without the permission of the presiding chair.

The following designated public comment periods are:

2. LIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS (GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT) – You can provide comments by joining Zoom or the Conference Call as described in the LIVE or INPERSON PUBLIC COMMENTS OPTION above. Speaker queue will open at 3:30 p.m. YOU MUST JOIN ZOOM OR THE CONFERENCE CALL and raise your hand PRIOR TO 5:45 p.m. Speakers who are not in the speaker queue with their hand raised by 5:45 p.m. will not be permitted to speak.

3. LIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS – You can provide comments by joining Zoom or the Conference Call as described in the LIVE or INPERSON PUBLIC COMMENTS OPTION above. Speakers not in the queue by 5:45 p.m. will not be permitted to speak.

4. LIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON HOUSING AUTHORITY ITEMS – You can provide comments by joining Zoom or the Conference Call as described in the LIVE or INPERSON PUBLIC COMMENTS OPTION above. Speakers not in the queue by 5:45 p.m. will not be permitted to speak.

5. LIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON SUCCESSOR AGENCY ITEMS – You can provide comments by joining Zoom or the Conference Call as described in the LIVE or INPERSON PUBLIC COMMENTS OPTION above. Speakers not in the queue by 5:45 p.m. will not be permitted to speak.

TRANSLATION SERVICES Spanish interpreting services are provided at City Council meetings. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is provided through the use of headsets and consecutive interpretation (SpanishtoEnglish) in addition to those wishing to address the City Council at the podium.

La ciudad provee servicios de interpretación al español en las juntas del Consejo.

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 al consejo municipal en el podio.

About the Agenda
To download or view the attachments (staff report and other supporting documentation) for each agenda item, you must select the agenda item to see the attachments to either open in a new link (the eyeball ) or download a pdf (the cloud symbol with the down arrow ).

CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE CouncilMembers PhilBacerra
City Council 4 1/20/2026
To download or view the attachments (staff report and other supporting documentation) for each agenda item, you must select the agenda item to see the attachments to either open in a new link (the eyeball ) or download a pdf (the cloud symbol with the down arrow ).

CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tem Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nuñez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed Session items.

RECESS – City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting regular City business.

CLOSED SESSION ITEMS – The Brown Act permits legislative bodies to discuss certain matters without members of the public present. The City Council finds, based on advice from the City Attorney, that discussion in open session of the following matters will prejudice the position of the City in existing and anticipated litigation:

1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8:

Property: 1901 West Walnut, APN 00733208
Agency Negotiator: Michael L. Garcia, Executive Director of Community Development Negotiating Parties: THRIVE Santa Ana Inc.

Under Negotiation: Purchase Price and Terms of Payment

2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:
a. City of Santa Ana v. Rose Marie Bizarro; and Does 1 to 10, OCSC Case No.: 30 202501522368CUPAWJC
b. Irma De La Cruz v City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court, Case No. 30 202301333642
c. Anthony Cardenal v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202201293127
d. John Kachirisky v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202301348299
e. Nelson Menendez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202301339537
f. Manuel Moreno v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 City Council 5 1/20/2026
0505368CUJC
b. Irma De La Cruz v City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court, Case No. 30 202301333642
c. Anthony Cardenal v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202201293127
d. John Kachirisky v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202301348299
e. Nelson Menendez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202301339537
f. Manuel Moreno v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202401372127
g. Rita Ramirez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202201287702
h. Judith Valdez v. City of Santa Ana, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30 202301359457

3. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a):

Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:

1. Service Employees International Union, FullTime Employees Unit (SEIUFT)

2. Service Employees International Union, PartTime NonCivil Service Employees Unit (SEIUPTNCS)

3. Service Employees International Union, PartTime Civil Service Employees Unit (SEIUPTCS)

4. Santa Ana Police Officers Association (POA)

4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a):

Agency Negotiator: Lori Schnaider
Employee Organizations:

1. Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)

2. Santa Ana Middle Management Association (SAMA)

3. Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)

4. Unrepresented Seasonal Employees
RECONVENE – City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tem Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nuñez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
City Council 6 1/20/2026
poyeeOgaatos

1. Confidential Association of Santa Ana (CASA)

2. Santa Ana Middle Management Association (SAMA)

3. Santa Ana Police Management Association (PMA)

4. Unrepresented Seasonal Employees
RECONVENE – City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.

1. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Bacerra to Otoniel Gomez for Acts of Bravery

2. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Lopez to Francis Co for Outstanding Contributions to the Community

3. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Penaloza to the United States Postal Workers in Santa Ana for Outstanding Contributions to the Community CLOSED SESSION REPORT – The City Attorney will report on any action(s) from Closed Session.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for ALL comments on agenda and nonagenda items, with the exception of public hearings.

Comments for public hearings will take place after the hearing is opened.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 4 through 25 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

4. Excused Absences
Department(s):CityClerk’sOffice
City Council 7 1/20/2026
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for ALL comments on agenda and nonagenda items, with the exception of public hearings.

Comments for public hearings will take place after the hearing is opened.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 4 through 25 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

4. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

5. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of December 2, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

6. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission on May 22, 2025, July 24, 2025, August 28, 2025, and September 25, 2025; the Regular Meetings of the Youth Commission on May 19, 2025, July 21, 2025, August 18, 2025, and October 20, 2025; the Regular Meeting of Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee on March 12, 2025; and the Regular Meetings of the Police Oversight Commission on May 8, 2025, July 10, 2025, August 14, 2025, September 11, 2025, October 9, 2025, November 12, 2025, and December 11, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Receive and file.

7. Appoint Members to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Appoint the following individuals to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board: Kathy Jumper (replacing Darren Rutledge) for a partial fouryear term expiring May 31, 2028, Christine Martinez (replacing Maria Rosa Lopez) for a partial fouryear term expiring May 31, 2028, and Dr. Lorraine Perez for a partial fouryear term expiring May 31, 2026.

8. Authorize Staff to Prepare Documents for Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments (NonGeneral Fund) Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize and direct staff to prepare all required documents necessary to proceed with notification of proposed water and sewer rate adjustments in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
a) Prepare and mail proposed rate adjustment notices to all Santa Ana property owners in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements; b) Schedule a public hearing at a future City Council meeting, on or after March 17, 2026;
City Council 8 1/20/2026
Recommended Action: Authorize and direct staff to prepare all required documents necessary to proceed with notification of proposed water and sewer rate adjustments in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
a) Prepare and mail proposed rate adjustment notices to all Santa Ana property owners in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements; b) Schedule a public hearing at a future City Council meeting, on or after March 17, 2026;
c) Prepare all other documents required to proceed with water and sewer rate adjustments.

9. Fiscal Year 202425 General Fund Results
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file this informational report.

10. Fiscal Year 202425 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Related Audit Reports, and Measure X AgreedUponProcedures Report
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action:

Receive and file the following audited and separately issued reports for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2025:

1. The Auditor’s unmodified “clean” opinion letter for the fiscal year 202425 Audited Financial Statements included in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)

2. Government Auditing Standards (GAS) Letter

3. Governance Letter

4. Air Quality Management District (AQMD) Audited Financial Statements

5. The Auditor’s report on the Appropriations Limit (GANN Limit)

6. The Auditor’s report on compliance with the Statement of Investment Policy

7. Measure X AgreedUponProcedures Report

11. Purchase Order Contracts to Bilan J Investment, Bright Event Rentals, and Cosmos Event Rentals for Event Equipment Rental Services (Specification No. 25123) (General Fund & NonGeneral Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Award Aggregate Purchase Order Contracts to vendors listed below for event equipment rental services on an asneeded basis, in a total aggregate amount not to exceed $145,000 for a oneyear term beginning January 20, 2026 through January 19, 2027, with provisions for four oneyear renewal options for a total aggregate amount not to exceed $725,000 over a fiveyear period.

Vendor Location
Bilan J Investment Tukwila, WA
Bright Event Rentals Los Angeles, CA
Cosmos Event Rentals Anaheim, CA

12. Purchase Order Contracts to Dooley Enterprises, Inc., Miwall Corporation, and San Diego Police Equipment Co. Inc. for Ammunition (Specification No. 25117) (General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Award aggregate purchase order contracts to vendors listed below for ammunition on an asneeded basis in a total aggregate amount not to exceed $825,000, for an initial oneyear term expiring January 19, 2027, with provisions for four, oneyear renewal options.

Vendor Location
Dooley Enterprises, Inc. Anaheim, CA
Miwall Corporation Grass Valley, CA
San Diego Police Equipment Co. Inc. San Diego, CA

13. Appropriation Adjustment Accepting FY2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program Funds (NonGeneral Fund UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Approve an Appropriation Adjustment recognizing $1,655,974 in grant revenue from the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative funding program revenue account and appropriate same to the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Program Grant expenditures accounts. (Requires five affirmative votes)

14. Agreement with Turbo Data Systems, Inc. for Automated Parking Citation and Processing Services (Specification No. 25114) (General Fund) Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Turbo Data Systems, Inc. to provide automated parking citation and processing services in an amount not to exceed $2,657,098, for a term beginning February 15, 2026 and expiring February 14, 2029, with provisions for two, oneyear extensions (Agreement No. A2026XXX).

15. Agreement with Utility Response Training Associates, LLC to Provide Training Services for the Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program FY2024 FY2028 (Specification No. 25118A) (NonGeneral Fund UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Utility Response Training Associates, LLC to provide ongoing training deliverables to the Anaheim/Santa Ana Urban Area on an asneeded basis in an aggregate amount not to exceed $99,500, for the period of January 20, 2026 through January 19, 2029 with two, oneyear renewal options (Agreement No. A2026XXX).

16. Agreement with DTSA Services for Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program (Specification No. 25097) (Parking Enterprise Funds)
City Council 10 1/20/2026
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Utility Response Training Associates, LLC to provide ongoing training deliverables to the Anaheim/Santa Ana Urban Area on an asneeded basis in an aggregate amount not to exceed $99,500, for the period of January 20, 2026 through January 19, 2029 with two, oneyear renewal options (Agreement No. A2026XXX).

16. Agreement with DTSA Services for Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program (Specification No. 25097) (Parking Enterprise Funds)
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Romo Enterprises Inc. DBA DTSA Services for the Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program in an amount nottoexceed $1,110,764 for a term beginning March 1, 2026 and expiring February 28, 2027, with provisions for two, oneyear extensions for a total agreement amount nottoexceed $3,501,682 (Agreement No. A2026XXX).

17. Memorandum of Understanding Establishing the Terms and Conditions of Employment for Classifications Represented by the Service Employees International Union Local 721
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the Service Employees International Union Local 721 (“SEIU”) regarding wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment effective July 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025 and authorize nonsubstantive changes which may be necessary to implement the agreement (Agreement No. A2026XXX).

18. Agreement with Insight Public Sector, Inc. for Volume Licensing and Maintenance for Microsoft Software and Products (Specification No. 26005) (NonGeneral Fund) Department(s): Information Technology
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Insight Public Sector, Inc. to provide volume licensing and maintenance for Microsoft software and products in an amount not to exceed $2,900,000, for a term beginning February 1, 2026 and expiring January 31, 2029. (Agreement No. A2026XXX)

19. Historic Property Preservation Agreement for the Property Located at 1218 N. French Street
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the attached Mills Act agreement with the belowreferenced property owner for the identified structure (Agreement No. A2026XXX) [Includes determination that the proposed project is exempt from further review in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act as Categorical Exemption/Environmental Review No. 2025 95 will be filed for the project].

Table 1: Mills Act Agreement Approved by the Historic Resources Commission (HRC)
Property
Owner
Historic Property
Preservation Agreement
No.

Address/House Vote by HRC
Anna
Lozano 202511 1218 N. FrenchStreet
6:0:0:2 (Commissioners
Almendral and Rincon
absent)
City Council 11 1/20/2026
attacedsctageeetttebeoeeecedpopetyoeote
identified structure (Agreement No. A2026XXX) [Includes determination that the proposed project is exempt from further review in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act as Categorical Exemption/Environmental Review No. 2025 95 will be filed for the project].

Table 1: Mills Act Agreement Approved by the Historic Resources Commission (HRC)
Property
Owner
Historic Property
Preservation Agreement
No.

Address/House Vote by HRC
Anna
Lozano 202511 1218 N. FrenchStreet
6:0:0:2 (Commissioners
Almendral and Rincon
absent)

20. Relocation and Quitclaim of Easements within 3100 West Lake Center Drive for the South Coast Technology Center Project (Applicant: C.J. Segerstrom & Sons, a California General Partnership)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute quitclaim deeds relinquishing the City’s interest in the existing easements at 3100 West Lake Center Drive.

21. Award of a Construction Contract to Cali State Paving, Inc., for the Construction of the Alley Improvements Project (Project No. 266910) (General Fund) Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: 1. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost of $765,625, which includes $612,500 for the construction contract, $91,875 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $61,250 for unanticipated or unforeseen work.

2. Award a construction contract to Cali State Paving, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of $612,500, subject to change orders, for the construction of the Alley Improvements Program Project (Project No. 266910), for a term beginning January 20, 2026 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.

3. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption Environmental Review No. ER20258 will be filed for Project No. 266910.

22. Award of a Construction Contract to GEMS Environmental Management Services, Inc. to Construct the Fire Station 74 Fuel Station Replacement Project (Project No. 24 6053) (NonGeneral Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: 1. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 202526 Capital Improvement Program to include an additional $842,630 in construction funds for the Fire Station 74 Fuel Station Replacement Project (Project No. 246053).

2. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost of $842,630, which includes $674,104 for the construction contract, $101,115 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $67,411 for unanticipated or unforeseen work.

City Council 12 1/20/2026
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Recommended Action: 1. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 202526 Capital Improvement Program to include an additional $842,630 in construction funds for the Fire Station 74 Fuel Station Replacement Project (Project No. 246053).

3. Award a construction contract to GEMS Environmental Management Services, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of $674,104, subject to change orders, for construction of the Fire Station 74 Fuel Station Replacement Project (Project No. 246053), for a term beginning January 20, 2026 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.

4. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption Environmental Review No. ER2025116 will be filed for Project No. 246053.

23. Award of a Construction Contract to Golden Gate Steel, Inc., to Construct the Portola Splash Pad Project (Project No. 252401) (NonGeneral Fund) Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: 1. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 202526 Capital Improvement Program to include an additional $2,467,500 in construction funds for the Portola Splash Pad Project (Project No. 252401).

2. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost of $2,467,500, which includes $1,974,000 for the construction contract, $296,100 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $197,400 for unanticipated or unforeseen work.

3. Award a construction contract to Golden Gate Steel, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in accordance with the base bid in the amount of $1,974,000, subject to change orders, for construction of the Portola Splash Pad Project (Project No. 25 2401), for a term beginning January 20, 2026 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.

24. First Amendment to the Agreement with Musco Sports Lighting, LLC to Install Additional LED Lighting at Centennial Park Playground (Project No. 266007) (General Fund & NonGeneral Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: 1. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 202526 Capital Improvement Program to include an additional $186,978 in construction funds for the Centennial Park Lighting Project (Project No. 266007).

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to the agreement with Musco Sports Lighting, LLC to add playground LED sports lighting at Centennial Park, in an additional amount of $208,585, which includes $189,622 for construction and $18,963 for unanticipated or unforeseen work, for a total revised estimated project delivery cost of $1,516,978 (Agreement No. A2026XXX). 25Agreementwith1stChoicePool&SpaSolutionsforPoolsOutdoorFountainsand City Council 13 1/20/2026
Capital Improvement Program to include an additional $186,978 in construction funds for the Centennial Park Lighting Project (Project No. 266007).

25. Agreement with 1st Choice Pool & Spa Solutions for Pools, Outdoor Fountains, and Splash Pads Maintenance and Repair Services (Specification No. 25120) (General Fund & NonGeneral Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with 1st Choice Pool & Spa Solutions to provide pools, fountains, and splash pads maintenance and repair services in an amount nottoexceed $553,930, for a term beginning February 1, 2026 and expiring January 31, 2027, with provisions for four, oneyear extensions for a total agreement amount nottoexceed $2,009,618 (Agreement No. A2026XXX).
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
BUSINESS CALENDAR

26. Selection of Mayor Pro Tem for 2026 Pursuant to Santa Ana City Charter Section 405 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Nominate and elect one Councilmember to serve as Mayor Pro Tem for calendar year 2026.

27. Nominate and Appoint an Alternate Representative to the Southern California Association of Governments General Assembly Business Meeting Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Nominate and appoint an alternate for purposes of the Southern California Association of Governments General Assembly Business Meeting.

28. Ordinance Amending Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code As To Section 2 748 Specifying the Procurement and Contracting Procedure for Vehicle and Vehicle Related Equipment Purchases
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 2748 of Article VII, of Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) specifying the procurement and contracting procedure for vehicle and vehicle related equipment purchases.

ORDINANCE NO. NSXXXX entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE AS TO SECTION 2748 SPECIFYING THE PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTING PROCEDURE FOR VEHICLE AND VEHICLE RELATED City Council 14 1/20/2026
Recommended Action: Approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 2748 of Article VII, of Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) specifying the procurement and contracting procedure for vehicle and vehicle related equipment purchases.

ORDINANCE NO. NSXXXX entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE AS TO SECTION 2748 SPECIFYING THE PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTING PROCEDURE FOR VEHICLE AND VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT PURCHASES
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public may address the City Council on each of the Public Hearing item.

29. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. NS3088 Adopting the Updated California and International Building and Fire Codes with Local Conditions Amendments
First reading December 2, 2025 City Council meeting and approved by a vote of 70.

Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on December 19 and December 26, 2025.

Department(s): Planning and Building Agency, Orange County Fire Authority Recommended Action: 1. Find that the proposed Ordinance is exempt under the provision of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).

2. Conduct a public hearing and approve second reading and adoption of ordinance amending Chapters 8 and 14 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code adopting the State Building Regulations, including the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, and certain modifications and changes with respect to local climatic, geographical and topographical conditions with the City of Santa Ana to the California Building, Existing Building, Residential, Green Standards, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Historical Building, and Fire Codes as amended by the State of California.

ORDINANCE NO. NS3088 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTERS 8 AND 14 OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT AND AMEND THE MOST RECENTLY ENACTED CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, AND INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE – If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.

ADJOURNMENTAdjthCitCiltidtthHiAthit
City Council 15 1/20/2026
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE – If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.

ADJOURNMENT – Adjourn the City Council meeting and convene to the Housing Authority meeting.

In Memory Of
Renee Nicole Good
Jesus Alejandro Valdez
Keith Porter
Future Items

1. Agreement for Public Works Assets Management Software

2. Construction Contract for Bristol Street and Memory Lane Intersection Improvements POSTING STATEMENT: On January 13, 2026, a true and correct copy of this agenda was posted at the entrance to City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Internet Access to City Council, Agency, and Authority agendas and related material is available prior to meetings at santaana.org/agendasandminutes.

HOUSING AUTHORITY
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE Authority Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Vice Chair Benjamin Vazquez
Chair Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nuñez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
Recording Secretary Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE HOUSING AUTHORITY AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public may address Housing Authority on items on the Housing Authority agenda.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 though 3 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances
City Council 16 1/20/2026
POSTING STATEMENT: On January 13, 2026, a true and correct copy of this agenda was posted at the entrance to City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Internet Access to City Council, Agency, and Authority agendas and related material is available prior to meetings at santaana.org/agendasandminutes.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 though 3 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

1. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 4, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

3. Housing Successor Annual Report for FY 202425 – Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
HOUSING AUTHORITY MEMBER COMMENTS
City Council 17 1/20/2026
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file.
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
HOUSING AUTHORITY MEMBER COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – Adjourn the Housing Authority meeting and convene to the Special Successor Agency meeting.

POSTING STATEMENT: On January 13, 2026, a true and correct copy of this agenda was posted at the entrance to City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Internet Access to City Council, Agency, and Authority agendas and related material is available prior to meetings at santaana.org/agendasandminutes.

SPECIAL SUCCESSOR AGENCY
CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE Agency Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Vice Chair Benjamin Vazquez
Chair Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nuñez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall
ROLL CALL
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public may address Successor Agency on items on the Successor Agency Authority agenda.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 through 3 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

1. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Special Meeting of January 21, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
RddAtiAit
City Council 18 1/20/2026
POSTING STATEMENT: On January 13, 2026, a true and correct copy of this agenda was posted at the entrance to City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Internet Access to City Council, Agency, and Authority agendas and related material is available prior to meetings at santaana.org/agendasandminutes.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 through 3 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

1. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Special Meeting of January 21, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

3. Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) for the Period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution approving the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for the period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 pursuant to Part 1.85 of Division 24 of the California Health & Safety Code.

SUCCESSOR AGENCY RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXX entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE FORMER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING THE RECOGNIZED OBLIGATIONPAYMENTSCHEDULE2627FORTHEPERIODOFJULY12026TO City Council 19 1/20/2026
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution approving the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for the period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 pursuant to Part 1.85 of Division 24 of the California Health & Safety Code.

SUCCESSOR AGENCY RESOLUTION NO. 2026XXX entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE FORMER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING THE RECOGNIZED OBLIGATION PAYMENT SCHEDULE 2627 FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2026 TO JUNE 30, 2027 PURSUANT TO HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 34177(o), AND PART 1.85 OF DIVISION 24 OF THE CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE (“DISSOLUTION ACT”)
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
SUCCESSOR AGENCY COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – Adjourn the Successor Agency meeting.

City Council 20 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 1 DECEMBER 2, 2025
DRAFT Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council
City of Santa Ana,
California
December 2, 2025
CLOSED SESSION MEETING – 4:00 P.M.

REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 P.M.
(Immediately following the Closed Session Meeting)

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CLOSED SESSION

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua called the Closed Session meeting to order at 4:12 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Council Members Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Mayor Pro Tem Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager Alvaro Nuñez
City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho
City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.

Councilmembers Bacerra, Phan, and Penaloza, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were present. Councilmembers Hernandez and Lopez joined during Closed Session.

City Council 5 – 1 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 2 DECEMBER 2, 2025
ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION
MINUTES: None.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Members of the public may address the City Council on Closed Session items.

MINUTES: None.

RECESS – City Council will recess to Closed Session for the purpose of conducting regular City business.

MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua recessed to consider the Closed Session items at 4:13 P.M.

1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code:

A. City of Santa Ana v. Rose Marie Bizarro; and Does 1 to 10, OCSC Case No.:
30-2025-01522368-CU-PA-WJC

2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – POTENTIAL INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code Section 54956.9: One (1) case: Sunshine Village

3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8:

Property: 209 W. Civic Center Dr, APN 005-184-25
Agency Negotiator: Michael L. Garcia, Executive Director of Community Development
Negotiating Parties: 209 West Civic Center, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – POTENTIAL INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to Paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Government Code Section 54956.9: One (1) case
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Closed Session Item No. 3 as the party is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker. She left the Closed Session room at 4:37 P.M. and returned at 5:04 P.M.

City Council 5 – 2 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 3 DECEMBER 2, 2025

4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a):

Agency Negotiator: Peter Brown
Employee Organizations:

1. Service Employees International Union, Full-Time Employees Unit (SEIUFT)

2. Serice Employees International Union, Part-Time Non-Civil Service Employees Unit (SEIU-PTNCS)
RECONVENE – City Council will reconvene to continue regular City business.

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR OPEN SESSION

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua reconvened the City Council Meeting to order at 6:03 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Councilmembers
Mayor Pro Tem
Phil Bacerra
Johnathan Ryan Hernandez
Jessie Lopez
David Penaloza
Thai Viet Phan
Benjamin Vazquez
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Alvaro Nuñez
Sonia R. Carvalho
Jennifer L. Hall

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall conducted roll call.

Councilmembers Bacerra, Hernandez, Lopez, Penaloza, and Phan, Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez, and Mayor Amezcua were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Jennifer S. Wang
WORDS OF INSPIRATION Pastor Ivan Pitts, Second Baptist Church ADDITIONS\DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced a typographical correction to the name “Gershon” on the agenda title for Item No. 17 and updates to exhibits for Item No. 34.

City Council 5 – 3 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 4 DECEMBER 2, 2025

CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS

1. Certificate of Recognition presented by Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez to Relámpago del Cielo in honor of their 50th Anniversary
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez presented a certificate of recognition to Relámpago del Cielo in honor of their 50th Anniversary.

2. Proclamation presented by Councilmember Lopez to RedBoy Productions and the Heritage Museum of Orange County declaring November 2025, as Native American Heritage Month
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez presented a proclamation to RedBoy Productions and the Heritage Museum of Orange County declaring November 2025 as Native American Heritage Month.

3. Certificate of Recognition presented by Councilmember Penaloza to Monse Santillan in honor of her Exceptional Athletic Achievements MINUTES: Councilmember Penaloza presented a certificate of recognition to Monse Santillan in honor of her exception athletic achievements.

STAFF PRESENTATIONS

4. Homelessness Update
MINUTES: Community Development Director Michael Garcia provided a presentation regarding the CityNet point in time count and a homelessness update.

Councilmember Penaloza inquired regarding the types of employment held by the homeless population.

Homeless Services Division Manager Kenneth Gominsky reported that staff did not collect specific employment data unless volunteered by the participants and the information was obtained for potential rehiring purposes only.

Councilmember Bacerra inquired regarding the difference between positive street exits versus exit to shelters.

Manager Gominsky provided information regarding shelter exits.

Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding shelter costs, drug testing, foster care data, veterans data, and Quality of Life Team (QOLT) operating hours.

Manager Gominsky clarified drug testing is not a common practice at the shelter and is performed if an individual is exhibiting signs and symptoms of intoxication upon returning to the shelter. He explained the shelter is not allowed to force drug testing because it receives Public Housing Authority and Homeless Housing, Assistance and City Council 5 – 4 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 5 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Prevention funding. He noted that connecting veterans to VA services is difficult because many have issues with how they exited the military, affecting their eligibility for VA access, and confirmed the adjustment to the CityNet schedule to match the QOLT team's hours, extending their operation until 11:00 P.M.

Councilmember Lopez thanked the City Manager and staff for the detailed presentation. She noted the data reflects a growing trend of elderly residents falling into homelessness, mirroring a state trend released two years ago and encouraged staff to utilize the information to implement policy. She requested clarification on the 120-day shelter limit, asking what transitional resources are available for a resident whose time is up, is working part-time, but has not yet secured housing or a voucher.

Manager Gominsky clarified after the 120-days are complete, individuals are officially exited from the program, and should the individual express a desire to return and is showing forward movement in their plan, they are allowed back into the shelter, provided there is availability.

Councilmember Lopez praised the improvements seen in the Santiago Creek over the past five years, noting the City’s proactive efforts including cleaning areas outside its jurisdiction. She urged the City Manager to form a collaborative relationship with the City Manager of Orange to share the workload on creek maintenance and issues, and establish a cleaning schedule for the freeway underpass. She suggested the City should acquire the property under the underpass since City staff is already performing necessary cleanup and enforcement there.

Councilmember Hernandez stressed the shelter must uphold a housing-first approach, requiring minimal and reasonable expectations for entry, and advocated for treating substance abuse with referrals for detox, counseling, and supportive services. He requested case management for work-ready residents focused on securing employment and housing and an ethical drug testing strategy that encourages voluntary participation and avoids discrimination.

Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked staff for the thorough presentation and highlighted Santa Ana achieved a 15% reduction in its unhoused population. He expressed appreciation for the investment and work being done, and stated that as staff gathers more data and focuses on specific demographics such as the elderly, domestic violence survivors, and former foster youth, the City will get better at resolving these issues.

Councilmember Bacerra followed up on a request made during the October meeting to post the calls for service quarterly data for the City's Permanent Supportive Housing developments, and asked whether the postings would be available for the community to see by the end of the year.

Director Garcia confirmed the information would be made available by the end of the year.

Mayor Amezcua inquired regarding services for individuals who are wheelchair bound.

City Council 5 – 5 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 6 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Manager Gominsky explained individuals must be able to perform their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to enter any emergency shelter, and individuals incapable of performing their ADLs are generally directed toward a recuperative care facility. He stated if a person incapable of performing their ADLs refuses recuperative care, the only available option to compel services is for a government agent to initiate a 5150 hold. He explained transportation to a shelter, program, or recuperative care is provided by CityNet, as they are a much more appropriate alternative to using law enforcement vehicles for transportation services.

Mayor Amezcua thanked the City Manager for the presentation and requested the Council receive these comprehensive updates at minimum twice a year.

City Manager Alvaro Nuñez committed to providing two comprehensive presentations per year with the goal of showing continuous growth and improvement through enhanced collaboration with non-profits, the County, and the City of Orange.

Mayor Amezcua clarified the City spent $30 million to purchase and develop the shelter four or five years ago, and confirmed the annual operating costs are for the Illumination Foundation shelter contract and the CityNet contract, noting the amount does not include QOLT, Public Works, or Code Enforcement costs. She questioned how the City would continue funding the program once the HHAP funding is gone, noting that Santa Ana bears more of the homelessness burden than any other city. She thanked staff for implementing true wrap-around services and requested the next presentation include data on the resources and assistance the County of Orange provides to Santa Ana for homeless mental health services. She highlighted statistics from the QOLT team and emphasized the City Manager must work with the County Supervisor and County agencies to increase assistance provided to Santa Ana as the county seat.

CLOSED SESSION REPORT – The CityAttorney will report on any action(s)from Closed Session.

MINUTES: City Attorney Sonia Carvalho reported one action from the closed session:

By a vote of 5-0-0-2 (Councilmembers Hernandez and Lopez absent) on Item No. 2, the City Council authorized the City Attorney's Office to file a drug den abatement and red-light abatement action concerning the property known as Sunshine Village.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for ALL comments on agenda and nonagenda items.

MINUTES: City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall reported out the summary of email comments received: eight (8) non-agenda comments.

The following speakers addressed City Council in-person:

1. Susana Rios thanked City staff for their work, addressed the response to her MySantaAna app graffiti report, and extended an invitation to the Christmas Caroling event at Lydia Romero-Cruz school.

City Council 5 – 6 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 7 DECEMBER 2, 2025

2. Bruce Senator spoke regarding a potential ballot initiative, homeless assistance on railroad rights-of-way, railroad right-of-way fencing, and parking problem solutions.

3. Melissa Aburto thanked City staff for a recent meeting concerning their organization’s issues, highlighted recent championship victories of their soccer teams, and wished staff a happy holiday season.

4. Bryan Leos thanked City staff for a recent meeting concerning their organization’s issues, highlighted recent championship victories of their soccer teams, and wished staff a happy holiday season.

5. Alicia Rojas thanked the Council for art funding, and spoke regarding artist waiver requirements, history of art loss in the City, and errors in contract processing.

6. Daniel Diaz spoke regarding pending Public Records Act requests.

7. Danielle Cano submitted documents and spoke regarding an encounter with a Federal Agent and recent incidents involving Federal Agents.

8. Carl Benninger thanked the Police Department and Fire Department, spoke regarding citizenship, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

The following speakers addressed City Council via teleconference:

9. William Strand announced he was available to answer questions regarding Item No.

37. 10.Aurora Zavala spoke regarding King of Kings Christian Academy.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 5 through 37 and waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.

MINUTES: At 8:12 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

Councilmember Hernandez announced a “No” vote on Agenda Item No. 32.

Councilmember Phan recused herself from Item No. 18 as the listed entities, Cities of Irvine and Anaheim, are clients of her employer, Rutan and Tucker and Item No. 32 as the listed entity, City of Anaheim, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.

Councilmember Bacerra pulled Item No. 18 for separate discussion and consideration.

CONSENT CALENDAR
City Council 5 – 7 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 8 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5 through 37 with the exception of Agenda Item No. 18 pulled for separate discussion and consideration, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.

The motion carried, 6-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER

HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA,

COUNCILMEMBER PHAN, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ,

MAYOR AMEZCUA
NONE
NONE

COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 6 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass

5. Excused Absences
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

6. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 4, 2025 Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

7. Budget Calendar and Community Engagement Plan for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Approve the Budget Calendar and Community Engagement Plan for Fiscal Year 2026-27 (FY26-27).

8. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Contracts up to $50,000 for Non-Public Works and up to $500,000 for Public Works Authorized by the City Manager as Permitted by Charter Section 421
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file Quarterly Report of Contracts entered into between July 1, 2025 to September 30, 2025.

9. Receive and File Quarterly Report of Investments as of September 30, 2025 Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Receive and file.

City Council 5 – 8 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 9 DECEMBER 2, 2025

10.Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Budget Update and Proposed Appropriation Adjustments
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action:

1. Receive and file the First Quarter Budget Update.

2. Approve General Fund appropriation adjustments for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras program that have a net zero impact as detailed in the body of this report. (Requires five affirmative votes)

3. Approve $1.2 million in Non-General Fund appropriation adjustments as detailed in the body of this report. (Requires five affirmative votes)

11.Approve an Additional $150,000 for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Approve an additional $150,000 for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program.

2. Award Purchase Order Contract to PrePaid USA for prepaid cards to facilitate Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program in a total amount not to exceed $150,000.

12.Annual Development Impact Fee Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Receive and file the Annual Development Impact Fee Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.

13.Award Purchase Order Contract to B&K Electric Wholesale for Electrical Equipment, Hardware, and Related Materials for John Garthe Water Pump Station (Specification No. 25-126) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Award a purchase order contract to B&K Electric Wholesale for electrical equipment, hardware, and related materials for the John Garthe Water Pump Station for a two-year term beginning in December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2027, in a total amount not to exceed $500,000.

14.Appropriation Adjustment and Agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration for the Safe Routes to Parks and Wheelchair Assessment Plan (Non-General Fund) (Project No. 26- 6100)
City Council 5 – 9 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 10 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration for the Safe Routes to Parks and Wheelchair Assessment plan, effective upon execution of the agreement through September 30, 2028 in an amount not to exceed $651,200 (Agreement No. A-2025-217).

2. Approve an appropriation adjustment accepting $651,200 in the Public Services – Street Safety Projects, Federal Grant-Indirect revenue account and appropriate the same amount into the Street Safety Projects, Improvements Other Than Building expenditure account. (Requires five affirmative votes)

15.Mitigated Negative Declaration, Appropriation Adjustment, and Construction Contract to Armstrong Cal Builders Inc. to Construct the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project (Project No. 24-6604) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Approve and adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation and Monitoring Reporting Program prepared for the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

2. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $3,700,000 in Caltrans Cooperative Implementation Agreement funding in the Federal Clean Water Protection Enterprise, Expense Reimbursement-Caltrans Account (No. 05717002-57021) and appropriate the same amount into the Federal Clean Water Protection Enterprise, Improvements Other Than Building expenditure account (No. 05717640-66220). (Requires five affirmative votes)

3. Approve an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Improvement Program to add $3,700,000 of Caltrans funding for the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project (No. 24-6604).

4. Approve the Project Cost Analysis for a total estimated construction delivery cost of $8,343,525, which includes $6,627,620 for the construction contract, $1,053,143 for contract administration, inspection, and testing, and $662,762 for unanticipated or unforeseen work.

5. Award a construction contract to Armstrong Cal Builders Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $6,627,620, for construction of the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and an estimated completion date of March 2027, and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract.

City Council 5 – 10 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 11 DECEMBER 2, 2025

16.Purchase and Sale Agreement with Enrique Ponce for the Sale of City-owned Property Located at 1725 N. Bristol Street and Appropriation Adjustment (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase and sale agreement with Enrique Ponce for the sale of City-owned property located at 1725 N. Bristol Street (APN 399-085-22) in the amount of $4,521 (Agreement No. A-2025- 193).

2. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $1,516 in revenue from the purchase and sale agreement into the Select Street Construction, Sale of Land revenue account (No. 05917002-57071) and appropriate it to the OCTA Bristol St Corridor Improvements, Improvements Other Than Buildings expenditure account (No. 05917661-66220), and deposit $3,005 to the Measure M-Street Construction, liability account (No. 03201001-20215). (Requires five affirmative votes)

17.Agreements for Legal Counsel Services with Richards Watson & Gershon APC and Goldfarb & Lipman LLP (General Fund)
Department(s): City Attorney’s Office
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a legal services agreement with the law firm of Richards Watson & Gershon APC ("RWG") for legal services for municipal advisory and litigation services including, but not limited to, elections work for the period of December 2, 2025 until December 1, 2028 with an option to extend for up to one year, in an amount not to exceed $350,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-194).

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a legal services agreement with the law firm of Goldfarb & Lipman LLP for municipal advisory and litigation services, including but not limited to, defending the City in litigation challenging the Rent Stabilization and Just Cause Eviction Ordinance, administrative procedures, housing, affordable housing, fair housing, rent stabilization, land use, and real property issues for the period of December 2, 2025 to December 1, 2028, with an option to extend for up to one year, in an amount not to exceed $400,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-195).

City Council 5 – 11 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 12 DECEMBER 2, 2025
AGENDA ITEM NO. 18 PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION AND

CONSIDERATION

18.Memorandum of Understanding Between the County of Orange, acting as the Administrative Entity for the County of Orange and the Orange County Continuum of Care, the City of Anaheim, the City of Irvine, and the City of Santa Ana for the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program Regional Coordination
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding with the County of Orange, the City of Anaheim, and the City of Irvine, to support regional coordination to address homelessness challenges (Agreement No. A-2025-196).

MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself for Item No. 18 and left the dais at 8:15 P.M.

Councilmember Bacerra highlighted the section in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which states the City of Santa Ana will provide outreach and engagement to unsheltered individuals and will link persons to shelter and housing "within their jurisdiction" and questioned why the corresponding subsections for the County, the City of Anaheim, and the City of Irvine do not contain the same "within their jurisdiction" language.

Community Development Director Michael Garcia noted there are minor differences in language because jurisdictions, such as Irvine, do not contract for outreach and engagement services in the same way the County, Anaheim, or Santa Ana do, and explained the specific language in Santa Ana's section is written to allow the City to continue conducting family reunification and transporting individuals to their original jurisdictions.

Councilmember Bacerra questioned why the MOU does not require a single, county-wide provider for street outreach, stating the current patchwork of separate providers is inefficient and complex, and suggesting the County should act as an umbrella for seamless engagement services across the entire region.

Director Garcia explained the City of Santa Ana contracts for a higher level of outreach and engagement service than what the County provides and noted that without the City's own funding, they would have to rely on the County's limited funding and petition the County Supervisor to increase the number of outreach members in Santa Ana.

Councilmember Bacerra expressed frustration with the County's perceived lack of participation in its own flood control channels.

City Council 5 – 12 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 13 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Bacerra moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 18, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.

The motion carried, 4-0-1-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER

HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ, MAYOR PRO

TEM VAZQUEZ
NONE
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)

COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, MAYOR AMEZCUA
Status: 4 – 0 – 1 – 2 – Pass
MINUTES: Councilmember Phan returned to the dais at 8:25 P.M.

19.First Amendment to the Agreement with the State of California Workforce Development Board for the Prison to Employment (P2E) 2.0 Grant (NonGeneral Fund) Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to the Agreement with the State of California Workforce Development Board for the Prison to Employment (P2E) 2.0 Grant, extending the contract term through December 31, 2026, with no change in the total contract amount of $927,341 (Agreement No. A-2025-197).

20.First Amendments to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Subrecipient Agreements with Orange County United Way and WISEPlace, and a First Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding with the Santa Ana Police Department
Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with WISEPlace to serve additional Santa Ana residents experiencing homelessness by $15,197, for a new annual amount not to exceed $72,197 for the current contract term expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-198).

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with the Orange County United Way for Homeless Management Information System data management by $15,197, for a new annual amount not to exceed $73,343 for the current contract term expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-199).

City Council 5 – 13 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 14 DECEMBER 2, 2025

3. Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to increase the annual amount of the FY 2025-26 ESG Subrecipient Agreement with the Santa Ana Police Department for the Homeless Evaluation Assessment Response Team Program to serve additional Santa Ana residents experiencing homelessness through street outreach and engagement by $15,197 for a new total annual amount not to exceed $72,082 for the current contract term expiring June 30, 2026 (Agreement No. A-2025-200).

21.Purchase Order Contract to Hill’s Bros. Lock and Safe Inc. for Locksmith and Related Services (Specification No. 25-108) (General Fund & Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Finance and Management Services
Recommended Action: Award Purchase Order Contract to Hill’s Bros. Lock and Safe Inc. for locksmith and related services for a two-year term beginning in December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2027, with provisions for three, oneyear renewal options, in a total amount not-to-exceed $427,625.

22.Agreements with AdminSure, Inc. for Third Party General Liability and Workers’ Compensation Claims Administration Services (Specification No. 25-136) (Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with AdminSure, Inc. to provide third party general liability claims administration services, in an amount not to exceed $1,537,296, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2029. (Agreement No. A-2025-201).

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with AdminSure, Inc. to provide third party workers’ compensation claims administration services, in an amount not to exceed $2,877,212, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2029. (Agreement No. A-2025-202).

23.Agreement with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP for Legal Advisory Services for the City’s Personnel Board (General Fund)
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP to provide legal advisory services for the City’s Personnel Board in an amount not to exceed $250,000, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring November 30, 2027, with provisions for three (3), one (1) year extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-203).

City Council 5 – 14 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 15 DECEMBER 2, 2025

24.Memorandum of Understanding Establishing the Terms and Conditions of Employment for Classifications Represented by the Confidential Association of the City of Santa Ana and Resolution Updating the Salary Schedule for Associated Unrepresented Classifications
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the Confidential Association of the City of Santa Ana (“CASA”) regarding wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028 (Agreement No. A-2025-204).

2. Adopt a Resolution updating the salary schedule for associated unrepresented classifications.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-051 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO EFFECT CERTAIN CHANGES TO THE CITY’S CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN

25.Memorandum of Understanding Establishing the Terms and Conditions of Employment for Classifications Represented by the Santa Ana Police Management Association
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the Santa Ana Police Management Association (“PMA”) regarding wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028 (Agreement No. A-2025-205).

26.Agreement with Peregrine Technologies, Inc. for Data Analytics and Visualization Services (Non-General Fund - SLESA)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Peregrine Technologies, Inc. for data analytics and visualization services in the amount of $760,200 for a three-year period beginning December 15, 2025, and expiring December 14, 2028, with two optional one-year extensions at a cost of $261,000 for the first extension, $268,830 for the second extension, and an additional $100,000 for data sources, for a maximum amount not to exceed $1,390,030 over a five-year term (Agreement No. A-2025-206).

27.Purchase Order to North American Rescue, LLC for Training Manikins (Specification No. 25-125A) (Non-General Fund - UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
City Council 5 – 15 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 16 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Recommended Action: Authorize a purchase order to North American Rescue, LLC for Training Manikins, in an amount not to exceed $117,528.

28.Agreements with Galls, LLC and L.N. Curtis & Sons, Inc. for Police Uniforms, Accessories, and Miscellaneous Equipment (General Fund & Non-General Fund)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with the following vendors for the purchase of police uniforms, accessories, and miscellaneous equipment for an aggregate amount not to exceed $2,500,000 (Core Agreement No. A-2025-207):
• Galls, LLC – in amount not to exceed $1,250,000 from December 2, 2025 through March 25, 2028 and option to exercise one (1), one-year extension through March 25, 2029.
• L.N. Curtis & Sons, Inc. dba Curtis Blue Line – in an amount not to exceed $1,250,000 from December 2, 2025 through November 7, 2026 and option to exercise one (1), one-year extension through November 7, 2027.

29.Agreement with Meridian Rapid Defense Group, LLC, for Vehicle Mitigation Mobile Barrier Kits (Specification No. 25-121A) (Non-General Fund - UASI) Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Meridian Rapid Defense Group, LLC to provide twenty (20) Vehicle Mitigation Mobile Barrier Kits in a total amount not to exceed $2,792,109, over a three-year term beginning on December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028 with provisions for two, one-year renewal options (Agreement No. A-2025-208).

30.Agreements with Convergint Technologies LLC for Video Surveillance System Upgrade and Maintenance and Repair Services and Appropriation Adjustment (Specification No. 25-109A) (General Fund & Non-General Fund –

UASI, DOJ)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Convergint Technologies LLC to provide video surveillance system upgrade and Customer Support Program, in an amount not to exceed $3,043,768 for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028, with provisions for two, oneyear extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-209).

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Convergint Technologies LLC to provide maintenance and repair services, in an amount not to exceed $95,593, for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring City Council 5 – 16 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 17 DECEMBER 2, 2025
December 1, 2028, with provisions for two, one-year extensions (Agreement No. A-2025-210).

3. Approve an appropriation adjustment to recognize $220,000 of prior-year fund balance in the U.S. Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Funds and appropriate same to the Contract Services expenditure account. (Requires five affirmative votes)

31.Agreements with Luis Raul Martinez, and Jacob Joseph and Jabez Family Counseling and Professional Services Group Inc. for Incarcerated Persons Counseling Services (Specification No. 25-103) (Non-General Fund) Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with the following consultants to provide incarcerated persons counseling services for a term beginning December 2, 2025 and expiring December 1, 2028. • Luis Raul Martinez – $140,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-211); • Jacob Joseph and Jabez Family Counseling and Professional Services Group Inc. – $140,000 (Agreement No. A-2025-212)

32.Resolution, Appropriation Adjustment, Agreement, and Memorandum of Understanding Accepting FY2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program Funds (Non-General Fund - UASI)
Department(s): Police Department
Recommended Action:

1. Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager and the Chief of Police, or their designee(s), to enter into agreements with the City of Anaheim for the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-052 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING THE CITY

MANAGER AND THE CHIEF OF POLICE OR THEIR DESIGNEE(S) TO

ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF ANAHEIM FOR THE FY2024 URBAN AREA SECURITY INITIATIVE FUNDING PROGRAM

2. Authorize the City Manager and the Chief of Police to execute agreements (transfer agreement and award agreement) with the City of Anaheim accepting the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program in the amount of $1,655,974 for the period of November 12, 2025 through March 31, 2027 (Agreement Nos. A-2025-213 and A-2025-214).

3. Approve and authorize the City Manager and the Chief of Police to execute the Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Anaheim accepting the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program. (Agreement No. A-2025-215) City Council 5 – 17 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 18 DECEMBER 2, 2025

4. Approve an Appropriation Adjustment recognizing $1,655,974 in grant revenue from the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative funding program revenue account and appropriate same to the FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Program Grant expenditures accounts. (Requires five affirmative votes) MINUTES: Councilmember Phan recused herself from Item No. 32 as the listed entity, City of Anaheim, is a client of her employer, Rutan and Tucker.

MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve the recommended actions Nos. 1-3 for Agenda Item No. 32, as part of the consent calendar, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.

The motion carried, 4-1-1-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER

PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR

AMEZCUA

COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)

COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 4 – 1 – 1 – 1 – Pass
MOTION: Councilmember Penaloza moved to approve recommended action No. 4 for Agenda Item No. 32, as part of the consent calendar, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.

The motion failed, 4-1-1-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER

PENALOZA, MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR

AMEZCUA

COUNCILMEMBER HERNANDEZ
COUNCILMEMBER PHAN (recusal)

COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ
Status: 4 – 1 – 1 – 1 – Fail (requires five affirmative votes)

33.Resolution to Accept a $4,893,250 Award in Grant Funding from the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development 2024 Homeownership CalHome Program and Appropriation Adjustment Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City of Santa Ana to accept a $4,893,250 award in grant funding from the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) 2024 Homeownership CalHome Program.

City Council 5 – 18 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 19 DECEMBER 2, 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-053 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF 2024

HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPER NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY (HOSN)

CALHOME PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS FOR THE MY FIRST HOME

PROGRAM

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with the State of California, in the form of HCD’s “Standard Agreement,” for receipt of the 2024 Homeownership CalHome Program grant funding in the amount of $4,893,250, and execute any other documents required by HCD to secure the grant (Agreement No. A-2025-216).

3. Approve an appropriation adjustment recognizing $4,893,250 in grant funding from the State of California into the CalHome Program revenue account and appropriate the same amount into the CalHome Program expenditure account to provide down payment assistance and homebuyer education in the City of Santa Ana (Requires five affirmative votes).

34.Resolution Declaring City-Owned Property as Exempt Surplus Land Department(s): Community Development Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a Resolution declaring the City-owned portion of a triangular area of driveway property south of 209 West Civic Center Drive as exempt surplus land and directing the City Manager or designee to comply with the requirements of Government Code §54220 et seq. for the transfer of ownership accordingly.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-054 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL

OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DECLARING PROPERTY ON THE NORTHWEST

CORNER OF CIVIC CENTER DRIVE AND SYCAMORE STREET AS EXEMPT

SURPLUS LAND AND FINDING THAT THE FOREGOING ACTION IS NOT A

PROJECT SUBJECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

35.Resolution Amending the City’s Classification and Compensation Plan in Response to the State of California’s Increased Minimum Wage Rate Effective January 1, 2026
Department(s): Human Resources
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution amending the City’s Classification and Compensation Plan to ensure compliance with the new State of California minimum wage rate.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-055 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA TO EFFECT CERTAIN CHANGES TO THE CITY’S

CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN
City Council 5 – 19 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 20 DECEMBER 2, 2025

36.Resolution Certifying the Submission of the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Measure M2 Year-End Expenditure Report
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a Resolution certifying the Measure M2 Annual Expenditure Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and authorize submission of the report to the Orange County Transportation Authority as required by Measure M2 Funding Eligibility Guidelines.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-056 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA CONCERNING THE MEASURE M2 (M2)

EXPENDITURE REPORT FOR THE CITY OF SANTA ANA

37.Resolution to Summarily Vacate Excess Fourth Street Right-of-Way – Abandonment Number 2024-02
Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action: Adopt a resolution to summarily vacate excess Fourth Street right-of-way – Abandonment Number 2024-02.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-057 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL

OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA SUMMARILY VACATING A STREET AND PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ADJACENT TO 1030 E. FOURTH STREET (ABANDONMENT NO. 2024-02)
**END OF CONSENT CALENDAR**
MINUTES: At 8:24 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

38.Nominate and Appoint a Representative to Serve on the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control Board of Trustees to Serve Either a Two-Year or Four-Year Term
Department(s): City Clerk’s Office
Recommended Action: Nominate and appoint a representative to serve on the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control Board to Serve Either a Two-Year or Four-Year Term, Effective January 5, 2026.

MINUTES: Councilmember Bacerra inquired whether a staff member would be allowed to serve on the board.

BUSINESS CALENDAR
City Council 5 – 20 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 21 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed the representative would have to be a Councilmember or a resident, but clarified the requirement would not exclude a resident who is also a city employee from serving in that capacity.

City Attorney Sonia Carvalho further clarified if a resident who is also an employee is appointed to serve on the board, and they later cease to be an employee, they cannot be removed from the board simply on that basis. She stated their status as a resident is sufficient to continue serving.

MOTION: Councilmember Lopez moved to appoint Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control Board of Trustees for a two-year term, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez.

The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA COUNCILMEMBER

HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,

COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,

MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 7 – 0 – Pass

39.Resolution and Ordinance Adopting the Updated California and International Building and Fire Codes with Local Conditions Amendments and Requisite Findings
Department(s): Planning and Building Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Find that the proposed Ordinance is exempt under the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).

2. Adopt a resolution of the City Council setting forth findings for required amendments, modifications, and changes with respect to the local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions within the City of Santa Ana to the California Building, Residential, Green Standards, Energy, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Fire Codes as amended by the State of California.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-058 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA SETTING FORTH FINDINGS WITH

RESPECT TO LOCAL CONDITIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF SANTA ANA

THAT JUSTIFY CERTAIN MODIFICATIONS AND CHANGES TO THE

CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE,

CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, CALIFORNIA

ELECTRICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA City Council 5 – 21 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 22 DECEMBER 2, 2025

PLUMBING CODE, CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE,

CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL

BUILDING CODE, AND INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

CODE, AS AMENDED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

3. Introduce an ordinance amending Chapters 8 and 14 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code adopting the State Building Regulations, including the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, and certain modifications and changes with respect to local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions with the City of Santa Ana to the California Building, Existing Building, Residential, Green Standards, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Historical Building, and Fire Codes as amended by the State of California.

ORDINANCE NO. NS-3088 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AMENDING CHAPTERS 8 AND 14 OF THE

SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT AND AMEND THE MOST

RECENTLY ENACTED CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA

RESIDENTIAL CODE, CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE,

CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE,

CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE,

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE,

CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, AND INTERNATIONAL

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE

4. Authorize and direct the City Clerk to schedule a public hearing on said Ordinance for January 20, 2026, and to publish notice of said public hearing pursuant to Section 50022.3 of the California Government Code.

MOTION: Mayor Amezcua moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 39, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez.

The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA COUNCILMEMBER

HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,

COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,

MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 7 – 0 – Pass
**END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR**
City Council 5 – 22 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 23 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MINUTES: At 8:30 P.M., the Public Hearing was considered.

40.Public Hearing – Resolution Authorizing Ceremonial Street Naming of Felipa and Juan Sariñana Way (General Fund)
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on November 21, 2025.

Department(s): Public Works Agency
Recommended Action:

1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the Ceremonial Street Naming of Felipa and Juan Sariñana, at 5th Street between Hawley Street and Sunset Street.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-059 entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DIRECTING AND AUTHORIZING A CEREMONIAL STREET NAME FELIPA AND JUAN SARIÑANA WAY ALONG 5TH STREET FROM HAWLEY STREET TO SUNSET STREET

2. Direct Staff to install two (2) Ceremonial Signs at the intersections of 5th Street at Hawley Street and 5th Street at Sunset Street.

3. Waive the requirements of the application process, pursuant to Santa Ana Municipal Code Section 33-262(e), including all applicable fees and charges in the amount of $2,494.

MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua opened the Public Hearing at 8:33 P.M.

City Clerk Jennifer L. Hall announced there were no email comments received and there were no speakers.

Mayor Amezcua closed the Public Hearing at 8:33 P.M.

Councilmember Hernandez shared the request is to honor Felipa and Juan Sariñana, recognizing the lasting impact their lives have had on Santa Ana and Orange County. He stated the couple opened Sariñana Tamale Factory in 1939 in the Artesia Pilar neighborhood, and is now the oldest Mexican restaurant in Orange County.

PUBLIC HEARING
City Council 5 – 23 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 24 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MOTION: Councilmember Hernandez moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 40, seconded by Councilmember Penaloza.

The motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

COUNCILMEMBER BACERRA, COUNCILMEMBER

HERNANDEZ, COUNCILMEMBER LOPEZ,

COUNCILMEMBER PENALOZA, COUNCILMEMBER PHAN,

MAYOR PRO TEM VAZQUEZ, MAYOR AMEZCUA
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 7 – 0 – Pass
**END OF PUBLIC HEARING**

COUNCILMEMBER REQUESTED ITEMS

41.Moratorium on New Smoke Shops – Councilmember Lopez
MINUTES: Councilmember Lopez stated the item was brought forward directly from community members, constituents, and some retailers following neighborhood meetings and spoke regarding the City’s lack of zoning tools to limit the number of smoke shops, prevent cluster, or restrict their proximity to sensitive uses like schools and parks and a lack of a clear land use category creates enforcement and management challenges for the Police Department and Code Enforcement. She expressed anticipation for the City Manager to bring forward code changes, updates, and recommendations to the council.

Mayor Amezcua thanked Councilmember Lopez for bringing the item forward and recommended a more permanent solution in the form of an ordinance. She inquired on the potential turnaround time for ordinance consideration.

City Manager Alvaro Nuñez expressed confidence in bringing forward an ordinance with the requested aspects within 90 days, noted certain language already exists in Chapter 18 and Chapter 41, and stated staff will work with the City Attorney's office to establish due process.

Councilmember Vazquez thanked Councilmember Lopez for bringing the item forward and the Mayor for proposing a more stringent solution and stressed the importance of preventing smoke shops from being built near schools.

Councilmember Bacerra asked the City Manager to consider bringing back recommendations that include establishing required distances from sensitive uses, establishing separation buffers between smoke shops themselves, conditional use permit process, requiring public hearings, and ensuring residents within a certain radius are notified of these uses.

City Council 5 – 24 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 25 DECEMBER 2, 2025
Councilmember Hernandez expressed full support for the item. He noted concerns regarding the black market, certain smoke shops are selling hemp products, and requested enforcement of applicable laws against anyone not in accordance with the city's cannabis ordinance, as well as ensuring that there is no flavored tobacco and no nitrous oxide for sale. He requested an aggressive code enforcement approach targeting smoke shops along specific streets like 17th, Grand, and Bristol to ensure support for the city's legal, tax-paying cannabis industry.

Councilmember Penaloza thanked Councilmember Lopez for agendizing the item and stated his ultimate preference would be for a full ban. He noted staff has been working on Main Street, shutting down many shops in Ward 6 including illegal dispensaries and smoke shops, expressed full support for bringing back an enforceable solution, and asked if the regulatory framework being developed for smoke shops could also be applied to other types of uses residents have expressed concerns about such as adult stores and massage parlors.

City Attorney Sonia Carvalho confirmed the Council is able to institute a moratorium to allow staff time to study the issues, clarified an entire ban on a business use must be decided on a case-by-case basis with justifiable reasons, as uses cannot be banned arbitrarily, and noted certain uses, like adult shops, have the benefit of First Amendment protections, therefore the city cannot completely ban them.

City Manager Nuñez stated staff will focus on a comprehensive ordinance and studying the issue rather than implementing an emergency moratorium as doing so would consume staff time and require rapid follow-up, while leveraging existing code would be more effective.

Councilmember Penaloza expressed support for the proposed smoke shop moratorium and highlighted the need for regulations against undesirable businesses such as adult stores and massage parlors.

CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
MINUTES: City Manager Alvaro Nuñez reminded residents about the Community Priorities Survey to gather input for budget and service prioritization, and promoted the Shop Local Shop Santa Ana campaign launched by the Economic Development Division for the holiday season. He announced the Police Department's annual Pancakes with Santa event on December 6th and garage sale weekend happening this Saturday and Sunday. He invited the community to the grand opening of the Santa Ana Zoo's largest expansion, The River's Edge, on Saturday, December 20th, at 11:00 a.m.

COUNCIL COMMENTS
AB1234 DISCLOSURE – If the City paid for travel or other expenses this is the time for members of the Council to provide a brief oral report on attendance of any regional board or commission meeting or any conference, meeting or event attended.

City Council 5 – 25 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 26 DECEMBER 2, 2025
MINUTES: Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez thanked the Council for appointing him to OC Vector Control, expressed gratitude for seeing the community service efforts of fellow councilmembers at local food distributions last week, and announced his support for artists who do not wish to waive their Visual Artist Rights Act protections.

Councilmember Lopez expressed gratitude for interns Brandon and Joe, the Public Works Director, and the Parks and Recreation Director, requested a meeting with the City Manager to discuss supporting artists in the community, and wished everyone a Happy New Year and her father a Happy Birthday.

Councilmember Penaloza thanked city staff for their assistance with food distribution, thanked Chief Rodriguez for his leadership, and wished everyone a safe and joyous holiday season.

Councilmember Hernandez wished all neighbors a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, stressed the importance of the arts to the city, and spoke in favor of ensuring the City is not asking artists to waive their Visual Artist Rights Act protections. He uplifted the family of Noe Rodriguez, and wished his cousin, Brandon Lopez, and daughter, Evoni, a Happy Birthday.

Councilmember Bacerra thanked his colleagues for approving a budget appropriation adjustment utilizing NPDES permit revenue, thanked the Community Development staff for being awarded $4.8 million in CalHOME funds that will go towards promoting affordable home ownership, and thanked Commanders Gutierrez and Lopez and the QOLT team for allowing him to join a ride-along. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays.

Councilmember Phan shared a recent story of a senior living in Konai Mobile Home Park in Ward 1. She wished everyone a wonderful Christmas, holiday season, and a safe and Happy New Year.

Mayor Amezcua expressed appreciation for and support of the artists, thanked the City Manager, Chief, and all staff for progress made in the last 18 months, and thanked the City Manager, his staff, the Chief, Deputy Chiefs, and all officers for their work in 2025 dealing with the criminal element, homelessness, and immigration and CalFresh issues. She detailed the recent large-scale effort with Mosaic, the Labor Federation, volunteers, Councilmembers Penaloza and Becerra, the Police Department, POA, and Legado 7, where they gave out 2,000 turkeys and food boxes. She announced a toy giveaway on Saturday, December 13th, at the Downtown Santa Ana Tamalada and another food distribution on the 14th at Salgado Park. She stated she will likely ask the City Manager in two months to put another $150,000 on the agenda for Ayuda Sin Fronteras, wished everyone a very happy holiday, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. She congratulated her son, Michael, and his wife, Stephanie, on their upcoming marriage.

City Council 5 – 26 1/20/2026
CITY COUNCIL 27 DECEMBER 2, 2025
ADJOURNMENT – Adjourn the City Council meeting.

MINUTES: Mayor Amezcua adjourned the City Council Meeting at 9:14 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
___________________________
Jennifer L. Hall, CMC
City Clerk
City Council 5 – 27 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 1 5/22/2025

Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
May 22, 2025
REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 P.M.

City Hall Council Chamber
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701

City Council 6 – 1 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 2 5/22/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:32 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members:

Selica Diaz
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair

Staff:

Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.

Commissioners Diaz, Jogwe, Rodriguez, Woo, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and Chair Herrera were present. Commissioners Nelson and Reyes were absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chair Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENTATIONS Employees of the Month
MINUTES: The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month to Matthew DeTeresa, Alejandro Orozco, Claudia Tapia, America Robledo, and Nicole Jackson thanked them for all their hard work and efforts.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: Michael Andrade brought up Chepa’s Park asked about the progress on this location.

City Council 6 – 2 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 3 5/22/2025

Gay Olivos asked for a pitching machine for Division A and B for baseball at Jerome Park, commended the team for the lights at Centennial Park, and asked about the agreements with the soccer teams at the Willard Park.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:47 P.M.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of April 24, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.

2. Excused absences.

Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve Consent Calendar items 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.

The motion carried, 6-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE

CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, COMMISSIONER REYES
Status: 6 – 0 – 0 – 2 – Pass

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

3. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report to the commission.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about an open Santa Ana street event. Deputy Director Pagano said they could potentially add that in the future.

City Council 6 – 3 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 4 5/22/2025
Commissioner Jogwe asked about the All-Star Girls Basketball game and if there is any opportunity for adding any niche sports like lacrosse. Deputy Director Pagano responded that they hope to add some new sports with the aquatics center opening and would like to see more offerings as well.

Commissioner Woo commented that she enjoyed the Arbor and Earth day events and asked about event tabling applications for the upcoming events. Deputy Director Pagano responded yes now is the time to submit those.

Commissioner Diaz commented that she was happy to see the new route for the 10k and 5k fun run and finishing inside the stadium.

Chair Herrera commented about the Cultura magazine photos and asked about the main stage location for the Fiestas Patrias event. Deputy Director Pagano responded that they are working on a new area for the main stage in downtown Santa Ana. Chair Herrera also mentioned info about cooling centers.

4. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Public Works Deputy Director Michael Ortiz presented the Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report to the Commission.

Commissioner Woo commented about El Salvador Park restrooms, asked if there could be signage to try and keep them clean.

Commissioner Jogwe asked about the Lillie King Park. Superintendent Acevedo responded that it is low to the ground table so they are working on a solution.

Commissioner Diaz asked about signage for MySantaAna App. Executive Director Scott and Deputy Director Ortiz responded and agreed it would be great to add it in to more spots. Commissioner Diaz also commented about the Cypress Firehouse, asked meeting for input on the Walnut Street project. Deputy Director Ortiz voiced that they will be scheduling something soon.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about the Bristol Tolliver water treatment, hydration station’s, and more construction signage. Deputy Director Ortiz and Superintendent Acevedo responded with more information about the water treatment, that the hydration stations will be in every ward, and that they hope to continue to improve construction signage for residents.

Chair Herrera asked about the Griset Park event on May 27th. Executive Director Scott responded that it is a Community Workshop for future planning of the park.

City Council 6 – 4 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 5 5/22/2025

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres, asked about the translation of MySantaAna app to Spanish. Superintendent Acevedo responded that is should go live next week.

Chair Herrera recommended a parks tour for the Commission. Executive Director Scott said it would good to do in the fall.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz was very happy with the programming and said Public Works was doing an amazing job.

Commissioner Jogwe echoed Commissioner Diaz’ comments and thanked everyone for what they do.

Commissioner Rodriguez thanked everyone for all the hard work, agreed that Griset Park is beautiful and all the parks are looking wonderful.

Commissioner Woo was happy with all of the events and programming, and hoped that the federal grant funding won’t be affected.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres thanked the team for adding additional team members to the community garden park program and wished everyone a Happy Harvey Milk day.

Chair Herrera recognized public works week, mentioned that they participated in an OC habitats clean-up day, appreciated the pride flag raising and wished everyone a Happy Pride month.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott talked about the success of the Brew at the Zoo event, thanked everyone for the love and support of the team and the community that comes out for meetings. He also wished everyone a Happy Memorial Day and will be raising a flag at the memorial park on Monday at 10 am.

ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is scheduled for Thursday, June 26th at 5:30 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission meeting at 6:48 pm.

City Council 6 – 5 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 6 5/22/2025

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 6 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 1 7/24/2025

Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
July 24, 2025
REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 P.M.

Santa Ana Zoo
1801 E Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92701

City Council 6 – 7 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 2 7/24/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:35 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members:

Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair

Staff:

Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Suzi Furjanic, Assistant Parks and Landscape Planner
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.

Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe (arrived at 5:36 pm), Reyes, Rodriguez, Woo, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and Chair Herrera were present. Commissioner Nelson was absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chair Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENTATIONS
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission Training
Employees of the Month
Volunteers of the Quarter
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission Training.

City Council 6 – 8 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 3 7/24/2025

The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month to Dina Orbison, Brisa Rodriguez, Jill Sanders, Mike Kahara, Leticia Barrios, Juan Meneses, Juan Lara, and Monique Leon, and the Volunteers of the Quarter Kareem Hosan and Chloe Dunn thanking them for all their hard work and efforts.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: Jeff requested an update on the zoning decision for the land near Washington Square north of 15th St. between Olive and Lowell and asked what efforts Parks and Rec is making to promote more native habitat.

Gay Olivos thanked Parks and Rec for the pitching machine, commended the team for the lighting and mural at Jerome Park, suggested adding golf as a recreation sport, requested a working time clock for football, shared more information about Willard Joint Use agreement, and expressed concern about the EBT discount at the Santa Ana Zoo.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 6:05 P.M.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 22, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.

2. Excused absences.

Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve Consent Calendar items 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.

The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE

CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 8 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
City Council 6 – 9 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 4 7/24/2025

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. Election of officers for the 2025-26 term.

MINUTES: There were two nominations made for the position of chair, first for Chair Herrera to continue as Chair and second for Commissioner Diaz.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to close the nominations for the position of Chair, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.

The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO,

VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 8 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to appoint Chair Herrera as Chair for 2025-2026 term, seconded by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres.

The motion carried, 5-3-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS

TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 5 – 3 – 0 – 1 – Pass
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Rodriguez to appoint Commissioner Diaz as Chair for 2025-2026 term, seconded by Commissioner Reyes.

The motion carried, 3-5-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ,
NOES: COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES,

CHAIR HERRERA
City Council 6 – 10 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 5 7/24/2025
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 3 – 5 – 0 – 1 – Fail
MINUTES: There was one nomination made for Vice Chair, for Vice Chair Zacarias Torres to continue as Vice Chair.

MOTION: Moved by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres to close the nominations for the position of Vice Chair, seconded by Commissioner Woo.

The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO,

VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 8 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to appoint Vice Chair Zacarias Torres as Vice Chair for 2025-2026 term, seconded by Chair Herrera.

The motion carried, 6-2-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER REYES, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE

CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 6 – 2 – 0 – 1 – Pass

4. Bristol Tolliver Park Naming
MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Bristol Tolliver Park Naming.

Commissioner Woo, Jogwe, Reyes, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres, and Chair Herrera all spoke in support of the Nuestro Park name.

Commissioner Diaz asked about the process and suggested council be informed of the details behind the recommended park name.

City Council 6 – 11 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 6 7/24/2025

Chair Herrera also asked if the Youth Commission was able to make a recommendation.

Deputy Director Pagano provided the commission more information on the name selection process and let them know that timing didn’t allow Youth Commission to provide input at their July meeting.

MOTION: Moved by Chair Herrera to recommend Nuestro Park as the name for the Bristol Tolliver Park, seconded by Commissioner Woo.

The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO,

VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON
Status: 8 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

6. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Deputy Director Pagano requested to have Public Works Agency Present first for the Informational Items. Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Assistant Park and Landscape Planner Suzi Furjanic presented the Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report to the Commission.

Commissioner Diaz thanked the department for their work on the Walnut Street project and the community for supporting the Cypress Street Firehouse.

Commissioner Jogwe asked about the Griset Park basketball court location and a pickleball court for Sandpoint Park. Assistant Planner Furjanic explained the layout of Griset Park in more detail.

Commissioner Diaz asked if there is a solution for covering public restroom toilet paper specifically at Memorial Park, but also for all parks. Superintendent Acevedo noted that information and explained a possible future solution.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about public art projects, shade structures, the grant process for the Walnut St. project, local input for Griset Park, bilingual City Council 6 – 12 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 7 7/24/2025
signage at Santiago Park and what information will be shared on the new communication marquees. Assistant Planner Furjanic and Superintendent Acevedo responded with more information including that they are currently processing the grant including the street closure, that there will be shade and climate appropriate plants at Griset park and that the communication marquees will be managed by city manager’s office.

Commissioner Reyes asked about an area that used to be YMCA on Alton and about Thornton Park. Deputy Director Pagano responded that the property is private and Thornton is waiting for funding.

Chair Herrera commented about the dugout shades and communication marquees, thanked them for the pickle ball court and the park security, and asked about the new sign at Santiago Park, a zoom option for the public to provide community input and bike lanes on Euclid.

Assistant Planner Furjanic and Superintendent Acevedo responded with more information to answer their questions.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres added the importance of creativity with budget and funding and suggested selling merchandise.

5. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report to the commission.

Commissioner Diaz thanked Deputy Director Pagano for the programming and asked about Fiestas Patrias. Deputy Director Pagano provided more details about the stage location, vendor costs, local talent and budget for Fiestas Patrias.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about the Delhi Library seating and shade structures, and later park hours for summer, and commended the city for summer programs and recreational swimming. She also suggested signage for the Zoo Eco Center now being open and asked about the Santa Ana Zoo Movie night.

Deputy Director Pagano responded that he will share her suggestion with Library Services Director Sternberg, and that the team is discussing summer park hours.

Chair Herrera brought up immigration, and asked how this effected the initial summer programming and asked about budget cuts. Deputy Director Pagano responded that there was an initial decrease in participation, but it came back and explained how they are managing the budget changes.

City Council 6 – 13 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 8 7/24/2025

DEPUTY DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy Director Pagano wished Executive Director Hawk Scott a Happy Birthday and brought up Kaboom playgrounds plan to bring that to Sandpoint Park in October.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz thanked the teams for their work, programming, social media, and the community outreach for the Walnut Street project.

Commissioner Jogwe thanked the public and those that put on the commission meetings. He also asked about senior programs for financial assistance, for an adjustable basketball hoop for Griset Park, and how often Basketball hoops nets are replaced. He also suggested an idea for social media.

Commissioner Rodriguez thanked the team for the movies in the park series and suggested accommodations for people that have mobility devices attending those events.

Commissioner Woo commended all the programs going on, misses the concerts but likes the movies and mentioned Ward 5 has been participating in OC connect.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres thanked the team for the programs, and hopes to have Santiago Park Trails be ADA compliant.

Chair Herrera thanked the public for their attendance, and shared awareness for immigration.

ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is scheduled for Thursday, August 28th at 5:30 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission meeting at 8:12 pm.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 14 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 1 8/28/2025
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
August 28, 2025
REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 P.M.

City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
City Council 6 – 15 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 2 8/28/2025
CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: In Chairperson Herrera’s absence, Vice Chairperson Zacarias Torres called the meeting to order at 5:37 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members:

Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair
Staff:

Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Ethan Fisher, PRCSA Deputy Director, Zoo
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.

Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe, Reyes, Rodriguez, Woo, and Vice Chair Zacarias Torres were present. Commissioner Nelson and Chair Herrera were absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Vice Chair Zacarias Torres led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENTATIONS Employees of the Month
MINUTES: The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month to William Engels, Leeroy Queriapa, Mackenzie Arroyo, and Juan Carlos Sanchez thanking them for all their hard work and efforts.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: Chris thanked the commissioners for their service, and expressed some concerns about some soccer leagues that use the fields in Santa Ana. He reminded the City Council 6 – 16 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 3 8/28/2025
public to properly use the park permits and he also advocated for Parks, Recreation and Community Services to create a youth soccer league.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:50 P.M.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 24 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.

2. Excused absences.

Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to approve Consent Calendar items 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.

The motion carried, 7-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE

CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 7 – 0 – 0 – 2 – Pass

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. 10th & Flower St. Park Naming.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Zoo Deputy Director Ethan Fisher presented the 10th & Flower St. Park Naming.

Commissioners Gonzlez and Woo advocated to name the park Freedom Park, and Commissioners Jogwe and Diaz discussed the other options and selection process.

City Council 6 – 17 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 4 8/28/2025
MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Gonzalez to recommend Freedom Park as the name for the 10th & Flower St. Park, seconded by Commissioner Woo.

The motion failed, 4-3-0-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS
TORRES
NOES: COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 4 – 3 – 0 – 2 – Fail
MINUTES: The Commissioners discussed the recommendations presented again and requested for more surveying and background information.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Woo to move Business Calendar Item 3 to next meeting agenda, seconded by Commissioner Diaz.

The motion passed, 7-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ, COMMISSIONER REYES,

COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO,

VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER NELSON, CHAIR HERRERA
Status: 7 – 0 – 0 – 2 – Pass

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

4. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Zoo Deputy Director Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

Commissioner Rodriguez left the meeting at 6:15 P.M.

Commissioner Woo commented about the train engineers.

City Council 6 – 18 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 5 8/28/2025
Commissioner Jogwe asked about the cost of the Gala. Deputy Director Fisher provided further details on the tickets and what is included in the Annual Gala.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres, asked about the attendance of Brew at the Zoo and signage for the Eco Center. Deputy Director Fisher responded that attendance did decrease this year and also stated that they are working on signage for Santiago Park.

5. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.

Minutes: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report to the Commission.

Commissioner Gonzalez asked if there is a book a student needs are they able to request that. Director Sternberg responded yes.

Commissioner Reyes commented that the Dehi project is beautiful and asked how much was the project, Director Sternberg responded $4 M.

Commissioner Diaz commended them on the outdoor library being close to the senior center and asked if there was a way to add a QR code to the park.

Director Sternberg responded that they plan to have a sticker QR code for more information.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked if there is Spanish books in the Outdoor Library. Director Sternberg said yes there are books in Spanish and Vietnamese in the library collection. She also asked about the statue outside the library and Director Sternberg assured her they it is protected in place while the construction is going on.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy Director Fisher mentioned the Chicano Heritage Festival was a success, Fiestas Patrias is in 2 weeks and the press release went out today, the aquatics program did great this year by increasing by 5%, and this weekend is the last weekend of extended hours at the Zoo. He also passed out the new Cultura magazines.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz thanked Fisher for the zoo improvements, updates, and successful events. She also thanked Director Sternberg for the library improvements and impact on the community.

City Council 6 – 19 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 6 8/28/2025

Commissioner Gonzalez thanked both directors for all they do for the city and what they provide for the kids.

Commissioner Jogwe echoed what they were all saying, and hopes to go see the new libraries. He also mentioned the Britsol proposition.

Commissioner Woo commented how amazing the new libraries are and appreciated the ADA compliant accessibility. She also stated the chicano festival was fantastic and looks forward to next year.

Commissioner Reyes thanked you both directors for their projects and improvements and is happy and proud of the changes going on in the city.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres asked about the zoo extended hours. Deputy Director Fisher said it varied and he wasn’t sure if it will be continuing. She then thanked everyone for their updates and advocated for all wards to have updated libraries and parks.

ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is scheduled for Thursday, September 25th at 5:30 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Vice Chair Zacarias Torres adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission meeting at 6:57 pm.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 20 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 1 9/25/2025

Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission
September 25, 2025
REGULAR OPEN MEETING – 5:30 P.M.

City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701

City Council 6 – 21 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 2 9/25/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Herrera called the meeting to order at 5:34 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members:

Selica Diaz
Nancy Gonzalez
Josh Jogwe
Cory Nelson
Silvia Reyes
Alejandra Rodriguez
Ruby Woo
Maria Zacarias Torres, Vice Chair
Roberto Herrera, Chair

Staff:

Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Suzi Furjanic, Park & Landscape Design Manager
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Wayne conducted roll call.

Commissioners Diaz, Gonzalez, Jogwe, Nelson, Reyes, Woo, and Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and Chair Herrera were present. Commissioner Rodriguez was absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chair Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENTATIONS Employees of the Month
MINUTES: The Commissioners presented certificates for Employees of the Month and Volunteers of the Quarter to David Ramirez, Maribel Silva, Alexander Juarez, Sujeiry Vasquez, Brittany Roth, Samira Meza, thanking them for all their hard work and efforts.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
City Council 6 – 22 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 3 9/25/2025

MINUTES: Bruce, who volunteers at Delhi Library, spoke about the privatization of some parks and his interest in prohibiting this from happening. He plans to draw up a proper initiative and gather people and council members for the next steps.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: The Consent Calendar was considered 5:53 P.M.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

1. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 28 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve Minutes.

2. Excused absences.

Recommended Action: Approve Excused Absences.

MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Diaz to approve Consent Calendar items 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Woo.

The motion carried, 8-0-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ,

COMMISSIONER JOGWE, COMMISSIONER NELSON,

COMMISSIONER REYES, COMMISSIONER WOO, VICE CHAIR

ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
Status: 8 – 0 – 0 – 1 – Pass

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. 10th & Flower St. Park Naming.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the 10th & Flower St. Park Naming.

Commissioners Diaz, Woo, Jogwe, Reyes, Vice Chair Zacarias Torres and Chair Herrera all discussed the presented names, majority speaking in favor of the Willard Park Neighborhood Association recommendation of El Parque Del Pueblo.

City Council 6 – 23 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 4 9/25/2025

MOTION: Moved by Vice Chair Zacarias Torres to recommend “El Parque Del Pueblo Park” as the name for the 10th & Flower St. Park, seconded by Chair Herrera.

The motion passed, 6-2-0-1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER DIAZ, COMMISSIONER JOGWE,

COMMISSIONER NELSON, COMMISSIONER REYES,

VICE CHAIR ZACARIAS TORRES, CHAIR HERRERA
NOES: COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ, COMMISSIONER WOO,
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ
Status: 6 – 2 – 0 – 1 – Pass

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

4. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report to the commission.

Commissioner Diaz suggested adjusting the August event earlier in the month to help staff bandwidth for Fiestas Patrias.

Chair Herrera spoke towards the difference in numbers for the Fiestas Patrias event and public hesitancy, and asked about plans for next year.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres suggested adjusting the Fiestas Patrias Event budget in anticipation for the decrease in attendance. Commissioner Jogwe spoke against decreasing the budget for the event, but towards being mindful of how they are using the event budget. Deputy Director Pagano spoke towards the diligence of his team in regards to the budget and plan around the event.

5. Volunteer OpportunityKaboom! Playground Build, Sandpointe Park, October 11 from 7:30 am – 4:30 pm.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Volunteer Opportunity to the commission.

6. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.

City Council 6 – 24 1/20/2026
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 5 9/25/2025
MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo and Park & Landscape Design Manager Suzi Furjanic presented the Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report to the Commission.

Commissioner Diaz asked about Santiago Park.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres presented an issue with the MySantaAna App and submitting an anonymous report.

Chair Herrera mentioned the work orders numbers and asked about neighborhood dump days to help with clean up.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres suggested adding an area for public art to the Griset Park Design Concept.

Commissioner Jogwe asked about lighting in the presented parks. Executive Director Scott responded about the current lighting process and most recent updates.

Commissioner Diaz asked about the Santiago Park restrooms. Superintendent Acevedo responded with more information.

7. Bristol Recreation Corridor.

MINUTES: Park and Landscape Design Manager Suzi Furjanic presented the Bristol Recreation Corridor to the Commission. Jesse Jones, landscape architect, presented the Bristol Recreation Corridor Draft Plan.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres proposed a combination of the two concepts presented, supporting the workout stations and incorporating environmental justice into the plan. Landscape Architect Jones responded that they plan to come up with a combination of the two concepts and soil testing is in a different phase of the project.

Commissioner Nelson supported the presented concepts and suggested adding walking overpasses for easier movement. He also asked how much park area the city will gain and what will happen with a specific parking lot.

Commissioners Diaz, Jogwe, Woo and Gonzalez spoke in support for the project and asked about the timeline, phases and grant funding. Landscape Architect Jones and Design Manager Furjanic explained the grant writing in more detail, requested project feedback and spoke towards needing support for this project to get grants.

City Council 6 – 25 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 6 9/25/2025

Chair Herrera commended the team on the concept and encouraged an environmental benefit to this project.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres suggested beginning the project around the schools.

Commissioner Woo asked to evaluate and discuss the budget and development fees. Executive Director Scott responded that, that can be done.

8. Public Art in Parks Policy (draft).

MINUTES: Artist Alicia Rojas presented the Public Art in Parks Policy (draft) to the Commission.

The Commissioners spoke in support of the policy creation and asked about the qualifications and process for selecting the artists and art projects. Alicia Rojas explained in further detail how this is outlined and how the process will go.

Commissioner Diaz advocated for the importance of community engagement.

Commissioner Nelson left the meeting at 8:36 p.m.

Commissioner Jogwe advocated for the rubric to include someone who was born here.

Chair Herrera supported the policy and suggested incorporating a sunshine policy, webinars or social media elements, and engagement with Spanish and Vietnamese. They also asked about maintenance on the art that would be installed. Superintendent Acevedo responded that it is a case by case basis, but an RFP or training his team to maintain the art once installed are options.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott mentioned Santa Ana Zoo Orchids and Exotic Plants Exhibit is happening this weekend and that they got their AZA accreditation. Also mentioned Autumn Fest open house at the Salgado community center and International Older Adult’s day at Jerome is coming up. Then finally, thanked everyone for being at the meeting tonight.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Diaz said it was a lot of good information and everyone is doing an amazing job.

City Council 6 – 26 1/20/2026

Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commission 7 9/25/2025

Commissioner Gonzalez thanked everyone for the insight, hard work, and for keeping us moving forward.

Commissioner Jogwe thanked the team for a productive meeting and everything they are doing.

Commissioner Reyes thanked everyone for the information.

Commissioner Woo made a recommendation for a budget meeting for the projects that they want to see happen.

Vice Chair Zacarias Torres is looking forward to the interpretation signs going up and is excited for Bristol Recreation Corridor.

Executive Director Scott also thanked the commissioners for participating in the Fiestas Patrias Parade.

Chair Herrera thanked everyone for attending and reviewing the material.

ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is scheduled for Thursday, October 23rd at 5:30 pm at the Santa Anita Community Center 300 S Figueroa St, Santa Ana, CA 92703.

MINUTES: Chair Herrera adjourned the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission meeting at 8:53 pm.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 27 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 1 5/19/2025
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
May 19, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
City Council 6 – 28 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 2 5/19/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:

Edith Hernandez
Neylen Muñoz
Emily Parra-Diaz
Cat Pham
Adrian Ramirez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson

Staff:

Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Timothy Pagano, PRCSA Deputy Director
Jorge Acevedo, Park Services Superintendent
Suzi Furjanic, Associate Park and Landscape Planner
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Wyatt Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order at 6:06 P.M.

ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary

MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.

Youth Commissioners Hernandez, Muñoz, Pham (arrived at 6:08 p.m.), Parra-Diaz (arrived at 6:10 p.m.), Vice Chair Benitez and Chair Malfavon were present. Youth Commissioner Ramirez was absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.

City Council 6 – 29 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 3 5/19/2025

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: At 6:08 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chairperson Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Youth Commission Member Hernandez.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER HERNANDEZ, YOUTH
COMMISSIONER MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER PHAM,

VICE CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE

YOUTH COMMISSIONER PARRA-DIAZ, YOUTH

COMMISSIONER RAMIREZ
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 2 Pass

1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of April 21st, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

2. Excuse Absences.

Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

3. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

Youth Commissioner Parra-Diaz asked about the Study Hall at Roosevelt Walker time frame and about headphones for zoom calls.

Vice Chairperson Benitez asked about the Youth Empowerment Initiative at the Garfield Community Center.

Youth Commissioner Hernandez commented that registration fees were a good addition to the Fun Run this year.

City Council 6 – 30 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 4 5/19/2025

Deputy Director Pagano responded to all questions and comments with further information for the commissioners.

4. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo presented the Public Works Agency Park Maintenance report to the Youth Commission.

Public Works Senior Civil Engineer Robert Aguirre presented on behalf of Associate Park and Landscape Planner Suzi Furjanic the Public Works Agency Park Planning Report.

Vice Chairperson Benitez asked if schools would be able to reserve time and host meets at the Memorial Aquatic Center. Executive Director Hawk Scott responded yes, they would need to reserve it through Parks and Recreation.

Youth Commissioner Pham asked about the process and communication with the public about available programming when an area is under construction.

Superintendent Acevedo responded that they do communicate programming when an area is under construction.

Youth Commissioner Hernandez asked when the new park at Bristol Tolliver be complete and if there will be proper construction fencing in place. Senior Civil Engineer Aguirre responded that it should be complete in one year and there will be proper construction fencing going up.

Chairperson Malfavon asked how many trees were planted during the Arbor Day.

Superintendent Acevedo responded that 29 trees were planted. ***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott announced that the four graduating commissioners will be concluding their service after today’s meeting, but will be recognized at another meeting for their service. He also thanked them for their service and wished them well in their future. He also mentioned the Santa Ana Zoo has a new stop light, the butterflies are now there, the Brew at the zoo was successful, and also mentioned the Zoofari Gala and the Earth Day events coming up. He ended by thanking the commission for what they do.

City Council 6 – 31 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 5 5/19/2025

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Hernandez said being on the commission was a great experience that taught her a lot. She loved meeting new people, and will miss it.

Youth Commissioner Munoz mentioned everyone’s impact on the city and how helpful that has been and hopes it will continue even when they are no longer commissioners.

Youth Commissioner Parra-Diaz said being on the commission was a great experience, especially getting to know all the seniors and seeing everyone grow and learn. She also advised the remaining commissioners to do their best to represent the youth well and use their voice for good.

Youth Commissioner Pham mentioned it was great experience working with everyone and the community. She enjoyed representing the youth and loved growing together.

She also thanked Executive Director Scott and everyone for their time.

Vice Chairperson Benitez said it was nice working with everyone, is sad to see this time end, but thanks for the experience.

Chairperson Malfavon thanked the seniors for being a part of the commission and wished the best for all of the graduating seniors.

ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, June 16th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:46 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 32 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 1 7/21/2025
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
July 21, 2025
Santa Ana Zoo
1801 E Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
City Council 6 – 33 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 2 7/21/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:

Alyin Luis
Neylen Muñoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson

Staff:

ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.

All Youth Commission Members were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: At 6:02 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

City Council 6 – 34 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 3 7/21/2025

MOTION: Vice Chairperson Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2, seconded by Chair Malfavon.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE

CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass

1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of May 19th, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

2. Excuse Absences.

Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. Election of Officers for the Youth Commission for the FY 2025-26 Term.

Recommended Action: Elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Youth Commission to serve for the FY 2025-26.

MINUTES: The nominations for Chair were considered by the Youth Commissioners.

The following motion carried by a unanimous vote.

MOTION: Chair Malfavon moved to appoint Chair Malfavon as Chair of Youth Commission for Year 2025-2026, seconded by Youth Commission Member Rodriguez.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE

CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass
City Council 6 – 35 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 4 7/21/2025

MINUTES: The nominations for Vice Chair were considered by the Youth Commissioners. The nominations were Vice Chair Benitez, seconded by Chair Malfavon and Youth Commission Member Rodriguez, seconded by Vice Chair Benitez. The following motion carried by a unanimous vote.

MOTION: Vice Chair Benitez moved to appoint Vice Chair Benitez as Vice Chair of Youth Commission for Year 2025-2026, seconded by Chair Malfavon.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE

CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

3. Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director Tim Pagano presented the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Staff Report.

Chair Malfavon and Vice Chair Benitez asked about the adult and youth leagues for volleyball and kickball. Deputy Director Pagano responded with further information for the youth commissioners.

4. Public Works Agency Park Services Staff Report.

MINUTES: Park Services Superintendent Jorge Acevedo presented the Public Works Agency Park Maintenance report to the Youth Commission.

Associate Park and Landscape Planner Suzi Furjanic presented the Public Works Agency Park Planning Report.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
City Council 6 – 36 1/20/2026

Youth Commission 5 7/21/2025

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott welcomed the two new commissioners, and highlighted upcoming events like Movies in the Park, Fiestas Patrias and Chicano Heritage. He then invited Zoo Deputy Director Ethan Fisher to share some updates and information about the Santa Ana Zoo and the upcoming Zoofari Gala.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Munoz thank everyone for their comments and presentations, and he likes the upgrades and changes to the parks.

Vice Chairperson Benitez welcomed new commissioners and thanked Hawk Scott for his help.

Chairperson Malfavon welcomed new commissioners, thanked the team for their hard work at the parks.

ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, August 18th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 7:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 37 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 1 8/18/2025
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
City Council 6 – 38 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 2 8/18/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:

Alyin Luis
Neylen Muñoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson

Staff:

Hawk Scott, Executive Director
Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director
Ethan Fisher, PRCSA Deputy Director, Zoo
Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Chairperson Wyatt Malfavon called the Youth Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 P.M.

ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call. Youth Commissioners Luis, Muñoz (arrived at 6:03 p.m.), Rodriguez, Vice Chair Benitez and Chair Malfavon were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENTATIONS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott presented the Youth Commission Training and Planning and Building Senior Planner Siri Champion presented the Zoning Code Update.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.

City Council 6 – 39 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 3 8/18/2025

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: At 6:21 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered. Recording Secretary requested a revision to Consent Calendar Item 1, Minutes of the Meeting July 21, 2025, to adjust the meeting location to the Santa Ana Zoo instead of the City Hall Council Chambers.

MOTION: Chairperson Malfavon moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2 with the revisions to Item 1 requested from Recording Secretary Wayne, seconded by Vice Chairperson Benitez.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE

CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass

1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of July 21st, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

2. Excuse Absences.

Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

3. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director, Zoo Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

Chair Malfavon asked about volunteering at the Zoo, Deputy Director Fisher provided the location on the website to find more information.

Vice Chair Benitez asked about the newest animals to the Zoo.

4. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.

MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.

City Council 6 – 40 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 4 8/18/2025

Vice Chair Benitez asked if there would be any additional after hours for High School students to study. Director Sternberg responded that there are a few locations that have teen locations for that and online services. ***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott invited the youth commissioners to the opening of the outdoor library at Jerome Park. He then thanked the youth commissioners for attending the Zoofari gala, also mentioning the next Cultura magazine coming out and the extended hours at the Santa Ana Zoo. Lastly he talked about the upcoming Chicano Heritage event and that he and Deputy Director Fisher will be traveling to Florida next month for the Zoo’s Accreditation.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thanked everyone for the updates, training and presentations, and he enjoyed going to the Zoofari Gala.

Vice Chairperson Benitez thanked Executive Director Scott for the invite to the Zoofari Gala and for the exposure to the various careers out there.

Chairperson Malfavon thanked Director Sternberg for getting the Delhi Library open and he also enjoyed the Zoofari Gala. He also looks forward to the Jerome Library opening.

ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, September 15th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:54 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 41 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 1 10/20/2025
Youth Commission
Regular Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
6:00 PM
City Council 6 – 42 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 2 10/20/2025

CALL TO ORDER Chairperson
ATTENDANCE Youth Commission Members:

Alyin Luis
Neylen Muñoz
Jesse Rodriguez
Mercy Benitez, Vice-Chairperson
Wyatt Malfavon, Chairperson

Staff:

ROLL CALL Hannah Wayne, Recording Secretary
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Hannah Wayne conducted roll call.

All Youth Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairperson
MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
MINUTES: There were no public comments.

CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
MINUTES: At 6:05 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chair Benitez moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2, seconded by Chairperson Malfavon.

City Council 6 – 43 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 3 10/20/2025

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH COMMISSIONER
MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ, VICE

CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ, CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass

1. Minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 18th, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

2. Excuse Absences.

Recommended Action: Approve excused absences.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. 2026 Youth Commission Meeting Schedule and Locations.

MINUTES: At 6:08 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chairperson Benitez moved to approve the 2026 Youth Commission Meeting Schedule and Locations, seconded by Chairperson Malfavon.

The motion carried, 5-0-0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

YOUTH COMMISSIONER LUIS, YOUTH
COMMISSIONER MUÑOZ, YOUTH COMMISSIONER

RODRIGUEZ, VICE CHAIRPERSON BENITEZ,

CHAIRPERSON MALFAVON
NONE
NONE
NONE
Status: 5 – 0 – 0 – 0 Pass
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

4. Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.

City Council 6 – 44 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 4 10/20/2025

MINUTES: Library Services Director Brian Sternberg presented the Santa Ana Public Library Staff Report.

Chair Malfavon asked about the process for requesting the Knowledge Mobile at a specific location. Director Sternberg said yes, there is a request form for special pop-ups on their website, but there also is a regular schedule for the vehicle.

Commissioner Rodriguez asked if there was a head count for those that interact with the Knowledge Mobile. Director Sternberg responded that he could get back to him with the numbers.

Vice Chair Benitez asked how the Knowledge Mobile caters to a variety of ages.

Director Sternberg responded most of the services are for the younger groups, but they do try to provide options for the older ages as well.

Commissioner Luis asked about the vision for the New Hope Library outdoor patio. Director Sternberg responded that they are planning to install new shade structures and are trying to make it more welcoming.

Commissioner Munoz asked about requesting a specific school for the Knowledge Mobile. Director Sternberg provided the contact information.

5. Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

MINUTES: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Deputy Director, Zoo Ethan Fisher presented the Santa Ana Zoo Staff Report.

Vice Chair Benitez asked if we can set up a meet and greet with the new veterinarian at the zoo. Deputy Director Fisher responded that they can set that up for the commissioners.

Chair Malfavon asked about the new crosswalks. Deputy Director Fisher responded that they had a local graphic designer design the project.

Commissioner Rodriguez asked about timeline for Rivers Edge. Deputy Director Fisher responded that they are planning to open it before the end of the year.

Chair Malfavon asked about the specifics of getting the AZA Accreditation.

Deputy Director Fisher said it streamlines things for permits and working with more animals for the zoo.
***END OF INFORMATIONAL ITEMS***
City Council 6 – 45 1/20/2026
Youth Commission 5 10/20/2025

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS
MINUTES: Executive Director Hawk Scott thanked the commissioners for showing up to events and coming to things. He invited them to Harvest Fest on Friday at El Salvador, and also hopes they can go to the Boo at the Zoo. He lastly mentioned the upcoming Christmas tree lighting and a happy birthday to Chair Malfavon.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES:

Youth Commissioner Luis mentioned information about OC rapid response, in regards to ICE encounters in the community.

Youth Commissioner Munoz mentioned the Knowledge Mobile at his brother’s school.

Director Scott mentioned the outdoor library at Jerome Park.

Youth Commissioner Rodriguez thank for everyone in attendance, he was a part of the Sandpoint park planning and thanked Kaboom and the residents for the park creation.

Director Scott mentioned that there would be a grand opening for the Sandpoint park completion soon.

Vice Chairperson Benitez thanked everyone for coming out and she is interested in brainstorming some ideas to reach Santa Ana youth at future meetings.

Chairperson Malfavon thanked everyone for attending the meeting, mentioned Sandpoint playground and thanked the city staff and volunteers for making that happen last weekend.

ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Youth Commission is scheduled for Monday, November 17th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

MINUTES: Chairperson Malfavon adjourned the Youth Commission meeting at 6:46 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
_________________________
Hannah Wayne
Recording Secretary
City Council 6 – 46 1/20/2026
City Council 6 – 47 1/20/2026
City Council 6 – 48 1/20/2026
City Council 6 – 49 1/20/2026
of the Police
of
Oversight
the RegularM
i
July 10, 2025
REGULAR MEETING ® 5o

CITY COUNCIL
22 Civic Center Plaza. Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Vega called the meeting to order at 51.04 P.MV ATTENDANCE Commission Members Gabriel Castilla Laughton Evangeline Gawranski
Arnalia Mejia
Carlos Rerea
Nadin Said
Vice Chair Keith Carpenter
Chair
Danny Vega
Staff Members
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 6 – 50 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Castillo Laughton, Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, and Said, Vice Chair Carpenter, and Chair Vega were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Vega led the Pledge ofAllegiance.

STAFF PRESENTATIONS

1. Introduction of Police Oversight Director T. Jack Morse, Esq. of Oppenheimer Investigations Group LLP
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez briefly introduced Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse spoke regarding his experience, qualifications, and role and responsibility to the Commission.

Commissioner Perea welcomed Independent Oversight Director Morse and spoke regarding the mistrust in the community related to the Police Department.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton asked whether Independent Oversight Director Morse is the Independent Oversight Director for other cities.

Independent Oversight Director Morse stated he is not an Independent Oversight Director for any other city.

Commissioner Gawronski asked Independent Oversight Director Morse whether he would be available to the commission for questions and whether he would attend all future commission meetings.

Independent Oversight Director Morse stated he would be regularly available to the commission and would be present at the Police Oversight Commission meetings moving forward.

Chair Vega welcomed Independent Oversight Director Morse.

PUBLIC COMMENTS-- Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non- agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES: The following individual addressed the Commission in person:

1. Carl Benninger spoke regarding the decrease in gang violence in the city and the commissions' ability to review and improve police procedures.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 JULY 10, 2025 6 – 51 1/20/2026 The following individual addressed the Commission via teleconference:

2. Manuel Arreguin expressed concern regarding the status of his complaint and asked for complaints to be independently investigated.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 2 and 3.

MINUTES: At 5: 11 P. M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

Commissioner Mefia requested clarification regarding the U- Visa motion reflected in the minutes of the May 8, 2025 meeting.

Recording secretary Abigail Y. Alcala restated the motion voted on by the commission.

Brief discussion ensued regarding clarification on the intent of the motion.

MOTION: Vice Chair Carpenter moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 2 and 3, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call note:

AYES. COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass

2. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

3. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of May 8, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR.

MINUTE'S: At 5: 28 P. M., the Business Calendar was considered.

4. Nominate and Elect Chair
Recommended Action: Discuss and recommend.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 6 – 52 JULY 10, 2025 1/20/2026 MINUTES: Commissioner Perea nominated Commissioner Mejia as the Chair, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

Chair Vega nominated Vice Chair Carpenter as the Chair, seconded by Commissioner Gawronski.

Commissioner Said nominated Chair Vega as the Chair, seconded by Vice Chair Carpenter.

MOTION: Commissioner Gawronski moved to close the nominations, seconded by Chair Vega.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7-- 0 -- Pass
MOTION: Commissioner Perea moved to appoint Commissioner Mejia as the Chair, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

The original motion carried, 4- 3, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID
NOES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 4— 3 -- Pass
MOTION: Chair Vega moved to appoint Vice Chair Carpenter as the Chair, seconded by Commissioner Gawronski.

The original motion carried, 5- 2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR

CARPENTER, CHAIR VEGA
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5— 2 — Pass
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 6 – 53 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 MOTION: Commissioner Said moved to appoint Chair Vega as the Chair, seconded by Vice Chair Carpenter.

The original motion carried, 5- 2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR

CARPENTER, CHAIR VEGA
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5 — 2 — Pass
MINUTES: Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez announced the need to revote on the nominations to appoint either Vice Chair Carpenter or Chair Vega as Chair.

MOTION: Chair Vega moved to appoint Vice Chair Carpenter as the Chair, seconded by Commissioner Gawronski.

The original motion carried, 7-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 - 0 - 0 - 0 — Pass
MOTION: Commissioner Said moved to appoint Chair Vega as the Chair, seconded by Vice Chair Carpenter.

The original motion carried, 5- 2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR

CARPENTER, CHAIR VEGA
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA,
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5-- 2 -- Pass
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala announced the motion to appoint Vice Chair Carpenter as the Chair had the highest vote, concluding Vice Chair Carpenter as the new Chair of the commission.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 6 – 54 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026

5. Nominate and Elect Vice Chair
Recommended Action: Discuss and recommend.

MINUTES: Vice Chair Carpenter nominated Commissioner Castillo Laughton as the Vice Chair, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

Commissioner Said nominated Chair Vega as the Vice Chair, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

MOTION: Commissioner Gawronski move to close the nominations, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7-- Pass
MOTION: Vice Chair Carpenter moved to appoint Commissioner Castillo Laughton as the Vice Chair, seconded by Chair Vega.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

C HAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 Pass
MOTION: Commissioner Said moved to appoint Chair Vega as the Vice Chair, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

The original motion carried, 5- 2, by the fallowing roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR

CARPENTER, CHAIR VEGA
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA,
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 5— 2 — Pass
City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 6 – 55 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala announced the motion to appoint Commissioner Castillo Laughton as the Vice Chairhas the highest vote, concluding Commissioner Castillo Laughton as the new Vice Chair of the commission.

6. Police Oversight Commission Bylaws
Recommended Action; Review, discuss, and provide input on the Draft Police Oversight Commission Bylaws.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter moved to suspend voting on the bylaws.

Motion died due to lack of a second.

Discussion ensued regarding whether the proposed changes to the ordinance could affect the bylaws.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez clarified the bylaws are superseded by the ordinance, and recommended the commission continue with discussion for changes until any amendments are finalized by the council.

Commissioner Vega asked whether section ten was similar to the council requested item section of City Council meetings process.

Commissioner Mejia requested the bylaw language be more specific and include a timeframe for placing a commissioner- proposed item on the agenda.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed and clarified the process proposed in the bylaws to bring an agenda item forward is similar to councils.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez stated the timeframe language would be reviewed for clarity.

Chair Carpenter requested language in section ten be updated to remove redundancy as it relates to City Manager' s review process.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton suggested the commission take a recess to review the recommended bylaws.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez suggested moving Item No. 7 out of order before continuing the discussion on the bylaws.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 6 – 56 DULY 10, 2025 1/20/2026 MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to consider Agenda Item No. 7 prior to continuing Agenda Item No. 6, seconded by Vice Chair Castillo Laughton.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 -- Pass
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7 MOVED OUT OF ORDER

7. U- Visa Certification and Santa Ana Police Department Procedure 4130 Recommended Action: Receive presentations from the following subject matter experts in immigration law to discuss the U- Visa process/ procedures and provide input for recommendations:

1. Sabrina Rivera, Esq. of the Western State College of Law Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic

2. Allyssa Scheyer, Esq. of the Public Law Center
MINUTES: Sabrina Rivera and Allysa Scheyer gave a presentation regarding UVisa basics and certifying agency certifications.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether state law established framework to overcome the presumption ofhelpfulness.

Sabrina Rivera and Allysa Scheyerstated there are no state guidelines to overcome the presumption of helpfulness, however federal guidelines do exist. They stated that when the Santa Ana Police Department ( SAPD) denies a certification, the reasons for the denial are not clearly stated in the response.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether reason is given when a certification is denied.

Allyssa Scheyer clarified there is a letter received with limited information.

Discussion ensued regarding the guidance of certification and adjudication of the procedure at the state and federal level.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether improving the definition of"helpfulness" could protect individuals when seeking certification.

Allyssa Scheyer stated that improving the definition could protect individuals and ensure compliance with California state law.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 6 – 57 JULY 10, 2025 1/20/2026 Vice Chair Castillo Laughton stated the existing policy already incorporated the federal definition and asked whether improving the definition of" helpfulness" in the policy would be beneficial.

Allyssa Scheyer confirmed.

Discussion ensued regarding qualifying crime examples.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated the only federal crime explicitly categorized as a felony or misdemeanor is assault, for crimes like domestic violence or extortion federal law does not differentiate between misdemeanor and felony charges.

Chair Carpenter asked how the U- Visa process is initiated when the crime is considered a misdemeanor.

Allyssa Scheyer stated the applicant makes the first contact often through the immigration hotline where the individual is referred to legal services for the U- Visa process.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether a denied request for a certification decision could be reviewed.

Allyssa Scheyer explained there is an option to request for the case to be reviewed by a supervisor but applicants that do not have an attorney may not know and if the case is denied by Department of Homeland Security ( DHS) there is an appeal process that does not involve SAPD.

Chair Carpenter asked for clarification regarding the time it takes for DHS to review the U-Visa application and whether an applicant is still at risk of deportation.

Allyssa Scheyer stated there is an initial review of about two years however an ultimate decision could take about eight or nine years and the applicant is still at risk of deportation during this process.

Commissioner Vega asked whether the risk of deportation is after the application is denied or during the application process.

Allyssa Scheyer stated there is a risk of deportation during the application process and after the denial.

Commissioner Perea stated the policy does not include the federal requirement for the victim to have information of the criminal activity, asked whether the policy is in compliance with state law and what the approval rate of the certification is, and requested examples of cities with U- Visa policies the commission could use as a reference.

Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer stated a periodic review would help ensure the policy' s ongoing compliance with state laws, spoke regarding the approval rate fluctuation, and recommended the City of Oakland and the Los Angeles District Attorney' s office U- Visa policies as references.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 9 6 – 58 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 Deputy Chief Andrade stated the average approval rate for SAPD is 40%, 30% are filed with the wrong agency, and 30% are not certified.

Commissioner Perea asked whether SAPD has the ability to certify applications where the case is referred to the District Attorney' s office.

Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding the number of applicants, timeline of the application process, andjurisdiction of the 10,000 awarded U-Visas.

She spoke in support of a more accessible and transparent process.

Allysa Scheyer provided clarification and answered the Commissioner's questions.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated the total applications received in Santa Ana were 261 in 2020, 333 in 2021, 356 in 2022, and 372 in 2023. He clarified that 30% of cases get referred to other agencies and are not considered denials.

Commissioner Mejia stated the national average denial rate is approximately 10% and state law does not require SAPD to transfer U- Visa certifications to other agencies. She suggested SAPD be more helpful by having a clear and updated policy that meets state standards and requested a draft policy that includes both direct and indirect victims, incorporates the state' s definition of "unreasonable," clarifies what constitutes " relative evidence" and "nuisance" crimes, asked whether including specific language for domestic violence and sexual assault cases would be beneficial and stated the policy should be more transparent and equitable.

Commissioner Vega asked whether there was a possible policy change to better protect individuals that are applying for U- Visas from being deported, stated he wants to know the best way to protect applicants from deportation, and asked if DHS is notified when someone applies.

Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer stated each jurisdiction appoints its own certifying officials and a mechanism exists to report unhelpful officials to USCIS.

They recommended including specific language for domestic violence and sexual assault cases, and providing more information overall, including hypothetical scenarios. Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer stated DNS is not notified when a U- Visa certification application is filed, noted the U- Visa can sometimes prevent or delay deportation by showing that a U- Visa is pending or about to be filed, and spoke regarding their experiences with certifications, and emphasized the importance of timely responses, clarity, transparency in denial reasons, and accessibility for applicants without lawyers. They mentioned significant federal cuts have reduced the number of free legal service providers making it difficult to serve all clients, and stressed the need for a public-facing procedure for those who cannot afford an attorney.

Commissioner Gawronski asked whether the Public Law Center has four immigration attorneys and when the U- Visa program was started.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked the presenters, stated the current policy needs to be revamped, strengthened in consistency and accessible to the public and requested a copy of SAPD procedure 4130.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 10 6 – 59 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 Chair Carpenter asked whether there is a guaranty that an individual will not be deported.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether applicants with a criminal history are able to apply or could be denied due to their past criminal history.

Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer confirmed there are four staff attorneys in the immigration unit at Public Law Center and stated the U- Visa program started in 2011 with the purpose being to protect the community. They stated deportation pauses sometimes occur, depending on the presidential administration, but there is no guarantee that an individual will not be deported. They also clarified that while criminal history cannot be considered for U-Visa certification, it could still affect the DNS final decision to grant the visa, but that decision falls outside of SAPD authority.

Deputy Chief Andrad confirmed SAPD does not take criminal history into consideration when reviewing a case.

Commissioner Perea requested recommendations by Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer be incorporated into the policy, the eligibility requirements listed match the federal guidelines, the ability for SAPD to consider U- Visas even for cases that are passed through to the District Attorney, and referencing Oakland' s policy when it comes to public transparency on the city website. He spoke regarding the case of Edgar Vargas.

Chair Carpenter expressed concern regarding the ability to make policy changes due to the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez recommended the commission continue with discussion for changes until amendments are finalized.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez asked whether the commission would like other organizations to provide feedback.

Commissioner Perea stated he was satisfied with the legal experts.

Sabrina Rivera and Allyssa Scheyer suggested additional organizations share testimony of other compelling cases.

Commissioner Mejia requested inviting the OC Rapid Response Network to be a presenter.

Commissioner Perea requested inviting the Orange County Justice Fund to be a presenter.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 11 6 – 60 JULY 10, 2025 1/20/2026 MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have staff contact the Orange County Response Network and the Orange County Justice Fund as presenters related to the U- Visa upon availability, seconded by Vice Chair Castillo Laughton.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 - 0 — 0 — 0 -- Pass

6. Police Oversight Commission Bylaws
Recommended Action: Review, discuss, and provide input on the Draft Police Oversight Commission Bylaws.

MINUTES: MOTION: Commissioner Perea moved to approve the bylaws, seconded by Commissioner Said.

AMENDED MOTION:

Commissioner Mejia moved to amend the motion to approve the bylaws, as amended to modify section 10 to state that Commissioner submitted memorandums be presented to the Commission at the next meeting, seconded by Commissioner Said.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton expressed concern regarding the bylaws.

Commissioner Mejia withdrew her motion.

Commissioner Said withdrew her second.

Discussion ensued regarding excused absences and the ability to participate in commission meetings remotely.

Commissioner Gawronski expressed concern regarding Article 7 Section 11 and asked whether a commission's completed bylaws have been denied when presented to council.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified the council has final approval of bylaws, however takes into consideration the commission' s recommendations.

Discussion ensued regarding Article 3 Section 7.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified Article 3 Section 7 is pulled from the City's municipal code.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 12 6 – 61 JULY 10, 2025 1/20/2026 Chair Carpenter expressed concern regarding Article 6 Section 9.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton recommended identifying which bylaw sections the commission would like to bring back to discuss at a future meeting.

MOTION: Commissioner Perea moved to bring back Item No. 6 for discussion at a future meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gawronski.

The original motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 -- 0 -- Pass

7. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7 MOVED OUT OF ORDER AND HEARD PRIOR TO AGENDA ITEM NO. 6
MINUTES: Commissioner Said left the meeting at 8:08 P.M.

END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated there would be a presentation regarding the findings of the ad hoc committee, which was set up to identify issues with the ordinance establishing the Police Oversight Commission.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Perea expressed concern regarding the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance and encouraged the commissioners to attend the July 15, 2025 City Council meeting.

Commissioner Mefia thanked everyone for the productive conversation, stated she is looking forward to the next steps with the U-Visa policy, spoke regarding the urgency of completing the process to create clear policy and making the information accessible to the public, and echoed Commissioner Perea' s sentiments regarding the proposed changes to the ordinance. She encouraged everyone to read the proposed changes, attend the Council meeting, and requested proposed amendments pertaining to state law be further explained,
Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their work, welcomed new Independent Oversight Director Morse and asked regarding the required vote to make changes to ordinance.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 13 6 – 62 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 Assistant City Attomey Jonathan Martinez stated a simple majority would be required to approve changes to the ordinance.

Commissi6ner Gawronski welcomed Independent Director Morse, thanked presenters and staff for their hard work, and congratulated Chair Carpenter and Vice Chair Castillo Laughton on their appointments.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked staff for their work, welcomed Independent Oversight Independent Director Morse, and echoed concerns by commissioners regarding the Police Oversight Commission ordinance amendments.

Chair Carpenter expressed concern regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance.

ADJOURNMENT - Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINCITES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 8: 18 P.M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled forAugust 14, 2025 at 5.-00' P.M.

Respectfully, submit d.
ail c la
R nor ' g Secretary
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 14 6 – 63 JULY 10, 20251/20/2026 Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
May 8, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Vega called the meeting to order at 5: 06 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Gabriel Castillo Laughton Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Vice Chair Keith Carpenter
Chair
Danny Vega
Staff Members
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 MAY 08, 2025
City Council 6 – 64 1/20/2026

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Castillo Laughton, Gawronski, Mejia, Perea ( arrived at 5: 13 P.M.), and Said, Vice Chair Carpenter, and Chair Vega were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Vega led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS— Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non-agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES: The following individual addressed the Commission via teleconference:

1. Manuel Arreguin expressed concern regarding the vacancy for the Police Oversight Commission Director.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

MINUTES: At 5: 11 P. M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chair Carpenter moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Castillo Laughton.

The motion carried, 6- 0- 0- 1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, . COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA, COMMISSIONER

SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER, CHAIR VEGA
NONE
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER PEREA
Status: 6 - 0 - 0 — 1 — Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of March 13, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 2 MAY 08, 2025
City Council 6 – 65 1/20/2026
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR`**

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3. U- Visa Certification and Santa Ana Police Department Procedure 4130 MINUTES: At 5: 12 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

Commander Rosa Ponce Leon gave a presentation regarding the U- Visa Certification and Police Department Procedure 4130.

At 5: 13 P. M., Commissioner Perea arrived to the dais.

Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification regarding the Police Department' s definition and example of helpfulness.

Chair Vega asked for clarification regarding the Police Department role as the City is a Sanctuary City.

Commissioner Perea spoke regarding the background of the U-Visa Certification, asked who receives the U-Visa reports and corresponds to certifications once processed, and requested the commission receive quarterly data reports regarding cases and the phone number to the U- Visa be listed on the City website.

Commander Ponce Leon spoke regarding penal code 679. 10 and the role and process of the Police Department' s definition of helpfulness, and confirmed the reports are received by the federal government.

Vice Chair Carpenter requested clarification on whether the U-Visa applies to civil lawsuits against the City or to complaints filed against the police.

Commander Ponce Leon stated the Police Department does not get involved.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton requested clarification regarding the definition of helpfulness' in the U- Visa process and asked for a written protocol and implementation procedure that ensures a more objective approach. He inquired regarding the number of individuals involved in U- Visa determinations, whether there is an appellate process, and sought further clarification on the overall U-Visa requirements. He recommended the Police Department create a written protocol for helpfulness determination.

Commander Ponce Leon explained that the Police Department goes off statue, works with witnesses to gain corporation and willingness, and uses internal policy guidelines regarding helpfulness, stated there is no appellate process, and victims can call regarding form requirements not being met.

Vice Chair Carpenter asked how long U-Visas last.

Commander Ponce Leon stated she does not know as the Police Department is not involved Discussion ensued regarding investigation of crimes, definition of helpfulness, and verification vs certification.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 3 66 MAY 08, 20251/20/2026 Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez proposed the City Attorney' s Office research the issue of helpfulness and present an analysis on findings at future meeting.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez clarified helpfulness as those who are willing to help with investigation.

MOTION: Vice Chair Carpenter moved to have a study session item added to the agenda regarding the topic of helpfulness and to have examples of different policies of the U- Visa certifications, seconded by Commissioner Melia.

MINUTES: Commissioner Castillo Laughton suggested that Commander Ponce Leon be present for study session.

SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Commissioner Perea moved to have experts within the UVisa field at a future meeting within 60 days.

MINUTES: Motion died due to lack of a second.

Vice Chair Carpenter asked for the percentage of citizens that do not cooperate during the U- Visa process.

Commander Ponce Leon stated 25- 30% do not cooperate and 40% cooperate.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton questioned how strict the Police Department is when evaluating someone calling in during the certification process and the presumption of helpfulness.

Commander Ponce Leon stated the department does not have a lot of ambiguity on refusals and presumes those to be helpful until they refuse to no longer be helpful.

The original motion carried, 7- 0- 0- 0, by the following roll call vote.

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA, COMMISSIONER
PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAiD, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — 0 — 0 -- Pass
POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 4 MAY 08, 2025
City Council 6 – 67 1/20/2026
MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have staff bring presenters for legal perspective in an organization for U- Visa certifications and processes from the Orange County Rapid Response Network, OC Justice Fund, OC Public Law Center, or Western State College of Law present during next meeting' s U- Visa presentation within 30 days, seconded by Vice Chair Carpenter.

MINUTES: Commissioner Said requested to see data before requesting organizations to be present at the U-Visa presentation.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez reported that in 2023 there were a total of 372 U- Visa applications received with 162 approved, 99 denied, 78 referred to the Orange Country District Attorney' s office, 92 referred to other agencies, and 23 incomplete forms.

Commissioner Said requested clarification regarding those denied for the U-Visa application.

Commissioner Perea asked whether the City Manager' s Office met with groups regarding U-Visa certification concerns.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez shared that the City Manager' s Office was working with groups to discuss concerns.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton suggested inviting organizations to the future U- Visa presentation but emphasized that attendance should be optional, not mandatory.

Commissioner Said requested having additional information prior to presentations.

Commissioner Mejia echoed Commissioner Said comments.

Discussion ensued regarding suggested organizations to be invited to attend the future U- Visa presentations and related discussions.

The motion carried, 7- 0- 0-0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER CASTILLO LAUGHTON, COMMISSIONER

GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER

PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID, VICE CHAIR CARPENTER,

CHAIR VEGA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — 0 — 0 — Pass
MINUTES: Vice Chair Carpenter asked whether the Police Department informs potential victims about the U-Visa program.

Commander Ponce Leon stated the Police Department does not.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez spoke regarding the City's sanctuary status.

Commissioner Perea requested information be added to " Know Your Rights" website.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 5 68 MAY 08, 20251/20/2026

4. Police Oversight Commission Bylaws Discussion
MINUTES: Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez gave a brief overview regarding potential bylaws for the Commission.

Vice Chair Carpenter requested "or staff only" regarding special meetings be changed to only Commission members" in Article 3, Section 1B, removing the requirement for commissioners to submit a written memorandum in Section 10, to allow commissioners to suggest agenda items, and to remove " must be subsequently confirmed by majority vote of the Santa Ana City Council" in Section 11. He mentioned in Article 7, Section 2 the chair should be allowed to extend the three- minute time limit for any person speaking, and requested clarification on Section 4 and Section 15. In Section 12, he suggested voting on motions be decided by a simple majority.

Commissioner Said requested removing the words " arts" in Article 1, Section 1, expressed concern regarding Article 3, Section 1B, questioned who would decide on moving forward with special meetings when the Commission requests one and requested clarification on the meaning of `quorum' in Section 2, `absences' in Section 4, and qualified elector' in Section 7.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated it would be up to the City Manager's discretion when it comes to moving forward with special meetings.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez clarified the meaning of quorum and mentioned circling back regarding Article 3, Sections 4 and 7.

Commissioner Said spoke in support of three minutes to speak.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez clarified highlighted items within the bylaws packet were internal notes to have input from the commission regarding processes and procedures.

Vice Chair Carpenter stated he prefer the enforcement remain with the commission rather than the City Council perArticle 6, Section 1.

Commissioner Mejia questioned whether ordinances need to be listed from the Santa Ana Municipal Code within the bylaws in Article 1, Section 6. She spoke in favor of Vice Chair Carpenter's comments regarding Article 3, Section 1B and requested clarification on Article 7, Section 15.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez clarified the bylaw summarized the general Municipal Code due to multiple ordinances being applicable.

Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala confirmed the bylaws follow Rosenberg' s Rules of Order in Section 15 and clarified a tie vote is a fall in Section 10, Article 7.

Commissioner Perea thanked city staff for working on the bylaws.

POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 MAY 08, 2025
City Council 6 – 69 1/20/2026
Commissioner Castillo Laughton requested to have information regarding terms in the bylaws for Chair and Vice Chair positions in Article 2, Section 1. In Article 3, Section 1 B requested special meetings to be called by only majority of Commission members, suggested there be a time limit listed when it comes to follow- up comments in Section 6, recommended clarifying Commissioners be removed from office if they miss half of their regular meetings instead of only 2 regular meetings and cancelled meetings do not count reflected in Section 7, requested the bylaw clarify that proposed items be added to the next agenda meeting and the City Manager or their designee shall add proposed item to agenda in Section 10. Per Article 7, he spoke in support to both Vice Chair Carpenter and Commissioner Said and suggested there be a vote by the Commission to allow longer than 3 minutes when needed and suggested when amending bylaws — the vote should be a super majority or unanimous by the Commission rather than the City Council.

Chair Vega echoed Vice Chair Carpenter comments regarding Article 3, Section 1B, spoke in support of keeping public hearings to the allotted 3 minutes per Article 7, Section 2, requested adding items to future agendas through closing comments instead of written communication.

Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on Article 3, Section 10 regarding voting by the majority, when the item would be placed on the agenda, and whether a memorandum needs to be submitted.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez confirmed that an item will not be put on the agenda when not voted by the majority and that it is at the discretion of the City Manager to be added on the agenda. She explained these bylaws and process are current for City Council and fellow commissions.

Discussion in ensued regarding the process of completing memorandums for future agenda meetings.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether the memorandum would be made public and part of the agenda packet.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated that it would be an item in the agenda and made public available.

Vice Chair Carpenter questioned what the process is for control over agenda items between the Commission and City Manager, and requested having an agenda items list.

City Manager Alvaro Nunez explained the reason for memorandums and the need for majority vote, and stated that it is in the integrity ofboth the commission and City Manager to continue to have discussions and work together.

Chair Vega spoke in support of leaving Article 3, Section 10 as is.

Commissioner Gawronski asked when the proposed bylaws would be brought back for review.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated bylaws can be presented at the next meeting.

END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 MAY 08, 2025 6 – 70 1/20/2026

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez reminded the commission that Mayor Amezcua created an ad hoc committee with Councilmember Phil Bacerra and Mayor Pro Tern Benjamin Vazquez to review the Police Oversight Commission.

Vice Chair Carpenter expressed concern and questioned the reason for the ad hoc committee.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained the committee will be discussing potential amendments to the ordinance.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton echoed Vice Chair Carpenter's concerns.

Vice Chair Carpenter asked for an update regarding the vacancy ofthe Police Oversight Director.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated there was no update.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES., Commissioner Perea expressed concern regarding the ad hoc committee and released reports regarding the Santa Ana Police Department and ICE activity, Commissioner Said thanked staff for their hard work and commissioners for their perspectives.

Commissioner Mejia thanked staff for the bylaws template and the Santa Ana Police Department for the U-Visa presentation. She requested U- Visa data and echoed Commissioner Perea' s concerns regarding ICE information.

Commissioner Gawronski thanked staffand voiced concerns with City Council complaints addressed during Manuel Arreguin' s public comment. She wished mothers a Happy Mother's Day.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton thanked staff for their hard work and efforts creating the bylaws template, Commander Rosa Leon Ponce for the U- Visa presentation, and the City Manager for being present at the meeting, He expressed gratitude to the commission for a productive conversation during meeting, spoke regarding the ad hoc committee, and requested the commission and city council work together.

Vice Chair Carpenter asked whether commissioners can speak to councilmembers as residents regarding the ad hoc committee and thanked staff for presentation on bylaws.

Chair Vega expressed his condolences to Santa Ana High School community for families affected by the tragedy that had occurred the day previously, and questioned whether the ad hoc committees are public meetings.

POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 8 MAY 08, 2025
City Council 6 – 71 1/20/2026
Deputy City Manager Vazquez confirmed commission members are able to speak to Councilmembers as residents, and stated the ad hoc committee meetings are closed session.

ADJOURNMENT - Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES: Chair Vega adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 7: 29 P.M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for June, 12 2025 at 5: 00 P.M.

Respectfully su mittea
rding/. ecretary
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 9 MAY 08, 2025 6 – 72 1/20/2026

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
City Council 6 – 73 1/20/2026
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
August 14, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5: 06 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair
Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 AUGUST 14, 2025 6 – 74 1/20/2026

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge ofAllegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS— Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non- agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission in person:

1. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and spoke regarding Police Officer Luis Casillas.

2. David Pulido requested justice for Noe Rodriguez and an independent investigation be commenced regarding the incident.

3. Carina Munoz spoke regarding an incident involving Police Officer Kavendish and demandedjustice.

4. Emma Gottfried expressed concern regarding police violence with the Officer Luis Casillas regarding Mario Diaz's arrest and Noe Rodriguez's death.

5. Victor Mendez spoke in favor of the new direction the commission is taking and wished them success in the upcoming Special Joint Meeting with the City Council. 6, Erika Armenta spoke regarding her husband Noe Rodriguez' s incident, stated she is scared for her life and her families, and requested the Commission due their due diligence and complete independent investigation related to Noe Rodriguez' s.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

MINUTES: At 5: 25 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Said.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 2 75 AUGUST 14, 1/20/2026 2025 AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of July 10, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

STUDY SESSION
MINUTES: At 5:27 P.M., the Study Session was considered.

3. U- Visa Work Study Session
Recommended Action:

1. Receive presentations the from the following nonprofit grassroots organizations that work to respond to immigration enforcement activities and police, in order to discuss their experiences with SAPD' s U- Visa process/ procedures and provide input for recommendations:
a) Sandra De Anda of the Orange County Rapid Response Network b) Faby Jacome of the Orange County Justice Fund

2. Review and discuss proposed/ redline changes to SAPD Procedure No. 4130 prepared by Police Oversight Director Jack Morse.

MINUTES: Sandra De Anda, Orange County Rapid Response Network ( OCRRN), and Faby Jacome, Orange County Justice Fund (OCJF), provided a presentation regarding data, community experiences and a path forward regarding U- Visas in the City.

Commissioner Mejia requested clarification regarding wrongful investigations given to the District Attorney' s ( DA) office and information regarding the determination of a domestic violence crime case within the policy.

Sandra De Anda and Faby Jacome answered the Commissioner' s questions and provided clarification.

Commissioner Perea thanked the presenters for their presentation and requested the Commission be provided annual reports including the number of cases, data POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 AUGUST 14, 2025 6 – 76 1/20/2026 related to denials and approvals, clearer guidelines for determining helpfulness, and process for appealing denials including data and language, number of cases referred to DA' s office, and accessibility and transparency of U-Visa resources on the City website.

Sandra De Anda and Faby Jacome stated there are no immigration attorneys or experts assisting with U- Visa applications, and recommended establishing a Sanctuary Board.

Commissioner Said requested clarification regarding the requirement for referring cases to differentjurisdictions, why referral data from 2017-2023 is difficult to obtain, what the standard turnaround time is for U- Visa follow- ups, the number of staff involved in processing U- Visas, and whether training has been provided for making determinations on applications. She requested an analyst be assigned to track applications, referrals, and denials, suggested the appellant review process be conducted by a different individual rather than the person who is processing the application within SAPD, more accessibility on City's website such as language options, recommended providing accurate contact information to applicants, and voiced concern regarding discretion in helpfulness determination.

Commander Jorge Lopez stated there is no requirement to refer cases and cases sometimes are deferred to the DA's office when there is an ongoing prosecution involving the victim and there is no defined turnaround time requirement. He confirmed there is a unit dedicated for overseeing U- Visas with a crime analyst responsible for inputting all received information, and a sergeant who reviews and assigns cases to detectives for further review.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade spoke regarding data from 2017, the appeals process, and clarified the U-Visas applications process.

Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on " helpfulness" and " usefulness." She suggested the following the revisions to the U-Visa policy: in Section 4130. 3. 1, adding language to include " Have been the victim, the bystander, or indirect'; in Section 4130,3. 3, changing the title from " Victim' s Responsibility to be Helpful" to Guidance on Helpfulness" or" Definition on Helpfulness"; Section 4130. 4, removing the language "such as the Department, verifying the applicant is the victim of qualifying criminal activity and has been helpful, is being helpful or is likely to be helpful to the investigation..." to avoid redundancy; and Section 4130.5, providing further explanation as to why applications are sent over to the DA' s office.

Commissioner Vega asked for information regarding the process for handling a victim's complaint against SAPD and whether such a cose could be handled by PD or DA.

Deputy Chief Andrade clarified the investigating entity is responsible for the investigation, therefore, if a victim alleges a crime involving SAPD, the responsibility would fall on SAPD.

Commissioner Perea asked whether the commission would be an appropriate entity to conduct the investigation in cases where SAPD is the alleged perpetrator, specifically for certifying a U- Visa for the victim.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 4 77 AUGUST 14, 1/20/2026 2025 Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed U- Visa certifications is determined by the police department.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked presenters for their presentation, supported the recommendations made by fellow commissioners to the U- Visa policy, and suggested trainings be conducted once policy is finalized.

Chair Carpenter thanked presenters for their presentation and suggested adding consequences for deadlines not met by SAPD within the policy.

Chair Vega thanked presenters, requested additional information on U- Visa denials, and clarification on SAPD's role in determining helpfulness and whether a victim's case falls within a qualifying crime.

Deputy Chief Andrade clarified SAPD's role regarding helpfulness determination and the qualifying levels of crime needing to be met during the certification U-Visa process.

Commissioner Mejia stated she supports the initial set of revisions presented in the policy and is working toward clarifying the concept of helpfulness during the certification process.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton suggested moving the excerpt in Section 4130. 3. 3 explaining determination factors to Section 4130. 5 regarding procedures, recommended the wording related to Form 1- 918 in Sections 4130. 3. 3 and 4130. 5 be consistent, rather than using "may sign and certify..." in one section and "shall provide a written explanation..." in another, correcting the wording in Section 4130. 5. 10 from "repeal" to " appeal', and requested clarification on certifications for denials.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. clarified in Section 4130. 3.3, the wording " may sign and certify" regarding Form 1- 918 refers to the Police Chiefs determination of helpfulness, while Section 4130. 5.8 addresses situations where forms are not certified and requires a reason to be provided for the application not being certified for U- Visas.

END OF STUDY SESSION***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated invitations to upcoming meetings with Councilmembers, the City Attorney, Police Chief, Police Oversight Director, and the City Manager regarding the proposed amendments to the Police Oversight Commission ordinance will be sent to commissioners.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski asked regarding the citizens academy and whether commissioners need to retake the academy.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 78 AUGUST 14, 2025 1/20/2026 Commissioner Vega thanked staff, presenters, and members of the public who provided comments, and requested information on SAPD' s policies regarding arrests and interactions with individuals experiencing mental health issues, as well as whether a policy exists governing language use during encounters, such as the use of English or Spanish.

Deputy Chief Andrade confirmed there is no policy in place to utilizing languages other than English during encounters.

Commissioner Mejia thanked presenters, colleagues, and individuals who made a public comment, and inquired regarding community notification of upcoming meetings and whether meetings can be scheduled at more reasonable times to encourage greater attendance. She asked whether a future meeting will provide additional information on reports made during the previous community meeting regarding military equipment under AB 481,
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed reports from 2022--2023 and 2023- 2024 were not presented during the community meeting due to compliance issues, and stated the City of Santa Ana and Police Chief Rodriguez are working to ensure compliance with laws and regulations for future meetings. She clarified the reports currently presented are those available and identifiable at this time.

Commission Said thanked presenters and staff, and requested viewing body worn camera footage regarding Noe Rodriguez' s case.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained he would need to look into Penal Code 832. 7 of confidential peace officer records and whether viewing footage is possible with no violation of codes and a qualifying case
Chair Carpenter asked whether the Police Oversight Director can be directed to further investigate incidents such as Noe Rodriguez' s case.

Independent Oversight Director Morse Jr. confirmed SAPD is investigating.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton suggested independent Oversight Director and SAPD work in conjunction regarding Noe Rodriguez's investigation.

Commissioner Mejia requested the Independent Oversight Director have a separate investigation from SAPD.

Commissioner Perea thanked everyone for their work on the U- Visa policy over the last few meetings, suggested the Commission review previous City Council discussions regarding the Police Oversight Commission ordinance, and stated he looks forward to the upcoming joint session with the City Council.

Chair Carpenter thanked the presenters, staff, and the independent Oversight Director, and emphasized the need for a clearer definition of helpfulness.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 6 79 AUGUST 14, 1/20/2026 2025 ADJOURNMENT- Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES; Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at T: 32 P. M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for September 11, 2025 at 5: 00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
r
i, Y. c` la
Recgr, in ecretary
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 AUGUST 14, 2025 6 – 80 1/20/2026 Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
October 9, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea ( arrived at 5: 07 P. M.), Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS—Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non- agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES: None.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

MINUTES: At 5:04 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Said.

The motion carried, 6- 0- 0- 1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE

CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER PEREA
Status: 6— 0 — 0 - 1 — Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of September 11, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 5:06 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 2 82 OCTOBER 9, 1/20/2026 2025

3. Senate Bill 719 and Santa Ana Police Department Policies 307 & 308 Recommended Action; Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police Department' s Vehicle Pursuit and Response to Calls policies and provide input for staff consideration.

MINUTES: Commander Joe Weber gave a presentation regarding Senate Bill 719 and Santa Ana Police Department Policies 307 and 308.

Commissioner Said requested traffic collision statistics from the past three years, asked what the four-hour training for officers includes, and whether it addresses distractions such as phones and laptops to help prevent accidents. She inquired whether there is an internal traffic review board and what measures are in place to assist officers with multiple collisions in improving their driving.

Commander Weber stated he does not have current traffic collision statistics, spoke regarding the four-hour training provided to officers and distractions, and explained progressive disciplinary action is used for officers who have multiple collisions and remediate ways to help officers avoid collisions.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated the Santa Ana Police Department ( SAPD) does not have a traffic review board, explained the levels of review conducted for collision reports, and noted Chief Robert Rodriguez has mandated all sworn officers to complete EVOC training again to help mitigate traffic collisions.

Commissioner Mejia requested information on the decision-making process covered during the four-hour training and whether pursuit data can be made available on the Department' s website. She inquired about the authorization of pursuits fornonviolent or property crimes such as stolen vehicles or traffic violations, what risk analysis is conducted prior to authorization, the process and training guide to officers' decision- making when initiating a pursuit, the factors leading pursuits to escalate to use of force or deadly force, whether additional training is provided to address language barriers, and what measures SAPD is taking to ensure pursuits do not result in excessive use of force. She requested information on body-worn cameras and in-vehicle cameras used during pursuits, and whether SAPD utilizes Artificial Intelligence (Al) to review body-camera footage.

Commander Weber explained the authorization analysis for nonviolent or property crimes, what leads officers to pursue an individual, discretion behind the pursuit, procedures in place to minimize risks among officers and individuals during pursuits and custody, policy for excessive use of force and process if an officer is accused of excessive use, and explained activation on body- worn cameras and equipment.

He stated training on languages is not offered and the department does not utilize Al.

Deputy Chief Andrade further explained the process behind officers pursuing an individual and ongoing evaluation during pursuits.

Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding officer vehicle training in the rain and the number of freeway pursuits by SAPD.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 6 – 83 OCTOBER 9, 2025 1/20/2026 Commissioner Vega requested traffic collision statistics and clarification regarding Policy 308.

Commander Weber spoke regarding vehicle training in the rain, freeway pursuits, and provided clarification regarding Policy 308 regarding traffic laws.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked for clarification regarding police officer discretion in vehicle pursuits, who is responsible for reviewing and investigating pursuits, whether the California Highway Patrol ( CHP) conducts its own pursuit investigations, the definition of "due regard" in pursuits, and how use of force is applied to end vehicle pursuits.

Commander Weber explained discretion regarding vehicle pursuits, process of investigating pursuits, confirmed pursuits are reported to the CHP and stated they do not conduct their own investigation, ` do-regard pursuit' definition and practice, and different circumstances justifying use of force in terminating pursuits.

Chair Carpenter asked why pursuit reports are provided and what the connection is between CHP and SAPD. He requested clarification regarding the use of force during and after a pursuit.

Commander Weber stated reports given to CHP are for statistical purposes and explained use of force during and after a pursuit.

Commissioner Perea requested data regarding traffic collisions and traffic pursuits that resulted in a death from 2015 to now, and asked what laws are in place for pursuits happening outside the City's jurisdiction.

Commander Weber explained there is no current policy for the department to be involved in outside pursuits unless requested.

Commissioner Said asked whether cameras within department vehicles are turned on once sirens are initiated.

Commander Weber stated the department vehicles are not equipped with dash cameras.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether information is available to assist in decisionmaking related to use offorce or deadly force, and what tools are provided to officers for taking individuals into custody at the termination point of a pursuit. She inquired how often pursuits occur for minor offenses and requested information on the cost of traffic collisions within SAPD.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. asked how often trivial pursuits occur.

Commander Weber explained uses of force are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez explained the available traffic collision statistics only include settlement costs resulting from traffic collisions.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 4 84 OCTOBER 9, 1/20/2026 2025 Deputy Chief Andrade explained different scenarios relating to termination point of pursuits regarding use of force when needed.

Commissioner Gawronski asked whether SAPD has their own helicopter to use during pursuits, where these helicopters are held, and how many are available.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD obtains police helicopter services from the Orange County Sheriff' s Department, which operates four helicopters, and explained the factors considered when deploying helicopters during pursuits.

Commander Weber stated helicopters are held at John Wayne Airport and explained the process behind using air support during pursuits.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether SAPD collaborates with news station helicopters during pursuits and how the Department coordinates with other agencies if no helicopters are available, and requested data on the use of force employed to end pursuits over the past five years.

Commander Weber confirmed SAPD does not collaborate with news agencies during pursuits.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated use of force to end pursuits is not common.

Chair Carpenter asked regarding the potential effects of not pursuing individuals and requested more information on policies regarding pursuits involving vehicles with children.

Commander Weber explained the necessity behind pursuits and the discretionary factors dealing with children within vehicles during pursuits.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton inquired regarding drone use during pursuits and how many drones are to be obtained for the department.

Deputy Chief Andrade explained the possible instances drone use could be beneficial and stated the department is looking into how many drones are to be obtained.

Commissioner Perea requested clarification regarding the purchase of drones in the military budget proposal.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed there has not been any budget approval or proposal presented to City Council regarding drone policies, procedures, and implementations.

Commissioner Vega asked whether a warning system could be sent to those within the area of a high- speed pursuit taking place.

Deputy Chief Andrade explained sending alerts during pursuits would be difficult due to high-speed pursuits happening so quickly.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 6 – 85 OCTOBER 9, 2025 1/20/2026 MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 3, seconded by Commissioner Vega.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 -- Pass

4. Police Oversight Commission Bylaws
Recommended Action: Approve Police Oversight Commission Bylaws.

MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez presented the Bylaws incorporating comments provided by Commissioners in previous meetings.

Commissioner Vega asked whether the Police Oversight Director is able to add items to the agenda.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the Director is able to add to the agenda after consulting with the City Manager to build an agenda together.

Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on the process for consulting with the Police Oversight Director and the City Manager regarding memos to be placed on future agendas.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the process behind consultations.

Commissioner Castillo Laughton requested a highlighted overview ofany significant changes made to the bylaws.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez noted a significant change regarding excused absences.

Chair Carpenter noted Article 3, Section 1 B was added to the bylaws and asked whether this bylaw applies to all Commissions regarding special meetings, and requested the Appointments and Boards Division 2, Article 2—Section 1, be updated on the City's website to include current Commission information.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained Article 3, Section 1B was added to allow the Commission to bring a special meeting forward.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez further explained other commissions do not have the ability to hold special meetings, but the newly added article provides this Commission to have the ability to do so.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 6 86 OCTOBER 9, 1/20/2026 2025 MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 4, as amended to consider the bylaws upon ordinance approval, seconded by Commissioner Said.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEDIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 — 0 — Pass
Chair Carpenter requested to reconsider the bylaws upon ordinance approval.

END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez expressed enthusiasm with the bylaws moving forward and encouraged continuing to bring back data and previously discussed items, and noted the special meeting with City Council regarding the Police Oversight Commission ordinance review work study has not yet been scheduled.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated seven recruits recently graduated from the Sheriff's Academy and will be joining SAPD, and invited the Commission to attend SAPD's Trunk-or-Treat event on October 16, 2025.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski suggested the Commission visit the yard to observe police vehicles involved in pursuits, and thanked everyone for theirhard work and Commander Weber for his presentation.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether memos sent to the City Manager within the last few months need to be resent, requested additional data on vehicle pursuits to allow for any recommendations, and suggested the Commission establish email addresses to facilitate communication with community members who wish to contact a Commissioner.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the process for resending memos and stated general email correspondence should be sent to the Independent Oversight Director to ensure communication is directed to the Commission as a whole.

Commissioner Perea requested data from 2010 to 2025 on settlements related to officer complaints, deaths, and injuries, and requested the establishment of a general City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 6 – 87 OCTOBER 9, 1/20/2026 2025 email address for the Police Oversight Commission, rather than routing correspondence through the Independent Oversight Director.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained general communication from the public is to be sent in or done as a public comment.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez suggested members of the community come speak during public comments or submit e- comments to avoid conflicts of violating the Brown Act.

Commissioner Said thanked staff for their work, requested data regarding arrests made under Penal Code 148, asked how many cases the District Attorney is moving forward with, and wished everyone a safe Halloween.

Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their hard work and inquired regarding arrests and their effects in relation to Proposition 36.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated arrests have been made under Proposition 36, but it is too early to determine the effects to date.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked staff their efforts and the presentations.

Chair Carpenter requested previously discussed agenda items be brought to a future meeting, suggested the possibility of adding a whiteboard, and thanked staff for the presentation.

ADJOURNMENT - Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 6:57 P.M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for November 13, 2025 at 5:00 P.M.

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City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 8 88 OCTOBER 9, 1/20/2026 2025 Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
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September 11 , 2025
TELECONFERENCE INFORMATION:

Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953( b), Commissioner Carlos Perea will participate in the meeting via teleconference from Hotel Villa Florida Puebla( lobby) in Puebla, Mexico, Blvd Atlixcayotl, Acceso a la Zona Angelopolis 1100, 72810 San Andres Cholula, Pue. The Agenda will be posted at the teleconference location and any member of the public wishing to address the legislative body directly may do so at the teleconference location pursuant to Government Code Section 54954. 3.

REGULAR MEETING - 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5: 03 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Gawronski, Mejia, Perea, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS— Public comments will be held during the beginning of the meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non- agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES: The following individuals addressed the Commission in person:

1. David Pulido spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance, requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, and an independent investigation regarding the incident.

2. Abraham Quintana requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, an independent investigation regarding the incident, and the commission explore police- related ordinances implemented in other cities.

3. Carina Munoz spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance.

4. Emma Gottfried spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance, requested justice for Noe Rodriguez, and an independent investigation regarding the incident.

5. Bulamaro Vicente spoke regarding proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 2 90 SEPTEMBER 11, 20251/20/2026

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: 1 and 2.

MINUTES: At 5:21 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, seconded by Commissioner Vega.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7— 0 — Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of August 14, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

STUDY SESSION
MINUTES: At 5: 22 P.M., the Study Session was considered.

3. Police Oversight Commission Ordinance Work Study Session Recommended Action: Receive presentation on the Police Oversight Commission Ordinance and provide input to staff.

MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the commissions' input would be presented to the City Council at a future meeting.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse gave a presentation regarding the Police Oversight Commission ordinance highlighting the hybrid oversight model:
investigating incidents and problematic patterns.

Commissioner Gawronski asked whether Santa Ana has an investigative process to determine crime percentages and community support in cities that have seen policy changes implemented.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 6 – 91 1/20/2026 Independent Oversight Director Morse stated there was both trust and distrust segments of the public and that using a pattern- and-practice method to identify persistent, ongoing problems and implement solutions.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade clarified the Police Department has not used an investigative process to determine crime percentages.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether the hybrid model' s parallel investigation would apply to all cases and if the Independent Oversight Director must wait for the Police Department to finish their investigations. She prioritized improving community relations with Internal Affairs, cautioned against limiting the ordinance, voiced concerns about the mandatory ride- along, and recommended funding police lawsuits via Police Officers Association ( POA) contract changes.

Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the hybrid model allows for independent investigations of individual incidents that are considered of great bodily harm. He clarified the investigation would be conducted alongside the Internal Affairs investigation due to Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Rights (POBAR) limitations and stated long term change comes from identifying problematic patterns and investigating all individual incidents would not be possible due to limited resources.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether the current policy allows for policy review and the benefits of adoption of a new ordinance. He expressed concern with removing the flexibility for the Commission to choose the approach and states the proposed changes would remove authority to investigate individual incidents. He asked whether there are any disadvantages to the hybrid model and for clarification regarding conflicts the current ordinance has with the City Charter.

Independent Oversight Director Morse clarified the current policy allows for review and the proposed changes would add priority and framework for a pattern- andpractice model. He stated there would be resource constraints with every model, and regardless of the model, the director's role is purely advisory.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified the existing ordinance conflicts with the City Charter, as the Charter only allows for the appointment of up to three directors. She stated any additional directors would require an amendment to the Charter.

Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding the investigative process for the Independent Oversight Director and the cases that would be investigated. She expressed concern regarding the lack of resources to investigate all complaints, noting most involve officer-involved shootings or use- of-force resulting in death or serious injury. She stated the hybrid model offers a good balance, recommended additional training to provide more insight and reviewing tort claims to find common trends, and asked if the proposed changes address POBAR violation concerns.

Independent Oversight Director Morse clarified the cases that would be investigated are officer-involved shootings or use- of-force resulting in death or great bodily injury and the investigation process would consist of responding to the scene, conducting a parallel investigation with Internal Affairs, writing a report of findings to the City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 4 92 SEPTEMBER 11, 20251/20/2026 Commission, and submitting the Commission' s recommendations to the City Manager.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez stated the hybrid model would address the initial concerns regarding possible POBAR violations.

Senior Assistant City Attorney Tamara Bogosian stated the hybrid model process would have to be reviewed to determine if any components need to be met and conferred with the Police Union.

Commissioner Vega recommended the public watch the Council meeting of July 15, 2025 and spoke in support of the additional trainings and ride-along requirements proposed. He asked Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse to provide insight into the proposed trainings, whether the proposed changes presented at the July 15t" City Council meeting are considered pattern- and-practice investigations, whether there would be any other changes needed, and whether removing restrictions would put the City at risk of liability.

Independent Oversight Director Morse spoke regarding his experience with ridealongs and attending the reserve academy. He stated the proposed changes represent a pattern-and-practice model, and while he had concerns about its current restrictiveness, he acknowledged it would be an effective starting point due to resource limitations.

Senior Assistant City Attorney Bogosian stated removing restrictions would affect privacy protections which does not allow those records to be disclosable to the public and the Independent Oversight Director would have to schedule closed session in order to discuss that information.

Commissioner Perea asked whether the draft ordinance had been presented to City Council and emphasized the current ordinance is compliant with state law. He asked for clarification regarding the current issue between the Sheriff's office and the Sheriff' s Oversight Commission, expressed concern regarding how that the proposed ordinance changes would strip the commission ofits investigatory powers but appreciated the hybrid model. He expressed concern regarding previous Police Officer Associations Memorandums of Understanding ( MOU) and would like the commission to retain the ability to make recommendations. He also requested the ordinance be updated to require consistent posting on the website of a redacted summary of complaints submitted to the Commission.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified the draft ordinance has not been presented to City Council and any recommendations by the Commission would be used to refine the language and create a draft ordinance to present to City Council.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez clarified that while the ordinance is currently in compliance with state law, issues could arise with the dual-track investigation, which might violate POBAR, therefore, the amendments are intended to create a process that avoids the possibility of lawsuits.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 6 – 93 SEPTEMBER 11, 20251/20/2026 Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the case between the Sheriff' s office and the Sheriff's Oversight Commission is regarding Penal Code 832. 7. and is currently being litigated.

Senior Assistant City AttorneyBogosian clarified thatalthough the Commission may discuss the MOU, they must avoid making suggestions, changes, or otherwise interfering with the City Manager' s right to negotiate, as the City Charter sets the terms of that authority.

Chair Carpenter voiced concern that previous Commission recommendations were not reflected in the proposed ordinance changes and spoke in favor of the hybrid model presented to the Commission.

Commissioner Mejia expressed concern with instances where culture is built into department practices and trainings and asked whether there was a way to ensure mechanisms for accountability. She voiced concern regarding required ride-alongs and requested legal protections for Commissioners when they participate. She recommended adding the scope of work to the Commission' s bylaws instead of changing the ordinance to avoid stripping the Commission of its power, and asked whether the changes proposed by the Ad Hoc committee would remove the Commission' s investigative powers.

Independent Oversight Director Morse stated the pattern- and-practice model is the most beneficial, clarifying that the Ad Hoc changes permit pattern- and-practice investigations but not individual ones, and stated this revised structure would still allow the Director to review Internal Affairs findings and issue recommendations.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether the auditor model allows for the review of individual complaints and whether the Independent Oversight Director's input would be factored into the final decision of the findings. He expressed concern regarding removing the Commission' s ability to give recommendation on individual cases and recommended the Commission be allowed to operate under the current ordinance first to determine if the existing process works before implementing the limitations of the auditor model.

Independent Oversight Director Morse confirmed the Independent Oversight Director would be able to review individual complaints after Internal Affairs concludes its investigation and issue recommendations based on the findings, but would not be able to conduct a parallel investigation. He confirmed the auditor model would not allow for recommendations on individual cases.

Discussion ensued regarding the process and restrictions of the auditor model investigation.

Commissioner Said spoke regarding prioritization of complaints and the potential for an overburdened workload under the investigatory model. She added that any pattern of overly long Internal Affairs investigations should be specifically looked into.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated the Police Department is fully prepared to support the Council' s decision and adjust as needed in order to be effective, whether that be City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 6 94 SEPTEMBER 11, 20251/20/2026 staff changes or putting safe guards in place to ensure Internal Affairs investigations do not reach the one- year statute of limitations.

Commissioner Perea requested a copy of the letter Commissioner Carpenter wrote regarding the proposed ordinance changes and requested clarification regarding the process for distributing a commissioner' s correspondence from the City Manager' s Office to the rest of the Commission. He stated his belief that the hybrid model better reflects the resources available to the Commission, and requested officer threats of bodily harm and sexual harassment complaints against a member of the public be investigated. He also asked for clarification regarding the deciding factor used to determine which complaints the Commission investigates and expressed his wish to maintain some investigatory power.

Assistant City Attorney Martinez stated that because bylaws have not yet been adopted, staff is still working on establishing policies. He clarified the Director and Commission will not automatically investigate every complaint, rather the Commission must first pass a majority vote to direct the Director on which complaint to investigate.

Commissioner Vega requested clarification on who originally requested the ordinance amendments and spoke regarding the potential ramifications of conducting an improper investigation.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez clarified City staff worked collaboratively to request the amendments, not the City Council
Chair Carpenter inquired whether the Commission would see a draft of the ordinance before it is presented to the City Council.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez spoke regarding Council's discretion to amend the ordinance and indicate the Commission' s roles and responsibility.

END OF STUDY SESSION***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: None.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski requested a key of the acronyms used throughout the ordinance to facilitate her review.

Commissioner Mejia inquired regarding the use ofher personal email to conduct City business, the feasibility of having a City issued email address published, and suggested investigating the Noe Rodriguez incident under the guidance of the current ordinance. She commented on allegations that Internal Affairs has deleted footage and stressed the importance of trust between the community and Internal Affairs.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 6 – 95 1/20/2026 Commissioner Perea spoke in support of the hybrid model and the need to maintain investigatory power, echoed Commissioner Mejia' s comments regarding the Noe Rodriguez investigation, and reported he will be requesting to agendize a public hearing at the October meeting related to the Police Departments use of military equipment at the June protests. He commented on recent Supreme Court ruling on Noem v. Vasquez- Perdomo and how the decision will affect many City residents.

Commissioner Said thanked staff and the public for their input and participation.

Commissioner Vega thanked staff for their hard work and stated his preference for the pattern-and-practice investigation model. He stated that regardless of the model that is implemented, the Commission will do great work and should not wait for City Council to approve the ordinance.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked everyone for the productive dialogue, and thanked Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse for his in- depth presentation. He spoke in opposition to the ordinance amendment proposed by the AdHoc, indicated that if a change must be made he is in favor of the hybrid model, and requested clarification on the Independent Oversight Director' s ability to investigate the Noe Rodriguez incident
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the Noe Rodriguez incident is currently being investigated by the Attorney General and due to existing internal policies and procedures, the City is unable to continue its own investigation until the Attorney General' s investigation is complete.

Chair Carpenter stated he is not in favor of the evisceration of the original ordinance and hopes the Commission can reach a consensus to move the issue forward.

ADJOURNMENT- Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 8:02 P.M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for October 9, 2025 at 5: 00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
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City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 8 96 SEPTEMBER 11, 20251/20/2026 Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
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November 13, 2025
REGULAR MEETING - 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5. 01 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez
Deputy Chief Roland Andrade
Police Commander Jorge Lopez
Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez
Recording Secretary Kelly Flores
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 1 6 – 97 NOVEMBER 13, 20251/20/2026

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Kelly Flores conducted roll call.

Commissioners Perea ( arrived at 5: 02 P. M.), Gawronski, Mejia, Said, and Vega, Vice Chair Castillo Laughton, and Chair Carpenter were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge ofAllegiance.

Chair Carpenter requested an update regarding accident reports for the past three years, demographics and number of police pursuits, use of force after traffic stops, pursuits that result in death, cost of collisions due to pursuits, use of force to stop pursuits, requested agenda items list, and current complaint list.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the reports will be provided at the December 8, 2025 meeting and future meetings.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. confirmed the requests are currently being worked on_
Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the agenda includes the final item from the request list and the Commission will be notified of incoming complaints, which will be brought forward in closed session.

MINUTES: The following speaker addressed the Commission in person:

Sandra De Anda spoke regarding ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement( ICE) operations within the city, recent incidents involving masked individuals potentially posing as agents, and police interactions with federal agents on public property.

The following speaker addressed the Commission via teleconference' Manuel Arreguin spoke regarding not being unable to join a prior Police Oversight Commission meeting and his complaint submitted to the commission.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: t and 2.

MINUTES: At 5:20 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 2 98 NOVEMBER 13, 20251/20/2026 MOTION: Vice Chair Castillo Laughton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, as amended to add Chair Carpenters comments on reconsideration of bylaws to the minutes, seconded by Chair Carpenter.

The motion carried, 7- 0- 0- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7- 0- 0 - 0 — Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of October 09, 2026.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 5.22 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

3. Santa Ana Police Department Policy 413
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police Department' s Policy 413 Immigration Violations and provide input to staff.

MINUTES: Commander Jorge Lopez and Jail Manager Ken Willard gave a presentation regarding Santa Ana Police Department's ( SAPD) Policy 413 Immigration Violations.

Commissioner Gawronski requested clarification on contract inmates.

Jail Administrator Ken Willard explained contract inmates refers to the intergovernmental service agreement with the United States Marshal to receive a per diem number of inmates going to federal court and necessary transportation to/ from court.

Commissioner Vega asked about procedures for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) impersonators.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated personnel is sent to verify identities when dispatch is unable to confirm government status.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 6 – 99 NOVEMBER 13, 20251/20/2026 Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested clarification on information provided to ICE and raised concerns regarding policy language.

Jail Administrator Willard stated only publicly available information is provided.

Commissioner Perea asked whether inmate release dates are provided and whether individuals could be held solely for immigration status.

Jail Administrator Willard stated release dates are not provided and only individuals with criminal charges are booked. He stated civil immigration detainers are not accepted.

Commissioner Perea asked whether SAPD has prepared a policy regarding CA Bill 627 and requested the policy be presented to the Commission once finalized. He requested quarterly reports regarding the frequency of ICE requests for retainers, holds, interviews, the number of police calls for service related to ICE, and a summary of ICE activities in the city.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated the SAPD legal advisor reviews and creates training regarding legal updates.

Commissioner Said asked whether there is an online system to view current inmates.

Jail Administrator Willard stated there is currently no online system.

Commissioner Mejia stated the policy language should be reviewed to clearly state limitations in orderto avoid discrepancies and asked whether there was a possibility for inmates to be detained in the Santa Ana Jail due to immigration status.

Jail Administrator Willard stated judicial warrants are required and all inmates are in custody for criminal offences.

Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification regarding SAPD' s ability to manage ICE officers violent behaviors and asked whether it is possible for information to be accessed by ICE through the Automatic License Plate Recognition ( ALPR) system.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD is not documenting criminal behavior as it relates to federal agents but officers can provide contact information for federal agencies if the public would like to submit a complaint. He clarified SAPD does not disclose information to federal agencies for immigration enforcement purposes.

Commissioner Mejia asked if detainer requests have increased.

Jail Administrator Willard stated detainers and inquires have declined.

Chair Carpenter asked whether SAPD would provide rescue aide to ICE agents.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD provides aid to anyone whose life is threatened.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 4 100 NOVEMBER 13, 20251/20/2026 Commissioner Perea requested a future agenda item regarding abandoned vehicles linked to ICE detentions.

Commissioner Mejia recommended policy review regarding ICE interviews and requested clarification.

Jail Administrator Willard clarified they inform detainees the ICE interviews are voluntary, and they have a right to refuse.

MOTION: Commissioner Mejia moved to have Director further research and investigate the definitions on policy 413. 1. 1 in regards to criminal violation, seconded by Commissioner Perea.

The motion carried, 7- 0, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER MEJIA,

COMMISSIONER PEREA, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE CHAIR CASTILLO

LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 7 - 0 — 0 — 0 — Pass

4. Santa Ana Police Department Policy 429
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation on the Santa Ana Police Department Policy 429 First Amendment Assemblies policy and provide input to staff.

MINUTES: Commander Garry Couso gave a presentation regarding Santa Ana Police Department Policy 429 First Amendment Assemblies policy.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested infonnation on the effects of police presence on peaceful gatherings, monitoring procedures for police- wary groups, use of a tiered dispersal system, and criteria for the use ofprotective gear.

Commander Couso stated the effects vary by crowd and protective gear decisions are based on monitoring for criminal activity.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated each protest is unique and the protocol is often to monitor from a distance without engaging. He stated a dismissal order only occurs when triggered by criminal activity and when a single agitator is identified.

He clarified a dismissal order applies to all protesters, including those who are peaceful.

Commissioner Mejia asked whether having an amplified device is prohibited due to a California Penal Code and whether it is prohibiting amplified devices in general or at protest.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 6 – 101 NOVEMBER 13, 2025 1/20/2026 Commander Couso cited Santa Ana Municode 10- 153 and stated the prohibition varies on intent.

Commissioner Mejia requested clarification on required media credentials, seizure of cameras under Section 429. 3 ( c), protections for media, improvements to amplified announcement devices, and a list of chemical agent ingredients.

Commander Couso stated media credentials are typically issued by news organizations for planned events, but verification is not possible during dispersal of events, and seizure of materials occurs when they may contain evidence. He explained SAPD trains officers to support media safety, improvements to amplified devices may be beneficial, and chemical agent ingredient list will be provided.

Commissioner Said shared personal observations of Santa Ana Police Department SAPD) at an organized gathering.

Commissioner Perea acknowledged SAPD' s progress and requested: actions ensuring media safety at assemblies, clarification regarding on frequency of dismissal orders, information on responses to civil disobedience, documentation of non-lethal devices deployments, and summary reports for each gathering, and number of disciplinary actions for failures to follow demonstrations protocols.

Commander Couso stated SAPD maintains a welcoming posture towards media, and dismissal orders are repeated in both English and Spanish. He stated approaches to civil disobedience vary and all non-lethal device uses are documented.

Deputy Chief Andrade stated Assembly Bill 48 requires public availability of crowd control reports and these are posted on the City website.

Commissioner Perea moved to have Oversight Director provide data of the past 10 to 15 years regarding discipline of officers not following procedure or protocol to public demonstrations, seconded by Commissioner Mejia.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez clarified the motion exceeds the scope of the item, Motion was dismissed.

Chair Carpenter asked whether dispersal orders apply to all individuals present.

Commander Couso confirmed they apply to everyone in attendance.

Commissioner Vega asked whether the dispersal orders apply citywide or separate protests are handled individually and shared concerns based on past experience with riots.

Commander Couso stated each demonstration is treated separately.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether officers receive bias training and whether the training is re-emphasized before officers respond to protests.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 6 102 NOVEMSER 13, 20251/20/2026 Commander Couso stated officers are given annual advanced officer training on implicit bias policing and the training is reemphasized daily at roll calls and before critical incidents.

Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding the bias between different types of demonstrations.

5. Commissioner Requested Item - Submitted by Chair Keith Carpenter Recommended Action: Discuss and Consider Placing an Item on a Future Agenda Regarding Public Legal Rights and Requirements During Police Encounters.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter clarified his item is for SAPD to provide information on citizen requirements during police stops.

Independent Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr. recommended using an outside constitutional law entity to provide the presentation.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton requested clarification on whether the request is for training or policy adoption.

Chair Carpenter stated they are related and agreed with the recommendation.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton recommended having information available on the Commission' s website.

Chair Carpenter opposed posting information online, stating it is outside the Commission' s purview and would defer that decision to the City Attorney.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez stated the item does not require changes and may proceed to discussion and a vote. He recommended allowing comments before voting.

Commissioner Mejia asked for clarification on the requested item.

Chair Carpenter stated he is willing to modify his request and change constitutional rights to " know your rights" from constitutional rights.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton recommended training on " Know Your Rights" and publish best practices on the Commission' s website.

Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Martinez recommended proceeding with discussion and a vote.

Commissioner Mejia supported " Know Your Rights" information, but opposed directing public behavior.

Commissioner Said supported " Know Your Rights" information, and posting it online, but opposed adopting a policy or giving legal advice.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 6 – 103 NOVEMBER 13, 2025 1/20/2026 Commissioner Perea supported the proposal and suggested a community forum or training at a community center.

Chair Carpenter stated commission meetings are open to the public for information and comment and did not support posting information online.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton supported posting information online to maximize impact of the commission and clarified he is not recommending policy adoption.

MOTION: Chair Carpenter moved to approve recommended action for Item No. 5, seconded by Commissioner Said.

The motion carried, 6- 1, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER PEREA,

COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, VICE

CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: COMMISSIONER MEJIA
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Status: 6— 1 — 0 —0 — Pass
END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the process for establishing Commissioner email addresses as requested by the Commission.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade announced the Paws and Nuggets event with ChickFil-A has been rescheduled due to potential rain during the event, and Pancakes with Santa is taking place in December:

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Vega wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Vice Chair Castillo Laughton thanked everyone for their presence and the productive dialog.

Commissioner Mejia requested an update regarding the U-Visa, spoke regarding public engagement, and the Commission' s goal to help with the community relationship and trust.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the U-Visa item may return at the December commission meeting.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 8 104 NOVEMBER 13, 20251/20/2026 Commissioner Said spoke regarding her positive experience attending the Santa Ana Police Department Trunk-or-Treat event, wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, and thanked staff for their hard work.

Commissioner Perea thanked staff for the presentations and echoed Commissioner Mejia' s comments regarding community engagement.

Chair Carpenter spoke regarding opportunities for public engagement at neighborhood associations, encouraged the commission to become involved with their neighborhood association, and thanked staff for the information provided.

ADJOURNMENT - Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjoumed the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 8: 35 P.M.

The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for December 11, 2025 at 5: 00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:

Kelly Flores W_
Recording Secretary
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 9 NOVEMBER 13, 2025 6 – 105 1/20/2026 Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the Police Oversight Commission
Ry l
IL 4 i yr
December 11 , 2025
REGULAR MEETING 5: 00 P. M.

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
22 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA 92701

CALL TO ORDER
MINUTE'S: Chair Carpenter called the meeting to order at 5: 03 P.M.

ATTENDANCE Commission Members Evangeline Gawronski
Amalia Mejia
Carlos Perea
Nadin Said
Danny Vega
Vice Chair Gabriel Castillo Laughton
Chair Keith Carpenter
Staff Members
Independent
Oversight Director T. Jack Morse Jr.

ROLL CALL
MINUTES: Recording Secretary Abigail Y. Alcala conducted roll call.

Commissioners Gawronski, Perea ( arrived at 5: 22 P.M.), Said, and Vega, and Chair Carpenter were present. Vice Chair Castillo Laughton and Commissioner Mejia were absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MINUTES: Chair Carpenter led the Pledge ofAllegiance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS— Public comments will be held during the beginning ofthe meeting for all comments on agenda items. Members of the public may provide comments on any agenda or non- agenda items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the commission.

MINUTES; The following individual addressed the Commission via teleconference:

1. Manuel Arreguin inquired regarding Commissioner Gawronski reviewing previous meetings transcripts from this past year and thanked the Commission for their work.

CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve staff recommendations on the following Consent Calendar Items: ' I and 2.

MINUTES: At 5: 05 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered.

Chair Carpenter spoke regarding an error on page eight of minutes and requested the minutes be updated to reflect the appropriate chair of the commission.

MOTION: Commissioner Gawronski moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 and 2, as amended, seconded by Commissioner Vega.

The motion carried, 4- 0- 0- 3, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER SAID,

COMMISSIONER VEGA, CHAIR CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, COMMISSIONER PEREA, VICE

CHAIR CASTILLO LAUGHTON
Status: 4- 0 - 0 — 3 -- Pass

1. Excused Absences
Recommended Action: Excuse the absent members.

2. Minutes from the Regular Meetings of November 13, 2025.

Recommended Action: Approve minutes.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 2 107 DECEMBER 11, 1/20/2026 2025 END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***

BUSINESS CALENDAR
MINUTES: At 5: 08 P.M., the Business Calendar was considered.

3. Recommendation to SAPD Procedure 4130 U- Visa Certification Procedures Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and approve the recommended procedure to the City Manager for changes to the Santa Ana Police Department' s U- Visa Procedure No. 4130 prepared by the Police Oversight Director.

MINUTES: Independent Police Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provided a presentation regarding SAPD Policy 4130 U- Visa Certification Procedures recommended revisions.

Commissioner Perea arrived at 5.22 P.M.

Commissioner Gawronski asked what CID stood for.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated CID stood for Criminal Investigation Division and SAPD is the entity who reviews the U-Visa applications.

Commissioner Vega thanked staff and Independent Police Oversight Director Morse for their efforts on the U- Visa policy documents and asked whether the outcome of an investigation affects U- Visa qualifications.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained it does not affect U-Visa applications.

Commissioner Said asked for clarification regarding page five of the presentation regarding an official consulting the USCIS Resource Guide as a superseding guideline and SAPD's victim-centered and trauma-informed approach to investigations, and spoke in support oflimitations offorwarding cases to the DistrictAttorney' s( DA) office, appeal process, and annual report.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse spoke regarding the USCIS Resource Guide where SAPD will be trained on with assessing U- Visa applications and those who need clarity on decision making for U- Visas and explained SAPD' s victimcentered and trauma informed approach to investigations is to reduce the risk of retraumatizing victims who suffered traumatic experiences during interviews.

Commissioner Perea thanked Independent Police Oversight Director Morse for bringing back a revised U- Visa policy, echoed Commissioner Said' s comments regarding limiting cases sent to the DA office, explained the importance of USCIC Resource Guide, and stated he looks forward to the implementation of the policy, future reports, and impact on U-Visa applications. He asked whether the policy would be an administrative policy change or codified into the ordinance.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 3 DECEMBER 11, 2025 6 – 108 1/20/2026 Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez stated the policy would be an administrative policy change and explained the process.

Commissioner Perea recommended the Commission send the policy to the City Council to be adopted as an ordinance once it has been administratively changed.

Commissioner Vega asked whether the policy would be sent to the City Council for approval.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the policy process gets reviewed by the City Manager and can be sent for review to the City Council if the Commission is not satisfied with the response provided by the City Manager.

Chair Carpenter asked for clarification regarding U-Visa procedures in Section 4130. 5, the last paragraph of Section 2, and asked what happens when U- Visas are revoked after approval due to determining the victim is no longer helpful and deadlines are not met by SAPD.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the Chief of Police or designee informs the USCIS of victims no longer being helpful.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated violation of policy is subject to review and/ or potential discipline with possible termination depending on factors leading to missed deadlines.

MOTION: Commissioner Vega moved to approve the recommended action for Item No. 3, seconded by Commissioner Perea.

The motion carried, 5- 0- 0- 2, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONER GAWRONSKI, COMMISSIONER PEREA,
COMMISSIONER SAID, COMMISSIONER VEGA, CHAiR

CARPENTER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER MEJIA, VICE CHAIR CASTiLLO

LAUGHTON
Status: 5- 0 — 0— 2 — Pass
END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***

STAFF PRESENTATIONS

4. AB 847 and POC Complaint Process
MINUTES. Independent Police Oversight Director T. Jack Morse provided a presentation regarding AB 847: Police Personnel Records and Police Oversight Commission Complaint Process.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 4 109 DECEM13ER 11, 1/20/2026 2025 Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding the submitted complaints related to other agencies.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the information presented is strictly informational.

Commissioner Vega asked how complaints will be received and processed.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the complaint process and stated the complaints will be sent via email.

Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez explained the Police complaint portal is accessible to all via the City website.

Commissioner Said asked whether Commissioners may review body-worn camera footage related to complaints, whether such footage is considered part of an officer's personnel file, how decisions are made without disclosing confidential information, and the closed session process for handling complaints.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated body- worn camera footage may be requested as part of the investigation and reviewed by the Commission in closed session to determine whether further investigation is warranted, relevant footage is considered part of the officer' s personnel file, the Commission may direct the Independent Police Oversight Director to proceed or not proceed with further investigation, and Internal Affairs ( IA) is conducting a parallel independent investigation.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez explained the process for complaints for the upcoming Closed Session meeting.

Commissioner Perea requested a report on complaints from late 2023 and 2024.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated complaints must be investigated within the one-year limitation however, a report could be presented to the Commission.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade stated complaints received from 2023 and 2024 were investigation by Santa Ana Police Department( SAPD).

Commissioner Perea requested IA outcomes related to the complaints filed prior to 2025.

Commissioner Gawronski asked for clarification regarding the voting process for the complaints to be investigated and data related to complaints filed prior to 2025.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the one-year timeframe limitation for complaints prior to 2025.

POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 DECEMBER 11, 2025 6 – 110 1/20/2026 Commissioner Vega asked whether feedback can be relayed to those who filed complaints and whether the public is notified of the results from investigations.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse explained the process for email communications regarding filed complaints, the creation of annual reports summarizing investigation outcomes without disclosing confidential information, and stated investigation outcomes may be requested through a public records request.

Chair Carpenter asked what effect AB847 has on the Police Oversight Commission ordinance.

Independent Police Oversight Director Morse stated the AB 847 does not affect the ordinance rather clarifies the responsibility of the Commission.

Deputy City Manager Vazquez further elaborated on AB 847.

END OF STAFF PRESENTATIONS***

STAFF COMMENTS
MINUTES: Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Deputy Chief Roland Andrade announced Chief Rodriguez swore in three new officers to the department, Pancakes with Santa was successful, and thanked everyone.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
MINUTES: Commissioner Gawronski thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

Commissioner Vega wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Commissioner Said thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Commissioner Perea thanked staff and the Commission for aiI their hard work and wished everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.

Chair Carpenter thanked staff and the Commission for all their hard work and wished everyone Happy Holidays.

ADJOURNMENT- Adjourn the Police Oversight Commission Meeting.

MINUTES: Chair Carpenter adjourned the Police Oversight Commission meeting at 6: 21 P.M.

City Council POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 6 – 6 111 DECEMBER 11, 1/20/2026 2025 The next meeting of the Police Oversight Commission is scheduled for January 8, 2026 at 5: 00 P. M.

Respedf, Ily subm"tf ted:
b g it IcaIa
R c dig Secretary
POLICE City Council OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 7 6 – 112 DECEMBER 11, 2025 1/20/2026 Community Development Agency
www.santa-ana.org/cd
Item # 7
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Staff Report
January 20, 2026
TOPIC: Appointments to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board

AGENDA TITLE
Appoint Members to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Appoint the following individuals to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board: Kathy Jumper (replacing Darren Rutledge) for a partial four-year term expiring May 31, 2028, Christine Martinez (replacing Maria Rosa Lopez) for a partial four-year term expiring May 31, 2028, and Dr. Lorraine Perez for a partial four-year term expiring May 31, 2026.

GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES: No

DISCUSSION
On May 17, 2016, the City Council of the City of Santa Ana (City) adopted Resolution 2016-031 establishing the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board (WDB) and appointed 25 members. The WDB works in partnership with the City Council to provide workforce policy input and guidance for the City’s workforce system to meet the employment and labor needs of residents and businesses pursuant to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. Per WIOA Section 107(b)(2)(A-D), a local WDB board will consist of representatives from specific membership categories, with the number of members in each category proportionally determined based on total membership. Additionally, federal law requires that more than 50% of the board consist of representatives from the local business sector.

WDB Board members are appointed by City Council in the following categories prescribed by law:
• Local business representatives 13 members
• Labor representatives (including labor organizations, 5 members registered apprenticeship programs, and/or communitybased organizations) • Local education institution representatives 3 members • Government entity representatives 4 members
(Dept. of Rehabilitation, Social Services Agency,
EDD, and Economic Development)
City Council 7 – 1 1/20/2026
Appointments to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board January 20, 2026

Page 2 ends

The City Clerk’s Office maintains a public roster of members and posts notices of vacancies. As part of the internal process for identifying and selecting qualified business representatives, staff collaborates with the City’s Economic Development Division and the local Chamber of Commerce. Staff then engages directly with prospective business representatives to confirm their interest in serving, their level of organizational decisionmaking authority, and their industry expertise. In accordance with WIOA regulations, private sector representatives must hold substantial decision-making authority within their organizations and demonstrate relevant industry knowledge. For non–private sector seats on the Workforce Development Board, nominations are submitted by the designated oversight organization representing the applicable category.

The WDB currently has vacancies in the local business, labor, and education categories and the following individuals are recommended for appointment:

Ms. Kathy Jumper, President and Chief Executive Officer of Orange County’s Credit Union, is recommended for appointment as a local business representative for a partial term expiring May 31, 2028. Ms. Jumper will replace Darren Rutledge, who resigned due to a change in employment (Exhibit 1).

Ms. Christine Martinez, Workforce Coordinator with United Food and Commercial Workers Local 324, is recommended for appointment as a labor representative for a partial term expiring May 31, 2028. Ms. Martinez will replace Maria Rosa Lopez, who retired (Exhibit 2).

Dr. Lorraine Perez, Superintendent of Schools for the Santa Ana Unified School District, is recommended for appointment as an education representative for a partial term expiring May 31, 2026. Dr. Perez will represent local K–12 education and the implementation of Career Technical Education programs for students (Exhibit 3).

All recommended appointees have expressed interest in serving and contributing their expertise from their respective fields to the WDB.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.

EXHIBIT(S)

1. Resume – Kathy Jumper, Local Business Representative

2. Resume – Christine Martinez. Labor Representative

3. Biography – Dr. Lorraine Perez, Education Representative Submitted By: Michael L. Garcia, Executive Director of Community Development Approved By: Alvaro Nuñez, City Manager
City Council 7 – 2 1/20/2026

KATHY JUMPER
[email protected]
LinkedIn

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT
REVENUE OPTIMIZATION -- MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS -- STRATEGIC PLANNING -- MULTILEVEL OPERATIONS – VISION

EDUCATION
M.B.A. Master of Business Administration; University of Nevada, Las Vegas Postgraduate ABA Executive Banking School; Georgetown University BS Bachelor of Science; University of Phoenix

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
President & CEO 8/2023 – Current
Orange County’s Credit Union ($3.0B) Santa Ana, CA
 Strategic leadership: Working with Board of Directors and Executive Team to establish and achieve long range goals  Driving our Mission: Maximizing the fulfillment of community needs with new levels of affordable housing funding  Scaling Growth: Building from the ground up with high-impact ROI growth strategies and new strategic partnerships Chief Retail Officer 10/2018 – 8/2023
Members1st Federal Credit Union ($7B) Mechanicsburg, PA  Built high performing team of 750+ associates which grew revenue from $58M to $125M and assets from $4B to $7B  Develop and implement enterprise strategies and short-term initiatives including culture evolution, market expansion, product development, service and sales model
 Backoffice Operations (EFT, Loan Servicing, ATM, Research and Development, Branch Operations, Enterprise QA), Retail Banking (60 Branches), Digital Engagement, Business Intelligence, Wealth Management, and Contact Center  Create modernized operational performance by building CU culture, reengineering processes, and delivering technology  Chair loan and deposit strategy ESC and ALCO voting member. Monthly reporting to the Board of Directors  NAFCU Payments and Cyber Committee
Senior Vice President/ Chief Operations Officer 10/2012 – 10/2018 InTouch Credit Union ($1.1B) Dallas, TX
 Leadership of Retail Banking, Marketing, Operations, Business Lending, Card Services, and Call Center  Strategic development and execution. Signature achievements: Led member delivery transformation to incorporate efficient electronic delivery channels, led transformation of member contact centers, and streamline member services processes; restructured delivery and operational automation  Spearheaded the development, communication and implementation of effective growth strategies  Initiated, led, implemented 4 mergers
 Member of the Audit, M&A, and ALCO committee. Monthly reporting to the Board of Directors EXHIBIT 1
City Council 7 – 3 1/20/2026
KATHY JUMPER Page 2
Senior Vice President/Retail Executive, NW Ohio 03/2010 – 3/2012 Fifth Third Bancorp, NW Ohio ($117B) Ohio
 Led a $3.5B retail operation with 450 employees. Responsible for Retail Banking, Small Business Banking, and Preferred Banking. Delivered sustained growth and year over year market share growth  Set policies, controls, and systems for operational strength and efficiency  Applied experience in process improvement: analyzing processes, benchmarking, best practices, and redesigns.  Responsible for strategic planning and execution of program strategy and policy  Served on the ALM and Loan committees. Delivered monthly performance report to the Board of Directors Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer 04/2008 – 02/2010 Capitol Bancorp/1st Commerce Bank (1
st Commerce Bank is part of Capitol Bancorp a $5B financial institution.) Nevada Executive Vice President/ Retail Banking, 04/2004 – 04/2008 Colonial Bank(Colonial Bank, NV a $2.5B affiliate; subsidiary of Colonial Group a $27B financial institution.) Nevada Vice President/Market Manager 11/1999 – 4/2004
Assistant Vice President/Branch Manager 10/1996 – 11/1999 Nevada State Bank ($8B affiliate; subsidiary of Zion's Bancorp a $55B financial institution.) Nevada

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
 2022 American Banker Most Powerful Women in Credit Unions  NAFCU Regulatory and Cyber Committee; 2019 to current  Branch of the Future and Customer Contact Week speaker 2020 to current  Frisco Economic Development; Board Member; 2016-2018
 Komen North Texas “Big Wig” and Grant Reviewer 2016 & 2017  Plano Symphony; Board Member; 2016-2018
 Lucas County Library District; Board Member; 2011-2012  Lucas County Workforce Investment; Board Member; 2011-2012  Make a Wish; Board Member; 2011-2012
 Nellis Air Force Base – Honorary Commander 2007-2010
 Henderson Economic Division; Board Member/Foundation Board; 2007-2010  Henderson Library Board; Board Member; 2006-2010
EXHIBIT 1
City Council 7 – 4 1/20/2026
September 3, 2025
range County Labor Federation, AFL-cro
309 N. RAMPART STREET, SUITE A • ORANGE, CALIFORNIA 92868 (714) 385-1534 • FAX: (714) 385-1544 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Santa Ana Workforce Development Board
801 W. Civic Center Dr., Suite 200
Santa Ana, CA 92701
RE: SANTA ANA WDB NOMINATION FOR CHRISTINE MARTINEZ
To Whom It May Concern,
The Orange County Labor Federation, AFL-CIO would like to nominate Christine Martinez for appointment to the Santa Ana Workforce Development Board. Ms. Martinez is currently an organizer for the United Food & Commercial Workers Local 324 (UFCW 324). UFCW Local 324 members are from many backgrounds and walks of life, but come together as the UFCW for the shared goal of achieving the American Dream.

Ms. Martinez represents a diverse membership in Orange County and is steadfast in her commitment to quality jobs for Orange County's working families.

The Orange County Labor Federation, AFL-CIO currently represents more than 97 unions in Orange County who represent more than 270,000 union members in the county. We ask for your cooperation and speedy action on this nomination.

S
�
nc�
Gloria Alvarado
Executive Director
www.oclabor.o rg
-�"
EXHIBIT 2
City Council 7 – 5 1/20/2026
Christine Martinez
UFCW Local 324 Workforce And Development Coordinator
| [email protected]
Professional Summary
Dynamic Workforce Coordinator with extensive experience in workforce development, equity initiatives, and labor advocacy. Strong background in creating and implementing training programs that promote safety, inclusion, and professional development. Proven ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, manage workforce partnerships, and drive community engagement. Dedicated to advancing high-road workforce initiatives that empower workers and strengthen local economies.

Professional Experience
• UFCW Local 324 – Workforce Coordinator
April 2022 – Present | Orange County, CA
• Designed and delivered over 20 workforce training programs focused on cultural competency, health and safety, and leadership development. • Implemented Health & Safety initiatives for SPURs, improving hazard reporting and accountability.
• Region 8- UFCW Outreach Board Member representing our 2SLGBTQIA+ Constituency Group, fostering inclusive policies and awareness.
• Supported contract campaigns and member engagement for Food 4 Less, Rite Aid, and CVS workers.
• Partnered with CPHA to coordinate statewide pharmacy technician immunization certification training programs.
• Advocated for workforce safety and compliance in quarterly pharmacy labor-management meetings.
• Ralphs Pharmacy – Lead Pharmacy Technician
2015 – Jan 2022 | Pasadena, CA
• Process prescriptions and verify medication accuracy under pharmacist supervision. • Coordinate patient payments, deliveries, and insurance authorizations. • Supported system improvements that enhanced patient adherence and workflow efficiency.
• Pavilions (Safeway/Albertsons Division) – Pharmacy Technician 2011 – 2015 | Valencia, CA
EXHIBIT 2
City Council 7 – 6 1/20/2026
• Assisted in prescription processing, refill approvals, and insurance authorizations. • Maintained compliance with pharmacy regulations and provided excellent customer service.

Key Projects & Achievements
• Led California’s first 2SLGBTQ+ Cultural Competency CE training for pharmacy technicians.
• Spearheaded workforce advocacy for grocery, pharmacy, and cannabis industry safety standards.
• Organized Pandemic Stimulus Workshops for grocery workers to access essential relief benefits.
• Coordinated statewide immunization certification training for over 100 pharmacy technicians.

Education & Certifications
• Cal State Northridge – Coursework in Criminology
• Corinthian College, Reseda – Pharmacology
• California Pharmacy Technician License #111770
• APhA Immunization Certification for Pharmacy Technicians • Pediatric Health & Safety License #H47146 (A.R.C.)
Professional Development & Specialized Training
• High Road Training Partnerships (HRTP) Webinars – UC Berkeley • Workforce GPS: Unemployment Insurance Initiatives
• Dr. Eli Green’s Trans-Affirming Workplaces Training
•UFCW Health & Safety Program for SPURs
• UFCW Pharmacy Workforce & Safety Committee Meetings
Community & Union Engagement
• Coordinated UFCW participation in Halifax and Orange County Pride Parades. • Facilitated sign-making workshops for labor and advocacy events. • Supported Food 4 Less, Rite Aid, and CVS workers through contract actions and rallies. • Served as a panelist on UFCW’s Outreach Executive Board, advocating for inclusivity and workforce safety.

Skills
• Workforce Training & Development
• Labor Relations & Union Advocacy
• Health & Safety Program Implementation
• Inclusive Leadership & Equity Advocacy
• Data Analysis & Reporting
References Available upon request.

EXHIBIT 2
City Council 7 – 7 1/20/2026
Lorraine M. Perez, Ed.D.

Bio
Lorraine M. Perez, Ed.D. is a seasoned educator and advocate for students and families, currently serving as Superintendent of Schools for the Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD).

Superintendent Perez’s priority academic focus areas include Early Literacy and Reading by Grade 3; English Learner progress and Designated ELD; and College and Career Readiness. Dr. Perez also currently serves as a Director for the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce.

Previously, Dr. Perez served as Deputy Superintendent of SAUSD, where her work focused on building comprehensive and aligned systems to support implementation of the District’s Graduate Profile. This work embedded student achievement, social-emotional wellness, and family and community engagement into the DNA of the District.

Prior to joining SAUSD, Dr. Perez served the San Bernardino City Unified School District in multiple leadership roles, including Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, Director of Elementary Instruction, and Coordinator of Elementary Instruction. In these roles, she led efforts to develop systems supporting student health and mental wellness, academic achievement, before- and after-school programs, family engagement, early childhood and adult education, and specialized programs serving homeless and foster youth.

Dr. Perez began her career in education as a teacher in the Baldwin Park Unified School District.

She later served as a principal at one of the District’s dual language schools, an experience she credits as foundational to her instructional leadership and her commitment to engaging parents as partners in their children’s education.

Dr. Perez earned her Doctor of Education from the University of Southern California and both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California State University, Fullerton, where she later served on the Board of Directors for the Alumni Association. Her professional experience also includes work with The Walt Disney Company and ownership of a small business. In addition, she has served her community for more than 15 years as a City Commissioner, including service on the Economic Development Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission.

EXHIBIT 3
City Council 7 – 8 1/20/2026
Public Works Agency
www.santa-ana.org/pw
Item # 8
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Staff Report
January 20, 2026
TOPIC: Water and Sewer Rates

AGENDA TITLE
Authorize Staff to Prepare Documents for Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments (NonGeneral Fund)

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Authorize and direct staff to prepare all required documents necessary to proceed with notification of proposed water and sewer rate adjustments in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
a) Prepare and mail proposed rate adjustment notices to all Santa Ana property owners in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements; b) Schedule a public hearing at a future City Council meeting, on or after March 17, 2026;
c) Prepare all other documents required to proceed with water and sewer rate adjustments.

GOVERNMENT CODE 84308 APPLIES: No

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Water and sewer rates have not been adjusted since 2023. California law has evolved with new requirements to ensure equity among rate-payers. Costs have escalated faster than revenue, and the water and sewer enterprise fund balances have decreased to unacceptable levels. To ensure service delivery, compliance with law, and maintain the City’s credit rating, staff is recommending rate increases based on a water and sewer rate study. If the recommended rates are approved at a public hearing in the future, the typical single-family residential bill (water and sewer combined) will increase by about $7 per month. Postponing a rate increase will necessitate a larger increase later, and risk a credit rating downgrade. Even with the proposed changes Santa Ana customers will continue to pay a lower amount, on average, for water and sewer services than most other Orange County Cities.

City Council 8 – 1 1/20/2026
Water and Sewer Rate Adjustment Authorization
January 20, 2026

Page 2 ends

Santa Ana City CouncilJanuary 20, 2026

Santa Ana City Council
January 20, 2026