# The Santanero > The latest news and events happening in Santa Ana, California Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages ### Submissions Portal URL: https://www.santanero.org/submit/ Last updated: 2026-06-11T14:15:26.000Z --- ## Have a news tip? Consider sending it to us via email below. [Send in a news tip](mailto:tips@santanero.org) --- ## Submit an event Select on a box to get started. #### Events submissions form Before submitting an event, feel free to review our [policies](https://www.santaneromedia.org/community-contributions-policy/?ref=santanero.org). The Santanero welcomes all residents, nonprofits, small businesses, and local officials to invite the community to events they host or services they provide. To submit an event, click [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPF3q8RVxGnF3C9Vi9XOMBXmMo3iETiiC7ez-%5FpQN7o5R1LQ/viewform?ref=santanero.org) to be redirected. It is free! You may receive an email to remedy any errors or receive clarifications on your event. #### Looking for an event? Use the search icon in the [CommunityCal](https://www.santanero.org/communitycal/). If you can't find the event, ensure the event wasn't canceled or postponed. Check with the event host for more information. #### Local youth and adult sports For youth and adult sports under the City of Santa Ana's Park and Recreations department, click [here](https://www.santa-ana.org/sports/?ref=santanero.org). --- ## Opinions Select on a box to get started. #### How do I submit my opinion? 1. Read [our Community Contributions Policy, Section 8](https://www.santaneromedia.org/community-contributions-policy/?ref=santanero.org#opinion-requirements/). 2. Write your piece. 3. Submit it to our [Google Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJM7Rt5BIVmG4-6tCp0baYh4aZFYxh3AKvI7l3pB77%5FCGfVQ/viewform?usp=sf%5Flink&ref=santanero.org). #### Deadlines If you’re on a timecrunch, submit your [form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJM7Rt5BIVmG4-6tCp0baYh4aZFYxh3AKvI7l3pB77%5FCGfVQ/viewform?usp=sf%5Flink&ref=santanero.org) and [email us](mailto:submissions@santanero.org) promptly. Rushed opinions will not be considered if not all rules are followed. These opinions are only applicable for social media and website publication, not on our e-newspaper. If you’re not on a deadline, here’s ours: all submissions must be sent by Monday at 5:00 PM to be considered for social media and website publishing on Thursday morning. --- ## Advertising All entities wishing to advertise with The Santanero or DBA affiliates of The Santanero Media Group must adhere to the [guidelines](https://www.santaneromedia.org/advertising-guidelines/?ref=santanero.org). For our media kit and advertising rates, click [here](https://www.santaneromedia.org/media-kit/?ref=santanero.org). ### About Us URL: https://www.santanero.org/about/ Last updated: 2026-07-23T03:56:15.000Z ## Welcome to The Santanero Santa Ana is more than just a city—it's a community of neighbors, families, students, workers, business owners, and local leaders. The Santanero exists to help keep that community informed, connected, and engaged. Founded on April 20, 2022, by Daniel Diaz, The Santanero is a locally owned digital newspaper dedicated to covering the stories, events, and issues that matter most to Santa Ana residents. The name "Santanero" reflects the people of Santa Ana. Our goal is to create a publication that belongs to the community and represents the voices, stories, and experiences that make our city unique. ## Our Mission Our mission is to provide trusted, independent, and community-centered journalism that informs, connects, and serves the people of Santa Ana. We report on the issues, people, and events shaping our city through accurate, fair, and accessible local news that helps residents better understand their community and participate in civic life. Our reporting is produced first and foremost for the people who live, work, learn, worship, and do business in Santa Ana. While our journalism may be read, shared, or cited beyond our city, our editorial priorities are guided by the needs and interests of the community we serve. ## What Sets Us Apart Unlike regional or national news organizations, our focus begins and ends with Santa Ana. From neighborhood events and community celebrations to City Council meetings, local businesses, schools, public safety, and neighborhood developments, we are committed to covering the stories that directly affect the people who live, work, learn, and spend time in our city. We prioritize accuracy, context, relevance, and community engagement over sensationalism. Our goal is to help residents stay informed, participate in local conversations, and better understand the issues affecting their neighborhoods. ## By the Community, For the Community. The Santanero is built on community involvement. We believe local journalism works best when residents are active participants, not just readers. Whether you're sharing a story idea, reporting a local issue, highlighting a community success, or promoting an upcoming event, your voice helps shape our coverage. Beginning in November 2024, community members have been able to submit local events for inclusion in CommunityCal (subject to our submission guidelines), helping residents discover what's happening throughout Santa Ana. We are committed to: - Reporting accurately, fairly, and independently. - Covering the issues that matter to Santa Ana. - Listening to community concerns. - Providing accessible and understandable local news. - Encouraging civic engagement. - Highlighting the people, neighborhoods, businesses, and organizations that strengthen our city. - Reflecting the diversity of the community we serve. ## Get Involved There are many ways to help strengthen local journalism in Santa Ana: - Submit a news tip or story idea. - Add a community event to CommunityCal. - Share photos and information from local events. - Tell us about issues affecting your neighborhood. - Follow and engage with us on social media. - Share our stories with friends, family, and neighbors. Every contribution helps us better serve the community. ## Follow Us - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558353069050) - [Twitter (X)](https://x.com/TheSantanero?ref=santanero.org) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thesantanero?ref=santanero.org) ## Join Us Whether you've lived in Santa Ana your entire life or recently became part of our community, The Santanero is here to help you stay connected without paywall. We invite you to read, participate, share your stories, and help us build a stronger, more informed Santa Ana—together. ### Archived Issues URL: https://www.santanero.org/issues/ Last updated: 2025-09-14T23:23:59.000Z # Archived Issues Click on a date below to view the digital edition for that day. ![a cardboard box full of newspapers next to a radiator](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1697382608813-df6eb720164f?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDM0fHxuZXdzcGFwZXJzfGVufDB8fHx8MTczMDM4MDM5MXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [vuk burgic](https://unsplash.com/@vukburga?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) #### Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 [Special issue](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/09/The-Santanero--Vol.-IV--No-24.pdf) for Fiestas Patrias! #### Thursday, Mar. 6, 2025 Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/03/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-21-03062025-1.pdf) to view. #### Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024 Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/11/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-19-11212024.pdf) to view. #### Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024 Includes obituary of former Mayor Jerry Patterson. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/11/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-18-1.pdf) to view. #### Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024 First Sunday Digest issue by The Santanero. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/11/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-17-11102024-1.pdf) to view. #### Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 Includes the special front page of Trump's second election. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/11/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-16-11072024-2.pdf) to view. #### Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024 Includes a special World Series extra after the Dodgers beat the Yankees. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/The-Santanero-Vol-3-No-15-10312024-FINAL%5Fcompressed.pdf) to view. ### ElectioNite: California State Primary | Live Election Results URL: https://www.santanero.org/election-results/ Last updated: 2026-06-02T23:11:32.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/enr-1.png) ## Live Unofficial Results Loading results... ### Sign in URL: https://www.santanero.org/signin/ Last updated: 2024-11-20T03:43:57.000Z _No content available._ ### Sign up URL: https://www.santanero.org/signup/ Last updated: 2024-11-20T03:47:03.000Z _No content available._ ### Subscribe URL: https://www.santanero.org/subscribe/ Last updated: 2024-11-20T03:54:47.000Z _No content available._ ### Account URL: https://www.santanero.org/account/ Last updated: 2024-11-20T03:54:31.000Z _No content available._ ### CommunityCal URL: https://www.santanero.org/communitycal/ Last updated: 2025-01-23T09:09:35.000Z # Welcome to the CommunityCal(endar) If you'd like to submit an event, click [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPF3q8RVxGnF3C9Vi9XOMBXmMo3iETiiC7ez-%5FpQN7o5R1LQ/viewform?ref=santanero.org). --- ### Writers URL: https://www.santanero.org/writers/ Last updated: 2025-09-25T11:04:22.000Z _No content available._ ### Events URL: https://www.santanero.org/events/ Last updated: 2025-10-01T11:43:42.000Z _No content available._ ### Santanero Radio URL: https://www.santanero.org/radio/ Last updated: 2026-01-27T03:50:30.000Z Test page. ### Become a Contributor URL: https://www.santanero.org/contribute/ Last updated: 2026-04-20T17:56:24.000Z Santanero Media Group welcomes contributors from across the Santa Ana community and beyond. We are committed to creating a platform where local voices, perspectives, and stories can be shared and amplified. ### Who can contribute We encourage submissions from: - Students and aspiring journalists - Community members with local insight - Writers, photographers, and creatives - Individuals with unique perspectives or lived experiences No prior publishing experience is required, however writing *is* required! --- ### What we’re looking for We're currently opening up contributions to our: - Sports section All submissions should be original work and aligned with our mission of community-focused journalism. --- ### Contributor model At this time, contributors participate on a voluntary basis. Submissions are accepted on an open and flexible basis, and there is no requirement for ongoing or scheduled contributions. Contributors are not employees of Santanero Media Group, LLC, and participation does not create an employment relationship. As the publication grows and revenue develops, we aim to expand into paid contributor opportunities. --- ### What contributors receive While contributions are currently unpaid, we provide: - Full byline credit on all published work - Author bio and recognition - Portfolio-building opportunities - Exposure to a growing audience Our goal is to support emerging voices and provide a meaningful platform for community storytelling. --- ### Editorial process All submissions are subject to editorial review. We may edit for: - Clarity and readability - Grammar and formatting - Alignment with publication standards We may also decline submissions that do not meet our guidelines or editorial direction. --- ### How to submit To submit your work, please contact us through our [submissions portal](https://www.santanero.org/submit/) or email us [here](mailto:submissions@santanero.org). Please include: - Your name - Email address - A short bio (optional) - Your submission or pitch We review submissions on a rolling basis. ### Sports URL: https://www.santanero.org/sports/ Last updated: 2026-06-12T13:25:13.000Z [Inaugural Santanero Sports Section — Survey![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/icon/android_192.png)Google Docs![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/thumbnail/CtZNZdGQe3_iK7NJB9bpKdJcuPNM1mKVgkbiV75Zxf0ntarq_d77Le3ToV8UHAyFEQIDx44KmPCACfA-w1200-h630-p)](https://forms.gle/hcPJKXKKFMzzLttA7?ref=santanero.org) ### Archives URL: https://www.santanero.org/archives/ Last updated: 2026-05-22T00:45:21.000Z [KNX-AM 1070 Final CBS Roundup 052126 1300KNX-AM 1070 Final CBS Roundup 052126 1300.mp33 MBdownload-circle](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/05/KNX-AM-1070-Final-CBS-Roundup-052126-1300.mp3 "Download") [KNX-AM 1070 Switch to ABC News Radio 052126 1400KNX-AM 1070 Switch to ABC News Radio 052126 1400.mp33 MBdownload-circle](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/05/KNX-AM-1070-Switch-to-ABC-News-Radio-052126-1400.mp3 "Download") ### Surveys & Polls URL: https://www.santanero.org/surveys/ Last updated: 2026-07-27T16:02:11.000Z The Santanero periodically conducts community surveys to better understand Santa Ana residents' experiences and perspectives on local issues. Survey results may be summarized and referenced in articles, candidate interviews, and public discussions. These surveys are conducted independently by The Santanero and are not official surveys conducted by, endorsed by, or contracted on behalf of the City of Santa Ana, OCTA, any local school district, or any private school. If you have questions about this survey, please [contact us](mailto:surveys@santanero.org). ## How to take our surveys You will need: - Your name - An accessible email address ## How to create a Santanero account The Santanero uses Ghost's native subscriber tool to register password-less accounts for free. While you do not need an account to read our articles (they're paywall free), you need to have an account in order to view and submit our surveys. This is to prevent duplicate entries and minimize data errors. [Click here to create an account.](https://www.santanero.org/#/portal/signup) _This page is for subscribers only._ ## Posts ### Statement from Founder Daniel Diaz URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/press-release/2026/09/05/press-release-003/ Last updated: 2026-09-05T01:00:36.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — I’ve spent a lot of time lately thinking about what it takes to keep doing something you care about. I’m in my twenties, continuing my education, working part-time, and running The Santanero. Like a lot of people my age, I’m also trying to keep up with bills, financial responsibilities, and figuring out what comes next. The Santanero is something I don’t want to give up on. I care about this paper, the stories I get to tell, and the community I cover. After all, it is the city I was born in. But I’m also learning to be realistic about what I can take on simultaneously. There’s a financial reality to running an independent publication, specifically one that began with a few dollars. Reporting costs money. Equipment costs money. Keeping things running costs money. I’m keeping up with my responsibilities, but I’ve also had to look for other opportunities to make ends meet. Because of that, some things are going to take longer. I mentioned plans for a Santanero webstore. I’m putting that on hold for now. I’d rather save up and revisit it when I can afford to do it than take on another expense just to get it launched. I also mentioned plans to host a debate this election season. That too will be placed on hold. I also want to be upfront about what publishing may look like going forward. The Santanero (aka myself) will continue reporting, but consistency may be a little bumpy for the rest of this year and into next year. There may be weeks with several stories and others that are quieter. There may be things happening in Santa Ana that I simply don’t have the time or resources to cover. And it isn’t because I’ve stopped caring or because The Santanero is going away. It’s the reality of running this independently while also going to school, working, and trying to build some financial stability. It is my personal belief to always be transparent about my status and the status of the newspaper. For those wondering about crowdfunding, I’m also considering bringing back some form of community support or crowdfunding. I haven’t made a decision yet. If I do, I want to do it carefully and with clear boundaries. Supporting The Santanero should never buy favorable coverage or influence what I or any future contributor reports. For now, I’m taking things one story at a time. I’m still here. I’m still writing. I’m still learning how to make this work. And I still believe in what The Santanero can become. I’m just asking for some patience along the way. Thank you for sticking with me. Respectfully, Daniel Diaz :) *Proprietor, Santanero Media Group, LLC.* *Founder, Publisher, Editor & everything else in between, The Santanero* --- [View this in PDF form.](https://www.santaneromedia.org/content/files/2026/09/SMG%5FPR%5F003.pdf?ref=santanero.org) Learn more about The Santanero [here](https://www.santanero.org/about/). Learn more about Santanero Media Group, LLC [here](https://www.santaneromedia.org/about/?ref=santanero.org). For inquiries, contact Daniel Diaz by email at [ddiaz@santanero.org](mailto:ddiaz@santanero.org). ### Arte Moreno agrees to sell Angels to Rams owner Stan Kroenke URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/sports/2026/09/01/arte-moreno-agrees-to-sell-angels-to-rams-owner-stan-kroenke/ Last updated: 2026-09-01T20:01:01.000Z ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Arte Moreno era with the Los Angeles Angels is nearing its end. Moreno, who has owned the Angels since 2003, has agreed to sell a controlling interest in the franchise to Stan Kroenke, owner of the Los Angeles Rams, the organizations announced Tuesday morning. The blockbuster transaction between the Angels and Kroenke Sports & Entertainment is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, pending approval from Major League Baseball. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The agreement represents a potentially dramatic turning point for a franchise that has endured a prolonged stretch of losing despite employing some of baseball’s biggest stars. Moreno purchased the Angels for $183 million in 2003\. The eventual price for his controlling stake could be worth billions. For comparison, the San Diego Padres were sold this summer for $3.9 billion. “The Angels Organization is pleased to announce this transaction with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment,” Moreno said in a statement. “The Moreno Family has been honored to steward the Angels for 23 years and we believe with KSE’s experience and success they are the best next owner for the franchise. “The Angels Organization looks forward to continuing its commitment to the fans, our employees, the players and our business partners.” The deal would add another major professional sports franchise to Kroenke’s expansive portfolio. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment already owns the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, NBA’s Denver Nuggets and NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, along with Premier League powerhouse Arsenal. With the Angels, KSE would control franchises in each of the four major North American professional sports leagues. Kroenke’s teams have also enjoyed significant championship success. The Rams, Nuggets, Avalanche and Arsenal have each won major titles during KSE’s ownership. “The Angels are a storied franchise anchored in a great market,” Kroenke said in the announcement. “We look forward to an exciting future with the Angels organization.” Moreno’s departure would close one of the longest and increasingly controversial ownership tenures in Major League Baseball. When Moreno bought the Angels in 2003, the franchise was fresh off its first World Series championship the previous season. The club initially enjoyed sustained success under his ownership, reaching the postseason five times from 2004 through 2009 and winning five American League West titles during that span. The past decade, however, has been dramatically different. The Angels have struggled through an extended postseason drought and repeated losing seasons, generating mounting criticism of Moreno’s leadership and the organization’s baseball operations. The lack of success has been particularly glaring given the superstar talent that has passed through Anaheim. The Angels had three-time American League MVP Mike Trout throughout the club’s extended struggles and also employed two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani for six seasons before he departed for the Los Angeles Dodgers in free agency. Moreno previously explored selling the franchise in 2022, announcing that the Angels had begun a formal process to evaluate a potential sale. Months later, however, Moreno reversed course and announced that his family would retain ownership. This time, the Angels say a deal is in place. If MLB approves the transaction and it closes as expected in early 2027, Kroenke will assume control of one of Southern California’s two Major League Baseball franchises. For an Angels franchise searching for a way out of a decade of disappointment, including the most loyal fans and those rocking it shirtless in the stadium, Tuesday’s announcement signals that its most consequential change may finally be coming. ### State report concludes investigation into fatal Santa Ana police shooting of Noe Rodriguez URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/29/state-report-concludes-investigation-into-fatal-santa-ana-police-shooting-of-noe-rodriguez/ Last updated: 2026-08-01T20:57:44.000Z The California Department of Justice has concluded its investigation into the fatal December 2024 shooting of 31-year-old Noe Rodriguez Martinez, finding there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that two Santa Ana police officers committed a criminal offense, according to a report released Friday. The investigation was conducted under Assembly Bill 1506, which requires the DOJ to investigate officer-involved shootings that result in the death of an unarmed civilian. > *To read the State's report, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/07/2026%5F07%5FRodriguez%5FAB1506%5FReport.pdf)*.* According to the report, investigators determined there was insufficient evidence to prove Officers Luis Casillas and Isaac Ibarra acted unlawfully when they opened fire on Martinez during the Dec. 1, 2024 encounter in Downtown Santa Ana. The report states investigators could not establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the officers acted without the intent to defend themselves or others from what they reasonably believed was an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury. Officer Luis Casillas, one of the two officers identified in the report, was also involved in the fatal [Jan. 1, 2025 shooting](https://www.facebook.com/santaanapd/posts/santaanapd-pressrelease-homicide-investigation-february-21-2026-santa-ana-police/1333257328847005/) of Henry Gonzalez Jr., approximately one month after Martinez's death. The Gonzalez shooting was a separate incident and is not addressed in the DOJ's investigation into Martinez's death. The Martinez investigation is the second completed AB 1506 review involving a fatal Santa Ana police shooting since the law took effect in 2021\. The first examined the September 2021 shooting death of Brandon Lopez. #### Timeline of the shooting According to the report, the incident began at approximately 5:08 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2024, when a passing motorist called 911 to report seeing a man walking through Downtown Santa Ana carrying what appeared to be a shotgun. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate anyone matching the description. At approximately 5:31 p.m., a Casa Linda Furniture employee called 911 after customers reported seeing a man outside the store holding what they believed was a shotgun and appearing to manipulate or load it. Officers located Martinez about one minute later on North Broadway near the entrance to the Artist Village Apartments. The Santa Ana Police Department's Critical Incident Video, released in January 2025, includes audio from both 911 calls before transitioning to body-worn camera footage. Because of the cameras' pre-event recording buffer, the initial body camera footage does not include audio. Audio begins shortly before the shooting and captures officers repeatedly ordering Martinez to drop what appeared to be a shotgun while warning they would shoot if he did not comply. According to the DOJ report, Casillas and Ibarra exited their patrol vehicle, positioned themselves behind the vehicle doors for cover and repeatedly ordered Martinez to drop the apparent weapon. The report states Martinez did not comply with those commands. Investigators wrote that Martinez removed one hand from what appeared to be a pump-action shotgun and appeared to begin raising or leveling it. According to the report, both officers then fired their service weapons. The shooting lasted about six seconds, and investigators recovered 29 spent 9 mm cartridge casings from the scene. Following the shooting, officers remained behind cover while additional personnel developed a plan to safely approach Martinez because they believed the apparent firearm remained beneath his body, according to the report. About seven minutes later, officers deployed two 40 mm less-lethal rounds before approaching, handcuffing Martinez and recovering the object. Orange County Fire Authority personnel transported Martinez to Orange County Global Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators later determined the object Martinez had been carrying was a plastic replica pump-action shotgun that closely resembled a real firearm and did not have the orange safety tip commonly found on toy guns. #### Witness accounts The DOJ report includes interviews with several witnesses who encountered Martinez before officers arrived. According to the report, the first 911 caller told investigators he contacted police because he believed the apparent shotgun posed a danger to people nearby. Two customers whose observations prompted the second 911 call told investigators they believed Martinez appeared to be loading the apparent shotgun while standing between Casa Linda Furniture and the adjacent parking structure. Instead of continuing to their vehicle, they returned to the furniture store and alerted employees, prompting the second 911 call. One witness told investigators he came within several feet of Martinez and feared he would be shot if Martinez noticed him. Another witness said she feared Martinez might enter the furniture store and begin shooting people. According to the report, neither witness reported seeing Martinez point the apparent shotgun at anyone before officers arrived. A nearby taco stand employee also told investigators she saw Martinez manipulating a long object but could not identify it before hearing gunshots. #### Officers declined interviews According to the DOJ report, neither Casillas nor Ibarra voluntarily participated in interviews during the criminal investigation, exercising their constitutional right to decline questioning. The report notes officers may be compelled to answer questions during an internal administrative investigation, but those statements cannot be used in criminal proceedings and therefore were not considered during the DOJ's review. ## DOJ findings According to the report, investigators reviewed body-worn camera footage, surveillance video, witness interviews, forensic evidence, dispatch records, 911 calls and applicable law before determining there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that either officer committed a criminal offense. The report states its review was limited to whether criminal charges were appropriate and does not address potential civil liability or administrative matters. Although investigators did not recommend criminal charges, the report recommends the Santa Ana Police Department review several policies and training practices, including firearms training related to backdrop awareness and risks to bystanders, guidance on the use of less-lethal force on individuals who appear incapacitated after being struck by gunfire, and policies governing when officers can safely begin rendering medical aid following shootings involving armed individuals. According to the Orange County Coroner's findings cited in the report, Martinez died from multiple gunshot wounds. Toxicology testing detected amphetamine and methamphetamine in his system. In releasing the report, Attorney General Rob Bonta said the findings are intended to provide transparency into the state's review process. > "We hope this report provides a measure of closure for the community, law enforcement, and the family of Mr. Martinez," Bonta said in a statement. "AB 1506 is a critical transparency and accountability tool, and our hope for this report is to provide some understanding and aid in advancing toward a safer California for all." ## Officer-involved shooting data According to [Santa Ana Police Department data](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/07/ad74fa85-ois-in-custody-data-2025.pdf), the department reported 42 officer-involved shootings from 2016 through 2025\. Annual totals were 10 in 2016, nine in 2017, three in 2018, two each in 2019, 2020 and 2021, three in 2022, five in 2023, two in 2024 and four in 2025\. SAPD notes that some annual totals include negligent discharges and incidents categorized by the department as involving a dog, rather than officers firing at people. ## Santa Ana police shootings and in-custody deaths Annual incidents reported by the Santa Ana Police Department, 2016–2026 45 Officer-involved shootings reported from 2016 through 2026 16 In-custody deaths reported from 2016 through 2026 **Note:** Officer-involved shootings and in-custody deaths are separate categories. SAPD states that its officer-involved shooting totals include two negligent discharges in 2022; two negligent discharges and two incidents categorized as “Dog” in 2023; one negligent discharge in 2024; and one negligent discharge and one incident categorized as “Dog” in 2025\. Source: Santa Ana Police Department, “Officer Involved Shooting / In-Custody Death Data,” revised February 2026\. Updated total for 2026 is 3; Jaden Michaca (06/14/2026). View the underlying data | Year | Officer-involved shootings | In-custody deaths | | -------------- | -------------------------- | ----------------- | | 2016 | 10 | 0 | | 2017 | 9 | 2 | | 2018 | 3 | 4 | | 2019 | 2 | 2 | | 2020 | 2 | 1 | | 2021 | 2 | 1 | | 2022 | 3\* | 3 | | 2023 | 5\* | 2 | | 2024 | 2\* | 0 | | 2025 | 4\* | 1 | | 2026 | 3 | 0 | | Reported total | 45 | 16 | \* SAPD attached a footnote to the officer-involved shooting total for that year. Separately, SAPD reported 16 in-custody deaths during the same 10-year period. The department recorded none in 2016 or 2024; two each in 2017, 2019 and 2023; four in 2018; three in 2022; and one each in 2020, 2021 and 2025\. So far in [2026](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/07/d1899973-ois-in-custody-data-feb-2026.pdf), Santa Ana police have been involved in three fatal officer-involved shootings, including the recent killing of 15-year-old Jaden Michaca. ### Sidewalk chalk or vandalism? Arrest of local ICE watcher raises questions URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/24/sidewalk-chalk-or-vandalism-arrest-of-local-ice-watcher-raises-questions/ Last updated: 2026-07-24T21:09:52.000Z A community ICE watcher known as "Julz" was arrested by the Santa Ana Police Department Friday morning across from the Federal Building on Santa Ana Boulevard. She was later cited and released. Several ICE watchers told The Santanero the arrest stemmed from allegations that Julz used sidewalk chalk outside the Federal Building. Santa Ana Police have not confirmed that allegation. Police have confirmed only that Julz was cited for an alleged violation of California Penal Code 594, California's vandalism statute. Under California law, alleged vandalism involving less than $400 in damage is generally charged as a misdemeanor. As of publication, police have not identified the specific conduct or alleged amount of damage underlying the citation. Local ICE watchers say they believe the arrest was intended to intimidate volunteers who monitor federal immigration enforcement and inform residents about ICE activity. They argue that, if the allegation ultimately centers on the use of washable sidewalk chalk, the enforcement action could discourage community members from continuing that work. Some also contend that the arrest risks further eroding public trust in local law enforcement at a time when allegations of cooperation between local police agencies and ICE have surfaced in communities across the country, including Santa Ana. Santa Ana Police have repeatedly stated that the department does not participate in civil immigration enforcement and works with federal agencies only in limited mutual aid situations, such as coordinated responses to protests or other public safety incidents. Immediately after learning of the arrest, we requested a statement from Santa Ana Police Department Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia, giving the department 30 minutes to respond in light of what has been more than a year of unanswered requests for comment. After receiving no response within that timeframe, we expanded our outreach to all seven members of the Santa Ana City Council, the City Manager's Office, and Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez. #### Full Statement from Councilmember Lopez "I became aware of this incident shortly after it was reported to my office and immediately spoke with the City Manager to seek additional information. Based on the information that has been shared with me, I am pleased that the community member has been released. While she was reportedly cited for an alleged violation, the most important thing is that she is no longer in custody. I also want to express my gratitude to the community members who have volunteered their time to monitor and document ICE activity in Santa Ana. Their efforts help keep our neighbors informed and connected to legal resources during moments of fear and uncertainty. At a time when many immigrant families are looking for reassurance and support, volunteers have stepped up to provide information and care in ways that many in our community feel they are not otherwise receiving from government agencies. It is also concerning to hear that members of the press have been unable to obtain timely information from the Police Department’s Public Information Office. Transparency and accountability are fundamental to maintaining public trust, especially during incidents that raise significant public concern. The community deserves clear, timely, and factual communication from its public institutions. I will continue monitoring this situation and expect the department to provide a full and transparent account of the events that occurred." **Statement provided 07/24/26 11:41 AM* Councilmember Jessie Lopez was the first city official to respond. In her statement, Lopez confirmed that Julz had been cited for an "alleged violation" but did not identify the offense. She also confirmed that Julz was no longer in custody. Shortly after our initial publication, SAPD Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia provided the following statement: > "Shortly before 7 a.m. this morning, our officers responded to a call for service regarding vandalism at the Federal Building, located at 34 Civic Center Plaza. The reporting party, a Federal Security Officer, provided officers with a description of the suspect, who was subsequently located and contacted nearby. Officers arrested the female suspect and transported her to the Santa Ana Jail, where she was cited and released for CA Penal Code 594." \[Provided 07/24/26 12:39 PM\] Garcia's statement is the first official confirmation from Santa Ana Police that Julz was cited for an alleged violation of Penal Code 594\. According to police, the arrest followed a report from a Federal Security Officer, who provided officers with a description of the alleged suspect. The department did not answer our additional questions regarding whether any surveillance technology, including automated license plate readers or other camera systems, were utilized. Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez provided The Santanero this statement: > "I stand with Julz and every community member who peacefully monitors ICE activity. Supporting our immigrant neighbors and documenting government actions are protected rights that strengthen our community. I am calling for a full, transparent investigation into this arrest and for the Santa Ana Police Department to immediately release all available information. The public deserves timely answers and accountability. I also stand with Julz’s call for more people to become ICE watchers. We should protect—not discourage—the right of residents to peacefully observe, document, and defend the civil rights of our community." \[Provided 07/24/26 1:46 PM\] *This is a developing story. We will continue seeking responses to our outstanding questions and will update this article as additional information becomes available. L*ast *updated 07/24/26 2:09 PM.* ### Rapid Response Director Sandra De Anda announces Ward 4 candidacy URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/electionite/2026/07/16/rapid-response-director-sandra-de-anda-announces-ward-4-candidacy/ Last updated: 2026-07-17T17:09:10.000Z Sandra De Anda, an immigration advocate and one of the directors of the [Orange County Rapid Response Network](https://ocrapidresponse.org/?ref=santanero.org), announced her campaign for Santa Ana City Council's Ward 4 seat in a Thursday [social media post.](https://www.instagram.com/reel/Da3nB%5FwyiHR/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org) "Santa Ana deserves leadership that will stand up for its people, not look the other way when our livelihoods are under attack," De Anda told The Santanero. "Here in Santa Ana, we feel the consequences as our communities are targeted. When the risk of leaving home is too much, our businesses are harmed, our schools lose out on crucial funding, and people who need help the most don't receive it. All of it impacts our city's ability to provide the crucial services working people and immigrant families rely on." De Anda began volunteering with the Orange County Rapid Response Network in 2017 and became one of the organization's directors in 2025\. She oversees [policy and legal strategy](https://ocrapidresponse.org/index.php/ocrrn/sub-committees/?ref=santanero.org) for the network, which responds to immigration enforcement activity, defends immigrant rights and supports affected families across Orange County. The network has played a prominent role in responding to immigration enforcement activity in the county, providing legal resources and support to affected families before and after recent ICE raids. It has also advocated for the creation of immigrant defense funds in several cities, [including Santa Ana](https://www.santa-ana.org/santa-ana-city-council-unanimously-passes-multiple-actions-affirming-its-commitment-to-its-immigrant-community/?ref=santanero.org), to provide financial assistance to families affected by immigration enforcement. Asked by The Santanero why she decided to run, De Anda said, “Our local leaders, whether they intend to or not, are enabling this agenda by responding without conviction—or through inaction—to the needs of our community. I'm running because it's time we had leaders who ensure that everyone can see themselves reflected and heard in City Hall.” ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/07/DSC08384-2.jpg) **Councilmember Phil Bacerra sits on the dais during the June 17, 2025 Santa Ana City Council meeting, the first held after widespread ICE raids across Santa Ana. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* De Anda will challenge incumbent Councilmember Phil Bacerra, who was first elected in 2019, along with any additional candidates who file before the close of the candidacy period on Aug. 7. **Correction issued 07/17/26 10:00 AM: According to Article IV, Section 400.01/a of the Santa Ana City Charter, Councilmember Phil Bacerra is running for his second term, not last as incorrectly published. We regret the error.* **Editorial Note: The Santanero reached out to Bacerra for comment and will update this story on our website if and when a response is received.* ### City Council Recap: Jul. 7, 2026 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/07/09/city-council-recap-jul-7-2026/ Last updated: 2026-07-09T19:10:01.000Z Good day Santaneros! It’s Thursday, July 9th and here's The Santanero's city council meeting recap. --- ## Public comment zap During public comment, former Parks and Recreation Program Leader Isaias Huizar said he was laid off on June 18th after more than 12 years with the city and was given no explanation for the decision. Huizar said an employee with less seniority remained employed and alleged Parks and Recreation Supervisor America Robledo treated employees unfairly. The Santanero confirmed Huizar served as a board member for SEIU Local 721's part-time bargaining unit, with his signature appearing on the union's January 2025 memorandum of understanding ratification. The Santanero has requested comment from City spokesperson Paul Eakins and will update this story if and when a response is received. Separately, several speakers spoke against efforts to amend Chapter 26 of the Municipal Code, which they claim could have allowed pushcart vendors to sell within city parks. However, the item was not on Tuesday's agenda and City Manager Alvaro Nuñez added that no plans were in place to amend the code now or in the future. --- ## Appointment of Ward 6 candidate sparks ethics debate [OS 5\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=57622&ref=santanero.org) A routine appointment to Santa Ana's Rental Housing Board turned into an unexpected debate after councilmembers questioned whether active candidates for elected office should be appointed to city commissions. The discussion drew accusations of political motives, prompted legal clarification from the city attorney, and later drew responses from the nominee, his opponent and the councilmember who appointed him. Read more [here](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/07/08/appointment-of-ward-6-candidate-sparks-ethics-debate/). --- ## Council approves over $500,000 in office leases as transit center storefronts remain vacant [OS 13-15\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=25046&ref=santanero.org) After years of largely vacant commercial space at the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center, the city is moving forward with more than $500,000 in office lease agreements to house several contracted services, including LAZ Parking. Councilmembers said they would prefer to see those spaces occupied by businesses serving commuters and visitors. City Manager Alvaro Nuñez said staff shares that goal, but progress has been slowed by major building repairs and shared efforts to secure a commercial broker to lease the available storefronts. --- ## Council votes to let residents decide Measure X's future [OS 22\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=57450&ref=santanero.org) The City Council voted 5-2, with Councilmembers Jessie Lopez and David Penaloza opposed, to place a ballot measure before voters asking whether to continue the city's current 9.25% sales tax rate or allow Measure X to follow its original sunset schedule. Measure X, approved by voters in 2018, added a 1.5% local sales tax that is scheduled to decrease by one-half cent in 2029, reducing the overall sales tax rate to 8.75% before expiring entirely in 2039\. Because it is a sales tax, the outcome will affect nearly everyone who makes taxable purchases in Santa Ana. During the discussion, several councilmembers and city staff acknowledged that allowing the tax to decrease as originally planned would significantly reduce city revenue and likely require deeper cuts to city services and staffing. According to city staff, financial projections estimate a substantially larger budget shortfall if the tax rate is reduced than if it remains at its current level. Placing the measure on the Nov. 3rd ballot is expected to cost taxpayers approximately $17,000. --- ## Parking study returns to spotlight during permit discussion [OS 23\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=57579&ref=santanero.org) Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza asked the City Council to revisit Santa Ana's residential parking permit system, including whether permits should be issued as windshield placards instead of adhesive stickers. Penaloza said placards could make it easier for residents to transfer permits between vehicles, avoid placing stickers on their cars and reduce concerns that permit stickers identify the neighborhoods where drivers live. City staff responded that officers already verify permits through an electronic system rather than relying solely on stickers. Penaloza also acknowledged that placards are not a perfect solution because they can be copied or misused. The discussion ultimately shifted to the city's long-awaited parking study, with several councilmembers renewing calls to publicly release the study and move forward with staff recommendations. --- ## Council backs advocacy on utility reform bills [OS 24\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=57582&ref=santanero.org) The City Council provided city staff direction in moving forward with Councilmember Jessie Lopez's request to have Santa Ana support several utility reform bills pending in the State Legislature and direct the city's lobbying team to advocate for them. At Penaloza's ask, Lopez also agreed to include additional utility-related bills that had previously stalled in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. City Attorney Sonia Carvalho explained that the proposal would also explore the option for the city to hire an economist to represent Santa Ana's interests in state utility rate proceedings. The item itself does not reduce residents' utility bills but is intended to give the city a stronger voice in future policy and rate-setting discussions. The item will come return at a later council meeting with a status update. --- # Meeting Summaries ### City Council Tardiness Tracker Minutes late to start meetings from Dec. 10, 2024 to July 7, 2026\. Total minutes late: 1,222 · Average delay: 33 minutes | Data organized by The Santanero. Times are actual and include all regular and special City Council meetings. | Meeting Metric | Value | | ------------------------- | --------- | | Agenda start time | 5:30 PM | | Actual start time | 5:37 PM | | Time adjourned | 8:27 PM | | Minutes late this meeting | 7 minutes | ### Behavior Chart | Elected Official | Behavior Rating | | ---------------- | --------------- | | Amezcua | 🟨 | | Phan | 🟩 | | Vazquez | 🟨 | | Lopez | 🟩 | | Bacerra | 🟨 | | Hernandez | 🟨 | | Penaloza | 🟨 | ### Appointment of Ward 6 candidate sparks ethics debate URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/07/08/appointment-of-ward-6-candidate-sparks-ethics-debate/ Last updated: 2026-07-08T22:28:44.000Z A routine appointment to the city's Rental Housing Board turned into an unexpected debate Tuesday as councilmembers sparred over whether active candidates for elected office should be appointed to city commissions during an election year. The Santa Ana City Council voted 5-2 to appoint Giovanni Chavez, a candidate for the Ward 6 City Council seat, to a partial term on the Rental Housing Board. Councilmembers Johnathan Hernandez and Benjamin Vazquez voted against the appointment after raising ethical concerns and questioning the optics of appointing an active candidate to a city commission. ## How it went down **Discussion of Item 5 of Tuesday, July 7th's city council meeting. (City of Santa Ana)* Hernandez, who pulled the item from the consent calendar, emphasized that his concerns were not about Chavez personally but about setting a precedent. "I want to ensure that, you know, anybody who is looking to sit on these commissions, that they don't use our commissions as platforms... as platforms to campaign for themselves, for the special interests that are important to them," Hernandez said. As Hernandez continued speaking, he remarked that Chavez was laughing from the audience before addressing him directly. *The Santanero* has reached out to Chavez for comment regarding the exchange. > *"I support this individual's right to serve on this commission. I just draw ethical concerns when this individual \[Chavez\] is laughing in my chamber at these concerns... I want to make sure you don't campaign on my city's back. So out of an abundance of that caution, I wanted to raise awareness to everybody here." — Councilmember Hernandez* Councilmember Phil Bacerra questioned whether the same standard should apply to other commissioners running for office, noting that Chavez's Ward 6 opponent, Isuri Ramos, is also a candidate for the same seat and currently serves on the Planning Commission. "If we're going to single out Mr. Chavez and we're talking about commissions and whether it's fair that they run for office, then I would hope that you would also advocate for the removal of all the commissioners that are currently running for office," Bacerra said to Hernandez. Hernandez responded that he would support a consistent policy preventing any active candidate from serving on a city commission while campaigning. Vazquez echoed Hernandez's concerns but went a step further, questioning Chavez's past involvement in the city's renters' rights efforts before launching his council campaign and arguing the appointment appeared to benefit his candidacy more than the city's renters. Councilmember Jessie Lopez opposed blocking the appointment, saying she has consistently defended each councilmember's authority to make appointments regardless of political disagreements. Seeking clarification, Councilmember Thai Viet Phan asked City Attorney Sonia Carvalho whether city law prohibited appointing an active candidate to a commission. "No, there are no such prohibitions... I did not find any legal or ethical reasons," City Attorney Sonia Carvalho said. "My only other concern would just be that while any individual, whether you're elected or appointed, that while you're serving the city, that you don't use public resources or use that seat to campaign." Phan said the council could consider adopting a policy in the future if members wished to prohibit candidates from serving on commissions but argued there was no basis to reject Chavez's appointment under current rules. She also noted that several current and former councilmembers previously served on city commissions before seeking elected office. Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza, who nominated Chavez for the appointment, pushed back on Hernandez's criticism, calling his remarks "condescending" and reminding the council that "this isn't your chamber, this is the People's Chamber." Penaloza then made a substitute motion to move forward with Chavez's appointment. Mayor Valerie Amezcua swiftly ended the discussion, calling it part of the "season of politics," before the council approved Chavez's appointment. During the swearing-in, Amezcua invited Penaloza to join Chavez, but he remained at the dais as Chavez took the oath. ## Post-meeting clarifications In a statement to The Santanero following the meeting, Penaloza said he did not believe the appointment presented an ethical issue because the Rental Housing Board is "an administrative body" and does not conflict with the office Chavez is seeking. He also noted that, at the time of his statement, candidate filing had not yet opened and Chavez would still need to qualify through the city's nomination process. Penaloza said the Rental Housing Board has struggled to maintain a quorum and that recruiting volunteers has been difficult because commissioners receive little to no compensation. He added that his previous appointee resigned shortly after being appointed because of scheduling conflicts. According to Penaloza, Chavez contacted him "about a week or two ago" expressing interest in the vacancy and was the only person who recently reached out seeking the appointment. > *"He's a very capable individual and I am thankful for his desire to serve the public. I know many of my colleagues love to hover over their nominees as they take their oaths and watch over them as they sign their oath of office but that's just not my thing. This is the new commissioners moment, not mine. My stamp of approval came when I placed the individual's appointment on the agenda and proudly voted for them." — Mayor Pro Tem Penaloza* ## Statements from the candidates In a statement provided to The Santanero, Chavez stated: > *"I was disappointed to see two councilmembers personally attack a resident for trying to serve his city. Political candidate or not, I am a resident of the City of Santa Ana, and this is not the first time I have seen councilmembers attack residents with different opinions on the dais. In fact, Councilmember Hernandez has been investigated multiple times for his behavior with city staff. A majority of the candidates this cycle are either city commissioners or elected officials, so my appointment was not out of the ordinary. However, Councilmember Hernandez trying to score cheap political points over a standard appointment was out of the ordinary. I helped Councilmember Vasquez in his campaign in 2016, and I have represented tenants facing eviction through pro bono work as an attorney. Further, commissioners are supposed to be neutral in these proceedings. So I can’t imagine why Councilmember Vasquez would make those comments other than he’s using his position of power to play politics. What last night revealed to me is that we have deep abuse of power and bully tactics at the Santa Ana City Council. Residents deserve better." — Giovanni Chavez* Additionally, Ramos provided this statement to The Santanero: > *"I’ve proudly served on the Planning Commission for 5+ years. Over the last 16 years I’ve served on 4 City Commissions, beginning with the Youth Commission when I was in high school. I have also been proud to have organized alongside tenants in Santa Ana over the last ten years and to have been a part of the fight for rent control in our city.* > > *Councilmember David Peñaloza is appointing his handpicked successor to the Rent Board days before the candidate filing window opens. If this was not politically motivated, why didn’t he make this appointment over a year ago when the Rent Stabilization Board was unable to meet due to lack of quorum? He neglected his responsibility.* > > *Peñaloza had no sense of urgency to make an appointment then. What’s his real motive now? Is it an attempt to give his recruit a title to use for the ballot before filing opens on Monday?* > > *We can’t just question Peñaloza’s political motivation, we also have to question if he’s failed Santa Ana renters. David Peñaloza has openly opposed rent stabilization with his vote time and time again. He also opposed letting our community have a say, and has long benefited from political contributions from the CA Apartment Association which opposes these important policies that keep our families housed.* > > *It is so deeply troubling to see an elected rig the system once again for personal political gain." — Isuri Ramos* ### How to run for elected office in Santa Ana URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/electionite/2026/07/07/how-to-run-for-elected-office-in-santa-ana/ Last updated: 2026-07-08T03:04:50.000Z Disclaimer: This guide is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not an official candidate guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by the [City of Santa Ana](https://www.santa-ana.org/elections/?ref=santanero.org), the [Orange County Registrar of Voters](https://ocvote.gov/candidates?ref=santanero.org), the [California Secretary of State](https://www.sos.ca.gov/?ref=santanero.org), or any other government agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, election laws, deadlines, and filing requirements are subject to change. Prospective candidates should consult the appropriate election officials, applicable laws, and the official [2026 Orange County Candidate's Handbook](https://ocvote.gov/election-library/docs/2026%20November%20Candidates%20Handbook.pdf?ref=santanero.org) before filing for office. Thinking about running for local office? The process begins months before Election Day and involves meeting eligibility requirements, filing official paperwork, and qualifying for a place on the ballot. Before making campaign promises, it's important to understand the powers and responsibilities of the office you intend to seek. Many residents mistakenly assume that all mayors and city councils have the same authority. In a [separate explainer](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025-07-17/bass-signed-an-executive-order-heres-why-amezcua-cant-do-that-and-what-it-would-take-to-change-it/), *The Santanero* breaks down the differences between the role of the mayors of Los Angeles vs. Santa Ana, along with what local elected officials can—and cannot—do under Santa Ana's council-manager form of government. Deciding to run may be the easy part. Building and managing a successful campaign is often the greater challenge. With the candidate filing period opening July 13th, prospective candidates have a limited window to complete the nomination process, which ends August 7th. If you've ever considered seeking elected office in Santa Ana, here's what you need to know. 📢 The Orange County Registrar of Voters is hosted a webinar for potential candidates on July 9 at 10 AM via Zoom. Click [here](https://ocvote.gov/candidates?ref=santanero.org) for more information. --- ## Step 1: Choose an office While hundreds of local offices are up for election across Orange County, only a handful serve Santa Ana residents this November. Offices open for candidate filing include: - Mayor of Santa Ana - Santa Ana City Council (Wards 2, 4 and 6) - Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education (Areas 4 and 5) - Rancho Santiago Community College District Board of Trustees (Areas 2 and 4) Candidates [must reside within the jurisdiction](https://ocvote.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3233540be31b4dd4bb6b114317d7ead4&ref=santanero.org) they seek to represent and meet the legal residency requirements for that office. ## Step 2: Meet the qualifications Candidates for Santa Ana municipal office must generally: - Be a United States citizen - Be at least 18 years old on or before Election Day - Be a registered voter - Be a current Santa Ana resident - Provide proof verifying at least 30 days of residency for the office sought before nomination papers are issued (see what district(s), area(s) you reside in [here](https://ocvote.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3233540be31b4dd4bb6b114317d7ead4&ref=santanero.org)) - Meet all other legal qualifications to hold public office Additional eligibility requirements may apply depending on the office. ## Step 3: Prepare before filing Prospective candidates may begin preparing before the nomination period opens. Those planning to raise or spend campaign funds may file a Candidate Intention Statement (FPPC Form 501). Candidates expecting to raise $2,000 or more, or spend $1,000 or more, generally must establish a campaign committee by filing a Statement of Organization (FPPC Form 410), providing a copy to the appropriate elections official, and setting up campaign finance reporting as required. Candidates should also familiarize themselves with applicable campaign finance laws and local contribution limits before soliciting or accepting contributions. ## Step 4: File nomination papers Candidates must schedule an appointment with the appropriate elections official during the nomination period to obtain a nomination packet. The filing authority depends on the office being sought: - Candidates for Santa Ana Mayor and City Council file through the Santa Ana City Clerk - Candidates for the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education and Rancho Santiago Community College District Board of Trustees file through the Orange County Registrar of Voters Nomination packets typically include: - Declaration of Candidacy - Nomination Petition - Campaign finance forms - Ballot designation documents, if applicable - Optional candidate statement forms for the voter information guide - Other documents required under California election law Candidates for Santa Ana Mayor and City Council must collect at least 20 valid signatures from registered voters within the jurisdiction they seek to represent. The City Clerk verifies the signatures and accepts completed nomination documents. Candidates for the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education or Rancho Santiago Community College District Board of Trustees obtain and submit their nomination paperwork through the Orange County Registrar of Voters. Filing requirements for those contests are administered by the Registrar. There is no filing fee for these specific offices. All required paperwork must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM on August 7th to qualify for the ballot. If an eligible incumbent does not file by the deadline, the nomination period for that office is extended for five additional calendar days for non-incumbent candidates. Note that fees may arise when filing an optional candidate statement, establishing and maintaining a campaign committee, and conducting campaign activities. ## Step 5: Comply with campaign finance requirements Campaign finance reporting continues throughout the election cycle. Candidates who establish campaign committees are responsible for maintaining campaign bank accounts, tracking contributions and expenditures, and filing periodic campaign finance reports that become public records. *The Santanero* cannot provide legal or campaign finance advice. Prospective candidates are encouraged to consult the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), the Orange County Registrar of Voters, the Santa Ana City Clerk, or a qualified campaign professional with questions about compliance. ## Step 6: Campaign After qualifying for the ballot, candidates may begin campaigning throughout the community. Campaign activities often include: - Walking neighborhoods and meeting voters - Attending community meetings and public events - Participating in candidate forums and debates - Raising campaign funds - Advertising through mail, signs, websites and social media In today's political atmosphere, a website and social media with a clear avenue for communication between the candidate and public is a basic service in the venture for election. Campaigning, in part, will likely be the hardest part and costliest. Some candidates begin campaigning before the nomination period opens. However, campaigning alone does not place a candidate on the ballot. Candidates must complete the required filing process during the nomination period to officially qualify ## Step 7: Election Day The General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3. After the polls close and ballots are counted, the candidate receiving the highest number of votes for each office is elected. ### Thousands celebrate in Santa Ana as México ends a 40-year World Cup knockout drought URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/02/thousands-celebrate-in-santa-ana-as-mexico-ends-a-40-year-world-cup-knockout-drought/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T00:49:35.000Z Thousands of Santaneros poured into Downtown Santa Ana and the Bristol Street corridor Tuesday night after Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0, ending a 40-year World Cup knockout-stage drought and advancing to the Round of 16. The victory marked Mexico's first win in a World Cup elimination match since defeating Bulgaria at Estadio Azteca during the 1986 FIFA World Cup, ending four decades of heartbreak for El Tri supporters. At least 1,000 fans gathered near Fourth and Bush streets outside Tacos Los Cholos, where a dual-screen truck broadcast Telemundo's live coverage of the match. Long before kickoff, lines stretched for blocks outside several downtown bars, many of which reached capacity shortly before the national anthems. The Santanero visited several watch parties and businesses airing the match. As the final whistle sounded, cheers erupted across downtown before hundreds of supporters spilled into the streets waving Mexican flags, chanting "¡México!" and celebrating the historic victory. On the field, Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, giving Mexico an early advantage before Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead in the 35th minute. Ecuador pressed throughout the second half but was unable to break through Mexico's defense, while goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved another clean sheet. Ecuador finished the match with 10 men after defender Piero Hincapié was shown a red card in stoppage time. Mexico has yet to concede a goal during the tournament. Celebrations continued late into the evening throughout Downtown Santa Ana and along Bristol Street as motorists waved flags, honked horns and joined spontaneous caravans through the city. Police jumped into action almost immediately to close portions of Bristol and divert traffic. Mexico will face the winner of Wednesday's Round of 32 match between England and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the Round of 16, with a berth in the quarterfinals on the line. ### Supreme Court rejects Trump's bid to end birthright citizenship in landmark ruling URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-rejects-trumps-bid-to-end-birthright-citizenship-in-landmark-ruling/ Last updated: 2026-06-30T15:13:34.000Z CORRECTION: An earlier version of this post incorrectly stated that the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in **Trump v. Barbara* was decided by a 5-4 vote. We regret the error and have since corrected the article. **WASHINGTON, D.C.** — In one of the most consequential constitutional decisions in decades, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees birthright citizenship to nearly all children born on American soil, rejecting President Donald Trump's effort to deny citizenship to children whose parents are in the country unlawfully or temporarily. In *Trump v. Barbara*, Chief Justice John Roberts authored the Court's opinion, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Amy Coney Barrett and Ketanji Brown Jackson, striking down Executive Order 14160, which Trump signed on his first day back in office in January 2025\. Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurred in the judgment and dissented in part, while Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch dissented. The executive order sought to reinterpret the Constitution by declaring that children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants or certain temporary visa holders were not "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States and therefore were not citizens at birth. Instead, Roberts concluded that the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment has guaranteed birthright citizenship since its ratification in 1868 and that a parent's immigration status does not alter a child's constitutional right to citizenship. At the center of the case was one sentence in the Fourteenth Amendment: > *"All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States..."* The Trump administration argued that the phrase "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" excludes children born to parents who entered the country unlawfully or are only temporarily present. The Court rejected that interpretation, concluding the phrase refers to virtually everyone born within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States except for a handful of longstanding exceptions, such as children of foreign diplomats or those born under the authority of a foreign sovereign. According to the majority, children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants or temporary visitors are fully subject to U.S. laws and therefore satisfy the Constitution's citizenship requirement. Much of Roberts' opinion focuses not on modern immigration policy but on legal history stretching back more than 400 years. The Court traced the origins of birthright citizenship to English common law and the doctrine of *jus soli*—the "right of the soil"—under which nearly every child born within a sovereign's territory automatically became a subject of that nation. According to the majority, that principle became part of American law following independence and remained the accepted rule throughout the nineteenth century. The opinion notes that even children born to foreign nationals temporarily visiting the country were historically recognized as citizens simply because they were born within the nation's borders. Roberts also devoted substantial attention to one of the Supreme Court's most infamous decisions, *Dred Scott v. Sandford* (1857), which held that Black Americans descended from enslaved people could never become U.S. citizens. According to the majority, the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment was written specifically to overturn *Dred Scott* and permanently establish a broad rule of citizenship based on birth within the United States rather than ancestry or bloodline. The opinion cites debates from the Reconstruction Congress and writings by abolitionist Frederick Douglass as evidence that lawmakers intentionally adopted the common-law rule of birthright citizenship when drafting the amendment. The majority also reaffirmed the Supreme Court's landmark 1898 decision in *United States v. Wong Kim Ark*. That case held that a man born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant parents was a U.S. citizen despite federal laws excluding Chinese immigrants from naturalization. Roberts described *Wong Kim Ark* as controlling precedent, stating it established that the Fourteenth Amendment grants citizenship to nearly every child born in the United States regardless of the citizenship or immigration status of the parents. The Court declined the Trump administration's request to narrow or reinterpret that decision. The majority concluded that nothing in the Constitution conditions citizenship on whether a child's mother or father is lawfully present in the United States. Roberts observed that words frequently used in the executive order—including "mother," "father," "lawful," and "temporary"—do not appear anywhere in the Citizenship Clause itself. The Court said that if the framers had intended to limit citizenship based on a parent's immigration status or domicile, they would have written those limitations into the Constitution. They did not. ## A divided Court Chief Justice Roberts' opinion was joined by Justices Sotomayor, Kagan, Barrett and Jackson. Justice Kavanaugh filed a separate opinion concurring in the judgment and dissenting in part. Justice Jackson also wrote a concurring opinion, while Justices Thomas, Alito and Gorsuch each filed dissents. The dissenters argued that the Citizenship Clause should be interpreted more narrowly and maintained that citizenship should depend on a stronger connection—or "allegiance"—to the United States than mere birth within its borders. ## What does this ruling mean? The decision preserves the longstanding understanding that children born in the United States automatically become American citizens regardless of whether their parents are U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, temporary visa holders or undocumented immigrants. It also prevents the executive branch from changing constitutional citizenship rules through executive action alone. Any future attempt to alter birthright citizenship would almost certainly require either a constitutional amendment or a future Supreme Court willing to overturn more than a century of precedent. Beyond immigration, the ruling reinforces the Court's reliance on constitutional text, historical context and longstanding precedent when interpreting the Fourteenth Amendment. It also represents one of the most significant constitutional rulings on citizenship since *Wong Kim Ark* was decided in 1898. The Court affirmed the lower court's injunction blocking enforcement of Executive Order 14160, ensuring that children born in the United States continue to receive citizenship at birth under the Constitution. ### Supreme Court strikes down federal limits on coordinated campaign spending by political parties URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-strikes-down-federal-limits-on-coordinated-campaign-spending-by-political-parties/ Last updated: 2026-06-30T15:15:53.000Z **WASHINGTON, D.C.** — In a major campaign finance ruling released Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down longstanding federal limits on how much political parties may spend in coordination with their own candidates, holding the restrictions violate the First Amendment in the case of *National Republican Senatorial Committee v. Federal Election Commission.* In a 6-3 decision, the Court ruled that provisions of the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) limiting coordinated expenditures by political parties are unconstitutional, overturning its own 2001 precedent in *Federal Election Commission v. Colorado Republican Federal Campaign Committee (Colorado II).* Justice Brett Kavanaugh, writing for the majority, said the law unlawfully restricts political speech by preventing parties from working freely with their candidates during campaigns. > "Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech," Kavanaugh wrote, concluding that the spending restrictions directly burden the political speech protected by the First Amendment. Chief Justice John Roberts joined Kavanaugh's opinion, along with Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett. Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented. The decision overturns the Court's 2001 ruling that upheld limits on coordinated spending between political parties and candidates as a way to prevent corruption. The majority concluded that subsequent Supreme Court decisions—including *McCutcheon v. FEC* (2014) and *FEC v. Ted Cruz for Senate* (2022)—have undermined the reasoning behind *Colorado II*, leaving it "no longer good law." "To the extent that *Colorado II* has retained any vitality, it is now overruled," Kavanaugh wrote. Federal law continues to cap direct contributions to candidates and prohibits donors from earmarking contributions through political parties to specific candidates. The Court concluded those restrictions—combined with campaign finance disclosure requirements—already provide sufficient protection against quid pro quo corruption without restricting how parties spend money in coordination with candidates. According to the majority, limits on coordinated expenditures amount to an unnecessary "fourth line of defense" that disproportionately burdens political speech protected by the First Amendment. ### Decision could reshape campaign strategy The ruling allows national, state and local political party committees to coordinate campaign spending with candidates without being subject to the federal expenditure caps previously imposed by FECA. The Court said the decision places political parties on more equal footing with outside organizations such as Super PACs, which have been allowed to spend unlimited amounts independently following previous campaign finance decisions. Kavanaugh wrote that political parties have become comparatively weaker over the past two decades while outside political groups have gained influence, arguing the previous restrictions contributed to that imbalance. ### Dissent warns of corruption Justice Elena Kagan, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, argued the majority dismantled an important safeguard against corruption. The dissent maintained that coordinated expenditures effectively allow political parties to pay campaign expenses on behalf of candidates and warned removing the limits increases the risk that donors could circumvent federal contribution caps through party committees. The lawsuit was brought by the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the National Republican Congressional Committee, then-Senate candidate JD Vance and others, who argued the coordinated expenditure limits violated the First Amendment. The Court found the case remained justiciable because Vice President JD Vance still maintains an active statement of candidacy for a potential 2028 Senate campaign and an active campaign committee with the Federal Election Commission. ### Supreme Court rules 6-3 states may limit girls' sports to biological females under Title IX, Constitution URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-rules-6-3-states-may-limit-girls-sports-to-biological-females-under-title-ix-constitution/ Last updated: 2026-06-30T15:22:24.000Z WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a landmark decision expected to reshape school athletics nationwide, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday in *West Virginia v. B.P.J.* and *Little v. Hecox* that states may limit participation in girls' and women's school sports to biological females without violating either Title IX or the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The ruling stems from legal challenges brought by transgender students against state laws in West Virginia and Idaho that restrict participation on girls’ sports teams to students assigned female at birth. The students argued that these laws unfairly excluded them from school athletics and violated federal anti-discrimination protections. In a 6-3 decision authored by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the Court reversed lower court rulings that had sided with the students, concluding that schools may determine eligibility for female athletic teams based on biological sex. "The answer is yes," Kavanaugh wrote. "Schools may determine eligibility for women's and girls' sports based on biological sex." ### How the case came to the Supreme Court The dispute began when several states passed laws in recent years aimed at regulating participation in school sports based on biological sex. Supporters of these laws argued they were necessary to preserve fairness and safety in women’s athletics, while opponents said they discriminated against transgender students. In West Virginia, a transgender middle school student identified as B.P.J. challenged a state law that barred her from competing on girls’ teams. Similarly, in Idaho, a transgender college athlete challenged a law requiring athletes to compete based on their biological sex. Lower federal courts initially blocked enforcement of these laws, finding they likely violated Title IX and constitutional protections. Those rulings created uncertainty nationwide, prompting appeals that ultimately brought the issue before the Supreme Court. ### What Title IX is and why it matters At the center of the case is Title IX, a federal law passed in 1972 that prohibits sex-based discrimination in schools that receive federal funding. Title IX is widely credited with dramatically expanding opportunities for women and girls in education and athletics. The key legal question was how to interpret the word "sex" in the law—whether it refers strictly to biological sex or includes gender identity. The Supreme Court’s majority concluded that when Congress passed Title IX, it understood "sex" to mean biological sex, and that interpretation still governs today. The majority centered its opinion on the original purpose of Title IX, describing the law as one that transformed opportunities for women and girls in sports over the past five decades. Kavanaugh wrote that separate athletic teams exist because of "enduring" physical differences between the sexes and concluded those distinctions remain legally permissible to preserve equal athletic opportunities. The Court rejected arguments that transgender girls who have undergone puberty blockers or hormone therapy must be allowed to compete on girls' teams, finding neither Title IX nor its implementing regulations require schools to create exceptions based on gender identity or medical treatment. The majority concluded states have important governmental interests in protecting both the safety of female athletes and competitive fairness. The opinion emphasized that athletic competition is "zero sum," meaning that opportunities such as roster spots, scholarships and championships are limited. According to the Court, allowing biological males to compete in female sports could reduce opportunities for female athletes. The Court also pointed to potential safety concerns, particularly in contact sports, and ruled that states are not required to evaluate transgender athletes individually based on hormone levels or medical treatment. Instead, legislatures may adopt broad eligibility rules based on biological sex without violating the Equal Protection Clause. The opinion acknowledged that scientists and medical experts disagree about how hormone therapy and puberty blockers affect athletic performance. Rather than resolving those debates itself, the Court said elected lawmakers are better positioned to weigh competing evidence and set policy. The majority also noted that many governing bodies—including the NCAA and international sports organizations—have recently adopted policies limiting female competition to biological females. ### Court distinguishes earlier transgender rights ruling The Court rejected comparisons to its 2020 decision in *Bostock v. Clayton County*, which held that federal employment law protects workers from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. According to the majority, employment discrimination and athletic competition are fundamentally different contexts, especially because Title IX explicitly allows schools to separate teams by sex. ### Strong dissent Justice Sonia Sotomayor filed an opinion concurring in part and dissenting in part, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson. Justice Jackson also authored a separate opinion. The dissent argued that the majority failed to fully consider the rights of transgender students and misapplied both Title IX and constitutional protections. It warned that the ruling could lead to broader exclusion of transgender individuals from educational opportunities. ### Nationwide impact The decision resolves the specific disputes in West Virginia and Idaho and provides legal backing for similar laws in 27 states that restrict girls’ and women’s sports to biological females. More broadly, the ruling clarifies how federal law applies to transgender participation in school athletics, likely influencing ongoing and future legal challenges across the country. However, the Court emphasized that its decision is limited. It does not address whether schools may voluntarily allow transgender athletes to compete on girls’ teams, nor does it resolve questions about participation in boys’ or coeducational sports. ### Westminster resident arrested after allegedly doing drifts during World Cup Celebration URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/26/westminster-resident-arrested-after-allegedly-doing-drifts-during-world-cup-celebration/ Last updated: 2026-06-26T15:29:40.000Z Santa Ana Police [announced](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaB5dBRJeuO/?ref=santanero.org) Thursday the arrest of 27-year-old David Martinez, a Westminster resident accused of performing donut drifts during a World Cup celebration in Downtown Santa Ana. According to police, investigators authored and obtained a search warrant for Martinez's white Infiniti, which was served Thursday. The vehicle was subsequently impounded. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZ%5FrOK8tmfM/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) A video shared by the Santa Ana Police Department appeared to show similar footage [previously posted on social media](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZ%5FrOK8tmfM/?ref=santanero.org) of the car performing donuts at the intersection of Fourth Street and Broadway near the historic Spurgeon clock tower. The swift arrest came less than 24 hours after post-match celebrations erupted following México's 3-0 victory over Czechia, drawing hundreds of fans to Downtown Santa Ana and along Bristol Street. Martinez was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism and reckless driving. Police allege he caused an estimated $15,000 in damages during the incident. Police have not said how investigators identified the vehicle or driver. Witnesses stated in the social media post they saw a drone flying over the celebration, though it remains unclear whether it was operated by law enforcement or by someone attending the gathering. It is also unclear whether anyone was injured during the incident. The Santanero has requested additional information from police and will update this story if a response is received. ### Hernandez, Amezcua speak on police shooting that killed teen following domestic disturbance URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/06/17/hernandez-amezcua-speak-on-police-shooting-that-killed-teen-following-domestic-disturbance/ Last updated: 2026-06-17T18:36:30.000Z Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez were the only elected officials to publicly address the police shooting death of 15-year-old Jaden Michaca during Tuesday night's City Council meeting. The comments came two days after Michaca was fatally shot by Santa Ana police officers following a reported domestic disturbance at an apartment complex in the 3400 block of South Main Street. According to police, officers responded around 10:30 p.m. Sunday after a caller reported that his girlfriend's son was allegedly under the influence, vandalizing property and had stabbed him with a knife. Officers encountered Michaca, who police said remained armed with a knife when an officer-involved shooting occurred. Michaca was pronounced dead at the scene. During council comments, Hernandez offered condolences to Michaca's family and raised concerns about how young people in crisis are treated during encounters with law enforcement. "I pray that should a parent ever be in a tragedy or in a crisis where they don't have the skills, that when they do call law enforcement, that law enforcement has the training to be able to safely help their child," Hernandez said. While noting that he did not know the details of the shooting and would respect the ongoing investigations, Hernandez questioned whether more could be done to de-escalate situations involving youth. He also expressed concern about what he described as an increase in violence in the city and said children in crisis deserve support and intervention. Amezcua's comments focused on parental responsibility and the limits of government intervention in family matters. "We have no control over what our children do in the community, but you know who does? Our families. Their families," Amezcua said. The mayor encouraged parents to keep children involved in activities such as sports, church, family outings and community engagement, arguing that strong family involvement can help steer young people away from violence and criminal activity. "As policymakers, we are limited in what we can do, but we are here to support our constituents to the best of our ability," Amezcua said. The shooting remains under investigation by the Santa Ana Police Department's Homicide Unit, the department's Internal Affairs Division and the Orange County District Attorney's Office. *Below are the full transcript comments of each elected. Note that Hernandez' comments were edited to correct the age of Michaca.* #### Transcript of Hernandez' comments on fatal police shooting of Jaden Michaca FULL REMARKS: COUNCILMEMBER JOHNATHAN RYAN HERNANDEZ "I just want to end my comments on a difficult note. I want to send my condolences to the family who recently lost their \[15\]-year-old son. There was a \[15\]-year-old who was tragically shot recently, and we learned that this was an officer-involved shooting in our city. I don't know the details of this tragedy. I know that there is concurrent investigations taking place, as with any OIS, but I do want to emphasize to my colleagues and to the Santa Ana community that our children, God forbid whenever they do fall through the cracks, that I hope that we as parents and as a community have the tools to help them stand back up. And that I pray that should a parent ever be in a tragedy or in a crisis where they don't have the skills, that when they do call law enforcement, that law enforcement has the training to be able to safely help their child. I'm just very worried about what is happening in our city where we are seeing an increase in violence, where on May 28 we saw an 18-year-old shot and killed in front of his daughter and his daughter's mother. This young man was armed at that time, but being armed is a misdemeanor. California was once an open-carry state. That young man should have had a day in court. We should have de-escalated that situation. That young man should have been arrested. What if... — I mean, that's important. The young man was shot and killed and called a gang member, like many young people who are shot and killed by law enforcement across the country. I share this comment with the public because the \[15\]-year-old deserved to get help. The \[15\]-year-old deserved to be treated like a \[15\]-year-old. Not to be pointed a gun at or to be yelled at, but to be told everything's going to be all right. What do you need? Do you need to go outside? If we need 10 hours, do we need 15 hours, whatever it takes, you treat that child like a child. I feel very fearful that we live in a city where we can shoot children. I want to see us prevent violence, and that means from our own employees as well. My heart goes out to the family, and my heart also goes out to the officers who were behind that gun. I hope that everybody involved gets the healing that they need, and I hope that we see a day in Santa Ana where this is not how we treat each other. I will respect the investigations that are going to play out, and I just ask that we give this young man the dignity and his family the same as well. God bless them and I hope for better days. Thank you." #### Transcript of Amezcua's comments on fatal police shooting of Jaden Michaca FULL REMARKS: MAYOR VALERIE AMEZCUA "I want to close with this. There's a lot of things that take place in our community that we have no control over as council members, as the mayor, city manager, as police chiefs. We have no control over what our children do in the community, but you know who does? Our families. Their families. And so I would ask that, you know, up here we talk sometimes about gang violence or activities for our youth and how do we keep them off the streets. This has been an issue since I was a very little girl, even before I was — I mean as far back as I can remember. And what is the answer? "Idle time is the devil's time," as we say. So to families, I would ask that you keep your children involved, whether it's church, sports, family outings. Go for a walk. Get them off their laptops or their phones. Have them look up and look around. Make friends. Get to know your neighbors so that our children, our young people, don't have to go towards that lifestyle that may end up leading them down the wrong road. As policymakers, we are limited in what we can do, but we are here to support our constituents to the best of our ability, and we have amazing staff in our city who do all the work, whether it's the city manager's office, Parks and Recreation, Rudy and his Public Works, Alex with funding, and the Police Department. We do a lot as a city. We just can't bear responsibility for everything. And I'm a mom, and I'm a first grandchild, first daughter, first of everything. It's about families taking responsibility and getting involved with your children's lives. And with that, goodnight and have a nice evening." ### Police detail military equipment use during year marked by 2025 protests URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/16/police-detail-military-equipment-use-during-year-marked-by-2025-protests/ Last updated: 2026-06-16T17:41:46.000Z The Santa Ana Police Department presented its [annual military equipment report ](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/06/1643674.pdf)Monday at the Southwest Senior Center, offering residents a review of the department's use of specialized equipment and providing insight into how police leaders make decisions during large-scale protests and mutual aid responses. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/military-equip-officers.png) Operations Support Division Commander Mat Sorenson led much of the presentation. Field Operations Chief Roland Andrade also addressed attendees, while South Division Commander Maria Lopez attended the meeting. 16 members of the public attended, along with three city council staffers and two city commissioners. The [report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/06/1643674.pdf) is required under [California's AB 481 law](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill%5Fid=202120220AB481&ref=santanero.org), which mandates public oversight and annual reporting on military equipment owned and used by law enforcement agencies. ## Report details According to the [report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/06/1643674.pdf), Santa Ana police deployed military equipment in 36 field incidents between May 1, 2025 and April 30, 2026. Of those, 21 incidents involved the department's SWAT team. Nineteen deployments of which resulted in arrests or detentions, while officers were unable to locate the subject in nine incidents. The department reported no officer-involved shootings or fatalities associated with those deployments. The report also documented 11 community events where military equipment, including armored vehicles, was displayed or utilized for public outreach purposes. Officials reported two complaints related to military equipment during the reporting period. One complaint was determined not to involve a policy violation, while another remains under investigation. While the report provides a broad overview of deployments, complaints and policy compliance, it offered limited detail about the incidents themselves. The report does not describe the nature of the complaints beyond summary statistics, explain the reasoning behind investigative findings, identify whether deployments resulted in hospitalizations, or provide information about injuries associated with incidents involving military equipment. As a result, residents can see how often equipment was used, but have limited ability to independently assess the circumstances and outcomes of those deployments. The department concluded that its military equipment remains necessary for officer and public safety and reported no sustained violations of its military equipment policy. Questions about protest response tactics also led to a discussion about less-lethal munitions, specifically about the use of rubber bullets (40mm projectiles) and pepper balls. In a post-meeting email, Sorenson clarified that SAPD possesses two pepper ball launchers assigned to its SWAT team but said they were not serviceable during the June 2025 protests and were not used during the demonstrations. ## Drones and helicopter support ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/drone.png) **Skydio X10D model. (Skydio, Inc.)* Much of the discussion focused on the department's expanding drone program. The [report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/06/1643674.pdf) notes that Santa Ana police recently received authorization to acquire five drones at a projected cost of approximately $682,900 over three years. Officials said the program is expected to reduce reliance on Orange County Sheriff's Department helicopters and could be expanded in the future if successful. According to a [separate city staff report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/06/7d8d30bb-14f6-41e3-a042-156135f40675.pdf), the implementation of the drone program allowed the department to reduce its annual helicopter contract from 365 hours to 100 hours, a 73% reduction projected to save the city approximately $1 million over three years. Sorenson, who oversees the city's helicopter contract, described drones as both a cost-saving measure and a tool that helps command staff evaluate rapidly developing situations. He explained that incident commanders often rely on information relayed by officers in the field, while drones provide a real-time aerial view that can help verify those reports. As an example, he referenced a January 9 protest outside the Federal Building where two groups eventually converged and some participants began throwing objects, including traffic cones. Police received word that protestors were throwing water bottles and rocks. "Fortunately, I had a drone overhead," Sorenson said. "I saw that they weren't throwing rocks and bottles and there was no reason for us to go." Sorenson said the aerial view allowed him to compare reports coming from the field with what he was observing in real time. Based on that assessment, he concluded there was no need to deploy additional Santa Ana police officers. The example prompted a follow-up question about why a similar approach did not appear to prevent the larger law enforcement response during the June 9 protests. Department officials said the two incidents differed significantly in size and circumstances. Sorenson explained that the department had not anticipated the event in the same way it had later demonstrations, limiting its ability to position resources and gather information in advance. "June 9 caught us. We weren't expecting them to happen," Sorenson said. The exchange provided one of the clearest insights into how department leaders say information influences response decisions. It also offered a level of explanation about the June 2025 protests and related decision-making that has remained largely absent from public discussion amid ongoing litigation and calls for greater transparency from community members. ## Mutual aid and protest responses ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC05012.JPG) **Santa Ana Police officer and Terradyne Guhrka "Police Rescue" military vehicle at a protest on First and Bristol Streets at 9:17 PM on June 10, 2025\. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Questions from attendees eventually shifted toward how Santa Ana Police coordinates with outside agencies during large-scale events. Asked how mutual aid officers communicate and operate under Santa Ana command, Sorenson explained that outside agencies generally work through their own supervisors, who coordinate with Santa Ana command staff through a unified command structure. "There is also some integration that goes through unified command," Sorenson said. At the same time, he acknowledged the limits of command authority once officers from outside agencies are deployed into the field. "The problem is, once they walk out the door, how much control do I have over exactly what I want them to do?" Sorenson said. He noted that officers may encounter conditions unknown to command staff and sometimes must react to circumstances as they develop. Andrade similarly emphasized that police responses are driven by conditions on the ground rather than the existence of a protest itself. "Let's not ignore the fact that there's hundreds of protests that happen in the city all the time that we never respond to," Andrade said. "The crowd dictates our actions, not the other way around." When asked about differences between the January 9 protest and the June 9, 2025 demonstrations, Sorenson said the two events were difficult to compare because of significant differences in size and circumstances. ## Training, experience and officer wellness The meeting concluded with a community member initiated discussion about officer wellness and the challenges facing modern policing following a question about mental health resources available to officers. The questions came less than 24 hours after [Santa Ana police fatally shot a 15-year-old during a response to a domestic disturbance call](https://www.santanero.org/16-year-old-killed-by-santa-ana-police-following-domestic-disturbance-call/), an incident that remained under investigation at the time of the meeting. In response, Sorenson said one of the biggest changes he has witnessed during his career is the growing number of younger officers entering the profession. "When I started here in 2000, the most junior person on day watch had 25 years on the job," Sorenson said. "The most junior person now has 25 days on the job." While acknowledging the comment was an exaggeration, Sorenson said police departments across the country have experienced a significant loss of veteran personnel in recent years, leaving many agencies with younger workforces and less institutional experience. Sorenson also argued that communication has become a greater challenge for both officers and the public, noting that much of modern interaction occurs through phones and digital platforms rather than face-to-face conversations. As a result, he said the department has shifted portions of its training away from computer-based instruction and toward scenario-based exercises involving live role players. "How are you going to learn to talk to somebody if you're doing it on a computer?" Sorenson said. One community member then asked Sorenson when he had last attended therapy. Before Sorenson could respond, Andrade interjected outlining some the department's mental health resources. "I will say whenever we have a critical incident, officers are always offered therapy and it's always available 24 hours a day," Andrade said. "If any officer wants to talk to somebody, that's available." Andrade added that in some cases counseling is mandatory before an officer can return to duty. "There are certain instances where we will mandate that as a protocol for our officers to meet with a therapist prior to being reinstated," he said. The discussion also drew responses from community members, including one attendee who cautioned against interpreting concerns about officer wellness and communication training as a request for additional funding. "I think that when people ask about mental health resources for the PD and for implementing better ways of interacting with the community, we're not asking for you all to take this feedback back to the council and say we want more funding," the resident said. The attendee argued that improvements in mental health support, training and community engagement should be addressed within existing resources rather than through future budget increases. ## A window into June 2025 ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC03573.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC04253.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC05043.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC05291.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC05725.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC06994.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC07063.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/tempImage5d6cM6.gif) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/DSC08931.JPG) **Images taken by Daniel Diaz through the week of June 9, 2025 into the following week. (The Santanero)* While the annual report itself largely functions as a review of equipment inventories, deployment statistics and policy compliance, the public discussion often focused on a broader issue: how decisions were made during some of the city's most scrutinized public events. Over the past year, city officials and police representatives have frequently cited pending litigation when discussing the June 2025 protests, resulting in public statements that have often remained broad and carefully worded. Public discussions about the events, whether at City Council meetings or smaller community forums hosted by the department, have also been relatively limited. Monday's meeting did not answer every question surrounding the city's response. However, it offered residents a clearer understanding of how department leaders describe their decision-making process, how information from drones and officers is evaluated, and how mutual aid operations function during rapidly evolving situations. In that sense, the meeting provided something the report alone could not: additional insight into the reasoning, challenges and lessons that police leaders say emerged from one of the most consequential periods of public protest in Santa Ana history. This article is part of a series reporting the events of June 2025. [More coming this month, subscribe today. It's free! ](#/portal/signup/free) ### 15-year-old killed by Santa Ana Police following domestic disturbance call URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/15/15-year-old-killed-by-santa-ana-police-following-domestic-disturbance-call/ Last updated: 2026-06-30T16:03:10.000Z A 15-year-old male was fatally shot by Santa Ana police officers Sunday night following a domestic disturbance call at an apartment complex near south Main Street and MacArthur Boulevard, authorities said. According to the Santa Ana Police Department, officers responded at approximately 10:30 PM on Sunday to the 3400 block of South Main Street after receiving a report of a family disturbance. Police said the 53-year old caller reported that his girlfriend's 16-year-old son was inside the apartment allegedly under the influence of an unknown substance, vandalizing property, and had stabbed him with a knife. "When our officers arrived, they locate the suspect who remained armed with a knife, and during the encounter, an officer involved shooting occurred," [said](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZms--0BVql/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org) Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia. "The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene, and our officers did not sustain any injuries." The Orange County Coroner confirmed to The Santanero the identity of the deceased as Jaden Michaca. The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation. The Santa Ana Police Department's Homicide Unit, the department's Internal Affairs Division, and the Orange County District Attorney's Office are conducting parallel investigations into the incident. Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Santa Ana Police Department. Additional details have not yet been released. ### The Santanero's projections of the 2026 California Primary URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/04/the-santaneros-projections-of-the-2026-california-primary/ Last updated: 2026-06-07T01:05:21.000Z Please note that some returns may update automatically or show a slight margin of error with the article text. This article is updated once a day due to various reporting times. After millions of Californian voters cast their ballot in Tuesday’s primary election, returns are slowly trickling in. Here's a rundown of contests still too close to call and who is projected to advance in November's midterm election. ## Becerra projected to be on November ballot, Hilton and Steyer battle for second ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/gov-race.png) ## Governor’s Race Loading results... The Governor’s race, one of the most crowded contests on the ballot. On Friday, the Associated Press called the race for Xavier Becerra after taking the lead in votes, pushing over Steve Hilton. Trump-backed Republican Steve Hilton, a naturalized U.S. citizen and former Fox News political commentator, stood in second with 26% of the vote. Former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra is in second place with 25.6%, while hedge fund billionaire Tom Steyer ranks third with 21.3%. An estimated 71% of the expected vote has been tallied. --- ## Return updates yield few changes in votes for Assembly District 68 candidates, leaving race undecided ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/d68f.png) ## Assembly District 68 Loading results... Results from a Wednesday afternoon dump by the Orange County Registrar of Voters yielded little change from Tuesday night's returns. As of publication, Mayra Ruiz, the race's sole Republican candidate, led the field with 34.3% of the vote. Democratic candidate and Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza trailed closely behind at 33.5%. Councilmember Jessie Lopez (D) was in third place with 25.3% of the vote, while Shannon Wingfield (D) was fourth with 6.9%. The Santanero has determined the race is too close to call. It is estimated that 71% of the expected vote has been calculated. --- ## Garcia secures spot in November, second candidate too close to call ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/d42-1.png) ### U.S. House | District 42 Loading results... The Santanero projects Democratic Rep. Robert Garcia will advance to the November general election in California's 42nd Congressional District. Much of south Santa Ana is located within the district. As of publication, Garcia led the field with 52.3% of the vote. Republican candidates Brian Burley was in second place with 22.5%, followed by Noah Von Blom at 18.6%. Long Pham received 5.3%, while Larisa Vermeulen, a No Party Preference candidate, trailed with 1.2%. Burley maintains a lead over Von Blom, but with 65% of the expected vote having been counted, a significant share of ballots is still outstanding. The Santanero is not yet projecting a second-place finisher. --- ## Tran headed to Congressional District 45 runoff election, competitor undetermined ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/d45-1.png) ### U.S. House | District 45 Loading results... The Santanero projects Democratic Rep. Derek Tran will advance to the November general election in California's 45th Congressional District, which includes much of Santa Ana's west side west of the Santa Ana River. The race for the second spot on the ballot remains undetermined. As of publication, Tran led the field with 50.1% of the vote. Republican candidates Chuong V. Vo was in second place with 16.1%, followed by Chi "Charlie" Nguyen at 12.5% and Tom Vo at 9.6%. Mark Leonard received 6.7%, while Amy Phan West trailed with 5.1%. Since Vo holds a narrow lead over Nguyen, and an estimated 69% of voted calculated, The Santanero has determined the race for second place is too close to call. --- ## Correa and Pan projected to advance to the November general election for Congressional District 46 ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/d46.png) ### U.S. House | District 46 Loading results... The Santanero projects incumbent Democratic Rep. Lou Correa and Republican David Pan will advance to the November general election in California's 46th Congressional District. Most Santa Ana residents reside within the district. As of publication, Correa led the field with 49.5% of the vote, while Pan remained firmly in second place with 37.5%. Democratic candidates Christian Mendez followed with 6.6%, ahead of Armando "Mando" Perez-Serrato at 4.3% and Frank Bahena at 2.2%. With a sizable gap separating the top two candidates from the rest of the field, Correa and Pan appear all but certain to secure the district's two spots on the November ballot. --- ## State Senate District 34 candidates Valencia and Shader will advance to runoff election ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/s34.png) ### California State Senate | District 34 Loading results... The Santanero projects that Avelino Valencia (D) and Rhonda Shader (R) will advance to the November general election in the race for State Senate District 34. With only two candidates on the ballot, both are guaranteed to move on to the general election. As of publication, Valencia led with 60% of the vote, while Shader received 40%. --- ## Bilodeau leads in Board of Equalization District 4 race, second place too close to call ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/eql4-1.png) ### Board of Equalization | District 4 Loading results... The race for California's Board of Equalization District 4 remains unsettled, though Republican Denis Bilodeau appears well-positioned to advance to the November general election. As of the latest returns, Bilodeau led the field with 48.5% of the districtwide vote. The contest for the second spot on the November ballot remains far more competitive. Democratic State Sen. Tom Umberg held second place with 19.8%, followed by Cody Petterson (D) at 17.2% and Martín Arias (D) at 12.9%. Libertarian Gardner C. Osborne trailed with 1.5%. Umberg maintains a narrow advantage over Petterson, but with an undetermined number of votes still left to be counted across five counties, The Santanero has determined the contest is too close to call. --- ## Sarmiento reelected as County Supervisor ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/06/oc-sup-2.png) Loading results... The Santanero projects that incumbent Vicente Sarmiento has won outright and reelected as Orange County Supervisor for the Second District. As of publish, Sarmiento led the returns at over 60%, surpassing the 50% plus one threshold avoiding a runoff election in November. ### Anaheim police searching for man considered 'armed and dangerous', orders residents to stay indoors URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/05/28/anaheim-police-searching-for-man-considered-armed-and-dangerous-orders-residents-to-stay-indoors/ Last updated: 2026-05-28T07:32:08.000Z RAITT-WILSHIRE — An Anaheim police helicopter announced via PA system requesting residents of lock their doors and stay indoors amid a search for a male considered "armed and dangerous." The announcement was heard around 12:25 AM over the area of Raitt and Wilshire streets. No additional information has been provided at this time. ### SAUSD Canvas access disrupted after ‘cybersecurity incident’ URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/05/08/sausd-canvas-access-disrupted-after-cybersecurity-incident/ Last updated: 2026-05-08T00:32:05.000Z The Santa Ana Unified School District announced Thursday that a global “cybersecurity incident” involving Canvas provider Instructure is causing service interruptions for students and staff across hundreds of school districts, colleges and universities. SAUSD technology officials said the issue is limited to Canvas and does not impact district systems or networks. The district added there is currently no indication that passwords have been compromised as officials continue working with Instructure to restore access. #### Statement from SAUSD Technology Services Issued on May 7, 2026 at 4:55 PM via ParentSquare: “Dear SAUSD Community, The Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) is aware of a global cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the third-party provider of Canvas. As you know, Canvas is our learning management system used by students and educators to access course materials, communicate, and track academic progress. ****Current Status** This incident is currently causing a service interruption affecting access to the Canvas platform. Please note the following: - **System Security: The issue appears to be isolated to Canvas and does not involve or impact SAUSD's internal systems or networks* - **Passwords: Instructure has stated that, at this time, there is no indication that user passwords have been compromised.* Our Information Technology Department is actively monitoring the situation and is in direct communication with the vendor to resolve these issues and ensure a safe return to the platform. We have already taken immediate precautionary steps to protect the continued security of all SAUSD systems. Please be cautious and remain vigilant of potential phishing or scam emails that may claim to be related to this incident. We will share updates as additional information becomes available from Instructure. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work to resolve this matter. Sincerely, SAUSD Technology Services Santa Ana Unified School District” *This is a developing story.* ### Santa Ana City Council enacts new self-checkout rules for drug, grocery retail stores URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/05/06/santa-ana-city-council-enacts-new-self-checkout-rules-for-drug-grocery-retail-stores/ Last updated: 2026-05-06T03:57:34.000Z The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to approve a new ordinance regulating self-checkout operations in retail drug stores, marking a major shift in how stores like CVS and Walgreens may operate self-service kiosks in the city. The ordinance, considered during Tuesday’s council meeting in Santa Ana, establishes new staffing and operational requirements aimed at reducing retail theft, improving customer safety, and easing workloads on employees supervising self-checkout lanes. Under the newly approved rules, affected retailers will be required to maintain at least one dedicated employee for every three active self-checkout kiosks. The measure also imposes a 15-item limit for customers using self-checkout stations and restricts certain purchases—including items with security tags and age-restricted products—from being processed through self-service lanes. Supporters of the ordinance argued the regulations are necessary to combat rising retail theft and ensure workers are not overwhelmed while monitoring multiple checkout stations simultaneously. Labor advocates and union representatives said the rules would improve conditions for grocery and retail employees while also helping customers who need assistance at checkout. Business groups, including representatives from the California Grocers Association, previously voiced concerns that the added staffing mandates could increase operating costs and ultimately lead to higher prices for consumers. Santa Ana now joins a growing number of Southern California cities adopting stricter oversight of self-checkout technology. Similar ordinances have already been enacted in Long Beach and Costa Mesa, while Anaheim leaders are also considering comparable regulations. City officials said the ordinance is intended to strike a balance between technological convenience and public safety as self-checkout systems continue expanding across major retail chains. ### OCTA retires paper bus passes, fully transitions to WAVE URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/30/octa-retires-paper-bus-passes-fully-transitions-to-wave/ Last updated: 2026-04-30T13:05:10.000Z It’s the end of the line for OCTA paper passes. Starting May 1, the magnetic backstripped pass will officially be retired and no longer accepted as fare payment. The transition comes six months after OCTA released its new form of bus passes called WAVE while simultaneously ending sales of paper passes. WAVE comes in a plastic reloadable card, on the app or connects with a debit or credit card to monitor daily usage to ensure riders don’t pay more than $4.50 a day and more than $69 per month. Paper bus passes have often been handed out at homeless shelters and food banks. Throughout the years, OCTA held $20 summer promotions for its youth passes and briefly sold welcome passes at discounted rates. Effective Friday, May 1st, OCTA will fully transition to its WAVE fare payment system. Any monthly paper passes activated in April will continue to be accepted through May. The blue plastic WAVE cards can be purchased at local Ralph’s, Vons and Northgate grocery stores. It can also be bought at the OCTA headquarters on Main Street. Cash and coin will still be accepted. To learn more about WAVE, click [here](https://www.octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/wave/about-wave?ref=santanero.org). ### Santa Ana to consider regulating self-checkout in drug, retail stores URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/29/santa-ana-to-consider-regulating-self-checkout-in-drug-retail-stores/ Last updated: 2026-04-30T00:03:09.000Z The Santa Ana City Council is considering a proposed [ordinance](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Draft-Ordinance---Self-Service-Checkout-Stations-2178170.1--CMO.pdf) that would establish staffing and operational requirements for self-checkout systems in grocery and drug retail stores. According to the [staff report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/4e4235fa-810d-4ac1-85db-3a4af6f91584.pdf), the measure is intended to address concerns related to retail theft, employee workload, and access to staffed checkout options. Under the [proposal](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Draft-Ordinance---Self-Service-Checkout-Stations-2178170.1--CMO.pdf), stores that offer self-checkout would be required to follow several operational rules: - Require at least one staffed checkout lane to be open whenever self-checkout stations are available - Limit self-checkout transactions to 15 items or fewer - Prohibit self-checkout purchases of items requiring identification, such as alcohol and tobacco, as well as items secured with anti-theft devices - Require at least one employee to supervise self-checkout areas at all times - Establish a staffing ratio of one employee for every three self-checkout stations in stores with multiple machines - Require stores to post signage informing customers of the rules and their rights - Require checkout areas to be arranged so they are clearly visible for monitoring and oversight The [ordinance](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Draft-Ordinance---Self-Service-Checkout-Stations-2178170.1--CMO.pdf) also specifies that employees assigned to supervise self-checkout stations must not have other responsibilities that would interfere with their ability to monitor transactions. City staff indicates that the [proposal](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Draft-Ordinance---Self-Service-Checkout-Stations-2178170.1--CMO.pdf) is part of a broader effort to respond to operational and safety considerations associated with the increased use of self-checkout technology. Similar ordinances have been adopted in other nearby jurisdictions, including [Long Beach](https://www.longbeach.gov/edo/self-service-checkout-staffing-requirements-ordinance/?ref=santanero.org) and [Costa Mesa](https://www.costamesaca.gov/government/departments-and-divisions/city-manager-s-office/legislative-and-government-affairs/self-checkout-ordinance?ref=santanero.org). If adopted, the [ordinance](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Draft-Ordinance---Self-Service-Checkout-Stations-2178170.1--CMO.pdf) would take effect 30 days after approval. It would allow customers and employees to pursue enforcement through civil action, with financial penalties for violations that increase if issues are not corrected. The City Council will consider the ordinance at its meeting scheduled Tuesday, May 5th at 5:30 PM. The Santanero reached out to Target, Walmart and Ross and will update this article if and when a response is issued. ### Federal authorities arrest 25 alleged Mexican Mafia members and associates in California URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/23/federal-authorities-arrest-25-alleged-mexican-mafia-members-and-associates-in-california/ Last updated: 2026-04-24T02:59:28.000Z (SANTA ANA, Calif.) In one of the most sweeping organized crime crackdowns in recent years, deemed Operation Gangsta’s Paradise, federal authorities have arrested dozens of alleged members and associates of the Mexican Mafia in Southern California, describing what they say is a sprawling criminal enterprise tied to violence, drug trafficking, and extortion. The Mexican Mafia, founded in the 1950s, is described by law enforcement as a highly organized criminal network with influence both inside prisons and across communities in California. Prosecutors describe the Mexican Mafia—also known as *La Eme*—as a powerful prison-based syndicate that allegedly exerts control over numerous Southern California street gangs, effectively operating as a centralized command structure for criminal activity. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, a total of 43 defendants have been charged under multiple federal indictments, with 37 suspects taken into custody in coordinated early-morning raids across Orange County and surrounding areas. The indictments allege a wide range of offenses, including: - Racketeering (RICO conspiracy) - Drug trafficking (methamphetamine and fentanyl) - Kidnapping and murder - Extortion and illegal gambling operations Authorities say the organization enforced a system in which street gangs were required to pay “taxes” on illicit earnings, often under threat of violence. “Gang members who murder, extort, kidnap, and traffic drugs and firearms are a menace to our communities and our way of life,” said Bill Essayli, First Assistant United States Attorney. “Today’s arrests highlight the continuing cooperation between federal and local law enforcement against violent felons and our unyielding determination to crack down on organized crime in our prisons and our streets.” Prosecutors further allege that senior gang leaders directed operations from inside prison using contraband cellphones, coordinating criminal activity on the outside between 2024 and 2026. During the operation, the FBI and several local police departments seized significant quantities of contraband, including: - Approximately 120 pounds of methamphetamine - Over 8 pounds of fentanyl - 25 firearms - More than $30,000 in cash “These arrests send a clear message: Organized crime and violence will not be tolerated in Santa Ana,” said Robert Rodriguez, Chief of Police in Santa Ana. “Through strong partnerships with local and federal counterparts, we will continue to target those who threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.” Officials say the volume of drugs underscores what they describe as the group’s involvement in fueling the ongoing opioid crisis. One of the most significant allegations focuses on a killing linked to the group’s activities at a motel in Anaheim that authorities say was under gang control. Prosecutors allege that on February 3, 2025, Matthew Kundrat, 29, known as “Bubba,” of Anaheim, and Manuel Ramos, 45, known as “Rhino,” of Santa Ana, are accused of carrying out the killing of a victim at the Akua Inn. Authorities say the act was carried out as a deliberate effort to gain entry into the Mexican Mafia and elevate their standing within the organization, reflecting what prosecutors describe as the group’s use of violence to establish loyalty and rank. Both Kundrat and Ramos are charged with committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity and, if convicted, would face a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison and could be eligible for the death penalty. Federal prosecutors allege that violence, including kidnapping and assault, has been used to maintain control, silence rivals, and enforce compliance among businesses and lower-level gang members. This latest operation reflects a broader federal strategy to dismantle organized crime using racketeering laws, commonly referred to as the RICO Act—a legal tool designed to target entire criminal enterprises rather than just individual offenders. The defendants are expected to appear in federal courts in Los Angeles and Orange County in the coming days. If convicted, many could face life sentences. ### Ducks end 8-year drought: Anaheim storms back into the Stanley Cup playoffs URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/sports/2026/04/21/ducks-end-8-year-drought-anaheim-storms-back-into-the-stanley-cup-playoffs/ Last updated: 2026-04-21T01:46:30.000Z The Anaheim Ducks are back in the postseason for the first time in eight years, marking a major milestone in the franchise’s rebuild. Their last playoff appearance came in 2018, when they were swept in the first round by the San Jose Sharks. Anaheim finished the 2025–26 regular season with a 43–33–6 record, good for 90 points and third place in the Pacific Division. 🏒 Under the NHL’s scoring system, teams earn 2 points for a win, 1 point for an overtime loss, and 0 for a regulation loss. Despite leading the division for much of the season, the Ducks ultimately settled into a playoff position—an outcome that seemed unlikely just a few years ago. In just three seasons, the Ducks have undergone a complete transformation. During the 2022–23 campaign, Anaheim finished with a dismal 58 points (23–47–12), signaling the need for major changes. One of the most notable moves in this turnaround was hiring head coach Joel Quenneville. When the 2025–26 season began, he had not coached an official NHL game in nearly four years. His return helped stabilize the team as it began to show signs of real progress. ### 'Quacking' through the season’s highs and lows The Ducks opened the season strong, stacking early wins and building momentum. However, adversity struck about six weeks in, when the team endured a brutal nine-game losing streak. They responded impressively with a seven-game winning streak, fueled by improved defensive play—an area that had plagued them early on. Still, the regular season ended on a sour note, as Anaheim went 1–6–2 in its final stretch. Despite that stumble, the Ducks clinched a playoff berth just one week earlier, aided by a San Jose Sharks win over the Nashville Predators. Anaheim made several bold moves to accelerate the rebuild: - On June 12, 2025, the Ducks acquired forward Chris Kreider and a 2025 fourth-round pick from the New York Rangers in exchange for Carey Terrance and a third-round pick. Kreider, who had nearly reached 40 goals just two seasons prior, brought veteran scoring presence. - On June 23, 2025, Anaheim traded Trevor Zegras to the Philadelphia Flyers for Ryan Poehling and two draft picks. Poehling responded with a breakout season (11 goals, 25 assists) and earned a four-year extension. - On January 16, 2026, the Ducks added forward Jeffrey Viel from the Boston Bruins, bolstering both physicality and defensive depth. - A blockbuster deal came on March 5, 2026, when Anaheim acquired veteran defenseman John Carlson from the Washington Capitals. The trade included a conditional 2026 first-round pick—triggered by Anaheim making the playoffs—and a 2027 third-rounder. Carlson, one of the league’s elite defensemen, previously posted a 75-point season (15 goals, 60 assists in 2019–20). The Ducks’ resurgence is driven largely by a talented young core. The roster features 15 players under the age of 30, including 20-year-old Beckett Sennecke, the youngest on the team. Key developments include: - A contract extension for Mason McTavish following a strong previous season - An eight-year deal for defenseman Jackson Lacombe, whose growth—especially after the Olympic break—has been significant - Goaltender Lukas Dostal emerging as a foundational piece, despite late-season struggles (averaging 3 goals allowed per game) Top goal scorers from this group include: - Cutter Gauthier (41) - Leo Carlsson (29) - Beckett Sennecke (23) - Troy Terry (19) - Mason McTavish (17) - Ryan Poehling (11) While the youth movement is strong, Anaheim’s veteran presence has been just as important. The Ducks carried nine players between ages 32 and 36 this season. - Chris Kreider contributed 22 goals - Alex Killorn added 15 - Mikael Granlund caught fire after the Olympic break, including a hat trick against the Calgary Flames and a stretch of seven goals in five games Defensively, leadership came from captain Radko Gudas, along with Jacob Trouba and John Carlson. ### How to watch the Ducks in the playoffs Now, the Ducks turn their attention to proving they belong among the NHL’s elite. Game 1 of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs begins Monday, April 20, at 7 p.m. from Rogers Place. The games will be broadcast on ESPN2, Victory+, and KCOP-13. Games 3 and 4 will shift back to Anaheim, giving fans a long-awaited chance to witness playoff hockey once again. ### Two killed, one wounded in suspected gang-related shooting in Mid-City URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/04/20/two-killed-one-wounded-in-suspected-gang-related-shooting-in-mid-city/ Last updated: 2026-04-21T14:03:19.000Z Santa Ana Police is investigating a fatal shooting that left two men dead and another injured late Sunday night, in what detectives believe may be a gang-related incident. According to a [press release](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXXNG8ZCTgH/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org), officers and the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) responded to multiple reports of gunfire shortly before 9 p.m. Sunday near the intersection of Borchard Avenue and Shelton Street. The two agencies discovered three male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims, 49-year-old Santa Ana resident Eusebio Villareal, was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to his upper torso. A second victim, identified as 46-year-old Marlon Jaime Castillo of Fullerton, was transported to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The third unidentified victim, a 43-year-old man from Los Angeles, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg and is expected to survive. Authorities have indicated that details remain limited as the case is still under active investigation. Individuals with information can contact the Santa Ana Police Department’s Homicide Section at (714)-245-8390 or reach out anonymously through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS. ### The Santanero celebrates Local News Day URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/newsroom/2026/04/09/the-santanero-celebrates-local-news-day/ Last updated: 2026-04-09T13:00:56.000Z Today is Thursday, April 9th, newly known as [Local News Day](https://localnewsday.org/?ref=santanero.org). It's the first inaugural celebration initially supported by the Montana Free Press, American Journalism Project, Press Forward, and more. The Santanero is proud to join over 1,300 newsrooms across the nation in this coalition to recognize locally supported newsrooms. "Americans overwhelmingly say local news is essential to democracy and to their daily lives. Yet many communities struggle to access the in-depth, accountable coverage they deserve. Local News Day helps bridge that gap—reconnecting people with trusted sources that keep them informed and strengthen their communities," says the Montana Free Press. We are proud to have provided Santaneros with news and information for the last three years. On April 20th, The Santanero turns four with good surprises in store! "The Santanero began as a very small idea and has grown to a trusted community-centered publication, 14,000 strong," said co-founder Daniel Diaz. "We cannot wait to share our next steps this month!" That is why we're asking for anyone out there reading this to support our [GoFundMe](https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-this-community-newspaper-stay-funded?attribution%5Fid=sl:266aaf7e-fc44-4d10-bdb2-27d91190085d&lang=en%5FUS&ts=1767618833&utm%5Fcampaign=man%5Fsharesheet%5Fdash&utm%5Fcontent=amp17%5Fte&utm%5Fmedium=customer&utm%5Fsource=copy%5Flink) in any way! That includes sharing the link to your social stories or donating whatever you can. Happy Local News Day! Start Local! > Learn more about our story [here](https://www.santanero.org/about/). Before we go, happy Local News Day to our fellow newsrooms at the [Voice of OC](https://voiceofoc.org/?ref=santanero.org), [Spotlight Schools](https://www.spotlightschools.com/?ref=santanero.org) and [el Don](https://eldonnews.org/?ref=santanero.org)! ### Local nonprofit distributes naloxone at Bacerra’s office hours as overdose deaths trend downward URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/04/08/local-nonprofit-distributes-naloxone-at-bacerras-office-hours-as-overdose-deaths-trend-downward/ Last updated: 2026-04-08T13:59:46.000Z The [Asian-American Senior Citizens Service Center](https://aascsc.org/?ref=santanero.org) set up next to Ward 4 Councilmember Phil Bacerra’s tent [Saturday](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzRI7qD69n/?img%5Findex=6&igsh=&ref=santanero.org) during office hours at Adams Park, where staff handed out fentanyl test strips and boxes of four and eight milligram doses of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan. The effort comes as Orange County continues to grapple with the impacts of the opioid crisis, which surged sharply during the coronavirus pandemic, but is now beginning to show signs of decline. ❔ **According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (*[**NIDA*](https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone?ref=santanero.org)**), Naloxone is a medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose, restoring breathing within minutes and preventing death.* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/04/opioid-deaths-17-21.png) According to a [summary report](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Opioid%5FOverdose%5FDeath%5FTrends%5F2017-2021%5Fv04%5FWeb.pdf) published by the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA), between 2019 and 2021, opioid related overdose deaths in Orange County nearly tripled, rising from 267 deaths in 2019 to 743 in 2021 \[yellow line includes fentanyl/green data as a total for that year\]\]. The death rate increased from 8.4 to 23.2 per 100,000 residents during that same period. Other opioids made up a much smaller share. In [2021](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Opioid%5FOverdose%5FDeath%5FTrends%5F2017-2021%5Fv04%5FWeb.pdf), deaths involving natural or semi synthetic opioids totaled 122, heroin accounted for 50 deaths, and methadone was involved in 27 deaths. Emergency room visits for opioid overdoses also [climbed](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Opioid%5FOverdose%5FDeath%5FTrends%5F2017-2021%5Fv04%5FWeb.pdf) after 2019, reflecting a broader increase in drug related harm across the county, mostly pointing to fentanyl as a major driver of the surge. By 2021, fentanyl had become the main driver of overdose deaths in Orange County, from 56 in 2017 to 651 in 2021 \[green data\]. However, [recent data](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/25-11-13-Fentanyl-related-deaths-in-Orange-County-see-five-year-low%5F0.pdf) by the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Division showed a downward trend in fentanyl-related deaths as they fell to their lowest level in five years. The county recorded 407 fentanyl related deaths in 2024. Officials [citied](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/25-11-13-Fentanyl-related-deaths-in-Orange-County-see-five-year-low%5F0.pdf) their efforts in expanded education campaigns, increased enforcement targeting drug distribution networks and wider access to treatment and recovery services as possible reasons for the drop in opioid-related overdose deaths. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/04/opioid-deaths-by-age-17-21.png) The impact has been especially pronounced among young and middle aged adults. [County data](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Opioid%5FOverdose%5FDeath%5FTrends%5F2017-2021%5Fv04%5FWeb.pdf) from 2017 to 2021 shows people ages 25 to 34 accounted for the largest share of overdose deaths, followed by those ages 35 to 44 and 45 to 54. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/04/opioid-deaths-19-21.png) While the crisis has affected communities across Orange County, its impact varies by city. Data from the [Orange County Health Care Agency](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2026/04/Opioid%5FOverdose%5FDeath%5FTrends%5F2017-2021%5Fv04%5FWeb.pdf) shows that coastal cities reported the highest overdose death rates between 2019 and 2021, led by San Juan Capistrano, Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach. Santa Ana ranked seventh among Orange County cities, with an overdose death rate of 59.3 per 100,000 residents, well above the countywide average of 47.4 for a dataset between 2019 and 2021. The city also experienced high levels of non-fatal overdoses. From 2019 to 2021, Santa Ana recorded 431 opioid related emergency department visits, with a rate of 138.8 per 100,000 residents. --- The AASCSC told *The Santanero* that harm reduction tools like naloxone and fentanyl test strips are becoming more widely used, even showing up at raves across Southern California where they are now commonly distributed to attendees. To learn more about Naxolone and its application, click [here](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/pages/naloxone.aspx?ref=santanero.org#tag5). #### Is there a difference between the 4mg and 8mg naloxone? According to public health guidance, naloxone is typically administered in standard 4 milligram doses, with additional doses given if the person does not respond. Higher-dose versions, such as 8 milligrams, are also available and may be used in cases involving potent opioids like fentanyl. While naloxone can trigger withdrawal symptoms, especially at higher doses, health experts emphasize that reversing the overdose is the priority. **The Santanero* is providing this information with the note that readers understand this is not medical advice. If there’s an emergency, dial 911. ### City awarded $200 billion to add bike lanes to every single street URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/01/city-awarded-200-billion-to-add-bike-lanes-to-every-single-street/ Last updated: 2026-04-01T13:52:34.000Z The City of Santa Ana has been awarded $200 billion in funding to pave every single street in the city with a designated bike lane, including cul-de-sacs and roundabouts. “This will certainly boost the city’s green look,” said a V8 car user. The City is expected to host an event at a cul-de-sac where partner Behr is expected to paint the town green immediately after the City Clerk clears the check. The City Council had voted to accept the monies at their oddly scheduled meeting held on February 31st, but waited until Staples could print out an enormous check for the event. “They’re doing WHAT?!” said Henry Ford when informed about the award. The City projects completion by the year 8750, giving it a significant head start over Bristol Street, which is still expected to finish just seconds before the Sun becomes a red giant in 5 billion years. ### If you've come this far: APRIL FOOLS! Media literacy is on the [decline](https://www.andrews.edu/life/student-movement/issues/2024-11-22/id%5Fmedialiteracy.html?ref=santanero.org). Now more than ever, readers should focus on how their source for news gather their information. Are there any red flags in this article? Yes, several. There are no links to sources, a quote from a deceased person and an unrealistic date of completion (despite constant joking by residents). There is also no February 31st since it is the shortest month of the year. And really, how would a bike lane work in a cul-de-sac?! *Happy April Fools, Santaneros!* ### City Council Recap: Feb. 3, 2026 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/02/05/city-council-recap-feb-3-2026/ Last updated: 2026-02-06T12:56:59.000Z ⚠️ Two pending articles have been pushed for a later date: a) SAPD Drones \[02/07/26\] and b) Hernandez investigation/new probe \[02/08/26\] pending clarification from City Hall. ## Hernandez cleared after limited investigation; Amezcua calls for new probe after 'pressure' allegation An investigation into three complaints from police officers against Ward 5 Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez found the allegations were not sustained—but investigations aren't done as Mayor Valerie Amezcua requested a new probe after Hernandez accused one Councilmember of allegedly pressuring a city employee to file a previous complaint against him tied to Chicano Heritage Festival planning. *Full article to be published Friday with special timeline graphic on our Instagram.* --- ## Council 'receives and files' East First Street progress report without hearing presentation The Santa Ana City Council unanimously agreed to receive and file [Item 7](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56579&ref=santanero.org) during Tuesday's meeting without a staff presentation—which is not required unless a member on the dais pulled the item and requested the staff to present the progress on East First Street. The Santanero confirmed a slideshow presentation and PDF printout was ready in the event the Council chose to hear the presentation, but since all chose to move on to other items in the agenda, the presentation was not heard. However, the staff report for Item 7 did include some summary data as follows: | Metric | Value | | --------------------------------- | ----- | | Misdemeanor Arrests | 1,010 | | Felony Arrests | 313 | | Total Arrests | 1,323 | | Proposition 36 Arrests | 252 | | Infraction Citations | 239 | | Calls for Service | 7,600 | | Cleanups (Landscape West) | 1,190 | | Power Wash Operations | 48 | | Bus Bench Cleanups | 84 | | Individuals Connected to Services | 342 | --- ## Council reviews costs for in-car cameras for Santa Ana Police Council discusses Item 8 of Feb. 3, 2026's agenda. (City of Santa Ana YouTube Channel) ✏️ This post features a correction where it was mistaken that the POC reviews police purchases but instead meant Vazquez pushed an effort for the POC to review them moving forward. We regret the error (7:11 AM DOP) The Council voted unanimously, 7–0, to receive and file [Item 8](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=5530&type=0&ref=santanero.org), a procedural action that did not authorize funding for in-car cameras. During the discussion, Santa Ana Police presented estimated costs ranging from $244,000 to $279,000. Police Chief Robert Rodriguez and City Manager Alvaro Nuñez said the proposed in-car cameras would function similarly to the AXON body cameras currently used across the department. The vendor process however would still have to endure the City's bidding process. Funding for the cameras will be revisited later this year as part of the budget process, attempting to locate potential funding sources. Ward 2 Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez supported the receive-and-file action and noted that police-related purchases should be reviewed by the Police Oversight Commission. --- ## Council approves nearly $1 million in lobbying contracts The Santa Ana City Council voted 7–0 on Tuesday to approve two lobbying contracts, authorizing up to $963,000 in General Fund spending for state and federal advocacy services. The vote approved a [federal lobbying contract](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=26506&uid=6e0b5bf5-1b8d-4990-85ad-467ccb5da56f&type=2&ref=santanero.org) with Manatt Government Strategies, costing $352,800 over three years and up to $588,000 with extensions. City staff [said](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56629&ref=santanero.org) Manatt has previously helped Santa Ana secure millions in federal grants and earmarks, including funding for infrastructure, public safety, and water projects. Councilmembers also approved a [state lobbying contract](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=26507&uid=ae23ccd5-0840-40dc-bfc3-5df4e1a8b8c3&type=2&ref=santanero.org) with Townsend Public Affairs, totaling $175,000 over three years and up to $375,000 if fully extended. The firm has represented the city in Sacramento for years and has helped secure more than $80 million in state funding, including homelessness, youth facility, and transportation-related grants according to the [staff report](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56630&ref=santanero.org). Both contracts include 30-day termination clauses and are funded through the city’s General Fund. --- ## Council narrowly approves 4–3 vote to purchase five police drones ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/02/drone-1.png) Skydio X10D model, one of three drones Santa Ana Police will use later this year. (Skydio, Inc.) The Santa Ana City Council voted 4–3 to approve a police drone program after a tense and closely divided debate. The decision allows the police department to move forward with a "Drone as a First Responder program," despite concerns raised by Councilmembers and residents about privacy, surveillance, and the potential for immigration authorities such as ICE to access drone-related data. *Full article to be published Friday.* --- ## Council adopts Police Oversight Commission bylaws The Santa Ana City Council unanimously approved a [resolution](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=26513&uid=c3bb36ba-196e-471c-a982-bbbf94933d29&type=2&ref=santanero.org) Tuesday adopting the initial bylaws for the city’s Police Oversight Commission, a key step in formalizing how the civilian oversight body operates. The bylaws establish the commission’s governance structure, meeting procedures, voting rules and code of conduct, providing clarity on how Commissioners carry out their oversight and advisory role related to policing in Santa Ana. They also outline requirements for public meetings, quorum, officer elections, handling conflicts of interest and compliance with California’s Brown Act. City staff [said](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=5522&type=0&ref=santanero.org) the bylaws were developed over multiple public meetings and were unanimously approved by the Police Oversight Commission in October 2025 before being sent to the City Council for final adoption. Under city law, the council is required to approve the commission’s rules of operation. --- ## Council directs staff to gather information for public hearing in 60 days on June 2025 protest police actions ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/02/DSC02813.JPG) Santa Ana Police make way for ICE vehicles enter rear at the Santa Ana Federal Building. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero) Santa Ana City Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez [requested](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56636&ref=santanero.org) that the City Council direct the City Manager to prepare a public report and require the Police Oversight Commission to hold a public hearing on the Santa Ana Police Department’s use of force during June 2025 protests at the Civic Center. The demonstrations followed federal immigration enforcement activity, including ICE raids, and involved police use of rubber bullets, tear gas, and other crowd-control weapons. Vazquez’s request called for transparency around the total cost of the response, weapons deployed, body-worn camera and surveillance footage, reported injuries, command decisions, and any coordination with outside agencies, including federal authorities—similar to public record requests made by The Santanero last summer and are still pending. In July 2025, the police department [presented](https://public.powerdms.com/SAPDCA/tree/documents/1532837?ref=santanero.org) its AB 481 military equipment report, outlining summaries of equipment use, including crowd-control tools, but the presentation did not provide a full incident-specific breakdown of the June protests—specifically during a peaceful protest [reported live by The Santanero](https://www.santanero.org/santa-ana-police-shoot-rubber-bullets-at-protesters-without-warning/) in the early hours of June 12, 2025 on Fourth and Main, where police fired rubber bullets into the crowd without declaring an unlawful assembly. Council discussing Item 19 of Feb 3, 2026's agenda. (City of Santa Ana YouTube Channel) The discussion led to a cacophony of responses from the dais, diverse in their efforts to give direction to the City Manager. In Vazquez' ask to have the Police Oversight Commission to hold a hearing, Mayor Valerie Amezcua, Councilmember Jessie Lopez and Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez wanting to be present at the hearing could raise red flags about Brown Act laws. In the end, the Council gave direction to the City staff to gather disclosable information on the June 2025 protests within 60 days from Tuesday and later hold a public hearing at a City Council meeting to receive testimonies from protestors affected by actions of the police department during those protests. --- ## How Late Did The Meeting Begin? The Council was 80 minutes late, achieving a second place rank for tardiness behind their 97 minute mark recorded on August 1, 2024\. The average—now reset to begin for this calendar year as of Jan. 20, 2026's meeting—sits at 69 minutes per meeting. ## Behavior Chart for Feb. 3, 2026 The Council was reminded by City Attorney Sonia Carvalho about quorum procedures as several members of the dais left without notifying the Chair or Clerk. Some members have left in previous meeting after giving their comments at the end of the meeting without officially declaring their departure for the minutes recorded by the City Clerk. Because of this, the Council as a whole got a yellow card. In addition, exchanges on the dais between Mayor Valerie Amezcua, Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez, Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez, Councilmember Phil Bacerra held undertones that could have been more mature in decorum nature. For this, they dropped to the orange tier. | Member | Result | | -------------------------------------- | ------ | | Mayor Valerie Amezcua | 🟧 | | Mayor Pro Tem David Penaloza | 🟨 | | Councilmember Thai Viet Phan | 🟨 | | Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez | 🟧 | | Councilmember Jessie Lopez | 🟨 | | Councilmember Phil Baccera | 🟧 | | Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez | 🟧 | --- SPONSORED Thank you for being a free subscriber! Consider donating to keep us paywall free! [Donate here ](https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-this-community-newspaper-stay-funded?attribution%5Fid=sl:266aaf7e-fc44-4d10-bdb2-27d91190085d&lang=en%5FUS&ts=1767618833&utm%5Fcampaign=man%5Fsharesheet%5Fdash&utm%5Fcontent=amp17%5Fte&utm%5Fmedium=customer&utm%5Fsource=copy%5Flink) ### Council approves police drone program in 4–3 vote URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/02/04/council-approves-police-drone-program-in-4-3-vote/ Last updated: 2026-02-04T06:22:38.000Z (THE SANTANERO) SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City Council voted 4–3 Tuesday night to approve a police drone program, following a tense and closely divided debate over the use of unmanned aerial technology. The decision authorizes the city to move forward with the agreement outlined in the staff report, allowing the Police Department to implement drones as part of its operations despite opposition from nearly half of the council. This is breaking news. A longer article, as well as the full recap of tonight's meeting will be published later this week. ### 18 year-old shot, killed by police after short pursuit URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/01/29/19-year-old-shot-killed-by-police-after-short-pursuit/ Last updated: 2026-01-30T14:59:45.000Z (THE SANTANERO — Santa Ana, Calif.) Santa Ana Police issued a press release at approximately 4:30 PM Thursday providing additional details about a deadly officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday night. According to the Santa Ana Police Department, the shooting occurred on around 10:29 PM Wednesday, when an officer attempted to stop a vehicle near Santa Ana Boulevard and French Street. In its press release, SAPD stated that the driver “failed to yield to the officer’s attempt to conduct a traffic stop, resulting in a short vehicle pursuit.” The department’s release does not make clear whether the attempted stop was initiated for an unspecified violation or if the failure to yield was itself the sole reason for the stop. *The Santanero* contacted Santa Ana Police Department Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia to seek clarification on that point. As of publication, no response had been provided. According to SAPD, the vehicle ultimately entered the parking garage at 450 E. 4th Street, known as The Spectrum Condominiums. The driver accessed the garage through the Third Street gate near the intersection of Third and French Streets, where the vehicle came to a stop. The driver, later identified by police as 18-year-old Victor Lopez of Santa Ana, exited the vehicle and dropped a loaded Walther 9mm handgun onto the ground. According to SAPD, Lopez initially walked toward the officer with his hands raised before turning back toward the firearm and lowering his hands. Police say the officer gave verbal commands instructing Lopez not to reach for “it,” after which an officer-involved shooting occurred. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUFnc4Vjb5I/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) > > [A post shared by OCactive\_™️ (@ocactive\_)](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUFnc4Vjb5I/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) Video posted by @OCactive\_ appears to show Lopez exiting the vehicle with his hands raised and empty-handed before moving back toward the vehicle and bending down. Lopez then moves out of the camera’s view, after which three gunshots can be heard. According to the press release, Lopez was struck in the upper torso and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Orange County Fire Authority. Police said the firearm recovered was loaded and stated Lopez was a suspected gang member and was found in possession of suspected fentanyl in the vehicle. At the time of the shooting, Lopez’s 19-year-old girlfriend and their one-year-old child were inside the vehicle, according to police. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/01/3.png) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/01/5.png) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2026/01/7.png) **Images from Ray Diaz, resident, showing areas of the apartment garage taped off. (Ray Diaz)* According to Ray Diaz, a resident who lives at the apartment complex, children playing were present inside the parking garage and on upper levels as the incident unfolded. Photos provided to *The Santanero* by Diaz show the garage taped off following the shooting for a preliminary investigation. It remains unclear whether officers ordered residents to leave the garage before or after the shooting, and *The Santanero* reached out to SAPD for clarifcation. Neighbors and residents gathered Thursday evening to pay their respects to Lopez. The officer-involved shooting is being investigated by the Santa Ana Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division and Homicide Unit, along with investigators from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Santa Ana Police Department Homicide Section at (714) 245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS. ### City Council Recap: Jan. 20, 2026 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/01/26/city-council-recap-jan-20-2026/ Last updated: 2026-01-29T18:46:47.000Z --- ## City discusses 8 lawsuits, settles on one and files appeal on Rita case [CL-2\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56442&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council spent an extended time in closed session discussing eight lawsuits facing the City. City Attorney Sonia Carvahlo said the Council took action on two of the cases. One involves Irma De La Cruz, who sued the City, Caltrans, and SoCalGas after she said she was injured in a Sept. 21, 2022 trip-and-fall on Civic Center Drive, blaming an uneven sidewalk around utility boxes. The Council unanimously voted for the City to settle the case in the amount of $135,000 and is expected to be closed in February. The other is *Rita Ramirez v. City of Santa Ana*, in which a former police department manager alleged retaliation and gender discrimination after refusing to take sides in internal department conflicts. A jury awarded Ramirez about $2.9 million, but the Council voted in closed session 6-1 (Hernandez no vote, see to the right) to direct the City to appeal the verdict. --- ## Water & sewer rate increase process begins ![black metal tube lot](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1543674892-7d64d45df18b?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDd8fHBpcGV8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzY5NDM3OTAxfDA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [T K](https://unsplash.com/@realaxer?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) [OS-8\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56451&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council is beginning the formal Proposition 218 process that would allow the City to later approve water and sewer rate increases, but no rates are being adopted at this meeting yet. The Council’s action is to authorize staff to prepare and mail required notices to property owners and schedule a future public hearing on or after March 17, 2026, where the rate changes would actually be considered. City staff says rates haven’t been adjusted since 2023, while costs have risen faster than revenues, leaving the water and sewer enterprise funds at “unacceptable” levels. The report cites rising wholesale water costs, major infrastructure needs, and new regulatory requirements like PFAS treatment, and warns delaying increases could require a bigger hike later and potentially risk the City’s credit rating. If the recommended rates are eventually approved, the City estimates a typical single-family household would see about a $7 per month increase in their combined water and sewer bill. --- ## Council approves new police ammunition contracts ![grayscale photo of police officers](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1557081999-da7330de1277?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDF8fHJ1YmJlciUyMGJ1bGxldHxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Njk0MzgwMjN8MA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [ev](https://unsplash.com/@ev?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) [OS-10\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56481&ref=santanero.org) Santa Ana City Council approved a new purchase order contracts for police ammunition with Dooley Enterprises (Anaheim), Miwall Corporation (Grass Valley), and San Diego Police Equipment Co. for an as-needed total not-to-exceed $825,000 under the General Fund, starting with a one-year term through Jan. 19, 2027, with options to renew for up to four additional years. SAPD says the ammunition supports day-to-day duty needs, mandatory training and monthly firearms qualifications, police academy recruit training, and forensic work like evidentiary test-firing and ballistic analysis (including NIBIN entry). The report notes the City received 4 responsive bids, and the recommended vendors were chosen based on availability and lead times. Staff estimates Year 1 costs at about $165,000 split between training and forensic services accounts, while the overall multi-year contract cap remains $825,000. The bid list includes handgun ammunition (9mm/.40/.45/.380), patrol rifle rounds (5.56/.223), and shotgun shells (12-gauge buckshot and slugs). --- ## Council accepts $1.66M CalOES UASI public safety grant [OS-12\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56506&ref=santanero.org) Santa Ana City Council considered and approved an appropriation adjustment to formally accept and budget $1,655,974in FY 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant funding to support public safety and emergency preparedness efforts. The UASI program provided funding for local first responders for activities such as training, planning, equipment, exercises, and technical assistance focused on preventing, responding to, and recovering from terrorism-related incidents. SAPD noted that the Council had previously authorized the UASI agreement in December 2025 and approved related purchases, including a video surveillance system upgrade and vehicle mitigation mobile barrier kits. This action allocated the grant funding into the appropriate City accounts so the approved projects could move forward. The funding was planned across two fiscal years, with $993,585 in FY 2025–26 and $662,389 reserved for FY 2026–27, and any unused balance was expected to return to Council later for carryover approval. The item passed on a 5–2 vote. --- ## Council approves $1.1 million agreement for DTSA Clean & Safe program ![a view of a building from the top of a building](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1635216370188-bc652d526ef8?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDR8fHNhbnRhJTIwYW5hfGVufDB8fHx8MTc2OTQzNzg3NHww&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [Sean Mullowney](https://unsplash.com/@sean%5Fmullowney?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) [OS-16\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56435&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council voted uninamiously to approve a contract aimed at keeping Downtown Santa Ana cleaner and more welcoming. City staff recommended a deal with Romo Enterprises Inc., doing business as *DTSA Services*, to run the city’s Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program for one year starting March 1, 2026, at a cost not to exceed $1.11 million. The agreement would cover day-to-day work like trash pickup, power washing, alley cleanups, emptying dozens of public trash cans multiple times a day, cleaning benches and street furniture, and handling cleanup and street closures during special events. The agreement will also add “security guard overisight.” The contract includes options for two additional one-year extensions, bringing the maximum potential total to about $3.5 million over three years. See the City’s press release [here](https://www.santa-ana.org/city-council-approves-downtown-santa-ana-clean-safe-program-to-support-local-businesses/?ref=santanero.org). --- ## Council approves several construction projects [OS-21 to 25\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=24402&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously to approve several construction projects, including more lighting at Centennial Park’s play area. The Council approved a $765,625 alleyway improvements project and awarded a $612,500 construction contract to Cali State Paving, Inc. to upgrade city alleys. Separately, the Council approved $842,630 for the Fire Station 74 Fuel Station Replacement and awarded a $674,104 contract to GEMS Environmental Management Services, Inc. to complete the work. Finally, the Council approved $2,467,500 for the Portola Park Splash Pad Project and awarded a $1,974,000 construction contract to Golden Gate Steel, Inc. to build a new splash pad facility for the community. In addition to the construction items, the Council also approved Item 25, authorizing an agreement with 1st Choice Pool & Spa Solutions for pool, outdoor fountain, and splash pad maintenance and repair services in an amount not-to-exceed $553,930 for the year. --- ## Penaloza to be 2026 Mayor Pro Tem [OS-26\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56440&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council voted 4-3 to choose Ward 6 Councilmember David Penaloza to be this year’s Mayor Pro Tempore (basically the presiding chair during meetings in the absence of Mayor Amezcua). Under procedural rules, the first nomination was put to a vote. A second nomination (Hernandez) was also voted on, but with a 4–3 majority in favor of Penaloza and a 3–4 vote for Hernandez, the title has now passed from Ward 2 Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez to Penaloza. --- ## Lopez selected as alternate representative to SCAG [OS-27\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56424&ref=santanero.org) The Santa Ana City Council voted unaminously to appoint Ward 3 Councilmember Jessie Lopez as an alternate represetative to the (it’s a long title so care with us) Southern California Association of Governments General Assembly Business Meeting (SCAGGABM). --- ## Council advances ordinance to streamline vehicle purchasing [OS-28\]](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=56454&ref=santanero.org) Council reviewed and advanced Item 28, a proposed ordinance amending Santa Ana Municipal Code Section 2-748 to streamline the City’s procurement process for vehicles and vehicle-related equipment, including heavy machinery like loaders, backhoes, sweepers, and utility trucks. The ordinance would have allowed the City Council to pre-authorize an annual vehicle/ equipment purchasing plan with a not-to-exceed budget, which would have given the City Manager authority to execute purchases more quickly after competitive bidding (or through justified cooperative purchasing methods), while still maintaining Council budget oversight and quarterly contract reporting. The purpose of the change was to reduce delays caused by bringing individual vehicle purchases to Council throughout the year and to improve the City’s ability to respond to limited inventory and time-sensitive pricing opportunities. The City Council approved the first reading unanimously. --- ## Disclosure on Recap from Co-Founder Daniel Diaz At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Mayor Valerie Amezcua spontaneously asked me from the dais to lead the chamber in the Pledge of Allegiance. After a brief moment of confusion and surprise, I stood up, walked to the podium and recited the pledge. I attend city council meetings in my official capacity as a journalist. That ask created a situation where my role as press—and as a neutral observer—could be perceived as a breach of The Santanero’s journalistic Code of Ethics. Specifically the clause stating that we "are not affiliated with any governing bodies or officials. Ever." The following day, I spoke with Mayor Amezcua to reiterate that when I am present wearing my blue Santanero polo or with press badge, I am there to do my job as press, and a clear boundary between city officials and the press must continue to be respected. Mayor Amezcua confirmed that she typically selects audience members she recognizes to lead the pledge and that people are not notified ahead of time. She also stated exceptions may occur when someone volunteers in advance and the pledge is coordinated beforehand. Mayor Amezcua apologized for any offense caused (none taken) and noted that moving forward, she will be more mindful of maintaining clear boundaries between city officials and the press. --- ## Council Tardiness and Behavior Chart The Santa Ana City Council was 58 minutes late to this meeting. Averages and tardiness history is unavailable due to resetting for the new year. All the members of the city council kept their behavior in check this meeting. ### Audit dispute sparks clash between Vazquez and police union URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/10/06/audit-dispute-sparks-clash-between-vazquez-and-police-union/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:00:49.000Z 📝 In light of recent developments, **The Santanero* has reached out once again to all Councilmembers and Mayor for comment. A routine audit of the Santa Ana Police Officers Association’s (SAPOA) health benefits trust has escalated into a public confrontation between Mayor Pro Tem/Ward 2 City Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez and the police union, with accusations of financial mismanagement on one side and charges of political grandstanding on the other. On Sept. 30th, Vazquez issued a [letter](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/10/Request-for-Investigation-into-Santa-Ana-Police-Officers-Association---s-Use-of-Public-Funds-09.29.25-2.pdf) to the California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alleging that the City had overpaid the police union by $3,426,054 in a single year, yet the fund still ran a $608,894 deficit. He urged the Attorney General to conduct a 10-year forensic audit of SAPOA’s accounts and investigate whether public money had been improperly spent. He also referenced past controversies within the union, including a failed attempt by a former SAPOA president Gerry Serrano to inflate pension payments, to underscore his case for oversight. > "Santa Ana families work hard and pay their taxes, they should never have to worry about their money being mismanaged. A $3 million overpayment and a deficit raise serious red flags that demand answers. The Attorney General’s independent oversight is necessary to determine whether there has been mismanagement or misuse of funds by SAPOA," Vazquez said in a press release. SPONSORED If you got this far, consider donating to our GoFundMe so more stories like this can come about :) [Donate now ](https://www.gofundme.com/f/no-funds-no-coverage-help-keep-the-santanero-alive?ref=santanero.org) In a statement to *The Santanero* issued late Sept. 30th, Kachirisky said: > “This is an attempt to reduce benefits to the individuals who sacrifice their lives on a daily basis to keep the public safe. The audit will reveal that the Trust assets have not been used for anything other than providing health benefits for our active and retired members. Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez should be ashamed of himself and should learn the facts before spouting out incorrect and distorted information. We expect more from our elected officials and demand an apology.” SAPOA responded sharply in a [letter](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/10/SAPOA-Medica-Trust22.pdf) to the City Council the following day. Union president John Kachirisky dismissed Vazquez’s claims as “untrue and defamatory,” accusing him of misunderstanding both the audit and how health benefit trusts work. The union argued that no overpayment had occurred, adding that the $3.4 million was longstanding reserves built through prudent investment over 40 years. According to Kachirisky, the $608,894 shortfall reflects the gap between City contributions and actual medical costs. To cover it, the trust taps its reserves so that officers don’t have to pay out-of-pocket. SAPOA estimates each officer would otherwise owe $1,300 annually for coverage. Through several Memorandums of Understandings (MOUs) documents received via [public records request](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zFB4h5GOB-nZPcNlWYmqITnfAk6ZSx9U?usp=share%5Flink&ref=santanero.org), the City currently contributes $1,575 per officer per month, while actual healthcare costs average $1,900\. SAPOA argues that the City’s contributions are lower than those made for other employee groups. Administrative costs were below the $50,000 annual cap, and auditors — selected by the City — confirmed no funds were spent outside of health, dental, or disability plans. Kachirisky additionally mentioned the unions' investments, particularly to help expand reserves. > "While the contributions are held to be paid out for health care premiums, the contributions have been prudently invested. As is a best practice for a health care trust fund, the Trust has invested all amounts not used for health care benefits, and through the years have grown reserves which are held in investment accounts," Karirisky wrote. At the end of the stern [letter](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/10/SAPOA-Medica-Trust22.pdf), SAPOA accused Vazquez of “union busting” and disrupting attempts at cooperation between the union and City staff. Vazquez has not responded to initial requests for comment. The Santanero has reached out once again to all Councilmembers and Mayor for comment \[10/6/25 1:55 PM\]. ### Initial vs. revised audit The City’s independent auditors [first reported](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/10/SAPOA-20AUP-20Final-207.30.25-c1-c1-202.pdf) in July 2025 that the police union’s health trust fund held an excess balance of $3.4 million—funds they said exceeded the limit set in the City’s agreement with SAPOA. At the same time, the audit showed the trust operating at a $608,894 deficit for 2023, meaning it paid out more in health costs than it received in contributions, which would have granted a grain of sustainment to Vazquez' allegations. But then a [revised audit](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/10/SAPOA-202023-20AUP-20Revised-20Final-2010.2.25-5B5-5D.pdf) was issued the same day Vazquez requested an investigation. Auditors explained that the initial report had mistakenly counted a "Charles Schwab brokerage account" as part of the trust’s assets. With that account excluded, the revised report found no excess fund balance, effectively erasing the $3.4 million figure. > "\[N\]ew circumstances and information were made known to us that were not disclosed at the time of our initial engagement; specifically, that the brokerage account was erroneously included as part of the trust fund balance," auditors wrote in the revised report. As for the $608,894 debt, it was paid using the union's reserves. In responses to our questions, the union described Vazquez' actions as "reckless" and blames him for "misleading and inaccurate\[ly\]" using the term "overpayment." When asked if the union were to commit to publishing an annual report on the health fund’s balance, investments, and expenditures, the union responded by saying: > "There is nothing to hide, however, it is apparent that some of our City officials do not understand how trust funds work and have inappropriately used the audit to make misrepresentations and distort the facts. The bottom line is that the City is underfunding our Trust fund and certain Councilmembers are seeking to reach into our members’ pockets." ### Responses to our questions The Santanero asked all Councilmembers and Mayor Valerie Amezcua similar questions on Wednesday and again on Friday. Separate questions were asked towards the police union. #### Police union's responses ****Q: Has the union ever used funds from the health trust, or any union-controlled account that receives City (i.e. taxpayer) contributions, to support political campaigns, pay for candidate endorsements, or run campaign operations?** **"NO. If you want to review our PAC and related committees, you can actually review them at the city website. We have 13 years of filing per the Sunshine Ordinance that is available online. You will see that nearly all donations come from the membership, which is how most unions operate.* [**https://public.netfile.com/pub2/?aid=CSA*](https://public.netfile.com/pub2/?aid=CSA&ref=santanero.org)**"* ****Q: How can you explain a $608,000 deficit when the city overpaid by $3.4 million?** **"There is no overpayment by the City. If you review the audit, you will see that the City contributions are much less than the cost to provide coverage for our public safety officers. The deficit refers to the difference between the contributions to the Benefits Trust and the cost to provide medical benefits. The Health Trust covers that difference by drawing on its reserves. If it did not, the cost would fall to individual employees. We estimate that on average individual officers would need to pay over $1300 to make up that gap. There is also no $3.4 overpayment. That is a misleading and inaccurate term used by Mayor Pro Tem Vasquez, and refers to amounts in our reserves. These reserves are Trust assets that have been held and invested over the course of more than 40 years. These are not the result of overpayments by the City, they are the product of prudent and sound investment and management. If you review the audit, it specifically advises that for health care trusts of our nature it is advisable to hold reserves of $3 to $5.5\. million."* ****Q: What investments were made with reserves?** **"Investments were made into typical investment vehicles such as stocks and bonds."* ****Q: How have the $50,000 in allowable administrative costs been used?** **"If you review the audit report you will see that approximately half that amount was used on administrative expenses."* - ****Follow-up: Can you provide receipts or invoices for those expenses? "** *The audit has already confirmed the amount of administrative expenses."* ****Q: Have any trust dollars been used for items outside of health, dental, or disability plans?** **"No, as already conformed by the auditors. These auditors were selected by the City."* - ****Follow-up: If you say “no,” will you commit to a third-party audit that verifies it?** **"The audit was done by a third party vendor. The city selected and the union paid for it, which was agreed upon in the most recent MOU that was approved in 2024\. It should be noted Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez voted against this MOU and therefore against conducting this audit."* ****Q: If you claim there is no deficit, are you saying the city’s independent audit is wrong?** **"If you read the revised version just submitted to the city, they found the accounting error based on further review."* - ****Follow-up: If so, will you publish your own audited numbers side by side with the city’s?** **"There is no need to publish our own audit, although we welcome another independent review if certain haters still don’t want to believe the truth. This audit is done and it is accurate after a simple correction. The 2024 audit will also be completed soon and will be out for the public to review."* ****Q: Why has the union resisted claw-backs of excess contributions?** **"Because the initial claim of overpayment was wrong. Why should the union pay back to the city what is not owed. But we did not try to stop the first payment back to the city, we were taking steps to amicably work with the city to address the primary issue of “how can you have an overpayment and a deficit.” Unfortunately it all was thrown into chaos by the reckless actions of Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez."* - ****Follow-up: If the money truly belongs to health benefits, why not welcome a claw-back to stabilize the fund?** **"There is no reason for a “claw-back.” The city did not overpay and are not owed any money."* ****Q: Will you commit to publishing a public annual report on the health fund’s balance, investments, and expenditures?** **"There is nothing to hide, however, it is apparent that some of our City officials do not understand how trust funds work and have inappropriately used the audit to make misrepresentations and distort the facts. The bottom line is that the City is underfunding our Trust fund and certain Councilmembers are seeking to reach into our members’ pockets."* #### City leadership responses Pending. --- *Correction: A typo in our byline read the city said otherwise when the line should've read "Vazquez."* ### Say hello to WAVE, the new OCTA bus pass coming October URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/10/01/say-hello-to-wave-the-new-octa-bus-pass/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:01:02.000Z Beginning October 15th, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) will introduce WAVE, a smart fare card, retiring their generational run of paper passes. Similar to the systems used by LA Metro and New York MTA, the WAVE card has no expiration date and uses smart fare capping, which means riders never pay more than the cost of a day pass or a monthly pass—guaranteeing that no one spends more than $69 in a calendar month. Think of it like a reloadable Dave & Buster's game card: you load money, use it as you play (ride the bus), and the system automatically tracks your tickets (rides) to redeem them for a nice gift or toy (get the most value). ### Why WAVE? OCTA offered one-day and 30-day paper passes for adults and seniors. While helpful, some riders found themselves either overpaying, because they bought monthly passes but didn’t ride enough to justify the cost. Some also underutilized the bus because they only used the bus occasionally. WAVE solves this problem through a system called fare capping. Instead of paying upfront, riders are charged per trip and automatically stop paying once they hit the daily or monthly limit. As more transportation networks adapt to technology, OCTA hopes riders welcome the new payment options. ### How fare capping works It’s understandable that some riders might feel like they’re being scammed by having to pay each time they ride—but in reality, they’re not. Fares will not change in OCTA's transition to WAVE. - One-way fare: $2.00 - Day pass: $4.50 - Monthly maximum: $69.00 With WAVE, your spending is capped automatically. After three rides in one day ($4.50 total), the rest of the day’s rides are free. Once you’ve spent $69 in a calendar month, the rest of that month’s rides are free. This system resets on the first of each month. To reach the $69 threshold, a rider would need to take the bus three times a day for 16 days in a month. Riders who don’t ride that often save money by only paying for the trips they actually take. Seniors and riders with disabilities would have to ride the bus twice a day for 16 days to reach their $22.25 monthly cap. ### Rider programs and groups Certain rider groups will continue receiving benefits under the WAVE system: - Youth ages 6–18 ride free with a WAVE card. Parents must apply through their child’s school (if participating in the program) or at OCTA headquarters. Passes are valid for one year, with extensions available up to the child’s 19th birthday through an application process opening later this year according to OCTA. - Community college and university students will continue riding under their existing student programs, now tied to WAVE cards. - ADA riders and seniors (60+) will continue at discounted rates, with eligibility verified during the WAVE setup process. *The Santanero* reached out to OCTA if any tutorials are planned to be released to assist ADA and senior riders, but have not heard back as of publish (grandchildren, you're on call!). Each group can review its own instructions for account setup and card registration at [OCTA's website](https://octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/wave/what-to-expect/?ref=santanero.org). ### Getting and using WAVE 1. Create a WAVE account online. Your account can host up to eight WAVE cards or debit/credit cards with tap-to-pay capability. 2. Add a payment method (credit or debit). You can set auto-reload limits when your balance gets low. 3. Use tap-to-ride: either your WAVE card, a linked debit/credit card under the “Contactless” tab, or the WAVE app’s QR code. ### Legacy payment methods Cash and coins will still accepted, but they won’t count toward fare caps. Buses will also no longer carry paper day passes, so riders must carry exact one-way fare moving forward or adapt to the WAVE system. Digital passes on the former OC Bus app must be activated no later than January 27, 2026\. The last day to use these digital passes will be on February 28, 2026\. The OC Bus app is also being phased out to the new WAVE app, but the transition period will be about six months. Paper passes will no longer be sold in stores like Northgate or Ralph's. Instead they will carry the new plastic WAVE card for $4.00 (riders can purchase the same card with OCTA online or in store for $2.00). If riders have a previously purchased paper pass or those who receive them from housing programs and homeless shelters, any unused pass will continue to be validated at the firebox until OCTA announces a final cutoff date. ### Get a free WAVE card! To make the switch easier, OCTA is setting up ambassador stations in cities across the county as well as on local bus routes. At these locations, staff will distribute free WAVE cards. In Santa Ana, OCTA will have the following locations. Please note their date and time. While supplies last. --- ### Supreme Court allows racially profiling immigration raids to continue in Southern California—for now URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/09/09/supreme-court-allows-racially-profiling-immigration-raids-to-continue-in-southern-california-for-now/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:03:15.000Z WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a 6-3 party-lined decision Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court has allowed racially profiling federal immigration raids in Southern California to continue, pausing a lower court’s order that found the operations likely unconstitutional earlier this summer. Despite the temporary restraining order in place, ICE continued to violate it through July and August. The Court stepped in before the Ninth Circuit’s scheduled September 24 hearing in *Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo*, agreeing with the government’s claim that every day under the injunction caused irreparable harm to immigration enforcement. The dissenting justices, however, warned that the raids amounted to racial profiling of people “who look Latino, speak Spanish, and appear to work a low-wage job.” ## Local response Nearly a dozen elected officials have released statements. Click below to read each statement: #### Mayor Valerie Amezcua "I am extremely disappointed and concerned by the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling today that allows U.S. immigration officers to continue to make stops based solely on a person’s location, the type of work they do, the language they speak, or their apparent race or ethnicity. The City of Santa Ana stands behind its decision to join this lawsuit against the federal government challenging these unconstitutional and unlawful immigration enforcement actions. Respecting constitutional rights is not optional — it is fundamental to good governance and community safety.The Santa Ana City Council is committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and safety of all its residents. While immigration enforcement remains a federal responsibility, such enforcement must always be conducted lawfully and with full respect for the civil rights of every individual, regardless of immigration status. The Supreme Court’s ruling to lift the pause on these enforcement actions will only continue until the case goes before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, where we will continue to advocate for the constitutional and civil rights of all people in Santa Ana." #### Mayor Pro Tem/Ward 2 Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez No sole-statement, but did collaborate with Ward 5 Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez, Ray Diaz, and Carlos Perea of the Harbor Institute for Immigrant and Economic Justice and current Police Oversight Commissioner who wrote: "The Supreme Court just legalized racial profiling. This was never about law and order. It's open season on Latinos. This is a hard reminder that every time a community has been denied rights, dignity, and humanity, it was always 'legal.' This is systemic." Perea added below in the caption, "The Supreme Court has set a dangerous precedent for racial profiling. It's open season for Latinos under this fascist administration. Cities like Santa Ana have been under attack and this will just continue to embolden racist actions by Trump and his administration. For elected officials, this is not the time to play it "safe." Trump won't spare your communities if you keep your "head down." Be bold and fight for your constituents." #### Ward 1 Councilmember Thai Viet Phan No statement published or issued as of publish (Sept. 9, 2025 // 6:00 AM) #### Ward 3 Councilmember Jessie Lopez "The Supreme Court's decision to allow federal agents to stop people based on appearance, language, or perceived job status is a direct attack on civil rights—and on our communities. Let's be clear-this isn't about public safety. It's about targeting Latinos and anyone who doesn't look or sound like Trump's idea of an American. It's about using fear as a tool to control, intimidate, and harm people of color-whether they are immigrants, citizens, or simply speaking Spanish on the street. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, writing in support of the majority, even said that "a person's ethnicity can be a relevant factor" in stops. That means someone's heritage or features can now be treated as suspicious by federal agents. That is not justice-it's government-sanctioned profiling. Justice Sotomayor called this what it is—unconstitutional, unjust, and dangerous. In her dissent, she warned that Latinos-citizens and non-citizens alike-are now "fair game to be seized at any time," forced to prove their right to exist in public spaces. I won't mince my words. The Supreme Court majority just gave Trump's secret police force the green light to sweep through our streets, targeting families, workers, and even children. To my community, I understand the fear and frustration this decision brings. I want you to know that I'm committed to standing with you and pushing back against this abuse of power-at every level, and every step of the way. We will not be silenced. We will not be pushed out of our home. And we will not stop fighting for a better future. This fight is far from over-and our resolve and commitment to each other has never been stronger." Lopez added on her Instagram post: "Councilwoman Lopez's statement on today's Supreme Court decision allowing ICE to resume discriminatory raids that terrorize families under the false guise of public safety. #SantaAna" #### Ward 4 Councilmember Phil Bacerra "I am disappointed in the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on Monday that allows ICE officers to stop people based on how they look, what language they speak, or what kind of job they have. The Court's decision enables abuse and discrimination by ICE officers, which makes everyone in our community less safe. The enforcement of immigration laws in our nation must not sacrifice fairness and civil rights." #### Ward 5 Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez No sole-statement, but did collaborate with Mayor Pro-Temp and Ward 2 Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez, Ray Diaz, and Carlos Perea of the Harbor Institute for Immigrant and Economic Justice and current Police Oversight Commissioner who wrote: "The Supreme Court just legalized racial profiling. This was never about law and order. It's open season on Latinos. This is a hard reminder that every time a community has been denied rights, dignity, and humanity, it was always 'legal.' This is systemic." Perea added below in the caption, "The Supreme Court has set a dangerous precedent for racial profiling. It's open season for Latinos under this fascist administration. Cities like Santa Ana have been under attack and this will just continue to embolden racist actions by Trump and his administration. For elected officials, this is not the time to play it "safe." Trump won't spare your communities if you keep your "head down." Be bold and fight for your constituents." #### Ward 6 Councilmember David Penaloza "Today's 6-3 Supreme Court ruling lifting restrictions on ICE raids in Los Angeles is a grave step backward for civil rights and constitutional protections. By allowing immigration agents to target people based on race, language, or occupation, the Court has effectively sanctioned racial profiling and fear in immigrant communities. As Justice Sotomayor warned in her dissent, no one in this country should be subject to seizure simply because they "look Latino" or "speak Spanish." This decision undermines due process and public trust while putting hardworking families and even U.S. citizens at risk. My office stands firmly with our immigrant communities, and I have directed our City Attorney's Office to stay on top of this case and pursue every legal remedy still available to protect ALL our residents. Today, the City of Santa Ana also joined an Amicus Brief in the Newsom v. Trump case regarding the federalization of the National Guard. We will continue to fight this battle on every front, legal, legislative, and moral, because dignity, fairness, and constitutional justice must apply to ALL." Penaloza added on his Instagram post: "The Judicial branch of our government was the last line of defense. ALL three branches of our US Government have failed our country, its people, and the United States Constitution, from what they were designed by our founding fathers to do. #SCOTUS" #### Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-68) "The Supreme Court has sent a clear message to our families and neighbors that discrimination is acceptable at the highest level of our justice system. By clearing the way for these raids, law enforcement can target people for how they look, the language they speak, or the jobs they do. Families are being torn apart, communities like mine live in fear, and the promise of equal protection under the law has been broken. Our nation was built on the idea of freedom and justice for all, not fear, not discrimination, and not cruelty." #### California State Senator Tom Umberg (D-34) No statement published or issued as of publish (Sept. 9, 2025 // 6:00 AM) #### California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) "@realDonaldTrump's hand-picked SCOTUS majority just became the Grand Marshal for a parade of racial terror in LA. His administration is targeting Latinos - and anyone who doesn't look or sound like @StephenM's idea of an American — to deliberately harm our families and economy. In a separate Tweet, Newsom said, "Trump's private police force now has a green light to come after your family.Every person is now a target. California will continue to do all we can fight these abhorrent attacks on Californians." #### U.S. House of Representative Lou Correa (D-46) No statement published or issued as of publish (Sept. 9, 2025 // 6:00 AM) #### U.S. Senator for California Alex Padilla (D) "The administration has said it themselves: they are detaining people simply based on whether they "look" like an immigrant, on the language they speak, or where they work. Today's radical Supreme Court decision tramples on our Constitution and enables racial profiling to continue without explanation. Trump isn't just targeting violent criminals, he's sweeping up hardworking people - including U.S. citizens - indiscriminately. And he's sowing fear and damaging our economy in the process. This is not the final say. There is still time for the Courts to stop this blatantly racist policy from threatening the basic freedoms of Americans and immigrants alike." #### U.S. Senator for California Adam Schiff (D) No statement published or issued as of publish (Sept. 9, 2025 // 6:00 AM) #### SAUSD School Board President Hector Bustos "Today, in a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court sided with the Trump administration and gave the green light for federal immigration raids in Southern California to resume without meaningful reasonable suspicion. This decision effectively sanctions racial profiling, targeting people for how they look, the language they speak, or the jobs they hold. It strips away basic constitutional protections and normalizes discrimination against immigrant communities who already live under constant fear and surveillance. The Court's conservative majority has once again advanced Trump's authoritarian agenda and abandoned its responsibility as a check on executive power. Instead of defending the rights of people against government overreach, the majority has turned its back on the very principles of equal protection and due process. Justice Sotomayor's dissent was clear and devastating: this ruling paves the way for government agents to seize "anyone who looks Latino, speaks Spanish, and appears to work a low-wage job." That is not justice. It is legalized discrimination and it has no place in a democracy. As Board President, I want our families to know that our schools will remain safe havens. We will not allow fear to dictate who belongs in our classrooms or silence the voices of our immigrant students and families. Our district will continue hosting Know Your Rights workshops, providing staff trainings, and connecting families with resources and mental health support. We will remain vigilant and ensure that our campuses are places of safety, learning, and belonging. This ruling is wrong. It is racist. It is dangerous. And it sends a chilling message to millions of immigrant families across the nation. But our district stands firm, with dignity, with courage, and with our immigrant community, today and always. We will resist policies rooted in hate, and we will continue to fight for the rights, safety, and humanity of every child and every family who calls this community home. In solidarity and in defense of our community, Hector Bustos" ## What was the case about? Earlier this summer, federal agents launched “Operation At Large,” a series of raids at car washes, farms, bus stops, and other public sites across Orange County and the Greater Los Angeles area. Armed and masked immigration officers detained nearly 2,800 people in June alone. The Central District of California issued a temporary restraining order on July 11, concluding that agents were making seizures “based solely upon” four factors: - *Race or ethnicity* - *Speaking Spanish or accented English* - *Presence in certain locations* - *Type of work* The district judge found this practice likely violated the Fourth Amendment’s ban on unreasonable seizures. The government then appealed, and the Supreme Court intervened to stay (suspend) the lower court’s order while litigation continues. ## The Majority’s view Justice Brett Kavanaugh, concurring in the Court’s order, emphasized that immigration officers are authorized to make brief investigative stops when they have “reasonable suspicion” someone is unlawfully present. He pointed to the high numbers of undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles and common patterns of work and gathering places. “Under this Court’s precedents, not to mention common sense, those circumstances taken together can constitute at least reasonable suspicion of illegal presence in the United States,” Kavanaugh wrote. He further warned of the harm to federal enforcement if the injunction were left in place. > *“Any time that the Government is enjoined by a court from effectuating statutes enacted by representatives of its people, it suffers a form of irreparable injury.” — Justice Brett Kavanaugh* ## The Dissent Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, issued a forceful dissent. She described the raids as a pattern of racial profiling and constitutional violations. > *“We should not have to live in a country where the Government can seize anyone who looks Latino, speaks Spanish, and appears to work a low wage job.”* > *— Justice Sonia Sotomayor* Sotomayor recounted declarations from U.S. citizens who were harassed during Operation At Large. One man was forced against a fence and interrogated despite showing his state-issued ID. Another was driven to a warehouse for questioning even after producing proof of U.S. citizenship. She argued that the lower court acted appropriately in blocking such practices, noting its finding that stops based solely on the four enumerated factors could not amount to reasonable suspicion. “Officer\[s\] cannot rely solely on generalizations that, if accepted, would cast suspicion on large segments of the law-abiding population,” Sotomayor wrote. ## What happens next? The ruling allows immigration agents to continue racially profiling during raids while the Ninth Circuit hears the appeal on Sept. 24th. If the Ninth Circuit upholds the restrictions *and* the Supreme Court declines review, the government would be forced to abandon these broad raid tactics in California and beyond. But given the 6–3 stay decision, it’s very likely the Supreme Court would take the case and decide it themselves (sort of again). “The Judiciary does not set immigration policy or decide enforcement priorities… We merely ensure… that the Executive Branch acts within the confines of the Constitution and federal statutes,” Kavanaugh underscored. But Justice Sotomayor countered that the Court’s intervention undermines those very constitutional protections. “Rather than stand idly by while our constitutional freedoms are lost, I dissent,” Sotomayor wrote. ### SAUSD unknowingly almost rehired teacher accused of killing wife with dementia URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/08/13/sausd-unknowingly-almost-rehired-teacher-accused-of-killing-wife-with-dementia/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:03:30.000Z The Santa Ana Unified School District nearly rehired a recently laid-off teacher this summer, not knowing he had been arrested weeks earlier in Arizona for *allegedly* murdering his wife, a former SAUSD educator with dementia. Justin Davidson, 46, had taught mathematics for two years at Middle College High School before being laid off in May along with other certificated staff due to budget shortfalls, SAUSD spokesperson Fermin Leal told *The Santanero.* Davidson’s Facebook profile shows a long history of employment with multiple Southern California school districts, including Santa Ana Unified [as far back as 2015](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/search/?q=Justin+Brian+Davidson&y=&ref=santanero.org), and with Maricopa County, Arizona. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/08/davidson-cover-2.png) **LEFT: Justin Davidson's mugshot. (Maricopa County Sheriff's Office). RIGHT: Danielle Crosbie-Davidson (Instagram).* According to a [Maricopa County Attorney’s office press release](https://maricopacountyattorney.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1210&ref=santanero.org), about a week after the school year ended, Davidson traveled to Eternal Springs of Gilbert in Gilbert, Arizona, where his wife, Danielle Crosbie-Davidson, was living in an assisted care facility being treated for advanced dementia. Davidson [reportedly admitted](https://www.azfamily.com/2025/06/30/man-indicted-wifes-murder-gilbert-assisted-living-facility/?ref=santanero.org) to crushing 50–60 oxycodone pills mixed with another narcotic and secretly giving them to her over several days. When that failed, court documents allege, he bought sleeping pills from Target, mixed them into a blue raspberry slushie, and smothered her with a pillow. Staff at the facility discovered Crosbie-Davidson’s body during a routine overnight check on June 11\. They reported suspicious bruises on her cheek, noted her tongue was still blue from the drink, and told investigators her health had declined rapidly since Davidson’s arrival. According to [*AZFamily*](https://www.azfamily.com/2025/06/30/man-indicted-wifes-murder-gilbert-assisted-living-facility/?ref=santanero.org), staff had previously told Davidson to “stop locking the door” during check-ins. Davidson was arrested and [booked](https://maricopacountyattorney.org/DocumentCenter/View/3861/Justin-Davidson-Indictment?ref=santanero.org) in June on one count of first-degree murder. He sits in Maricopa County Jail on $1 million bond, awaiting trial in February 2026. On June 8—just days before her death—Davidson posted two photos of himself with Crosbie-Davidson on Facebook. --- Leal confirmed to *The Santanero* that on August 1, SAUSD’s Human Resources department tried to contact Davidson about returning to the district, unaware of his arrest and pending charges. Still unaware, they called him twice more the following week. Again, no response. Sources told *The Santanero* that Davidson had been scheduled to teach a college career planning course at Middle College High School this fall. His name appeared on the master schedule, but student schedules were abruptly changed this week. Those who asked about his absence were told he had a “family emergency.” Middle College officials have yet to explain why Davidson’s name appeared on the master schedule despite him being in jail and unable to respond to Human Resources and accept the rehire packet. A statement is expected this week. A lack of a notification system that alerts school districts of employee arrests or charges outside their state appears to be the fault in the unknowingness of Mr. Davidson. “Arizona law enforcement did not contact SAUSD at the time of the arrest or when charges were filed,” said Leal. ‘There is an alert system where SAUSD is notified when a current employee is arrested within the \[S\]tate of California.” Since Davidson’s arrest occurred in Arizona and after his employment officially ended on May 30, it did not trigger any alerts. Crosbie-Davidson taught English and history at Saddleback High School from [at least 2016 to 2023](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/search/?q=Danielle+Crosbie-Davidson&y=&ref=santanero.org) and was active in a [theater group](https://www.facebook.com/MaricopaCommunityTheatre/posts/pfbid02PaH33rxKrgTJbDcomBN2LyAiGatUK7W8BhyQ77yRcpHcGCmUQNEU2QyajWQ6uhNKl) in Arizona. ### Bass signed an executive order. Here's why Amezcua can't do that—and what it would take to change it URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/07/17/bass-signed-an-executive-order-heres-why-amezcua-cant-do-that-and-what-it-would-take-to-change-it/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:01:14.000Z During the July 1st City Council meeting, public commenters flamed Mayor Valerie Amezcua for not issuing a formal memorandum denouncing the presence of ICE and the National Guard in Santa Ana—similar to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who recently signed an executive order supporting immigrant communities and condemning ICE raids. > Santa Ana's City Council attempted to establish a relief fund for families impacted by ICE activity, but the effort failed to pass amid disunity amid a brass cacophony of conflicting voices. In response, City Attorney Sonia Carvalho [stepped in](https://www.youtube.com/live/QRVSi9LOa4o?si=QHO31WOUzhGbtSz5&t=10694&ref=santanero.org), temporarily pausing public comment to clarify the legal constraints of the city's governing document—the City Charter, often referred to as Santa Ana’s version of the Constitution, in which is ruled by the People, not the elected. **City Attorney Sonia Carvalho explaining the difference between LA and Santa Ana during a council meeting on July 1, 2025\. (City of Santa Ana YouTube Channel)* "Our credibility is our most important asset in responding to criticism and conflict in our community," said Carvalho. "I can tell you that without a doubt, the Mayor of the City of Santa Ana does not have the power that many of you are saying she has." She went on to explain Los Angeles' form of government compared to ours, using terms like [“mayor–council”](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayor%E2%80%93council%5Fgovernment?ref=santanero.org) and [“council–manager.”](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Council%E2%80%93manager%5Fgovernment?ref=santanero.org) ### But what do those terms mean? Don't worry, If you are lost, we'll help you understand what all this legal jargon means. Scroll! ### What are the similarities and differences between Santa Ana and Los Angeles? ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/07/chartervsgeneral1.png) Aside from population, size and vastly diverse districts, Santa Ana and Los Angeles both have charters, Councilmembers, and a Mayor elected by the People. However our systems of governance differ significantly. Los Angeles operates under a [“mayor–council”](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayor%E2%80%93council%5Fgovernment?ref=santanero.org) system, adopted in 1999 by voter approval, which grants their Mayor expanded administrative powers—such as hiring, firing, vetos, and issuing executive directives—even without unanimous support from the City Council or staff. A perfect example of this was earlier this year where Bass took executive authority to fire former Fire Chief Kristin Crowley amidst the department's response to wildfires across Los Angeles in January. Amezcua cannot do that, even under public pressure. Why? Santa Ana, by contrast, follows a [“council–manager”](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Council%E2%80%93manager%5Fgovernment?ref=santanero.org) model, meaning executive authority lies with the City Manager, not the Mayor. Any official action—such as issuing a memorandum condemning ICE—requires the consensus or direction of the full Council before the City Manager can act on the city's behalf. In this system, the Mayor holds the same voting power as any other Councilmember. #### How did L.A. give more power to the Mayor? 🗳️ In the 1990s, Los Angeles faced growing frustration over its fragmented and inefficient city government. Power was spread across elected officials and independent commissions, making accountability murky and action slow. Calls for reform intensified amid rising civic disengagement and even talk of [secession from the San Fernando Valley.](https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1999-jun-09-mn-45617-story.html?ref=santanero.org) To address this, two competing charter reform commissions — one elected by voters, one appointed by the City Council — were formed in 1997\. Despite early conflict, the commissions eventually unified their proposals, with support from then-Mayor Richard Riordan, who advocated for a stronger executive branch. Their efforts culminated in Proposition F, a citywide ballot measure in June 1999, which voters approved by a 60–40 margin. The new [charter](https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/los%5Fangeles/latest/laac/0-0-0-2?ref=santanero.org), effective July 1, 2000, gave the Mayor significantly more power, including the authority to appoint and remove department heads, greater budget control, and a more centralized executive role. > The Council had been in discussions about developing an ICE notification system, but those talks were quickly tempered in June by a (threatening) letter previously sent by U.S. Central District Court Attorney Bill Essayli (the Council voted 5-2 in closed session to suspend further action on the system). The Council instead unanimously approved a resolution on July 1st, requesting help from Congressmember Lou Correa and other federal representatives in pursuing the removal of ICE and the National Guard from Santa Ana, all while filing a Freedom of Information Act request for data regarding immigration arrests. ### Carvalho's open door policy *The Santanero* accepted Carvalho’s invitation to [meet with the community](https://www.youtube.com/live/QRVSi9LOa4o?si=2zoYIhdg6jX2%5F9xr&t=10794&ref=santanero.org) following her brief explanation of the differences between Santa Ana and Los Angeles—and how residents could pursue changes to the City Charter if they wished. According to disclosures at Tuesday’s city council meeting, only two individuals made such a request, and *The Santanero* has been the only one who followed through thus far. ### So. How can Santaneros change the Charter? There are two ways to change the Charter: either the People do it or majority vote by the Council. However, they both end up on our ballots to be voted on. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/07/citzenvscouncilinitative1.png) **The Santanero was able to verify our graphic with the City Attorney's office, with this added note that there are "exceptions and footnotes" for as each ballot question as each Charter amendment process is different.* ### Council-led Charter amendment route Most amendments to the Charter would require legal research by City staff to report back to the Council so that they make an informed decision and isn't always free. Once the Council can come to a consensus, City staff, mainly the City Attorney, will draft an election question to place on the ballot, such as asking voters if they wish to grant the mayor more power or not. All ballot questions placed on the ballot initiated the City is paid in full by Santa Ana taxpayers, including Council-led charter amendments and special elections. ### Citizen-led Charter amendment route Another way would for the People to come to City Hall to show their "intent to file" by placing a ballot question. The process would require financial backing and petition signed by the People and once enough signatures have been collected, it is forwarded to the City Clerk and then to Registrar of Voters to be verified. Once checked off, the City Attorney drafts the final way the question will appear before Santanero voters. The proponent's sponsor or political group would have to come up with the money to pay the ROV's bill to pay the ballot fees, which can cost up to $500,000 per ballot question. Taxpayers do not front the bill for citizen-led charter amendments. Hypothetically, the ballot question would ask voters whether they want to grant the Mayor—whoever holds the office—greater administrative power, and whether they’re willing to shift the city’s structure from a “council–manager” model to a “mayor–council” form of government. --- Below are some notorious Q&A's for educational purposes. This article, including graphics and answers embedded are not legal advice. #### What are the consequences of granting more power to a mayor? Like all consequences, there's good and bad. However, since this is in regard to politics, **The Santanero* will leave it up to the reader to decide which ones are good and which ones are bad. Empowering the Mayor could lead to faster action, cohesive strategy, and clearer accountability, and may risk concentrating power, diluting community input, and creating executive-legislative gridlock if not balanced by effective Council oversight. It would also likely cost more taxpayer money. A change in governance could mean the Mayoral seat having more weight in votes on the dais, setting an unofficial imbalance to other Council seats. Currently, the entire Council and the Mayor sit as equals (one vote each). It would also hold the Mayor to a figurative pedestal, where the Mayor is the face of the City (while everyone else is just kinda there). If the Mayor underperforms, public criticism would technically carry more weight, as greater authority naturally brings greater accountability. Santa Ana does not have one face, it has six duly elected and sworn Councilmembers and one Mayor, with those seven working with the City Manager, the City Clerk, and the City Attorney to run the city the way the People want it to be. **Apologies for all the "the's."* #### Can the Mayor or Council fire an officer? ****No**, under the Charter, neither the Mayor or any Councilmember can hire, fire, discipline, promote, assign, or direct an officer or any city staff member except for three people: the City Manager, the City Clerk, and City Attorney. #### Who can fire an officer? Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez can exercise the right to execute discipline on any officer after a full investigation into the officer's allegations have concluded and been sustained beyond a reasonable doubt (legal speak for they have more than enough evidence to prove the officer did wrong). If Rodriguez imposes discipline on an officer, it is the officer's right to appeal and could go one of two ways: appeal or lawsuit. The person above the Police Chief is the City Manager under the form of government the City of Santa Ana has (council-manager). So, only those are technically allow to fire an officer, but officers are allowed to appeal or file a wrongful termination lawsuit against the city if any aspect of the investigation or case was done wrong (which is a conversation for a separate article). #### Can the Mayor tell ICE/National Guard to get out of Santa Ana? The Mayor of Santa Ana, or any elected official for that matter, can personally say “ICE and/or the National Guard should leave” under First Amendment protections, but they cannot officially order it using city letterhead, logos, or in a professional capacity without overstepping the City Charter. Additionally, legal experts could argue that elected officials are effectively always operating in a professional capacity, even when posting from personal social media accounts—especially since most officials maintain both campaign-related profiles and personal accounts that don’t explicitly reference city business. Santa Ana’s council-manager system limits the Mayor’s authority to symbolic leadership — actual directives require a majority vote from the City Council and implementation by the City Manager. If the Mayor issues such a command formally, it could be seen as a charter violation or trigger legal and political consequences and even more lawsuits. *This has been a free educational article presented by The Santanero :)* ### OC Fair responds to ICE concerns URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/07/17/oc-fair-responds-to-ice-concerns/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:02:52.000Z The Orange County Fair is set to return this summer, bringing thousands of fairgoers to indulge deep-fried foods, enjoy the carnival rides, and see the baby piggies race, which is expected from one of the region’s biggest seasonal events. But this year, it’s different. With recent reports of aggressive ICE raids happening across Southern California, many locals—especially those from immigrant communities—have voiced concerns about whether the OC Fair is a safe space: *Can ICE enter the fairgrounds? Can they detain people inside? Are undocumented residents at risk?* The answer, according to OC Fair & Event Center officials, is clear: No, ICE does not have unrestricted access. In a statement, OC Fair spokesperson Terry Moore cited California State Law SB 54, also known as the California Values Act, which explicitly prohibits state agencies and properties from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement. That includes the fairgrounds. “OC Fair & Event Center complies with California State law SB 54, which prohibits state properties, such as our fairgrounds, from assisting federal Immigration & Customs Enforcement and law enforcement personnel including federal, local or special district agencies in regard to immigration enforcement activities,” said Moore. “Other than those agencies authorized to serve OC Fair & Event Center in an official capacity, law enforcement personnel are not given special access or assistance beyond what is available to any member of the public and are restricted from entering non-public areas without a judicial warrant. The safety and inclusion of all fairgoers remains a top priority.” Moore did not give a wide breakdown of where ICE may and may not operate at the OC Fair but generally, areas that are public include: - *The main administration office lobby (if open to the public during normal hours)* - *Public sidewalks and streets surrounding the fairgrounds including Fairview, Arlington, Fair Drive, and Newport Blvd* Restricted areas where ICE cannot go without a signed judicial warrant: - *Any part of the fair requiring a paid ticket or entry (like parking at the fairgrounds) or wristband (like at a concert or fair event)* - *Employee-only zones and staff trailers* - *Will Call and credential-only checkpoints* - *The actual fair where folks eat, play, shop, and dance, see the piggies race, etc.* This means that if ICE agents attempt to access any secure zone—say, walk among fairgoers, backstage at the Pacific Amphitheatre, the pig races trailer, or employee rest areas—they must present a valid judicial warrant. The OC Fair & Event Center partners with the Orange County Sheriffs Department and also hires dozens of fairgrounds security personnel every year. They (along with parking attendants) are responsible for gate monitoring, general crowd safety, alcohol compliance, and incident response. According to officials, neither the security team nor thr Sheriffs roles extend to immigration enforcement. As for the fair employees, the OC Fair & Event Center says part of their training involves them contacting a supervisor if any official seeks entry. “As part of employee training, all staff members are directed to call their supervisors if an outside agency requests access,” said Moore. “Also, all employees of OC Fair & Event Center must pass background checks and a Megan’s Law review. Outside vendors and partners require documentation for payroll purposes.” The OC Fair is an annual large-scale seasonal operation, with planning for next year’s fair beginning almost immediately after the current one ends. For many families in Orange County, the fair is more than entertainment— it represents a recurring source of summer employment and economic opportunity, particularly for young people entering the workforce. Officials wanted to make it clear that the OC Fair is an event for everyone to enjoy and is executed in a safe and fun-for-all manner. Opening day is Friday, June 18th and runs until Sunday, August 17th. ### Santa Ana Police warn against illegal fireworks — but will the 4th still erupt like a warzone amid political tension? URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/07/04/santa-ana-police-warn-against-illegal-fireworks-but-will-the-4th-still-erupt-like-a-warzone-amid-political-tension/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T20:02:23.000Z On our nation's 249th birthday, Santa Ana Police once again [warned](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJutt9QzKf8/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) residents to refrain from popping illegal fireworks and encourage neighbors to report them to keep this Independence Day a safe-and-sane one. [Fines](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJutt9QzKf8/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) of up to $1,000 and/or jail time up to six months could be cited against one caught with illegal fireworks. But each year, right at sunset, Santaneros metaphorically put on their war helmets, truly comfort their traumatized pets, and brace for the barrage. Illegal fireworks light up the sky like a military conflict reenactment. Santa Ana is no stranger to this annual siege. In fact, the boom of explosives is so common it’s basically ambient noise — the city’s unofficial soundtrack. And while the Fourth of July brings it to a *dramatic* crescendo, residents report hearing pops, cracks, and full-on mortar fire year-round. In [2022](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=48296&ref=santanero.org), efforts to terminate sales of fireworks did not reach enough votes from City Council after hundreds of community groups voiced concerns and dissent, adding the 4th of July sales account for the majority of their funding. It is likely Santaneros will enjoy the three-day weekend with celebratory asada, beer, and less illegal fireworks. Since many voiced on social media to boycott popping fireworks, Santa Ana air quality may appear to be less worse than last year. Only time will tell. ### *The Data* Santa Ana Police told *The Santanero* they do their best in investigating tips given to them. Data shows an uptick in citations from none in 2023 to eight and one arrest in 2024. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/07/fireworks-data-2018-24-1.png) While *The Santanero* could not find anyone to go on record, those we spoke to generally agreed that most will host or attend an asada (cookout) and have the kids light up sparklers while watching other neighbors blow up the 'fusion bombs' that sounds like an incoming missile. ### *Community organizations face slow sales, political backlash amid ICE raids and latest BB bill* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/07/DSC00448.JPG) **TNT fireworks stand off McFadden and Bristol. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* On social media, residents are increasingly vocal about the noise, danger, and unpredictability of fireworks. The political climate hasn’t helped either. Fear—along with rampant misinformation—continues to grip Santaneros, especially among undocumented neighbors. As a result, some community groups are backing off. Santa Ana High School’s marching band, a regular participant in fireworks fundraising, [suspended sales](https://www.instagram.com/p/DLmO6OjuTk3/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) this year. They asked for donations instead. The Council did not reach a consensus on whether to cancel the city’s 4th of July event at Centennial Park, where an ICE raid in June led to the [detention of a U.S. citizen and lawyer](https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/entertainment/story/2025-07-02/centennial-park-ice-raid-santa-ana?ref=santanero.org). Some expressed concern about holding the event there, while others, like Councilmember Phan, emphasized its significance—especially for naturalized citizens. ### *Throwback to 1976, the Bicentennial* **Schoolhouse Rock's 'Fireworks' episode from the nation's 200th birthday in 1976\. ©Disney* As Schoolhouse Rock said, "There's gonna be fireworks." Whether it's celebration, survival, or something in between—happy 4th, Santa Ana. --- ### Numbers to know • Non-Emergency Dispatch — (714)-285-8049 • SAPD Fireworks Line — (714)-245-8771 • Emergencies — 911 ### Tips for used fireworks: • Keep a bucket or two full of water to submerge blown fireworks for 15 minutes before tossing them into the garbage. Also handy in case of small fire. • Never allow children to light any firework, including adults who are drunk or faded. ### Agenda Preview: July 1, 2025 City Council Meeting URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/06/30/agenda-preview-july-1-2025-city-council-meeting/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:57:25.000Z Several items on the agenda include the appointments of five Santaneros to various commissions, as well as proposals to support Santanero families affected by ICE and establish changes to the Police Oversight Commission. Given the state of affairs in Santa Ana, The Santanero is starting to review the agendas and post a simplified version of what we're monitoring. This will also apply to the Santa Ana Unified School District Board meetings. NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS: You will automatically be subscribed to the new "Agenda Preview" newsletter. If you'd like to opt-out, see the bottom of this email to change your settings. --- ### ITEMS 3-7: Commission Appointments Ward 1 Councilmember Thai Viet Phan has two appointees for the Enviornmental and Transportation Advisory Commission and Youth Commission. Ward 4 Councilmember Phil Bacerra also has two appointees for the Arts and Culture Commission and Youth Commission. A fifth appointee is expected to be a Santa Ana Senior Center Representative to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission as nominated by the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency. *See more on these items on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 24: Police oversight commission director selected, pending vote Two and a half years ago, the City of Santa Ana established the Police Oversight Commission. As Councilmember appointees began attending meetings, receiving general training, and reviewing police protocols, complaints about police misconduct and other concerns involving Santa Ana Police officers continued to be investigated by the SAPD’s Internal Affairs department. Although one of the Commission’s core responsibilities is to independently investigate such complaints, it effectively sat and collected dust, as the City had yet to hire a director to lead its work. Until now. T. Jack Morse Jr., a senior attorney at [Oppenheimer Investigations Group LLP](https://oiglaw.com/attorney/t-jack-morse-jr/?ref=santanero.org), is expected to be appointed Director of the Police Oversight Commission. He is expected to be paid $250,000 over the next two years from budgeted funds of the City Attorney’s office. According to his biography on the firm’s [website](https://oiglaw.com/attorney/t-jack-morse-jr/?ref=santanero.org), Morse also serves as a reserve police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department, working with detectives in the West Bureau’s Special Assault Section. He also has a history of investigating law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, and other state institutions. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 26: Council to vote on filing FOIA request to ICE On behalf of the City of Santa Ana, City Manager Alvaro Nuñez has prepared a draft Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The request is pending formal approval by the Santa Ana City Council. If approved, the City would seek detailed records of all federal immigration enforcement actions conducted within Santa Ana since January 20, 2025. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 27: Council to consider packed resolution addressing recent ICE raids, military presence The Santa Ana City Council will vote on a resolution calling on federal representatives to advocate for the removal of ICE, military, and other federal enforcement personnel from the city. The resolution responds to community concerns about fear, disruption, and racial profiling caused by recent immigration raids. It criticizes the Trump administration's use of federal forces, highlights economic and social harm, and emphasizes the City's commitment to SB 54 (California Values Act) and its non-cooperation policy with ICE. It further calls on community organizations and residents to offer financial and logistical support for those affected by immigration enforcement. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 28: Council to vote on establishing $1 million fund to help families affected by ICE The City of Santa Ana is considering creating a temporary emergency assistance program for families impacted by recent federal immigration enforcement actions. The proposal, led by Mayor Valerie Amezcua, would redirect up to $1 million from the existing FY25–26 City Events budget to provide financial help with rent, food, utilities, and legal services. The City may partner with consulates and local nonprofits to identify affected families and distribute aid. The plan uses already approved funds and aims to provide urgent support without increasing the city’s overall budget. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 29: Proposed amended ordinance could limit police oversight commission’s independence The amended ordinance clarifies the structure and procedures of Santa Ana’s Police Oversight Commission but significantly limits its authority. While initially intended to provide independent review of police misconduct, the updated language now restricts the Commission to reviewing only certain serious cases—and only after Internal Affairs has completed its investigation and sustained the findings. It cannot independently investigate most complaints or act in real time. Although the amendments improve training and access protocols, they also formalize delays and concentrate control within the SAPD and City staff, potentially weakening the Commission’s role in ensuring timely, transparent accountability. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### ITEM 32: Lopez proposes ordinance to protect public from unidentified officers Councilmember Jessie Lopez submitted a proposal requesting that the Santa Ana City Council consider an ordinance requiring all law enforcement officers operating in the city—including federal and mutual aid personnel—to wear clearly visible identification (name or badge number) and prohibit face coverings that obscure their identity during public interactions. The proposal is in response to recent incidents involving masked, unidentified officers, especially during protests and immigration enforcement actions, which have raised public concerns about accountability, impersonation, and community trust. *See more on this item on the* [*agenda*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=23644&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### Want to speak at a City meeting? Members of the public can speak on closed session items, regular agenda items, public hearings, Housing Authority items, or general non-agenda matters in the following ways: ### 📬 Written Comments - **By Mail:** Send to City Clerk, 20 Civic Center Plaza M-30, Santa Ana, CA 92701 at least 2 hours before the meeting. - By Email: Send to *eComment@santa-ana.org* with the agenda item in the subject line. Must be sent 2 hours before the meeting. - All written comments will be shared with Council and added to the public archive. ### 💻 Live Virtual Comments (via Zoom or Phone) - Join by Zoom: [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/315965149](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/315965149?ref=santanero.org) - Or call (669) 900-9128 | Meeting ID: 315 965 149# - Raise your hand in Zoom or press \*9 on your phone. - When called, press \*6 or click the mic icon to speak. - Deadlines for Zoom/Call - Closed Session: Join Zoom/Call and raise hand by 4:00 p.m. - Regular Agenda & General Comments: Raise hand by 5:45 p.m. - Public Hearings & Housing Authority Items: Raise hand by 5:45 p.m. ### 🏛️ In-Person Comments - Submit a "Request to Speak" card: - **By 4:00 p.m.** for closed session items - **By 5:45 p.m.** for all other comment periods - Your name will be called to speak at the podium in the Council Chamber. - Late cards may be rejected without chair approval. ### ⚠️ Public Comment Time Notice Speakers are usually given 3 minutes, but the Chair may shorten it based on the number of speakers and is annouced seconds before the Public Comment Period begins. The time limit can also be changed if a Councilmember motions, it's seconded, and approved by a Council vote. So, be aware of this in case you wrote a three minute comment and the time isn’t amended by the Council. --- This message is available in Spanish on our website, and a Vietnamese translation will be available soon. ### Landscaper with three Marine sons violently detained in Santa Ana; DHS alleges assault without evidence URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/21/landscaper-violently-detained-by-agents-has-three-marine-sons/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:57:12.000Z Early Saturday morning, 48-year-old undocumented landscaper Narciso Barranco was allegedly operating a weedwhacker near the intersection of Edinger and Ritchey Street in Santa Ana when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents approached him. Barranco, who has no known criminal record, was detained in a violent encounter captured by multiple bystanders on video. *The Santanero* broke the story roughly eight hours after Narciso was detained and came in contact with 25-year old Marine veteran Alejandro Barranco, eldest of three Marine sons, who served in the Middle East and was part of the final evacuation flights from Kabul. *The Santanero* put journalism aside for a moment and instead offered resources to him as the first 24-hours are critical for any detainee. Narciso has two other sons in the Marine Corps stationed at Camp Pendleton. Alejandro told *The Santanero* on Sunday his father had been in the United States since the 1990's. *The Santanero* obtained four different angles of the incident recorded by drivers caught in traffic nearby. The videos show Barranco running with his weedwhacker in hand. At one point, he tries to enter someone’s car to avoid apprehension. Alejandro said his father likely fled in fear, as reports of agents not identifying themselves and wearing threatening tactical gear continue to ravage the community. "I do believe my father was racially profiled—they didn’t ask him anything. They just started chasing him, and he ran because he was scared. He didn’t know who was after him," Alejandro said. As Barranco fled, the weedwhacker appeared to become harder for him to balance and moved toward an agent, but never struck. One agent used mace or pepperspray to stop Narciso. Eventually, agents tackled him from behind, pinning him to the ground. In one video, four to five husky-sized agents restrained him, and one is seen throwing several blows while Barranco lay pinned beneath nearly 1,000 pounds of flesh and tactical gear on top of him. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told the [*Associated Press* ](https://apnews.com/article/immigration-arrest-landscaper-marine-son-orange-county-304c7e5b1ac240d640b95ffe2e3cac9d?ref=santanero.org)on Monday claiming Barranco “swung at an agent’s face” before running into the intersection. *The Santanero*, however, has seen no video supporting that claim, and DHS has provided no evidence to back it up as of press. DHS also took to Twitter on Monday pushing unsubstantiated claims that agents were assaulted, adding the media is portraying the arrest as "slanted." > [](https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1937206354218725806?ref=santanero.org) Barranco was eventually forced into a vehicle and managed to call Alejandro briefly. Later, from the Los Angeles detention center—where calls cost $50 for five minutes—he told his family he was “in pain,” hadn’t eaten, and believed his shoulder was dislocated. DHS later told the [*Los Angeles Times*](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-06-22/father-of-3-marines-violently-detained-federal-agents?ref=santanero.org) on Monday that medical aid was offered and refused, but the family disputes that. *The Santanero* sent a list of questions to DHS on Monday, but a response has not been received as of press time. “He has always worked hard to put food on the table for us and my mom,” said Alejandro. “He was always careful and always did his taxes on time. He never caused any problems and he is known as a kind and helping person by everyone in our community. Our parents raised us to be good people, be humble, and love this country." In a costly brief phone call from the Los Angeles detention facility, Narciso humbly asked Alejandro to ensure his job was completed and didn't leave a mess. “He’s worried about his work," Alejandro said. "Can you believe that? Everything going on and he’s asking me if I could go finish the job he was doing when he got detained.” Narciso has received an outpouring of community support, with many offering character testimony describing him as kind, responsible, and hardworking. Despite that, the Barranco family was denied visitation on Monday due to the detention facility’s limited 1–4 PM visiting window, which allows only one family at a time. A [GoFundMe](https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-narciso-assaulted-and-detained-by-cbp?modal=donations&tab=top&ref=santanero.org) page launched Saturday afternoon by a trusted family friend has raised nearly $150,000 to help cover legal fees, medical expenses, and preparations for potential deportation. Among the top donors include Uruguayan-American activist and TikTok creator [Carlos Eduardo Espina](https://www.tiktok.com/@carlos%5Feduardo%5Fespina?ref=santanero.org) who donated $5,000 and what is believed to be Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez, resonating with Barranco story both were born in Mexico, donating $600. “None of this is right,” Alejandro said. Before his arrest, Alejandro confirmed the family had already begun the Parole in Place (PIP) citizenship process for Narciso, but immigration attorneys warned them that such applications can take years, cost thousands, and could even raise a red flag with federal authorities, increasing the risk of deportation. Alejandro said that wasn't an option for his father who works sun up to sun down every day of the week as he prioritized providing for his family. When *The Santanero* asked Alejandro what he would say to his father if he were with him now, he responded: > I would tell him I’m sorry for the way the country you’ve given your children to is treating you. You don’t deserve any of this but there will be a change. > > *— Alejandro Barranco* The family has hired an attorney and standing behind them is a growing army of neighbors, friends, in solidarity. --- ## *Leaders respond* Governor Gavin Newsom’s office also responded. Diana Crofts-Pelayo, Deputy Director of Communications, gave *The Santanero* this statement: > This is Donald Trump’s America, where federal immigration agents are so desperate to fulfill Stephen Miller’s arrest quota that they go after a father with no criminal history, who has lived in the U.S. for decades, successfully raising three marines serving our nation. > > *— Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA)* Congressman Lou Correa's (D-46) office contacted *The Santanero* over the weekend and connected him with Alejandro's family to offer support and resources. He reposted The Santanero's breaking news post, adding his disappointment to see what unfolded Saturday. Mayor Valerie Amezcua spoke in an [Instagram reel](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLMDdvIuv4a/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) posted to her social media Sunday evening, marking a stronger tone, telling ICE to come correct or get out of Santa Ana. “They are not here to protect us and to serve,” she said. “These agents are here to hurt us.” However she said that while people may claims she’s taking a stronger position this time around given a [heavy amount of heat](https://www.santanero.org/public-obliterates-amezcua-told-to-support-resign-or-be-recalled/) from Santaneros during a recent council meeting, she said it’s always been the same intent. “If you’re gonna do it ICE agents, do it the right way, otherwise get out of our city.” Amezcua said. Councilmember Jessie Lopez expressed her frustration on social media as well. > [](https://twitter.com/VoteJessieLopez/status/1937207765514269173?ref=santanero.org) Councilmember David Penaloza on Instagram would tag Young Kim in his stories, marking her silence and apparent absence on the issue. "This family is a great example of how our people love this Country, how we fight for this Country, and how this Country still throws away its best if they are Black or Brown," Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez said on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLQIYn2pSNG/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==). "We need to realize, this is an attack on Brown people, Immigrants, Working families, and our Parents! We need to continue to stand up against the terror ICE is committing in our communities by filming them and helping our families stay together." Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento's office also asked *The Santanero* on Monday to forward the supervisor's support and resources available for Alejandro and his family. *The Santanero is aware of other local leaders responding to the news, but is currently attempting to add them at this time.* *This is a developing story.* ### Santa Ana Police redact ICE tip disclosures after Essayli letter URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/20/santa-ana-police-redact-ice-tip-disclosures-after-essayli-letter-2/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:56:46.000Z The Santa Ana Police Department responded to a public records request submitted by *The Santanero* on Tuesday, seeking information about the number of courtesy notifications received from federal immigration authorities since January 20, 2025. In response, the Santa Ana Police Department [provided the requested documentation](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/06/25-1447%5Fredacted.pdf), though all content within the release was fully redacted. ![](https://ecom-pleasantly-shy-creator.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-20-at-4.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png) **Redacted public record of federal immigration courtesy notifications sent to SAPD since Jan. 20, 2025.* According to Jessica Antes from the SAPD Records Division, the redactions were made "due to the evolving situation and in light of the recent letter from the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California." She explained that the City is invoking the investigative exemption as the basis for the redactions. > [](https://twitter.com/usattyessayli/status/1931063439088337202?s=46&t=tuqsCtR2fwLic6am7v97LA&ref=santanero.org) A [June 6th letter](https://x.com/usattyessayli/status/1931063439088337202?s=46&t=tuqsCtR2fwLic6am7v97LA&ref=santanero.org) from U.S. Attorney Essayli advised the City of Santa Ana against publicly disclosing ICE notifications, citing potential violations of federal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. § 1505. On Tuesday, City Attorney Sonia Carvalho [announced](https://www.youtube.com/live/-ox0z5mXvhA?si=NtEd7gGP5p29e527&t=11130&ref=santanero.org) that, following a closed session, the City Council had voted 5-2 (Mayor Pro-Tem Benjamin Vazquez and Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez voting in favor of keeping the measure progress ongoing) to halt further consideration of any proposals that would authorize the release of ICE-related notifications. *The Santanero* asked Essayli’s office if raids in Santa Ana were already planned before the June 6 letter—or if the city became a focus because of it. "We have no comment," said an Essayli representative. *The Santanero* attempted to reach a spokesperson from ICE but our request went unreturned. Despite this development, members of the community, along with organizations such as the [Orange County Rapid Response Network](https://ocrapidresponse.org/?ref=santanero.org), have continued to share information with one another regarding enforcement activity. Community members have remained active in supporting undocumented residents, particularly in response to recent immigration enforcement actions in Santa Ana. ### Ten days, 87 questions, little answers URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/20/ten-days-87-questions-little-answers/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:56:28.000Z Transparency has been the key to keeping equilibrium between Santaneros and local officials. It is what keeps the relationship trustworthy when times get tough. Over the past ten days, *The Santanero* has taken the necessary steps to engage with public officials, submitting a total of 87 questions meant to inform the community accurately and fairly. To date, only about seven questions were answered via text or press release, and three more during Tuesday’s council meeting. The overwhelming majority remain unanswered. The questions answered had to do with June 9th's protest, Santa Ana's drone operations at Mater Dei High School, and numbers of arrests of protesters, which was promptly posted on our social media to inform the community. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/06/dsc07313.jpg) **Paul Eakins at the opening of Gerardo Mouet Park. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Paul Eakins, the city's Public Information Officer, received a total compensation of $167,297.16 in 2023, according to [Transparent California](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2020/santa-ana/paul-c-eakins/?ref=santanero.org). That’s about $458 a day paid by taxpayers. As of Day 10, the bulk of our questions to him remain unaddressed. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/06/natalie-garcia-2-scaled-1.jpg) **Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia. (City of Santa Ana Website)* Similarly, Natalie Garcia, Public Information Officer for the Santa Ana Police Department, received [$167,966.48](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2023/santa-ana/natalie-garcia/?ref=santanero.org) in total taxpayer-funded compensation in 2023—roughly $460 a day—but key questions specifically directed to her department have not been answered. Despite this, the City Council at Tuesday’s meeting directed criticism at members of the public and social media accounts for spreading "misinformation." However, from our side, *The Santanero* has made every effort to pose clear, relevant questions to the appropriate officials. We’ve done our part; the answers, unfortunately, have not followed. No public press conference has been held, and the silence from the city’s communications team continues. In contrast, *The Santanero* also reached out to federal agencies, including ICE and the office of U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli. While Essalyli's office declined to comment, they at least issued an official “no comment” response. ICE has not responded to our media inquiries as of publish. Eakins replied Friday, June 13 to remind The Santanero that he was "working on providing more information." In an effort to prompt a response before publication, The Santanero sent a joint message to both Mr. Eakins and Ms. Garcia, informing them we’d move forward with or without their input. As of publish, no reply has been received from either official. Below is the full list of questions we submitted via email to both PIO's—per Eakins’ request on June 10—along with timestamps for transparency: Email correspondence from The Santanero to Eakins, Garcia from June 10-16, 2025 **SENT VIA EMAIL ON JUNE 10, 2025 2:05 PM** - What has Mayor Amezcua been up to the last 36 hours? Where has she been? - Mayor Amezcua was invited to attend Lou Correa’s press conference this morning, why did she leave? - The City’s joint statement claims that U.S Attorney Essayli contacted the city because feds were being “overrun”, what did “overrun” mean? - Who did Essayli speak to from the City? **\[ANSWERED DURING MEETING\]** - Did whoever Essayli speak to witness the federal agents being overrun or just took his word for it? - What was the City Manager’s role during the protests? - Was Chief Rodriguez present at the protest or station? - What time was the mutual assistance given by SAPD to surrounding departments? - Who responded to the mutual assistance? **\[ANSWERED VIA TEXT\]** - How many Santa Ana Police officers were deployed the first time? - Who ordered SAPD officers to form a line in front of the federal gate? - How many Santa Ana Police officers were deployed the second time (when it was declared an unlawful assembly)? - Who ordered SAPD officers to form a line in front of the federal gate? - What is the protocol for SAPD officers to shoot rubber bullets at very close range (as witnessed by The Santanero)? - When an unlawful assembly is declared and as the joint statement says it’s the goal of SAPD to “deescalate” the situation, when the protest does become lawful, is the unlawful assembly order rescinded or will police just continue to roll everyone out regardless if the protest becomes lawful/peaceful again? (Moments in between did occur Monday, but this question is mainly hypothetical.) - How is the City protecting its employees? - Is the City training or giving guidance to employees of when ICE wants to enter a City facility, center, etc.? - Did City financial staff account for the loss of revenue due to many electing to stay home now that immigration enforcement is active in Santa Ana? - Will the City amend the budget to account for loss of revenue due to many staying home and not shopping, etc.? - How many officers were injured Monday?How many officers came from Anaheim, Garden Grove and OC Sheriffs? - The Santanero witnessed the bearcat or military grade truck, was that SAPD SWAT or just SAPD on the vehicle? - What is the purpose of using a military grade vehicle during these protests? - What is the costs of these weapons used by Santa Ana Police (rubber bullets, the guns used to shoot the rubber bullets, etc.)? - At 7:29 PM Monday, The Santanero witnessed federal ICE agents begin to make a line directly behind Santa Ana Police. Was this support from federal agents requested from Santa Ana Police or offered by the agents themselves? Would this aid have violated the statue that SAPD does not collaborate with ICE? **\[ANSWERED DURING MEETING\]** - Will a joint-press conference occur with SAPD, City staff, and City Council present? If so, when and where? - Of those 11 arrested by SAPD Monday, how many were from Santa Ana? How many were from elsewhere and from where? - How will the City conduct city business amid National Guard members stationed at one of the entrances, requiring work ID to enter the premises? - Who ordered SAPD to form a line in front of the federal entrance/exit gate after the initial line of officers were dismissed? — **28 questions were sent Tuesday, June 10** — --- **SENT VIA EMAIL ON JUNE 12, 2025 3:49 PM** "TUESDAYS PROTESTS - How many injuries were reported? - How many officers were hurt or hospitalized? - How many arrests were made? **\[SORT OF ANSWERED\]** - Were any businesses looted? - Were any cars set on fire? - Who ordered police to stage a lines on First Street? - Who issued the mutual aid alert on Tuesday? - Who responded to the request (assisted SAPD) on Tuesday? **\[SORT OF ANSWERED\]** - Why did police ultimately leave on Tuesday? - Is it standard for police to begin blocking protestors from moving on streets despite it remaining peaceful? - What is the standard practice, procedure, or standard that Santa Ana Police uses during protests when declaring an unlawful assembly? Such as vehicles and weapons used? "WEDNESDAYS PROTEST - Who ordered police to stage a line behind the National Guard on Wednesday at approximately 8:10 PM? - How many injuries were reported? - How many officers were hurt or hospitalized? - How many arrests were made? **\[SORT OF ANSWERED\]** - Were any businesses looted? - Were any cars set on fire? - Who sent out the mutual aid response alert on Wednesday? - Which departments arrived to aid SAPD on Wednesday? **\[SORT OF ANSWERED\]** - How many from each department assisted SAPD on Wednesday? - Who ordered police to form lines on 4th and French at approximately 10:45 PM? - Is it standard for police to form lines even when the protest hasn’t been declared unlawful? - On Monday, before much of the chaos, Santa Ana Police did form a line of officers on Santa Ana Blvd., but it was said over the PA that they wanted protestors to move to Scasser Park, giving them a chance to move. Why wasn’t this done on Tuesday or Wednesday? "GENERAL/BOTH PD AND CITY - Why was Thursday’s police oversight commission meeting cancelled? - The Mayor said she’s been “working hard behind the scenes,” what does that mean? With whom has she been working with and what was done? - How will commission and city council meetings allow the public to attend despite the National Guard blocking Santa Ana Blvd.? - What does the City have to say about Santa Ana Police’s actions (specifically at being deployed when a protest is peaceful/not an unlawful assembly)? - What does the City and Police Department (specifically Chief Rodriguez) have to say on what unfolded early Thursday morning \[Police firing without warning at protestors/not declared an unlawful assembly yet\]? - How can Santaneros help their undocumented parents or bosses to continue to sell as the parent or boss hides in fear? Is there a rule for this? For example, we’ve seen a teen takeover for a parent who sold flowers on the side of the road, would code enforcement have to say anything about that? - What’s the status on the ICE notifications measure? What has City Attorney Sonia Carvahlo said to City staff or Council since Essayli’s letter? **\[ANSWERED DURING MEETING\]** - Is it acceptable by the code of ethics for police officers to cuss out a journalist who is not interfering with their duties and simply documenting with both hands visible? - How is the City of Santa Ana supporting businesses affected by National guard presence/protests? - What does the Council, Mayor, and Police Chief have to say about The Santanero’s report on police opening fire on protesters without warning? - Has the City been notified of a targeted raid happening at City Hall? --- **FOLLOW UP EMAIL SENT JUNE 12, 2025 6:25 PM** - Santa Ana PD does not own a drone. Do they contract it? How are drones being used during protests? - Who suggested Mater Dei? - What took place at Mater Dei? What did the operation entail? - The Santanero witnessed a drone fly over a peaceful protest on Monday and saw it again on Tuesday and Wednesday. Who was operating this drone? This drone was not media-owned and had the same build as the one seen on Monday. - Who sourced the drones? As in who paid for it and what company did it come from? - How long did the operation at Mater Dei last? - What’s Santa Ana Police’s relationship like with Mater Dei? **— 41 questions were sent Thursday, June 12, 2025 —** --- **RESPONSE FROM EAKINS JUNE 13, 2025 10:54 AM** "Hi Daniel, we are working on providing more information in response to your questions. Thank you for your patience. Respectfully, Paul Eakins | Public Affairs Information Officer" --- **EMAIL SENT ON JUNE 16, 2025 3:42 AM** - Did police kettle on Saturday? - If officers were ordering protestors to leave, why were some prevented from going into the parking structures to get in their car and leave? - Why didn’t police use the Emergency Alert System, which allows meta-data to be sent such as a map picture to show the exact area of dispersal? - How many were arrested and please provide the charges (“various” isn’t sufficient) - Is police and the city aware of destruction caused by police shooting rubber bullets and such towards at least one confirmed business (Vibes Boutique) - Protestors leaving asked officers where they could leave since most of the streets were blocked, officers responded saying they didn’t know. Was there a lack of communication between officers/commanders on Saturday? - According to video, police confronted a young male in his car, what occurred and was that person detained on Saturday? - When the dispersal order is given, are businesses allowed to continue operating? - A community teach-in occurred by the Federal Building on 4th and Birch, feds asked people to stay on the other side of the concrete car blockers, however is there a distinct property line? The side walk which has bricks appears to be Santa Ana jurisdiction and grass area federal property. Can this been confirmed with a surveyor map? - How many officers were injured Saturday (and basically everyday since Monday) - How many injuries were reported (of protesters or others not partaking in the protest) on Saturday and all other days for that matter - Were any police vehicles burned, tagged, or broken this week? --- **ADDITIONAL EMAIL SENT JUNE 16, 2025 8:17 PM** - How much in overtime is the city paying out to officers? - What did Essayli say during the phone call on Monday, June 9th (The Santanero humbly requests the audio recording of the phone call, with attendance of who was present at the call). **\[HALF ANSWERED\]** - Did the raids occur because Essayli sent the letter to Carvalho regarding the proposed ICE notifications measure? **\[Essayli declined to comment, City has not responded to this question.\]** - A Santa Ana business’ window was struck by officer fire Saturday night. What did the department do or respond to the business owner? What is the department’s message to other businesses? **— 18 questions were sent Monday, June 16, 2025 —** --- *The Santanero* will continue to ask for answers and file public records requests to effectively inform the community. ### Public obliterates Amezcua; told to support, resign, or be recalled URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/06/19/public-obliterates-amezcua-told-to-support-resign-or-be-recalled/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T17:53:02.000Z A marathon public comment session spanning over five hours turned into an obliterating roast session at Tuesday’s City Council meeting, as over 100 residents blasted Mayor Valerie Amezcua for her perceived silence and inaction during recent ICE raids that still leaves much of the city gripped with fear. Tensions were already high before the Council meeting even officially started — which, in typical fashion, began 37 minutes late. But what wasn’t typical was what happened just before the meeting was ordered. *Read more of what happened during Tuesday's meeting* [*here*](https://santanero.org/2025/06/19/public-obliterates-amezcua-told-to-support-resign-or-be-recalled/?ref=santanero.org)*.* --- ### Special evening issue coming today 6/19! We announced on Instagram that we'd have a special issue today included much information on immigration resources, as well as news happening here in Santa Ana and how you can help your neighbors. Stay tuned for an update :) --- ### Happy Juneteenth from The Santanero! ### Recap: June 17, 2025 City Council Meeting URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/recap-june-17-2025-city-council-meeting/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:49:51.000Z **CITY HALL** — After a week of federal immigration enforcement actions in Santa Ana — which sparked mostly peaceful protests across the city — residents are expressing outrage over Mayor Valerie Amezcua’s apparent three-day silence and her eventual decision to side with law enforcement. Frustrated Santaneros are showing up in large numbers at tonight’s city council meeting to voice their concerns. *The Santanero* reached out to City Public Information Officer Paul Eakins to ask how the city is preparing to accommodate hundreds of attendees and speakers, especially with the National Guard still stationed along Santa Ana Boulevard near one of the main entrances. As of publication, Eakins had not responded. Stay with *The Santanero* for live updates from tonight’s meeting, which is scheduled to begin at approximately 5:30 PM. Watch the meeting live below: \[arena\_embed version="2" publisher="the-santanero-86178" event="B220Vxg"\] ### Sprouts to replace former 99 Cents Only Store at Bristol Warner Village URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/sprouts-to-replace-former-99-cents-only-store-at-bristol-warner-village/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:49:19.000Z It has been over a year since the former 99 Cents Only Store closed permanently at the corner of Bristol and Warner. After sitting vacant for more than 12 months, the property's longtime owner, NewMark Merrill, [announced Thursday](https://newmarkmerrill.com/newmark-merrill-companies-announces-new-lease-with-sprouts-farmers-market-at-bristol-warner-village-in-santa-ana-ca/?ref=santanero.org) that a lease has been signed with Sprouts Farmers Market. “We’re proud to welcome Sprouts Farmers Market to Santa Ana as a best-in-class grocer that brings fresh, high-quality food options to the community,” said Greg Giacopuzzi, Vice President of Leasing and Development, via a [press release](https://newmarkmerrill.com/newmark-merrill-companies-announces-new-lease-with-sprouts-farmers-market-at-bristol-warner-village-in-santa-ana-ca/?ref=santanero.org). “This location represents a significant upgrade over the dollar store it replaces, and will add a meaningful daily needs component to the center. Sprouts’ investment in this location is a testament to the dynamic and diverse community for those who call Santa Ana home.” The arrival of Sprouts next year signals a shift in Santa Ana’s commercial landscape, coinciding with broader changes—from the expansion of Bristol Street to the construction of luxury residential developments. While some view the trend as clear gentrification, others seem to welcome the added organic grocery options despite El Super already operating in the same shopping center. “As a long-time owner of Bristol Warner Village, we are very excited to bring Sprouts Farmers Market to the community” said Sandy Sigal, President and Chief Executive Officer of NewMark Merrill Companies, via a [press release](https://newmarkmerrill.com/newmark-merrill-companies-announces-new-lease-with-sprouts-farmers-market-at-bristol-warner-village-in-santa-ana-ca/?ref=santanero.org). “They are a valuable partner and a key driver at our centers. This new location represents our 6th Sprouts grocery store in our portfolio.” The new Sprouts is slated to open around October 2026. ### Mater Dei alumni demand end to police drone operations on campus URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/mater-dei-alumni-demand-end-to-police-drone-operations-on-campus/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:49:06.000Z Mater Dei High School administration received a letter Monday from alumni expressing strong disapproval and calling for the immediate retraction of the school’s partnership with the Santa Ana Police Department and other law enforcement agencies. The controversy centers on the use of the Mater Dei campus as a staging area for “[drone operations](https://www.santanero.org/mater-dei-drone-operation-hints-at-sapds-tactics-in-protest-dispersal-brennan-clarifies-theyre-not-working-with-ice-but-a-donor-and-alumni-say-thats-not-enough/)” during recent protests. On Tuesday, June 10, President Michael Brennan authorized Santa Ana Police and other unidentified local law enforcement agencies to use the school grounds for these operations. It was later revealed that the drones were employed in crowd dispersal tactics during protests held the previous week and into the weekend. Amid ongoing ICE raids beginning Monday, June 9, community members—unaware of the school's partnership with law enforcement—shared concerns on social media. Some feared that Immigration and Customs Enforcement was using Mater Dei as a staging site for enforcement actions in the surrounding area. On Thursday, President Brennan [clarified](https://www.santanero.org/mater-dei-drone-operation-hints-at-sapds-tactics-in-protest-dispersal-brennan-clarifies-theyre-not-working-with-ice-but-a-donor-and-alumni-say-thats-not-enough/) that ICE had never set foot on campus and was not collaborating with the school in any way. Still, the backlash grew. Two alumnae—Roshell Amezcua, Esq., and Leslie Arreola, founder of Latinx Parenting—organized a letter demanding accountability. They gathered over 750 signatures from fellow Mater Dei alumni and sent the letter via email on Monday. Read the full letter here: SENT VIA EMAIL TO MATER DEI ADMIN: Monday, June 16, 2025 *"Dear President Michael Brennan,* *We, over 750 alumni of Mater Dei High School, write to you as concerned and disappointed alumni. On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, you sent an email confirming that Mater Dei had opened its doors to law enforcement agencies, including the Santa Ana Police Department, to use the campus as a staging site for drone operations. As former students of Mater Dei, we write to express our fear, sadness, and absolute condemnation of promoting the use of drones in local policing actions and exposing Mater Dei students to law enforcement in their sacred place of education.* *First, the use of drones promotes militarized forms of policing communities from Santa Ana. Drones have long been established as tools of warfare and military tactics, historically utilized in mass killings of marginalized communities. To use Mater Dei as a testing site for militarized tactics is in direct contradiction to all that Mater Dei stands for as an institution rooted in Catholicism, the Bible, in the peace of Jesus Christ, and in love. Further, the use of drones in policing the very communities of which Mater Dei is and should be a part of displays a commitment to harming the Black and brown people surrounding the campus.* *Second, exposing Mater Dei students to law enforcement in their place of education is harmful and dangerous.* *Academia and education are sacred and schools should serve as sites of safety for all students. Indeed, advocates have long argued against police presence on school campuses because it serves to instill fear in students and increases distrust in their academic leaders and teachers.* *All students at Mater Dei have a right to feel safe on their campus so that they can learn with open minds, free of fear of the police. By inviting the Santa Ana Police Department and other law enforcement agencies onto their campus for the specific purpose of a "staging site for drone operations," you not only put Black and brown youth at risk of harm, you send the message that Mater Dei is not a sacred place of learning and education.* *We demand that Mater Dei commit to keeping all of their students safe by keeping police off of campus and that Mater Dei commit to investment in their surrounding community by condemning the use of militarized tactics such as the use of drones.* *Authored by: Roshell Amezcua, Esq., Class of 2005, in collaboration with Leslie Arreola, Founder of Latinx Parenting, Class of 2005* *We demand that Mater Dei High School Administration respond by June 19, 2025 (Juneteenth), with a commitment to building a supportive relationship with the Black and Brown community surrounding Mater Dei Highschool and with a commitment to not allow law enforcement onto campus generally, and specifically with the purpose to use the campus as a site for staging or training on militarized tactics against the people of Santa Ana, including the use of drones.* *The overwhelming amount of engagement from your alumni base makes it clear that we are a large group, we are a group that cares about past, present, and future students at Mater Dei, and we are a group that recognizes that Mater Dei owes the surrounding community more and better. We have been taught to give and demand honor, glory, and love. Mater Dei's recent actions do not exemplify these commitments. We expect Mater Dei's Administration to respond and to take our concerns seriously because we are numerous, we are connected to various influential networks, and we won't accept anything less.* *Sincerely,* *Roshell Amezcua, Leslie Arreola, and the over 750 undersigned."* No official statement or response has been issued by Mater Dei since the letter was sent. On Monday, Santa Ana Police were reportedly seen on campus once again, according to community members who noted the presence of white vans. It remains unclear whether the vehicles belonged to law enforcement or the school. *The Santanero* reached out to the Diocese of Orange for comment Friday. While declining to comment, they referred us to Brennan's statement [issued Thursday](https://www.santanero.org/mater-dei-drone-operation-hints-at-sapds-tactics-in-protest-dispersal-brennan-clarifies-theyre-not-working-with-ice-but-a-donor-and-alumni-say-thats-not-enough/). ### Decline in cars and foot traffic signals uncertain future for businesses and City budget URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/16/decline-in-cars-and-foot-traffic-signals-uncertain-future-for-businesses-and-city-budget/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:48:29.000Z Santa Ana streets have seen a noticeable decline in activity following federal immigration raids that began last Monday. With the National Guard maintaining a visible presence along East Fourth Street and Santa Ana Boulevard and ongoing protests, many residents are avoiding the Downtown area—a shift that is already impacting local businesses and could affect the City’s future revenue. This month, the Santa Ana City Council unanimously approved a balanced fiscal budget for 2025–26\. While no major cuts were included in the current plan—those decisions were deferred until next year—business owners across the city are now reporting significant drops in sales compared to earlier this month, attributing the decline to fewer shoppers and heightened fear of immigration enforcement. Lower sales now mean the City could collect less in tax revenue next year. The full extent of the potential shortfall, however, remains unclear. *The* *Santanero* reached out to the City to ask whether the newly passed budget might be reconsidered in light of the changing revenue outlook. As of publication, no response has been received. > [](https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1931087538565054849?ref=santanero.org) Compounding local financial uncertainty, the Trump administration has reiterated its intention to cut millions in federal funding to California. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X that California pays the nation's bills and questioned what could happen if the state withheld its contributions to the federal government. Any loss of federal support—especially for projects that rely on that funding—could lead to delays or sudden halts in development. The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, in the council chambers at City Hall. Those wishing to speak must submit a speaker card in person no later than 5:45 PM or the start of the meeting (whichever is last). However, with several hundreds planning to speak Tuesday, it is recommended to arrive early to submit a card. Participation via Zoom is also available. For details, visit the City of Santa Ana’s official [website](https://www.santa-ana.org/agendas-and-minutes/?ref=santanero.org). ### Online recall effort launched against Amezcua URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/13/online-recall-effort-launched-against-amezcua/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:47:45.000Z A [change.org petition](https://www.change.org/p/recall-mayor-valerie-amezcua?recruiter=1376355015&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=0c444270-487c-11f0-a781-cf507a1fb45a&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=psf%5Fcombo%5Fshare%5Finitial&utm%5Fterm=psf&utm%5Fmedium=mobileNativeShare) was established Friday in efforts to recall Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua who has recevied a firewall of backlash from Santaneros for what many call a “lack” of response and an overexaggeration of words used in her Monday Facebook post. Amezcua was interviewed by [ABC7](https://abc7.com/post/santa-ana-mayor-valerie-amezcua-responds-backlash-response-ice-raids/16735673/?ref=santanero.org) Thursday where she explained her stance which leaned or resonated more on the side of public safety, property protection, and law enforcement than of protestors and undocumented Santaneros. The petition has received over 300 signatures as of publish. ### Mater Dei 'drone operation' hints at SAPD's tactics in protest dispersal; Brennan clarifies they're not working with ICE but a donor and alumni say that's not enough URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/13/mater-dei-drone-operation-hints-at-sapds-tactics-in-protest-dispersal-brennan-clarifies-theyre-not-working-with-ice-but-a-donor-and-alumni-say-thats-not-enough/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:47:26.000Z An anonymous donor to Mater Dei High School has withdrawn support after learning that President Michael Brennan allowed Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) and other unidentified local law enforcement agencies to use the school campus as a staging area Tuesday for "drone operations." As of now, SAPD has not clarified the purpose or scope of these operations. According to eyewitness accounts and reporting by *The Santanero*, a drone was consistently observed at this week's demonstrations, typically appearing shortly before police arrived, hinting at tactics SAPD may use for protest dispersal. This pattern has been noted repeatedly: peaceful protest → drone → police arrive → faceoff. In response to the incident, two prominent alumnae from the Class of 2005—Roshell Amezcua, Esq., and Leslie Arreola, founder of *Latinx Parenting*—have launched an alumni initiative. Their goal is to [gather signatures](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgWnqsMxZmWCACSUnIj4jM-3Gy8QwREEDMoZmHHd3iGc2a4w/viewform?pli=1&ref=santanero.org) for a formal letter to school administrators, scheduled to be delivered on Monday. The letter strongly condemns Mater Dei’s decision to provide support for a police drone staging site. According to the letter, it expresses grave concerns about the normalization of militarized policing, especially within educational environments, emphasizing its harmful effects on Black and brown students and communities. Comments on Arreola’s letter [post](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzqL5vJSzX/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org) has many agreeing that it was the wrong decision made. > “Not very ‘love thy neighbor’ of them.” [one commenter said.](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzqL5vJSzX/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org) On Tuesday, the day the operation occurred, President Brennan [defended the decision](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/06/c5da0430-6f4c-445a-bb55-919ab360d902.jpg?ref=santanero.org) by stating: > “Our partnership with SAPD reflects our ongoing support for the City of Santa Ana and its efforts to maintain public safety.” A part of the letter stated, "By inviting the Santa Ana Police Department and other law enforcement agencies onto their campus for the specific purpose of a 'staging site for drone operations,' you not only put Black and brown youth at risk of harm, you send the message that Mater Dei is not a sacred place of learning and education." In a [follow-up statement](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/06/54fb8b2e-93b9-4cf3-91f3-d49c6d55ae10.jpg?ref=santanero.org) issued Wednesday, Brennan also addressed growing community concerns amid ongoing federal immigration raids. He announced that Mater Dei Chapel would be opened to the public as a space for prayer and support during difficult times. He further clarified that: - *Mater Dei is not working with ICE.* - *ICE has never been on campus.* - *The school remains committed to the safety of its students, staff, and parents.* On Wednesday, *The Santanero* reached out to SAPD Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia to inquire about the drone operations' logistics. No response was received. "I am disgusted and have stopped all donations to them. This is not ok at all." the anonymous donor said. However, additional questions were sent via email to Santa Ana City Public Information Officer Paul Eakins. At present, *The Santanero* has submitted a total of 70 questions. A response is expected by Friday evening, unless a press conference is scheduled beforehand. ### Social media post shows apparent death threat towards Mayor Amezcua URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/social-media-post-shows-apparent-death-threat-towards-mayor-amezcua/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:45:15.000Z Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua posted Wednesday to her social media a screenshot of an apparent death threat. The post came from a user on Instagram posted to their story saying "Kill your local politician now!" The user is not identified in the post. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/06/img_1366.jpg) **Via @mayorvalerieamezcuasantaana on Instagram.* "A clear death threat!!!" writes Amezcua. "No need for me to say anything else." This after three days of continuous federal immigration raids as well as protests continue to occur citywide, leaving some vehemently angry. Some commenters on *The Santanero* and other social media outlets are upset at what they say is a lack of urgency to speak on the issue of immigration raids and protests. Amezcua formally [released a statement through the City](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyMx7ARUa3/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) on Wednesday evening. She additionally posted twice on Facebook, [one pleaded for peace](https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1122265073259417&set=a.410647927754472) from protestors and [another](https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAmezcuaForSantaAna/posts/pfbid02yimUXxcvzXi6VLtf5gymjeYSNU4gqEM8pTFXW3Lh847G7dEvf2eH56t1DCyZxbQ8l) criticizing Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento and other Santa Ana City Councilmembers whom were present at Monday's protest. The cropped post also had a screenshot of a tweet sent out by the Orange County Republican Party as seen below. > [](https://twitter.com/OCGOP/status/1932427720534974874?ref=santanero.org) *The Santanero* cannot confirm if the threat is under investigation, however it would not be the first time Amezcua received such threats. In her first few months as Mayor, a threat was received resulting in her hiring personal security. Amezcua also opened up of mental and physical health challenges she's faced since becoming Mayor on her social media. *This is a developing story.* ### Officer cusses out Santanero journalist covering chaos on Fourth Street, another jests URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/officer-cusses-out-santanero-journalist-covering-chaos-on-fourth-street-another-jests/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:47:15.000Z Daniel Diaz, the sole staff member of The Santanero, was livestreaming and reporting the events unfolding early Thursday where Santa Ana Police officers shot rubber bullets and other canisters at protesters with no warning or unlawful assembly order given. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyxOUnuM9O/?utm\_source=ig\_web\_copy\_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== As officers began to expand their line across Fourth Street, one officer ordered Daniel to "back up." "I'm not in your line.. I'm press, I'm reporting." said Daniel. "Alright, then get out of the way." replied the officer as he pointed to his right. "Right here is fine?" said Daniel, pointing to the officers' right. "Yeah, get the fuck out of the way." replied the officer. "I asked nicely, okay? I asked nicely." said Daniel. Daniel returned to reporting the event, while also flashing his press badge to officers that were unaware that he was a member of the press. While live on Instagram, a commenter asked how big the rubber bullets were. Daniel asked an officer if he could pick up one several feet from where they were standing. "May I pick up that rubber bullet?" asked Daniel to the officer. "Just don't throw it at me bro," replied the officer. "I ain't gonna throw it, *bro*," said back to the officer. While journalists across the nation are facing similar or harsher interactions with officers as protests continue, The Santanero will continue to support its staff as they report on critical events happening in our city. ### Santa Ana Police shoot rubber bullets at protesters without warning URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/santa-ana-police-shoot-rubber-bullets-at-protesters-without-warning/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:47:02.000Z ⚠️ This article has been updated to include injuries, vehicle damage, and results of submitted public records requests. A peaceful demonstration protesting President Trump's mass deportation plans and recent ICE activity in Santa Ana began Wednesday afternoon on Fourth and Birch Street, directly where National Guards were positioned to defend the Ronald Reagan Federal Court building. Protestors marched throughout Downtown streets, danced, and even [shook hands with National Guards](https://m.facebook.com/groups/409867522719304/permalink/2440127233026646/?mibextid=wwXIfr&ref=santanero.org). *The Santanero* arrived in Downtown at around 10:25 PM Wednesday. There were two main protest groups: one stationary at Plaza Calle Cuatro, holding a protest that resembled a block party with about 200 individuals and several dozen cars, and another group of about 100 that had marched from Downtown down Main to Warner, up Flower, and back into Downtown. These groups had splintered from the larger crowd of over 2,000 that had marched throughout Downtown earlier Wednesday. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzUGNeot6N/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) > > [A post shared by The Santanero (@thesantanero)](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzUGNeot6N/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) *The Santanero* began broadcasting live on the ground via Instagram at 10:35 PM from Fourth and French Streets. What appeared to be a festive block party turned into a shouting match after protestors saw police vehicles begin to arrive at 10:41 PM and form lines to surround the crowd. The group that had marched met up with the stationary demonstrators as police were establishing their positions. After about 10 minutes of faceoff and insults shouted at police by protestors, peacekeeping protestors convinced the crowd to turn their backs on police and march away. Three water bottles were launched by instigators, who were quickly reprimanded by peacekeepers. No rubber bullets were fired, no actions were taken by officers, and an unlawful assembly was not declared. *The Santanero* followed the merged groups and parade of cars from Plaza Calle Cuatro to Lacy, then First, Grand, McFadden, and ultimately Main Street. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyxOUnuM9O/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) > > [A post shared by The Santanero (@thesantanero)](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyxOUnuM9O/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) About 80 protestors—the remnants of the same peaceful protest that marched (and drove) across the city Wednesday—stopped on Fourth and Main shortly after midnight Thursday. Santa Ana Police officers arrived around 12:30 AM. Most protestors remained on the sidewalks, while vehicles came to a halt, blocking northbound traffic on Main Street reaching Fourth Street. The demonstration remained peaceful, despite familiar sights like burning rubber and fireworks being set off. At 12:39 AM, *The Santanero* witnessed a line of Santa Ana Police officers being formed across Main Street between Third and Fourth Streets. As the line was being established—without any warnings or lawful commands given and with no apparent provocation from demonstrators who were still on the sidewalks—officers fired multiple rounds of rubber bullets and what appeared to be flashbangs into the crowd and at cars still flowing through Fourth Street. Immediately *after* rubber bullets rang, instigators threw two water bottles and a firework that diffused itself at officers as the protest spilt into two running in both directions of Fourth Street. Exactly one minute later, at 12:40 AM, Santa Ana Police declared the protest an “unlawful assembly" over the PA system in the police's armored vehicle. This announcement came *after* police had already fired rubber bullets and undetermined canisters into the crowd. *The Santanero*'s sole staff member, Daniel Diaz, who witnessed and livestreamed the unfolding chaos, said there was no clear instigation from the crowd towards officers and no lawful orders were given before rubber bullets were fired, causing mass panic among protestors, drivers in their cars who got caught in the crossfire because traffic had not been stopped in both directions of Fourth Street, and even put residents at Rafferty at risk. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/08/IMG_2856.jpg) **Vehicle with car damage from officer's rubber bullet shots. (Submitted anonymously)* According to Diaz, windows were heard being shattered. *The Santanero* later confirmed that one vehicle was struck at least three times: once on the right back passenger door and two in the rear, striking the car's emblem off and shattering the rear window. As of publish, no Fourth Street businesses or Rafferty apartments were struck. *The Santanero* can also confirm several injuries of protesters, including a minor who was shot twice in the left rib and left arm while fleeing after shots rang out. It is also unclear how many demonstrators were injured by rubber bullets. *The Santanero* can confirm that no officers were injured during any of Wednesday's protests. It has not been confirmed, but after the crowd dispersed, no arrests were made. Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez was watching *The Santanero*'s livestream coverage, the only City Councilmember *The Santanero* could confirm viewing amidst the chaos. *The Santanero* shared its livestream and contacted Santa Ana Police Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia to confirm whether the events that occurred Thursday reflect standard procedure. A response is still pending. In addition, *The Santanero* a public records request twice to obtain body camera footage from officers who were deployed. Both were denied citing an investigative state law code. As for property damage, no businesses were witnessed to be looted, no cars were set on fire, tagging was witnessed occurring live at the Cubbon Street Northgate, and additionally spotted at the M&M Kitchen and Floors on McFadden and Main, as well as the Dollar Tree and El Porto Boots off Main. *This is a developing story.* ### SAUSD finalizes layoffs for 262 certificated staff after legal review URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/28/sausd-finalizes-layoffs-for-262-certificated-staff-after-legal-review-2/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:46:17.000Z (SAUSD HQ) — The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education has formally voted to issue final layoff notices to 262 certificated employees, according to [Resolution No. 24/25-3680](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DGTRSN6F2A53/$file/Santa%20Ana%20-%202025%20Certificated%20Layoff%20-%20FINAL%20Resolution%2024-25-3680%20Re%20Reduction%20or%20Elimination%5F.pdf?ref=santanero.org) passed during the board's May 19 special meeting. The layoffs follow the district’s January resolution to reduce or eliminate particular kinds of services (PKS) ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. The resolution cited declining enrollment and budgetary constraints as factors driving the cuts. Employees were notified before March 15 and had the right to request a layoff hearing. Those who participated in hearings were referred to as “Respondents,” while others who did not request a hearing were classified as “non-Respondents.” Hearings were held April 14–18 before an administrative law judge. Following the hearings, a couple dozen of staff were removed from the layoff list. The judge's proposed decision, received by the district on May 12, resulted in changes to who would be laid off. Specifically, the district agreed not to proceed with layoffs for several employees. Ron Hacker, Associate Superintendent and Chief Business Official, confirmed to *The Santanero* on Monday that 262 is the most current number referenced in the resolution. This adjustment from "around 350" and 276, reflects legal rulings, assignment corrections, and errors identified during the hearing process. The affected employees span roles including teachers (elementary and secondary), counselors (192- and 202-day contracts), instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs). Final notices are to be delivered no later than May 22, 2025, as required by law. ### SAUSD finalizes layoffs for 262 certificated staff after legal review URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/20/sausd-finalizes-layoffs-for-262-certificated-staff-after-legal-review/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:44:36.000Z *— Originally published May 19, 2025 - 8:53 PM —* The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education has formally voted to issue final layoff notices to 262 certificated employees, according to [Resolution No. 24/25-3680](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DGTRSN6F2A53/$file/Santa%20Ana%20-%202025%20Certificated%20Layoff%20-%20FINAL%20Resolution%2024-25-3680%20Re%20Reduction%20or%20Elimination%5F.pdf?ref=santanero.org) passed during the board's May 19 special meeting. The layoffs follow the district’s January resolution to reduce or eliminate particular kinds of services (PKS) ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. The resolution cited declining enrollment and budgetary constraints as factors driving the cuts. ## SAUSD Layoffs by Role (Final Count) | Role | Count | | -------------------------------------------------------- | ----- | | Elementary Teachers (Multiple Subjects) | \~115 | | Secondary Teachers (Math, English, Social Science, etc.) | \~90 | | Counselors (192- & 202-day) | \~40 | | Instructional Coaches | \~20 | | Itinerant Support Teachers | \~10 | | TOSAs (Teachers on Special Assignment) | \~10 | | Curriculum Specialists | \~7 | | Home and Hospital Instructors | 2 | | Counselor Coaches | 2 | | Total | 262 | Employees were notified before March 15 and had the right to request a layoff hearing. Those who participated in hearings were referred to as “Respondents,” while others who did not request a hearing were classified as “non-Respondents.” Hearings were held April 14–18 before an administrative law judge. Following the hearings, a couple dozen of staff were removed from the layoff list. The judge's proposed decision, received by the district on May 12, resulted in changes to who would be laid off. Specifically, the district agreed not to proceed with layoffs for several employees. Ron Hacker, Associate Superintendent and Chief Business Official, confirmed to *The Santanero* on Monday that 262 is the most current number referenced in the resolution. This adjustment from "around 350" and 276, reflects legal rulings, assignment corrections, and errors identified during the hearing process. The affected employees span roles including teachers (elementary and secondary), counselors (192- and 202-day contracts), instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs). Final notices are to be delivered no later than May 22, 2025, as required by law. ### Administrative judge makes final ruling on SAUSD layoffs; Board to consider rulings Monday URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/15/administrative-judge-makes-final-ruling-on-sausd-layoffs-board-to-consider-rulings-monday/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:44:24.000Z **SAUSD HQ** — A California administrative law judge has ruled that the Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) may proceed with mass layoffs affecting up to 276 certificated staff—including teachers, counselors, and instructional specialists—for the 2025–2026 school year. The [ruling](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/05/SAUSD%5FRIF%5FSawyer%5FRuling%5F05122025.pdf), issued by Judge Eric Sawyer on May 12 following a five-day hearing in April, largely upheld the District’s justification for the layoffs, which stem from a major budget stabilization effort and staff surplus. Initially, SAUSD planned to eliminate 386 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. However, this number reflects workload—not headcount. Because some employees work part-time or share positions, cutting 386 FTEs does not mean 386 people are being laid off. After accounting for retirements, resignations, reassignments, and legal challenges, the number of actual layoff notices dropped to 276\. The judge then removed 18 individuals from the list due to errors—such as being bumped by unqualified colleagues or having credentials that were overlooked. | Position | FTEs Cut | | -------------------------------------- | -------- | | Elementary Teacher (Multiple Subjects) | 140 | | Transitional Kindergarten Teacher | 12 | | Math Teacher | 26 | | English Teacher | 44 | | Social Science Teacher | 16 | | Curriculum Specialist | 16 | | Itinerant Support Teacher | 20 | | Home & Hospital Teacher | 5 | | Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) | 17 | | Counselor – 192 Day | 27 | | Counselor – 202 Day | 20 | | Counselor Coach | 4 | | Instructional Coach – Future Ready | 39 | | Total | 386 | Source: Santa Ana Unified, ACJ Ruling 05/12/2025 NOTE: These cuts in positions does not mean the number of actual staff being laid off. That number sits at 276 from *The Santanero*’s understanding. The judge found that most of the District’s layoffs were legally justified and followed required procedures. However, some errors were identified—such as bilingual teachers being replaced by less-qualified staff, and counselors being laid off based on the number of workdays rather than seniority. The court also ruled that Speech and Debate coaches did not qualify for the same layoff protections as sports coaches. Tie-breaker decisions were handled using a weighted point system, and in cases of exact ties, a digital lottery was used to determine seniority. Ron Hacker, SAUSD’s Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Superintendent, noted in a phone call Thursday that Judge Sawyer’s ruling is “technically not binding,” meaning the Board is not required to accept it fully. A special board meeting is scheduled for Monday, where trustees will vote on whether to adopt the ruling’s findings and move forward with final layoff decisions. ### Lorin Griset student dies by suicide, SAUSD confrims URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/10/loren-griest-student-dies-by-suicide-sausd-confrims/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:42:35.000Z *— Published May 9, 2025, 5:48 PM, Updated May 9, 2025, 6:28 PM —* 💡 **A GoFundMe has been set up for Adrian Quintanilla by his family. Click* [**here*](https://www.gofundme.com/f/community-support-for-adrians-loved-ones?attribution%5Fid=sl:53841f65-7b92-4dd7-8fa2-015058e46a34&lang=en%5FUS&ts=1746839554&utm%5Fcampaign=fp%5Fsharesheet&utm%5Fcontent=amp13%5Ft1-amp14%5Ft1-amp15%5Ft3&utm%5Fmedium=customer&utm%5Fsource=copy%5Flink&v=amp14%5Ft1) *to be redirected.* BELLA VISTA N.H. — A male 11th grader who attended Lorin Griset Academy died by suicide at his home on Wednesday, the Santa Ana Unified School District has confirmed. *The Santanero* learned of the student’s death on Friday. Initially, it was unclear if the tragedy was connected to the recent stabbing incident at Santa Ana High School, but district officials have confirmed the two incidents are not related. Fermin Leal, Chief Communications Officer for Santa Ana Unified, confirmed the student's death occurred Wednesday and clarified that it did not happen on campus. When contacted, Santa Ana Police Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia said the department had no information regarding the death. *The Santanero* also reached out to Lorin Griset Principal Micheal Parra and the Orange County Coroner’s Office, but those requests were not immediately returned. Circumstances as to why the student took his own life are not known at this time. > *If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or worried about a friend or loved one, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.* This is a developing story. *The Santanero* will provide updates as more information becomes available. ### The Kids Are Not Alright. URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/08/the-kids-are-not-alright/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:42:09.000Z ![](https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/0*QCCFh9w4jgxrgj8O.jpeg) Like the headline says, the kids are not alright. Here in Santa Ana, we’re seeing it in real time-young Santaneros being steered down paths paved with consequences that are entirely preventable. People ask: why? Why do we continue to accept tragedy as a way of life in this city? Why have we grown numb to the cycle? Some say it’s gang glorification. Others point to underfunded communities, broken trust in law enforcement, or the presence of gang culture passed from one generation to the next. Some blame a lack of afterschool programs, missing resources to keep kids off the streets, or the fear that keeps residents silent when they see something wrong. Others chalk it up to loose parenting, or simply say, “It’s just how things are.” But whatever the cause, the result is the same: shock, grief, prayers, condolences-and then the forgetting, until the next life is taken. In 2024, Santa Ana recorded 17 homicides-eight of them gang-related. In 2023, every one of the seven homicides was gang-related. In 2022, 16 out of 25\. That was the highest gang-related homicide rate in the last decade. Over the last 30 years, we’ve spent billions trying to contain this violence. Still, however, what’s it to person with callous intent today? And while the violence is the most visible symptom, there’s more happening beneath the surface. Teens today are under immense pressure-from school, sports, social media, family expectations, financial realities. They’re constantly surrounded by peers who seem to have it all figured out. That pressure morphs into stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. If they don’t have someone-be it a teacher, a counselor, a parent, an older sibling, or even a friend-to *really* listen to what’s on their mind, they often turn to what *does* listen: the streets. The consequences? Sometimes, there’s no coming back. Now, more than ever, we must unite-not just to warn kids about the world’s influences, but to show up for them emotionally. Ask them what’s on their minds. Be present. Be involved. Be real. We cannot continue to normalize this bloodshed. Far too many young lives have been buried before their time. Far too many families eat dinner with one chair permanently empty. Far too many dreams have been stolen. Santaneros, *please*. For the sake of the children, for the future of this city-let’s stop looking away. Let’s stop waiting for the next headline. Let’s start acting like the kids matter-because they do. *Written by Daniel Diaz, Santa Ana resident born and raised, three-school factor of SAUSD, and sole member of The Santanero newspaper.* *Homicide data provided by the Santa Ana Police Records Division via Public Records Request.* --- *Originally published at* [*https://www.santanero.org*](https://www.santanero.org/editorial-the-kids-are-not-alright/) *on May 8, 2025.* ### The Kids Are Not Alright. URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/editorial/2025/05/08/editorial-the-kids-are-not-alright/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:42:25.000Z *— Published May 7, 2025, 9:57 PM —* Like the headline says, the kids are not alright. Here in Santa Ana, we’re seeing it in real time—young Santaneros being steered down paths paved with consequences that are entirely preventable. People ask: why? Why do we continue to accept tragedy as a way of life in this city? Why have we grown numb to the cycle? Some say it’s gang glorification. Others point to underfunded communities, broken trust in law enforcement, or the presence of gang culture passed from one generation to the next. Some blame a lack of afterschool programs, missing resources to keep kids off the streets, or the fear that keeps residents silent when they see something wrong. Others chalk it up to loose parenting, or simply say, “It’s just how things are.” But whatever the cause, the result is the same: shock, grief, prayers, condolences—and then the forgetting, until the next life is taken. Santa Ana Homicides 2014-2024 | Year | Gang-Related Incidents | Non-Gang-Related Incidents | | ---- | ---------------------- | -------------------------- | | 2014 | 12 | 6 | | 2015 | 5 | 7 | | 2016 | 12 | 11 | | 2017 | 14 | 7 | | 2018 | 9 | 13 | | 2019 | 5 | 9 | | 2020 | 8 | 6 | | 2021 | 9 | 13 | | 2022 | 16 | 9 | | 2023 | 7 | 0 | | 2024 | 8 | 9 | Source: Santa Ana Police Records. Note: Not all homicides occurred within their year bracket as the incident may have occurred the year before, but the victim died the following new year. In 2024, Santa Ana recorded 17 homicides—eight of them gang-related. In 2023, every one of the seven homicides was gang-related. In 2022, 16 out of 25\. That was the highest gang-related homicide rate in the last decade. Over the last 30 years, we’ve spent billions trying to contain this violence. Still, however, what’s it to person with callous intent today? And while the violence is the most visible symptom, there’s more happening beneath the surface. Teens today are under immense pressure—from school, sports, social media, family expectations, financial realities. They’re constantly surrounded by peers who seem to have it all figured out. That pressure morphs into stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. If they don’t have someone—be it a teacher, a counselor, a parent, an older sibling, or even a friend—to *really* listen to what's on their mind, they often turn to what *does* listen: the streets. The consequences? Sometimes, there’s no coming back. Now, more than ever, we must unite—not just to warn kids about the world's influences, but to show up for them emotionally. Ask them what’s on their minds. Be present. Be involved. Be real. We cannot continue to normalize this bloodshed. Far too many young lives have been buried before their time. Far too many families eat dinner with one chair permanently empty. Far too many dreams have been stolen. Santaneros, *please*. For the sake of the children, for the future of this city—let’s stop looking away. Let’s stop waiting for the next headline. Let’s start acting like the kids matter—because they do. --- *Written by Daniel Diaz, Santa Ana resident born and raised, three-school factor of SAUSD, and sole member of The Santanero newspaper.* *Homicide data provided by the Santa Ana Police Records Division via Public Records Request.* ### Main Teriyaki and Burger sells its last burger URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/05/08/main-teriyaki-and-burger-sells-its-last-burger/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:41:04.000Z Main Teriyaki and Burger closed indefinitely Wednesday afternoon, much earlier than posted business hours, after community members raced for a chance to eat at one of Santa Ana's non-corporate burger joints. The Santanero was there Tuesday prior to a city council meeting. While staff worked their last shifts, customers hoped to eat and reminisce. ### Santa Ana Police received 42 immigration enforcement notices, withheld telling public URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/05/05/santa-ana-police-received-42-immigration-enforcement-notices-withheld-telling-public/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:41:44.000Z 📰 **Click* [**here*](https://inadvertent.substack.com/p/sapd-ice-data) *to read Inadvertent's story as originally published.* *— First published May 5, 2025, 11:10 AM —* Santa Ana Police received 42 immigration enforcement notifications from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and/or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) since January 20th, according to documents released in response to a public records request filed by the publication [*Inadvertent*](https://inadvertent.substack.com/p/sapd-ice-data). At a [February 4th city council meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6VEJfDE2Zk&t=3983s&ref=santanero.org), Police Chief Robert Rodriguez stated that there had been no ICE activity in Santa Ana. The timeline of ICE or DHS enforcement operations in the city remains unclear based on available information. Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia did not immediately respond to *The Santanero’s* request for comment. The [map](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1ahSoJAW9wQomzYtMZRgWOHhoSxsirFg&ll=33.74062432528867%2C-117.8862668&z=13&ref=santanero.org) below shows the locations of ICE or DHS enforcement actions reported in Santa Ana since January 20th. *This is a breaking story. Stay tuned for updates.* ### SAUSD shifts stance in third statement, clears players amid ongoing CIF baseball sanctions URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/03/sausd-shifts-stance-in-third-statement-clears-players-amid-ongoing-cif-baseball-sanctions/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:41:22.000Z *— First published May 2, 2025, 5:00 PM —* ⚠️ **CIF-SS responded to The Santanero's request asking about how many times CIF has sanctioned pubic and private schools. See update below.* **SEGERSTROM HIGH** — The Santa Ana Unified School District appeared to revise its public stance Wednesday regarding recent [CIF sanctions](https://www.santanero.org/sausds-transparency-questioned-as-dual-crises-on-staff-cuts-cif-fallout-ensue/) against Segerstrom High School’s baseball program, issuing a [third statement on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJICZW-ysOC/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) that clarified student-athletes were not found to have committed any rule violations. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJICZW-ysOC/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) > > [A post shared by Santa Ana Unified (@santaanausd)](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJICZW-ysOC/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) While [earlier](https://www.instagram.com/p/DIl-g4it7Lc/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [district](https://www.instagram.com/p/DIulOkOBvAF/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) communications focused broadly on program-wide infractions, the [latest statement](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJICZW-ysOC/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) shifted blame to adults responsible for a “systemic issue” stemming from "eligibility processes." > *“SAUSD acknowledges the CIF sanctions issued to Segerstrom High School's baseball program following an investigation into violations of CIF rules,”* the statement read. *“These violations centered on administrative decisions and procedural missteps—not on the actions or behavior of our student-athletes.”* On Tuesday afternoon, SAUSD officials met privately with Segerstrom parents and players. According to Chief Communications Officer Fermin Leal, details of the meeting will not be made public. > [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJIHDGlzQP2/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) > > [A post shared by Santa Ana Updates (@santaanaupdates)](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJIHDGlzQP2/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading) In a separate message sent to Segerstrom baseball families—undated and not publicly posted—Superintendent Jerry Almendarez elaborated on the district’s understanding of CIF’s rulings and reiterated support for affected student-athletes. The message stated that players impacted by enrollment errors would be allowed to complete the regular season, which ends May 7, as long as their records had been corrected. > *“This decision is based on CIF’s recognition that students should not be punished for mistakes made by adults,” Almendarez wrote.* The message confirmed that the team remains ineligible for postseason competition, regardless of corrected paperwork, and that CIF denied the district’s request to host a non-competitive senior game to honor graduating players. > *“Unfortunately, this means we are not permitted to schedule any additional games beyond the regular season, even informal or symbolic ones,” Almendarez added.* Almendarez said the district remains focused on supporting players through the enrollment correction process, advocating for future eligibility, and celebrating athletes within CIF guidelines. CIF Southern Section responded Friday afternoon to *The Santanero's* request for data regarding sanctions to public and private schools. > *"As noted above, the CPRA does not require the CIF-SS to create, compile, or summarize records in response to a CPRA request. Further, the CPRA does not require a public agency to respond to questions but rather requires the disclosure of nonexempt non privileged documents. Based on the CIF-SS’s good faith interpretation of \[The Santanero's\] request, the CIF-SS does not have documents responsive to your request."* The latest [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJICZW-ysOC/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) statement follows ongoing demonstrations by Segerstrom students and staff. As details surrounding the investigation remain undisclosed, students staged a third walkout protest Wednesday, marching approximately five miles across the city to SAUSD headquarters. Protesters aimed to draw attention to the situation, with some seeking to pressure the district by disrupting attendance-based funding. The protest was part of broader student efforts calling for the reinstatement of Principal David Casper and Head Baseball Coach Erasmo Ramirez. Petitions supporting Casper and Ramirez have gathered more than [2,220](https://www.change.org/p/bring-mr-casper-back-to-segerstrom-high-school?recruiter=1371628824&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=27c30320-1bf3-11f0-a2ea-ab5e84fb8d13&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=petition%5Fdashboard&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacI5uQsFFG-kyQ2p89Y-8gdz2-e0dPX6korxZvlcpR675pw4w0sY%5FHi-BxhTg%5Faem%5F1Cq%5FXLlLkF8zwgwgdxqalw) and [1,900](https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-reinstate-coach-erasmo-ramirez-as-head-baseball-coach-at-segerstrom-hs?recruiter=617867129&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=fc6e6c60-9b21-11e6-94bd-8f540a1eab61&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fterm=psf&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&utm%5Fcontent=cl%5Fsharecopy%5F490532368%5Fen-US%3A3) signatures, respectively. Protest activity on campus remains fluid, with participation varying from student organizations and athletic teams. Several teachers are now limiting their involvement in extracurricular activities, citing adherence to contract hours. As a result, afterschool tutoring, club meetings, and performances have been paused—reportedly with broad support from the Segerstrom student body. How the CIF sanctions came to be remains unclear. Previously, *The Santanero* reported on rumors circulating among students, parents, and across social media platforms. However, none of these claims have been verified, as the district has released limited information regarding the investigation into Segerstrom High School. On April 22, *The Santanero* filed a public records request with Santa Ana Unified, seeking the following: - *All communications (texts, emails, and hard copies) related to the CIF investigation at Segerstrom;* - *The investigative report documenting CIF violations;* - *Any future plans, including communications, involving the properties of Godinez Fundamental High School and Segerstrom High School.* Chief Communications Officer Fermin Leal responded on April 28: > *“\[The Santanero\] asked for any records about ‘future plans (including communications) regarding the properties of Godinez and Segerstrom.’ At this time, there are no proposals—current or planned—to close, merge, or change the capacity of either school. Because no such plans have been proposed, described, or outlined at any level, we have no records to provide on this topic.”* The question regarding property was raised in response to a circulating rumor that the district might consider selling one of the school sites for budgetary reasons. Some community members have speculated that Segerstrom’s recent reputational challenges could accelerate such a decision, though no such plans have been proposed or confirmed, according to Leal. As for the CIF-related request, Leal added: > *“We are gathering the documents you requested concerning the CIF investigation and any related violations. Those records are now under review by our legal counsel.”* The district has not announced when, or if, the requested records will be released. ### First of several streetcars arrive in Santa Ana URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/30/first-of-several-streetcars-arrive-in-santa-ana/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:41:13.000Z **FRENCH & FLOWER NEIGHBORHOODS** — The first of several streetcars arrived in the middle of the night Wednesday, finding its forever home along the railway near Raitt Street and Santa Ana Boulevard. According to a construction [update](https://www.octa.net/pdf/OCS%5F250430%5FVehicleDelivery.pdf?ref=santanero.org) from OCTA, additional streetcar deliveries are expected to arrive every two weeks. Temporary road closures will be in effect during those times, with access limited to residential driveways and pedestrians only. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC00010.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC00019-1.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC00028.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC00034.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC09980.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC09985.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC09987.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC09996.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/05/DSC09976.JPG) **First OC streetcar being towed into maintenance yard at Raitt Street/Santa Ana Boulevard stop. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* A crowd of several dozen gathered to witness the historic moment as the first streetcar was carefully placed onto the tracks and slowly towed to the streetcar maintenance facility near Daisy and 5th Streets. The streetcar transit system is slated to begin service in Spring 2026. ### SAUSD's transparency questioned as dual crises on staff cuts, CIF fallout ensue URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/04/22/sausds-transparency-questioned-as-dual-crises-on-staff-cuts-cif-fallout-ensue/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:28:56.000Z *— First published Apr. 22, 2025, 1:00 PM – Updated Apr. 22, 2025, 1:29 PM —* The Santa Ana Unified School District is battling two major problems: its budget deficit that has resulted in nearly 400 pink slips to certificates staff and fallout of Segerstrom’s CIF sanctions. As frustration grows among students, staff, parents and taxpayers, there are more questions than answers and an extreme concern regarding transparency. Last [Thursday](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=131847&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org), District officials escorted out Head Baseball Coach Erasmo Ramirez and Segerstrom High School Principal David Casper after the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) verified the District’s suspicions of bylaw violations brewing within the baseball program. As the District and Superintendent Jerry Almendarez release [statements](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=131884&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org), students are driving the narrative as officials aren’t answering the question on everyone’s mind: What actions occurred that violated CIF bylaws? ### What does the District say on the CIF sanctions? *The Santanero* reached out to SAUSD Chief Communications Officer Fermin Leal for answers. He denied the validity of the rumors, but with more students confirming a similar story, the District's image of transparency is cracking. > *Read statement* [*one*](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=131847&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org) *and* [*two*](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=131884&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org) *here.* "All the information we can provide currently has been shared on our social media. I would direct you to CIF for details on their findings and their sanctions imposed on Segerstrom," Leal said. CIF, in its [press release](https://cifss.org/news/segerstrom-baseball-program-placed-on-probation/?ref=santanero.org), said they would not answer further questions relating to Segerstrom's probationary status. ### Why did Segerstrom get on probation and why did SAUSD remove Ramirez and Casper? > *The following is a summary of rumors that have been allowed to spread due to limited and confirmed information released by CIF and SAUSD.* #### The Unofficial Story Students have told **The Santanero* rumors that involve Ramirez and a “feeder program,” in which trains student-athletes during off-season and sometimes requires parents to pay for the training. This program is alleged to have been used as leverage by Ramirez and/or the baseball program when selecting varsity baseball players after tryouts. Student-athletes who did not participate in the off-season program were less likely to have made it to varsity. Of course, all alleged despite Segerstrom alumni confirming similar experiences in the program. One of the alleged claims is regarding the modification of student records, specifically their addresses. Segerstrom is a neighborhood-first, lottery-second school, despite not being considered an official fundamental high school. It is alleged that student-athletes who participated in the feeder program and did not live within the Segerstrom boundaries had their official record changed to an address to bypass the lottery process, allowing the players to participate in the baseball program. It is not clear if Ramirez or another person in the program co-conspirited with Capser to do this. It is alleged an email trail exists **(The Santanero has filed a PRA request to view all communications and the investigative report \[if any\])*. The District began investigating the program after allegedly receiving a tip from a parent of one of the student-athletes who were allegedly barred from playing due to ineligibilities. The parent allegedly spilled all of the programs’ alleged corruption and prompted officials to confirm the parents’ accusations. Partial truth to this comes from a social media post circulating a team photo with one of the players’ face covered with a rat emoji. Moreover, accusations of grade manipulation surfaced. Among the student body, claims of players' grades being altered so they could reach the minimum GPA requirement to play were said frequently. Additionally, students told **The Santanero* earlier this week of another rumor spreading on campus that Segerstrom was a target by District administration due to years of litigation such as sexual harassment and abuse dealt with previously, suggesting the closure and sale of the campus to aid in budget constraints. This also pertained to Godinez Fundamental. "I have no context to provide on any rumor. I am not aware of anything detailed here," Leal said. ****Again, these are only rumors and have not been confirmed by the Santa Ana Unified School District. The official truth of the matter may never be put into light even with public records requests.** According to a statement issued via ParentSquare on Thursday, the District investigated and witnessed said violations. They then asked CIF to conduct their own investigation. CIF thereafter confirmed four violations of its bylaws: - Bylaw [500C](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Authorized Participation - Bylaw [510](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Undue Influence - Bylaws [503, 503A, 503B](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Administrative Oversight - CIF Southern Section Bylaw [500.2](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Forfeiture Status ### Fallout of the removal of Ramirez and Casper The fallout has resulted in students walking out in protest, demanding the immediate reinstatement of Mr. Casper and Coach Ramirez, adding the decision to do so was overkill. Faculty have protested against the District's decision in removing Casper and some have decided to skip out on graduation and prom, even some students have threatened to not attend school as its the main way the District receives its funding. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/2095A626-100F-43DC-9D4E-DA5B22C2E95D.JPG) **Students walking out of class in protest demanding the reinstatement of Capser, Ramirez on Monday. (Anonymous)* On Monday, students staged a peaceful walkout protest. As District officials [confirm](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=131884&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org) that student activities such as prom are going as planned, students told *The Santanero* that wasn’t the case, adding they felt threatened and intimidated by the school administrations' tactics in compliance such as taking down protest posters. *The Santanero* reached out to CIF for tallies regarding the number of probationary statuses issued categorized under public and private schools and is awaiting a response. Transperent SAUSD, a new advocacy page, [posted via Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/409867522719304/user/61569796805455/) Tuesday requesting parents to "share their stories." It is unclear at this time who is behind the page. Nevertheless, Jaguar students, staff and parents are expected to voice their concerns at tonight’s school board meeting. ### Update on layoffs Teachers, counselors, and other certificated staff fought for their jobs through week-long hearings. It is not clear how much faculty has been spared, but 389 pink slips were issued in March. An update regarding layoffs is expected to be addressed tonight. A demonstration will occur at the District headquarters this afternoon ahead of tonight’s school board meeting. ### SAPD celebrates Easter with annual road closures for 'unpermitted' enforcement URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/20/sapd-celebrates-easter-with-annual-road-closures-for-unpermitted-enforcement/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:27:58.000Z BRISTOL/McFADDEN — Santa Ana Police will [host](https://x.com/SantaAnaPD/status/1913647934039871901?ref=santanero.org) its annual shutdown-of-the-streets-to-deter-cruisers enforcement on Easter Sunday. Beginning at noon Sunday, four major road arteries to be closed to traffic. These include: - Bristol from Sunflower to 17th - Main from Dyer to 17th - Edinger from Main to Raitt - Harbor from Edinger to 17th - 4th Street from ? to ? - Lacy Street from ? to ? 🚌 Download the [Transit app](https://transitapp.com/?ref=santanero.org), the unofficial OCTA bus live viewmap app. Shows where the bus is, when it's expected to arrive, and if there's detours, it'll still get you where you need to go. \[Not an Ad\] Bus riders can expect bus stops to be closed for the listed streets (above), detours and major delays for the following routes: - Route 57 (Bristol) - Route 53 (Main) - Route 70 (Edinger) - Route 43 (Harbor) - Route 55 (Bristol/Main) - Route 66 (McFadden) - Route 64 (First) 🚌 Download the [Transit app](https://transitapp.com/?ref=santanero.org), the unofficial OCTA bus live viewmap app. Shows where the bus is, when it's expected to arrive, and if there's detours, it'll still get you where you need to go. \[Not an Ad\] SAPD initially began closing streets on Easter Sunday decades ago during the peak of gang activity and related crime to “address the large gatherings and cruising activity,” according to Public Information Officer Natalie Garcia. Today, the department’s goal to encourage is to deter people from lawbreaking, especially traffic rules. However, critics say it’s not “anti-cruising enforcement," but rather an anti-Easter event. Last Easter, Araceli and a few other churchgoers at Immaculate Heart of Mary were left stranded in the rain after attending mass. "Whoever made this decision obviously didn't think of the consequences," Araceli said. "Lack of consideration on all parts. There's people on wheelchairs that want to attend Easter mass and they can't get to church on their own. If Amezcua is really about the people, she should be worried about how PD's actions affects us." In 2024, while raining most of Easter Sunday, road closures were planned to take effect at noon, but OCTA made detour plans effective all day–including the early morning hours, which was not announced by Santa Ana Police or OCTA, nor was a push notification sent via social media or app. Instead, yellow papers were zip-tied to bus stop poles overnight, providing maps on where the detours were taking place. Still, dozens of riders were left unaware, uninformed, and unprepared for a sudden loss of public transportation on one of the most important Sundays of the Gregorian calendar. Garcia said that the department's traffic division "regularly" coordinates with OCTA on their operations. However, a number as to how much time in between the heads-up and operation was not provided. ### Concerns regarding overtime payout The police budget accounts for a large chuck of the annual budget and a decent percentage of that budget goes towards paying officers’ salaries–including overtime–which racks up heavily on Easter. During a city council meeting held last year over the annual budget, several Councilmembers and Mayor Amezcua were concerned at the rate of overtime at the police department. *The Santanero* has filed a public records request that seeks to view operation costs and overtime amounts paid out over the last 10 Easter Sundays. ### Isn't lowrider cruising legal? Despite [AB436](https://legiscan.com/CA/text/AB436/id/2684388?ref=santanero.org) in effect, which decriminalized lowrider cruising in California, Santa Ana Police will continue their decade-old tradition of road closures and doesn’t seem to sunset anytime soon. “While the road closures continue as a preventative measure, SAPD works closely with residents and community partners to encourage safe, family-friendly gatherings and reduce the potential for unlawful behavior,” Garcia said. “It's about balancing tradition with safety and adapting strategies to meet the current needs of our community.” ### What now? As for mass-goers, egg hunters, and everyone in between, expect to leave an hour or two earlier if you plan to travel through the city Easter Sunday. 🐣 **Happy Easter from all of us at The Santanero* ### Segerstrom principal, baseball coach removed after CIF violations confirmed; students fire back with petitions URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/18/segerstrom-principal-baseball-coach-removed-after-cif-violations-confirmed-students-fire-back-with-petitions/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:27:42.000Z *— First published Apr. 17, 2025, 11:50 PM; Updated Apr. 18, 2025, 12:27 AM —* **SEGERSTROM HIGH —** The Santa Ana Unified School District removed Segerstrom High School Principal David Casper and Varsity Baseball Coach Erasmo Ramirez on Thursday, the same day the California Interscholastic Federation placed the school’s baseball program on [probation](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/04/26-Segerstrom-Baseball-Probation.pdf) following confirmed bylaw violations through dual investigations. Students are now pushing back with petitions to reinstate [Casper](https://www.change.org/p/bring-mr-casper-back-to-segerstrom-high-school?recruiter=1371628824&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=27c30320-1bf3-11f0-a2ea-ab5e84fb8d13&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=petition%5Fdashboard&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacI5uQsFFG-kyQ2p89Y-8gdz2-e0dPX6korxZvlcpR675pw4w0sY%5FHi-BxhTg%5Faem%5F1Cq%5FXLlLkF8zwgwgdxqalw) and [Ramirez](https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-reinstate-coach-erasmo-ramirez-as-head-baseball-coach-at-segerstrom-hs?recruiter=617867129&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=fc6e6c60-9b21-11e6-94bd-8f540a1eab61&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fterm=psf&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&utm%5Fcontent=cl%5Fsharecopy%5F490532368%5Fen-US%3A3). ### Why is this happening? It has been ***alleged*** that student-athletes seeking to play on the varsity baseball team were required to “pay-to-play” by joining the coach’s private club team — a practice that violates CIF regulations. Specifically, [CIF Bylaw 500C](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) prohibits requiring or pressuring student-athletes to participate on non-school teams in order to qualify for school team participation. In addition, SAUSD policies [state](https://www.sausd.us/cms/lib/CA01000471/Centricity/Domain/3975/BP%206145.2%20Atletic%20Competition%20Clean%20Approved%205.18.21.pdf?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) that students cannot be charged fees in order to participate in district athletic programs. According to a ParentSquare message sent to Segerstrom students and parents Thursday, SAUSD initiated an internal investigation into the varsity baseball program and found evidence supporting the reported violations. Based on those findings, the district contacted the CIF Southern Section to conduct its own independent investigation. What findings the District and CIF witnessed remains unclear and may never be elaborated on. Nevertheless, CIF reviewed the District’s findings and confirmed that the following CIF bylaws had been violated: - Bylaw [500C](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Authorized Participation - Bylaw [510](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Undue Influence - Bylaws [503, 503A, 503B](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Administrative Oversight - CIF Southern Section Bylaw [500.2](https://cifss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-25-CIF-SS-Blue-Book-10-28-2024.pdf?ref=santanero.org) – Forfeiture Status As a result of the confirmed violations, the CIF Southern Section announced the following penalties in a Thursday [press release](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/04/26-Segerstrom-Baseball-Probation.pdf): - Segerstrom High School's baseball program is on probation until February 16, 2026. - All remaining wins for the current 2025 season must be forfeited. - The team is barred from participating in the 2025 CIF baseball playoffs. - The school may apply for reinstatement to full status after February 1, 2026. According to [MaxPreps](https://www.maxpreps.com/ca/santa-ana/segerstrom-jaguars/baseball/?ref=santanero.org), the varsity baseball teams has an overall 11-8 record, with a 5-2 first-place standing in the Golden West League. The Jaguars were to host Kennedy on Friday, but it is not confirmed if the game will go on. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/casper-2.png) **LEFT TO RIGHT: Mr. David Casper, fmr. Segerstrom principal, Fmr. variety baseball coach Erasmo Ramirez, New interim Segerstrom principal Celeste Migliaccio. (SAUSD/Change.org/LinkedIn)* In response to the confirmed violations, SAUSD has taken the following personnel actions: - Principal David Casper has been removed from his role at Segerstrom High and reassigned to a different, currently unspecified, position within the district. - Varsity baseball coach Erasmo Ramirez has been removed from his coaching duties pending further review. - Celeste Migliaccio, Director of Secondary Student Achievement for SAUSD, will serve as interim principal at Segerstrom High School during this transition. ### Students pushback, demand Casper and Ramirez be reinstated In response to the District's disciplinary actions, students have launched a [Change.org petition](https://www.change.org/p/bring-mr-casper-back-to-segerstrom-high-school?recruiter=1371628824&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=27c30320-1bf3-11f0-a2ea-ab5e84fb8d13&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=petition%5Fdashboard&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacI5uQsFFG-kyQ2p89Y-8gdz2-e0dPX6korxZvlcpR675pw4w0sY%5FHi-BxhTg%5Faem%5F1Cq%5FXLlLkF8zwgwgdxqalw) calling for immediate reinstatement of Mr. Casper. Nearly 1,000 signatures have been verified as of print. Messages from current and former pupils say his character and doing as principal in past and present has made students feel welcome and safe. A secondary [petition](https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-reinstate-coach-erasmo-ramirez-as-head-baseball-coach-at-segerstrom-hs?recruiter=617867129&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=fc6e6c60-9b21-11e6-94bd-8f540a1eab61&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fterm=psf&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&utm%5Fcontent=cl%5Fsharecopy%5F490532368%5Fen-US%3A3) was launched to also reinstate Ramirez. The District has not released a formal press release, but *The Santanero* awaits a response from SAUSD Chief Communications Officer Fermin Leal. ### Five lives, one grieving city URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/12/five-lives-one-grieving-city/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:27:32.000Z 🕊️ **The Santanero* sends its deepest condolences to the victims' families and we're sharing the following vetted links and kermes for readers to further help these families during this time. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/how-to-support-the-families-of-the-car-crash-victims/) to see how to help. **MORNING SUNWOOD N.H. —** First a sonic boom, then sirens. A violent car crash late Saturday night has left five young Santa Ana residents dead and left a sixth critically injured — a tragedy that has shaken families, classmates, and the Santanero community. Santa Ana Police say six people, all residents of Santa Ana, were packed into a five-passenger Lexus sedan when it crashed around 11:22 p.m. near the intersection of Segerstrom Avenue and Townsend Street. Investigators believe speed was a factor in the collision, while the possible involvement of drugs or alcohol remains under investigation. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/crash-victims.png) **Victims who passed away following Saturday's car crash. (Images provided via GoFundMe)* The Orange County Coroner’s Office identified four of the deceased earlier this week: - *Jacqueline “Jackie” Torres Zarate, 16* - *Natalia “Natalie” Vidal Zarate, 17* - *Emanuel “Manny” Gonzalez Martinez, 18* - *Aurelia “Arley” Robles, 20* All had attended schools at Santa Ana Unified. A fifth victim, Cynthia Torres, 13 years old, was declared brain dead at a local hospital Tuesday after an EEG showed no brain activity. She passed away Wednesday, according to updates shared on her family’s [GoFundMe](https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-families-affected-by-tragic-accident?ref=santanero.org) page. Arlene Robles, 15, the sixth passenger, sole survivor and younger sister of Arley, remains hospitalized. She is recovering from surgery, according to local reports. Santa Ana Unified Chief Communications Officer Fermin Leal confirmed to *The Santanero* that Manny and Natalie were seniors and Jackie was a sophomore. The three attended Valley High School. Arley was a class of 2023 alumna of Chavez High School. Cynthia's school attendance has not been confirmed. SAUSD added that grief counseling resources would be available for students and staff processing the tragedy. At the growing memorial site near the crash scene in the Morning Sunwood neighborhood, friends said that Manuel, also known as Manny, was driving that night. Balloons, candles, handwritten notes, and flowers now line the median where lives changed in an instant. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09861.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09872.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09877.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09886.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09907.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09910.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/DSC09914.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/IMG_9383.JPG) **Mourners at the makeshift memorial after the accident. Added is a photo from Santa Ana Police showing the damage of the car after the accident. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero and SAPD)* ### Local leaders and principals respond The following are statement issued by local leaders, the City, school district, and principals regarding the tragedy: #### Santa Ana Unified School District "The Santa Ana Unified School District is heartbroken to share that students from Valley High School and Carr Intermediate School were involved this weekend in a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of four individuals and left two others injured. Our entire SAUSD community is devastated by this unimaginable loss. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, and our thoughts remain with the two individuals who are recovering. We are working closely with local law enforcement as they continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. In the meantime, our focus remains on supporting the students, staff, and families affected by this tragedy. Crisis counselors and mental health professionals will be made available at both Valley High School and Carr Intermediate School to support anyone in need. Additional resources will be provided districtwide as necessary in the coming days. We are also in contact with the families of all the students involved to offer support and assistance during this incredibly difficult time. Out of respect for the families, we ask that their privacy be honored as they grieve and process this tragedy. We will share additional information as it becomes available and appropriate." **— Posted Tuesday, April. 8* #### The City of Santa Ana "The City of Santa Ana extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the four young individuals whose lives were tragically lost in a car crash over the weekend. Our thoughts are also with the passenger who remains in critical condition. This is an incredibly difficult time for our Santa Ana community, and we stand together in grief, honoring the memory of these young people whose bright futures were cut short." **— Posted Tuesday, April. 8* #### Santa Ana Police Department "It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we extend our sincerest condolences to the students, and loved ones of the six young individuals tragically impacted by the car accident over the weekend. (Outdated information redacted) ... \[We\] will continue to thoroughly investigate this incident. we appreciate everyone's patience and understanding during this difficult time." **— Posted Tuesday, April. 8* #### Valerie Amezcua, Mayor of Santa Ana "The Santa Ana City Council, our City of Santa Ana family, and the entire Santa Ana community is mourning the tragic loss of these young lives. No parent should have to face the grief of losing a child, at any age. We must all do whatever we can to support the victims’ families and loved ones. SAUSD has counselors available, and Santa Ana Police Department has referred families to Waymakers for support. My prayers go out to the victims’ families." **— Posted Tuesday, April. 8* #### Phil Bacerra, Ward 4 Councilmember "As the representative of Ward 4 where this tragic accident occurred, I want my constituents, residents, and the families of the victims to know that we as a community are here to support you in any way that we can. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this terrible crash." **— Posted Tuesday, April. 8* #### Katie Berger, Valley High School Principal "To the Valley High School Community, \[i\]t is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of a tragic car accident involving several of our students. We are devastated to confirm that three of our Valley High School students lost their lives, and one student is currently hospitalized. Our hearts are broken, and we join together in deep grief and mourning as a school community.We understand that this news is incredibly difficult for students, staff, and families. When we return to school on Monday, April 14, we will be mobilizing all available resources to support our community through this tragedy. Our response will include: Classroom support in classes that have been directly impacted. The Counseling Center will be open beginning at 8:30 a.m. for any students who need a safe space to process, talk, or simply be surrounded by support. The Wellness Center will also be open to families seeking resources, guidance, or support for their students. During this painful time, we want every student and family to know that they are not alone. We are here for you — as educators, counselors, friends, and a united school community. Please keep the families and friends of these students in your thoughts. We will share more information in the coming days about ways our community can come together to honor and remember those we have lost. If you or your family need support before we return to school on Monday, please reach out to Ms. Elizabeth Maciel from our district FACE department at (657) 253-0802." **— Posted Thursday, April. 10* #### Benjamin Vazquez, Ward 2 Councilmember & Valley High School Teacher "We at Valley HS and the city are heartbroken of the loss of these beautiful children. We will miss their smiles, creativity and love in our community. We will come together and support the families and friends. You have our love and condolences, we are with you. Estamos con ustedes." **— Issued Tuesday, April. 8* ### Reaction sparks debate on parenting and who to blame Relatives of the victims took to social media to honor their loved ones and raise funds to help with funeral expenses. They were met with empathy, apathy, agreement, indifference, love and support, and heartlessness. Almost immediately after the accident was made aware online, neighbors were suspecting drugs, alcohol, nitrous oxide ("noz"), or another substance as the reason that resulted in the crash. Santa Ana Police have not concluded their investigation, but did announce that speeding was a significant factor. In addition, SAPD says they are not ruling out other possible catalysts that led to the accident and are awaiting for toxicology results. “They weren’t drunk or on drugs,” Ignacio Robles, father of Arley and Arlene, told [KABC](https://abc7.com/post/19-year-old-girl-among-victims-deadly-santa-ana-crash-family-says/16140339/?ref=santanero.org) earlier this week. “It was an accident, and that was it.” That didn't stop residents from saying otherwise, prompting one family member to delete the posts. Facebook and TikTok users alike blamed the victims’ parents, suggesting that a lack of parenting was the sole cause of the accident. One user pointed out that sometimes parents think they know their kids — but don’t always know their hidden side. Others blamed the City of Santa Ana for not addressing its wide, curved roads, which they say allow speeding to persist. “I think this accident will teach parents to be more strict with their kids,” said a resident at the memorial. “That parents should be their children's parent and not their friend. I just hope these kids learn that it’s ok to walk the other way when being peer-pressured by the wrong crowd." Those offering empathy also gave a rebuttal. "Not all parents give that chance to the\[ir\] kids to vent or talk about feelings," replied a TikTok user. "Some parents tell their kids to suck it up and move along. May they rest in peace ❤️🕊️." ### Addressing racing and persistent gang cultures Beyond the blame, part of the conversation shifted to the street racing culture embedded within the young Latino community. “Everyone just wants to be Edgars\[,\] drift\[,\] and work construction nowadays smh,” said a TikTok user. Speed and drifting culture is popular among Gen Z and Alpha on social media, especially in Latino-dense communities such as Santa Ana where takeover have occurred. Adding on, teens present in takeovers often drink or smoke, and sometimes do a mix of both known as "crossfading." "I bet they found a balloon or buzzball next to them," said a TikTok user, whose comment is gone due to the original post being deleted. Late last year, a takeover on [Interstate 5](https://abc7.com/street-racing-drag-takeover-anaheim/7241692/?ref=santanero.org) in Anaheim, left one dead and two injured, which resulted in scores of likes and reposts on social media. Locally, Santa Ana has erected speed bumps and roundabouts on specific streets to address speeding, however, addressing drift takeovers has been limited to residents notifying police. Recently, [legislation](https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/23/governor-newsom-signs-bipartisan-bills-to-address-sideshows-and-street-takeovers/?ref=santanero.org) changed allowing local police departments to arrest drivers involved in takeovers, impound their car, suspend licenses, jail or fine them, and also arrest those cheering them on. But, street racing can be initiated with two drivers who feel their car is faster and better than the other. These can occur spontaneously at a red light, while driving, or be planned in advance due to online beef. "I don't think young people will be phased by this," said a Bella Vista neighbor, mother of three. "Parents have to teach their children to be responsible drivers, that driver licenses are privileges, not a right... that drifting or racing is toxic and not a ‘culture’." Pushing the point further, an [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DIU68q8yEmf/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org) user commented how deeply rooted gang culture remains in Santa Ana — arguing that children raised around gangs often grow up knowing little else, a never-ending cycle that has plagued the city for decades. "\[R\]aising \[yo\]ur children in Santa Ana can either teach them about how cool it is to be ina gang or how cool it is to be free," said the Instagram user. ### How accident-prone is Segerstrom Ave? ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/2024-Collision-Data-of-Segerstrom-from-Bear-to-Fairview.png) **Collision data showing the number of collisions on Segerstrom from Bear to Fairview in 2024\. Data from Santa Ana Police Traffic Records/PRA-838.* *The Santanero* filed a [public records request](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2025/04/RE%5F-PRR-25-838.pdf) with the City of Santa Ana to inquire about accident rates on Segerstrom Avenue, from Bear Street to Fairview Street. In 2024, of the 4,016 collisions reported citywide, six occurred along this stretch of Segerstrom — four of which resulted in injuries. No deaths were recorded along this area last year. Warner Avenue, from Raitt Street to Pacific Avenue, is another accident hotspot according to neighbors. Collision data regarding this section of Warner is forthcoming. --- Now, the community grieves — not just five lives lost, but the ripple effect touching classrooms, families, and an entire city trying to make sense of the unimaginable. "This could be the chance for us like as a city, as a community, to come together and learn from this, and just learn how fragile life really is you know?" said a mourner Tuesday. ### How to support the families of the car crash victims URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/12/how-to-support-the-families-of-the-car-crash-victims/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:27:23.000Z 🔔 Update 4/19: The GoFundMe for Arely and Arlene has been fulfilled and the family has suspended further donations. 🔔 Update 4/12: The GoFundMe for Manny's end-of-life expenses have been met. The family has suspended taking more donations thanks in-part to an anonymous $7,000 donation to each victim, totaling $35,000 in all. However, two GoFundMe's remain active below: ⚠️ The following GoFundMe's have appeared on local official news media outlets and pinned in the Neighbors of Santa Ana Facebook page. Please note that donations given towards the following GoFundMe's are protected by GoFundMe. For more information, click [here](https://www.gofundme.com/c/safety/gofundme-guarantee?ref=santanero.org). ### GoFundMe's - The GoFundMe for Arely and Arlene Robles' family has been fulfilled \[4/19\]. - To support Cynthia Torres', Jackie and Natalie Zarate's family, click [here](https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-families-affected-by-tragic-accident?ref=santanero.org). - The GoFundMe for [Manny](https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-mannys-life-and-easing-funeral-burden?attribution%5Fid=sl%3A7501c776-d6e5-42cd-a6ed-988c13e564bd&lang=en%5FUS&utm%5Fcampaign=fp%5Fsharesheet&utm%5Fcontent=amp13%5Fc-amp15%5Ft1&utm%5Fmedium=customer&utm%5Fsource=copy%5Flink&fbclid=IwY2xjawJnFuhleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHkyVWW-HBlYwwTWL9Za769Q0aPA6MkIa0TnfuUXGuD5Chu6w-pzkwLt4ZvCQ%5Faem%5FryS5UZiikl1scpGTWlLbKA) has been fulfilled \[4/12\]. ### Kermes ❓ A kermes is a food fundraiser typically hosted at the home by the family of the deceased to raise funds for funeral and/or burial expenses. Most kermeses feature Mexican delicacies such as tamales, menudo, pozole, tacos, agua frescas, but not all kermeses listed below will serve these. Each food item costs different amounts (or tickets). Those wanting to attend a kermes should have cash ready to purchase tickets. These tickets will be redeemed when ordering food. - As of now, the families of Cynthia, Jackie, and Natalie are hosting three kermeses: - Saturday, April 12th - 8am-5pm — 2101 S Pacific Street, Santa Ana, CA 92704 \[COMPLETED\] - Sunday, April 13th - 8am-4pm — 2417 W Elder Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92704 \[COMPLETED\] - 9am-6pm — 1313 W Saint Gertrude Place, Santa Ana, CA 92704 \[COMPLETED\] - The Robles family will be hosting a kermes next weekend - Saturday, April 19th - 8am-finish — 1313 W Saint Gertrude Place, Santa Ana, CA 92704 \[COMPLETED\] ### Fundraisers - The families of Cynthia, Jackie, and Natalie are planning to conduct a car wash at the North Mater Dei parking lot on Bristol and Edinger. - Saturday, April 19th - 8am-finish — 1433 S Bristol Street, Santa Ana, CA 92704 \[COMPLETED\] ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/04/487337121_28957527140561525_940890327057369343_n.jpg) **Posted on Facebook earlier this week. (Neighors of Santa Ana/Vecinos en La Ciudad De Santa Ana y al Rededores via Facebook)* ### SAUSD issues pink slips; layoff hearing set for late April URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/12/sausd-issues-pink-slips-layoff-hearing-set-for-late-april/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:26:31.000Z ⚠️ CORRECTION (3/11/25 - 6:12 PM): Ron Hacker told **The Santanero* an incorrect sum of the number of pink slips issued. Instead of "around 350" as first reported, the total is now "approximately 380". **SANTA ANA, Calif. —** The Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) Board of Education voted 4-1 in late December to move forward with layoffs of certificated staff, sending official electronic notices on Friday ahead of the tentative Mar. 14th deadline. Associate Superintendent and Chief Business Officer Ron Hacker confirmed to *The Santanero on* Tuesday that "approximately 380" teachers, counselors, social workers and other certificated staff were issued layoff notices ("pink slips"). He later clarified that these numbers do not reflect the final layoff count of 280 which would come final after an administrative hearing before a judge on Apr. 21st \[more on this process below\]. So far, around 170 staff members have enrolled in the Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan (SERP), with the opportunity remaining open until Mar. 14th. 🗒️ Earlier this year, **The Santanero* reported that [546 positions](https://www.santanero.org/sausd-to-vote-on-546-layoffs-amid-budget-constraints/) were slated to be eliminated, but upon further confirmation, this number only reflects the positions cut for next school year and not the number of employees being laid off. The layoffs come as SAUSD grapples with an [$187 million deficit](https://www.santanero.org/sausd-to-vote-on-546-layoffs-amid-budget-constraints/), forcing significant cuts to ensure a balanced budget. As reported in the second interim presentation, Hacker stated that the District plans to reduce $32 million annually through its 'Reduction In Force' (RIF) plan and save an additional $25 million per year under its SERP plan. The Santa Ana Educators Association (SAEA), the union representing the majority of the District's staff, has pled before the Board to consider other options, suggesting to use the District's millions of reserves to cover expenses. Hacker said that option would essentially be financially irresponsible, citing minimum requirements enacted by the County and State Boards of Education to maintain a balanced three-year budget. #### How did SAUSD determine who to lay off? All certificated staff were organized into a 'master seniority list' in which the least senior staff would essentially be cut. However, a number of factors also went into consideration, especially if the affected staff member had credentials in other subjects such as special education, therefore organized onto other list (sort of like a second chance, but it also was based on seniority). This means that 'pink slipped' staff could possibly be given an opportunity for another position if their seniority and/or credential(s) allow it. Ron Hacker confirmed to **The Santanero* on Friday, Mar. 7th, that all school sites were issued their specific master lists based on staff that worked at that school site and lists distributed were not a Districtwide list. The list of affected employees has not yet been made public. By law, it will only be disclosed after a hearing is conducted before a judge, decided, and then voted on by the Board in May. Until then, the extent of layoffs at specific school sites remains uncertain. At this time, *The Santanero* cannot confirm which schools were most impacted or whether certain sites were spared from layoffs. The SAEA announced last Thursday, before notices were sent, for union members to unite at [Tuesday's school board meeting](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/Public?ref=santanero.org) occurring at the District headquarters at 6:30 PM. Within tonight's agenda, Hacker is expected to present the [second interim report](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DEJ29W0126C0/$file/SAUSD%202024-2025%20Second%20Interim.pdf?ref=santanero.org). Included is an updated fiscal outlook reexplaining the current situation and request for approval by the Board. > This is a developing story. Follow our social media channels for real-time updates, or subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest information as soon as it becomes available. *Originally published Mar. 11, 2025 – 5:00 PM* ### CalOptima expands street medicine program to Santa Ana URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/07/caloptima-expands-street-medicine-program-to-santa-ana/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:26:19.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — CalOptima Health voted Thursday to expand its street medicine service to Santa Ana, according to a [press release](https://www.santa-ana.org/caloptima-health-selects-santa-ana-for-street-medicine-program-expansion-to-serve-unhoused-population/?ref=santanero.org). The street team, expected to begin operations later this year, will directly provide health services with Santa Ana homeless, specifically those facing drug abuse and other illnesses. City officials, including the Council and City Manager Mario Alvaro have emphasized the importance of this expansion, highlighting Santa Ana’s ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness through a multi-faceted approach. The program will provide urgent medical care and connect individuals with social services aimed at long-term stability, including mental health support and pathways to permanent housing. According to the [press release](https://www.santa-ana.org/caloptima-health-selects-santa-ana-for-street-medicine-program-expansion-to-serve-unhoused-population/?ref=santanero.org), CalOptima Health’s street medicine program has already engaged nearly 600 individuals across Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, and Anaheim, demonstrating its effectiveness in reaching those who may not otherwise seek medical assistance. Santa Ana’s high score in CalOptima’s selection criteria was a key factor in securing the program while it competed with three other Orange County cities. “This expansion is a significant step in our collective mission to support the unhoused with dignity and respect,” said Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua. “With CalOptima Health’s expertise and our city’s resources, we are creating a stronger safety net for our most vulnerable residents.” CalOptima Health CEO Michael Hunn echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that street medicine is about more than just healthcare—it’s about "build\[ing\] trust" with individuals experiencing homelessness and guiding them toward sustainable solutions. The goal is to meet people where they are, offer compassionate care, and ultimately help them transition to permanent housing. To many, this is a welcome addition to the city where several other homeless-reduction programs are already in full swing. ### Santa Ana recognized for innovation in development & housing URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/07/santa-ana-recognized-for-innovation-in-development-housing/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:26:12.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City of Santa Ana was honored at the Orange County Business Council’s 14th Annual Turning Red Tape into Red Carpet Awards, winning recognition for three projects that streamline development and expand affordable housing, according to a press release. The city received an honorable mention for its PBx express construction permit service, which reduces wait times for permits. Additionally, partnerships with Related California and Jamboree Housing Corp. were celebrated for the Crossroads at Washington and Estrella Springs housing developments, providing affordable and supportive housing for low-income families and individuals. According to the press release, this marks the third consecutive year Santa Ana has won an award in regard to development and housing innovation. > To read the full press release, click [here](https://www.santa-ana.org/santa-ana-development-and-affordable-housing-projects-win-three-awards-from-orange-county-business-council/?ref=santanero.org). ### No, Mayor Amezcua is not working with ICE URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/02/04/no-mayor-amezcua-is-not-working-with-ice/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:25:57.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Editorial Board of the *OC Reporter* blog (not to be confused with the OCReporter website for public notices) [published an editorial](https://theocreporter.com/2025/02/01/editorial-santa-ana-mayor-valerie-amezcua-collaborating-with-ice-to-deport-santa-ana-residents-a-breach-of-trust-in-a-sanctuary-city/?ref=santanero.org) claiming that Mayor Valerie Amezcua is “cooperating with ICE” to deport Santaneros. The editorial did not provide evidence and said “[If confirmed](https://theocreporter.com/2025/02/01/editorial-santa-ana-mayor-valerie-amezcua-collaborating-with-ice-to-deport-santa-ana-residents-a-breach-of-trust-in-a-sanctuary-city/?ref=santanero.org)”, spreading disinformation quickly via its headline. *The Santanero* did not find any evidence on any other site either. In a seperate [post](https://www.facebook.com/groups/409867522719304/permalink/2326103874428983/), shared by a resident in the ‘Neighbors of Santa Ana’ Facebook page, says Amezcua confirmed that there has been “no ICE raids to date,’ but did not specify a date. The editorial claims that “[recent information](https://theocreporter.com/2025/02/01/editorial-santa-ana-mayor-valerie-amezcua-collaborating-with-ice-to-deport-santa-ana-residents-a-breach-of-trust-in-a-sanctuary-city/?ref=santanero.org)” came about, but did not elaborate on it. The City of Santa Ana has now posted on its website a ‘[Know Your Rights](https://www.santa-ana.org/know-your-rights/?ref=santanero.org)’ tab, similar information that is written on a ‘red card’. ### SAUSD Board votes 4-1 to layoff hundreds of educators, makes cuts to supplies and services URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/02/02/sausd-board-votes-4-1-to-layoff-hundreds-of-educators-makes-other-cuts/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:43:53.000Z *First published Jan. 31, 2025 – 8:28 PM | Last Editied Feb. 1, 2025 – 4:00 PM* SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education voted 4-1 (Lebsack in opposition) to [approve](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD82NX030EE1/$file/Santa%20Ana%20-%202025%20Certificated%20Layoff%20-%20Preliminary%20Resolution%28Updated%20012125%29%20EXHIBIT%20A%2852386369.1%29.pdf?ref=santanero.org) the layoffs of around 280 educators, including teachers, counselors, and social workers, along with cuts to supplies and services to help manage a $187 million deficit. ### Why Are the Layoffs Happening? Since the early 2000s, Santa Ana Unified has been [losing students](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD8UJ37C3835/$file/Presentation%20-%20Governor's%20Budget%20%26%20SAUSD%20Budget.pdf?ref=santanero.org) little by little every year. Even with the decline, it was still the largest district in the area for a long time. But by the late 2010s, the drop in enrollment became much sharper, about 5% a school year (about 2,000 students). Then COVID-19 hit, and even more Santanero families moved out, making the situation worse. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/sausd-enrollment-2013-27.png) **Graphic by The Santanero. Source: SAUSD, 12/18/2024* The population in Santa Ana has also been shrinking for years, and so has the rest of Orange County. During the pandemic, many of families took advantage of cheaper home prices and low-interest rates or found lower rent in nearby counties, speeding up the decline in students. According to [World Population Review](https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/california/santa-ana?ref=santanero.org), Santa Ana's population was estimated at 330,900 in 2019, but dropped to 311,200 in 2020\. Since then, the city has lost an average of 800-900 residents annually. Another significant factor adding to the exodus was the rising cost of living in California, including increasing rents and other expenses, which were further exacerbated by inflation. Adding to the losses, an additional 5% of LCFF funds were cut mid-fiscal year (interim) due to stagnant absenteeism, as announced during a budget webinar in late December. Another possible reason for lower enrollment is how the District responds and handles student safety such as sexual assault and basic education, specifically in math and English. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-8.53.16-AM.png) **Source: © 2024 The New York Times.* Locally, SAUSD ranks the lowest when compared to surrounding school districts. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-9.18.24-AM.png) **Source: © 2024 The New York Times.* Nationally however, Santa Ana Unified isn't alone. More than half of districts nationwide are behind the 2019 national average based on 2023 test scores. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-8.54.21-AM.png) **Source: © 2024 The New York Times.* Districtwide, students are about two years behind the 2019 national average in those subjects. Meanwhile, Irvine Unified actually saw a surge in enrollment during the pandemic and test scores. Board Member Brenda Lebsack pointed this out when before she voted against the layoffs. Vice President Katelyn Brazer-Aceves had also suggested a different way to handle things using attrition. ### What Were the Alternatives? One idea was to reduce staff through natural attrition instead of direct layoffs. Natural attrition is when staff retire or resign on their own, usually the most senior employees. In the past, the District has offered incentives like the Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan (SERP) right after asking people to leave through attrition. When the SERP window closed in November, 116 employees took the deal. Then, the Board voted unanimously Tuesday to extend the SERP window until mid-March. The more people who take the offer, the fewer layoffs might be needed—but that also depends on how many employees are left who can fill priority positions like special education. Another alternative that the Santa Ana Educators Association (SAEA) questioned was why the District didn’t hire pandemic-era staff on temporary contracts. Essentially, telling new hires upfront that their jobs were funded by one-time money and not permanent. That way, when the funding ran out, the District wouldn’t have to lay people off unexpectedly. But this might not have been allowed because of California’s rule during the pandemic that banned school layoffs and also told districts to hire more staff to help with distance learning and reopening schools. ### Overstaffing & Federal COVID Funds According to CBO and Associate Superintendent Ron Hacker, the District was already overstaffed even before the pandemic. In 2018, layoffs were on the table, but the Board voted against it, keeping extra staff. Another round of layoffs was considered right when COVID hit, but then the State of California stepped in and said: No layoffs. Keep all staff. Also, hire more. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-3.14.54-PM.png) **Red is enrollment. Slide 23 of the Budget Presentation on Jan. 31, 2025\. (*[**SAUSD*](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD8UJ37C3835/$file/Presentation%20-%20Governor's%20Budget%20%26%20SAUSD%20Budget.pdf?ref=santanero.org)**)* The federal government and the state gave school districts one-time money to do this. Santa Ana Unified got $209,242,526 million in ESSER funds, split into three federal relief packages: - [ESSER I](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esserf20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (CARES Act 2020): $14,508,488 - [ESSER II](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esseriii20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (CRRSA Act 2020): $59,956,147 - [ESSER III](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esseriii20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (American Rescue Plan 2021): $134,777,891 ESSER III funding expired on Jan. 1, 2025, by which districts were required to have spent the remaining funds. These one-time funds have been exhausted and some suggest the District misspent it despite strict rules on what to use them for. SAUSD received an additional $192,829,170 for COVID relief grants. *The Santanero* has inquired about these funds and waiting for sources from the District. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-3.16.52-PM.png) **Slide 20 of the Budget Presentation on Jan. 31, 2025\. (*[**SAUSD*](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD8UJ37C3835/$file/Presentation%20-%20Governor's%20Budget%20%26%20SAUSD%20Budget.pdf?ref=santanero.org)**)* In total, SAUSD received [$402,071,696](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD8UJ37C3835/$file/Presentation%20-%20Governor's%20Budget%20%26%20SAUSD%20Budget.pdf?ref=santanero.org) in coronavirus relief. ### Did the District Give Enough Warning? According to Superintendent Jerry Almendarez, the District had been warning labor groups and the union for three and a half years that layoffs were coming. But SAEA President Sonta Garner-Marcelo says that’s not true. She argues that the budget is actually stable for the next three years and that the meetings Almendarez is referring to were just standard financial discussions. She also pointed out that most senior SAEA reps were in mediation meetings when the District supposedly gave the layoff warnings, meaning they weren’t even there to hear it. ### Who Is Being Laid Off, Where Did the Money Go? Even though the reduction item listed [546 positions](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD82NX030EE1/$file/Santa%20Ana%20-%202025%20Certificated%20Layoff%20-%20Preliminary%20Resolution%28Updated%20012125%29%20EXHIBIT%20A%2852386369.1%29.pdf?ref=santanero.org), the District confirmed to *The Santanero* that 280 employees would actually be laid off—potentially fewer if more staff take advantage of the SERP plan extension. ⚠️ The Santanero does not know who exactly or what positions they entail will be laid off at this time. However, two groups that aren't facing layoffs, which some certificated staff have questioned, is classified staff and management at the District headquarters. > “We’ve looked at everything,” Hacker said. According to an agendized budget presentation, 80% of the District's $992 million overall budget are spent on salaries and benefits. With fiscal futures looking bleak, Hacker [said](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFQuFveqtyH/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) the cuts had to come from there. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-3.20.53-PM.png) **SAUSD's expenditures 2024-25, slide 30 of the Budget Presentation on Jan. 31, 2025\. (*[**SAUSD*](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/DD8UJ37C3835/$file/Presentation%20-%20Governor's%20Budget%20%26%20SAUSD%20Budget.pdf?ref=santanero.org)**)* He reiterated that management salaries account for 4% of all expenditures, arguing that cutting them wouldn’t make a significant difference in reducing the deficit. While classified staff salaries make up a quarter of total expenditures, Hacker pointed out that several positions are already unfilled or understaffed across the district. He also added that since 2020, the District has not backfilled three management positions left vacant due to resignations or retirements. But the SAEA argues that’s nothing compared to the number of pending layoffs. ### What about Superintendent Almendarez' raise? There was also concern about Superintendent Almendarez’s 3% raise, which *The Santanero* inquired about. Hacker confirmed that the raise proposal was pulled from the agenda and is "off the table." ### How Did the Board Vote? ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/sausd-layoffs-vote.png) **Source: Item 24.25-3649 vote taken 01/31/2025 at 8:28 PM.* Right before the vote, Board President Hector Bustos said that due to past decisions made by previous board members, it was now up to the current board to make the tough choices to keep the District financially solvent and avoid a takeover by the Orange County Department of Education. There was also a tense moment between Bustos and Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua, who sat front and centerbefore the Board. Bustos referenced past decisions made by the Board, including a time when Amezcua pushed to lower the counselor ratio to 150 students per counselor. As for the rest of the Board, most had met with stakeholders and wanted to clear the air about when the first warnings about layoffs were given and how both sides responded. Despite efforts to press Hacker on continuing natural attrition as an alternative, the Board ultimately voted 4-1 to approve the layoff item, with Lebsack opposing. ### What Happens Now? ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/DSC09102.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/DSC09105.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/DSC09110.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/DSC09130.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/02/DSC09147.JPG) **Crowd of educators gather to hear SAEA leadership and Mayor Amezcua after the Board voted 4-1 to approve layoffs. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* The District will issue pink slips to those affected by the layoffs by March 15\. From there, the District will work with its legal team and stakeholders, including the Santa Ana Educators Association (SAEA), to finalize the layoff process. > "This decision is really going to affect our students in our school district," said Selena, a high school counselor. "I think the District sees this as just a numbers game, a money game, but they don’t see the impact it’s going to have on students and our community overall." Selena, overwhelmed by the Board’s decision, wasn’t alone. Outside the Board room, a crowd of educators huddled together—some in tears, others exchanging hugs and words of encouragement from SAEA leaders and Mayor Valerie Amezcua. > "This is not over," said SAEA President Sonta Garner-Marcelo. "They voted, and they’ve shown their colors." Mayor Amezcua also spoke out, offering encouraging words while acknowledging her own past advocacy for lowering the counselor-to-student ratio. > "I think it was a bad decision," said Amezcua. "Our families are already dealing with immigration issues, fear, and uncertainty. And now, on top of that, they're going to hear that some of their favorite teachers and counselors are being laid off in March. How is that going to affect them?" ### What’s the Budget Outlook? The Orange County Department of Education has approved SAUSD’s budget for the next three years, as required by education code, which mandates that school districts balance their budgets three years in advance. This is different from city and state governments, which operate on a year-to-year budget cycle. Critics say since the budget was balanced for the next three years, layoffs could occur gradually rather than suddenly, but Hacker illustrated the numbers in the budget presentation, laying out possible risks for the District if the Board did not take action. ### What Are Students Saying? *The Santanero* spoke with students at local bus stops, and many were shocked by the news. Several students from local high schools had attended Tuesday’s meeting—as well as previous ones—to advocate for their teachers and counselors. They emphasized how their mental health has improved because of these educatorsand expressed concerns that cutting those resources would have serious negative effects on students struggling with personal and academic challenges. > "We’re just going to have to see how this decision affects the kids today, tomorrow, and for the rest of their lives," an educator said. ### School Board Recap - Jan. 28, 2025 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2025/01/30/school-board-recap-jan-28-2025/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:43:43.000Z ## Board extends SERP deadline The District Board unanimously voted to extend the Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan (SERP) for certificated staff. This deferred-compensation retirement plan, if accepted, could reduce staff layoffs and create opportunities for those affected. On Wednesday, a letter was sent by Superintendent Almendarez notifying the certificated union. --- ## Board reaffirms safe space status amid immigration crackdown The Board reaffirmed its commitment to keeping schools ‘safe havens’, assuring students, parents, and staff of their protection despite relaxed federal rules on immigration enforcement in schools. SAUSD plans to train staff and host legal workshops this spring. --- ## Board eases part of MLK Elementary to City for new park The District is granting an easement to the City of Santa Ana for a portion of a cul-de-sac on Hesperian Street and an adjacent alley. This area, located next to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, will be used for the development of a new park. --- ## Board continues meeting to Friday Tuesday’s agenda was extended to Friday at 5:30 PM after the Board prioritized time-sensitive items for discussion and voting, postponing the remaining topics, including a vote on hundreds of certificated staff. --- ## School Board Tardiness Overview since Dec. 19,, 2024: Tuesday's meeting was set to begin at 6:30 PM, the meeting began at 6:36 PM and adjourned sometime after 11:30 PM. - 6 minutes late for this meeting - Raises average minutes late to 11 - Overall 22 minutes late since 12/19/2025 --- ## How Am I Doing Today? (Behavior Chart) All school board members showed good partnership and did not act out in any way despite layoffs being presented. --- ## Next meeting: Friday, January 31, 2025 at 5:30 PM at the District Headquarters to continue Tuesday's agenda. ### OCTA to launch WAVE, a smart fare-capping system for riders URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/01/30/octa-to-launch-wave-a-smart-fare-capping-system-for-riders/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:43:33.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — This summer, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is introducing WAVE, a new smart fare card aimed at making bus travel more cost-effective for riders. WAVE will function similarly to fare cards used by LA Metro and New York MTA, offering a reloadable, reusable, and no-expiration payment option. OCTA currently offers one-day and 30-day paper passes, but some riders either spend more than necessary or don’t use public transportation enough to fully maximize their month-pass cost ($69). WAVE is designed to eliminate this issue by automatically giving riders the best possible price. ## How WAVE Works The WAVE system uses fare capping, ensuring that once a rider reaches a certain amount in fares, the rest of their rides are free: - One-way rides cost $2 - A one-day pass is $4.50 on the OC Bus app ($5.00 cash/coin if boarding) - After three one-way trips in a single day (totaling $4.50), the rest of that day’s rides are free - After $69 in fares within a calendar month, the rest of that month’s rides are free Fares are tallied starting on the 1st of every month, and riders must reach the monthly cap within the same month for unlimited rides. ### Getting the Most Value For riders looking to maximize savings: - For regular riders to reach the $69 monthly cap, they’d have to ride at least three times in a day for 15 days and then one more time on the 16th day within the same month. - For disabled/senior riders to get the most value, they’d have to ride three times a day for about 16 days and then one more time on the 17th day within the same month. --- WAVE can be managed online or through a new app coming this summer, allowing riders to add funds easily and pay via tap-to-ride using a debit or credit card. Those using current paper passes will still be allowed to use them, as well as all other pre-existing bus programs, such as free rides for students. As well as continue to accept coins and bills. OCTA has confirmed that this initiative will not increase fares, and instead, WAVE will always ensure riders get the best price possible automatically. > "\[W\]ith the WAVE system no rider will pay more than what they pay today, and most will pay less." - Eric Carpenter, OCTA ### OCTA Wants Rider Feedback As OCTA prepares to roll out WAVE this summer, they are seeking public input to fine-tune the program. Riders can learn more or share their thoughts by visiting [octa.net/wave](https://www.octa.net/wave?ref=santanero.org). ### SAUSD to vote on hundreds layoffs amid budget constraints URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/01/27/sausd-to-vote-on-hundreds-layoffs-amid-budget-constraints/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:43:23.000Z #### In Brief... The SAUSD School Board is expected to vote on laying off 546 certificated positions, including 340 teachers and 94 counselors, amid a $187 million deficit. These layoffs come after several combining factors led to the District having to make this decision. Due to years of declining enrollment, variability in LCFF funds, and the end of COVID-19 funds, there is no money to pay for extra staff hired during the pandemic. Funds used to pay extra staff came from phases of COVID money and now that all funds have been spent, the District has to cut personnel in order to avoid a fiscal collapse and takeover from the Orange County Board of Education. The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will vote Tuesday on a proposal to lay off 546 full-time positions, driven by a $187 million budget deficit identified last year by district accounting and budget staff, with multiple contributing factors. ### What is causing the layoffs? The district’s decision to lay off staff is driven by three main factors: declining enrollment, fluctuations in Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) revenue, and the depletion of one-time COVID-19 relief funds used to pay for additional staff. For over 20 years, SAUSD has experienced an average annual enrollment decline of 5%, a trend that sharply accelerated in 2021 and was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022 and 2023. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/sausd-enrollment-2013-27.png) **Graphic by The Santanero. Source: SAUSD, 12/18/2024* Since 2015, Santa Ana's population has steadily declined, with many residents relocating to desert cities even before the pandemic. When COVID-19 struck, low-interest rates provided an additional incentive for Santaneros to move out of the city, unenrolling students out of the District. According to [World Population Review](https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/california/santa-ana?ref=santanero.org), Santa Ana's population was estimated at 330,900 in 2019, but dropped to 311,200 in 2020\. Since then, the city has lost an average of 800-900 residents annually. Another significant factor adding to the exodus was the rising cost of living in California, including increasing rents and other expenses, which were further exacerbated by inflation. Adding to the losses, an additional 5% of LCFF funds were cut mid-fiscal year (interim) due to stagnant absenteeism, as announced during a budget webinar in late December. #### What are LCFF funds and where do they come from? LCFF funding comes from local property taxes and state aid via the California State School Fund and Education Protection Account. SAUSD's portion of LCFF funding is based on state assessments (e.g., CAASPP), demographics (e.g., English learners, low-income students, foster youth), average daily attendance (ADA), and local revenue. Essentially, the more high-need students a district has, the more funding it receives per student compared to a district with fewer high-need students. *The Santanero* inquired about the District’s plans to improve attendance while supporting school staff in engaging parents and guardians about their child’s attendance. However, Chief Communications and Community Relations Officer Fermin Leal, did not provide a direct response to this question. In addition to the LCFF challenges, SAUSD’s test scores lag two years behind the 2019 national average, one year behind the California state average, and rank the lowest among surrounding Orange County school districts. Nationally, however, SAUSD is not alone, as over half of districts nationwide remain below the 2019 national average based on 2023 test scores. When asked by *The Santanero* about plans to improve test scores, Leal responded: "We continue to work annually to improve standardized test scores. This involves several factors, including staffing decisions and utilizing other programs and initiatives to support the whole child’s needs. For example, we provide free meals for every student in our district without requiring parents to disclose their income information." "We also provide free afterschool and summer programs to support families where childcare costs beyond the school day might otherwise be a concern. Our Family and Community Engagement \[FACE\] Liaisons at every school also work with families to secure community resources that extend beyond how we serve students in the classroom. These district priorities continue to remain intact even as we navigate financial challenges." In the spirit of transparency, this response did not directly address the question or clarify how these efforts connect to improving test scores. --- During the pandemic, the District utilized one-time emergency funds to hire additional staff, including teachers, counselors, mental health specialists, and classified employees, aimed at helping students overcome the challenges of COVID-19 and reengage with in-person learning when schools reopened in 2022. The funds came initially from the federal government, given to the states to divide up, and then forwarded to the local entities such as school districts. The funds used by SAUSD were called Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds. | ESSER Fund | Federal Act | Amount Received | | ---------- | --------------------------- | --------------- | | ESSER I | CARES Act (2020) | $14,508,488 | | ESSER II | CRRSA Act (2020) | $59,956,147 | | ESSER III | American Rescue Plan (2021) | $134,777,891 | Santa Ana Unified received $209,242,526 in California ESSER funds through three federal acts: $14.5 million from [ESSER I](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esserf20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (CARES Act 2020), $60 million under [ESSER II](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esserfii20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (CRRSA Act 2020), and $134.8 million through [ESSER III](https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r14/esseriii20result.asp?ref=santanero.org) (American Rescue Plan 2021). ESSER III funding expired on Jan. 1, 2025, by which districts were required to have spent the remaining funds. This prompted district budget staff to warn that no additional funds were available to sustain the extra staff hired, especially amid declining enrollment. According to Jerry Almendarez, the District has initiated conversations with parents regarding budget futures through their LCAP meetings for "[three years](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFG49x7pUyM/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org)." Chief Business Officer and Associate Superintendent Ron Hacker stated during a [podcast](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFOySzAqj63/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) released Saturday that with the additional staff hired and ongoing expenditures from previous school board decisions, the District has reserves of approximately $336 million. However, he emphasized that the deficit stands at [$187 million](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFOySzAqj63/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) and reserves are intended for emergencies when all other options are exhausted. A district's financial reputation is critical for securing bonds, especially when seeking voter approval for bond measures, as its financial history determines its 'credit' rating. According to an agendized budget presentation, 80% of the District's $992 million overall budget are spent on salaries and benefits. With fiscal futures looking bleak, Hacker [said](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFQuFveqtyH/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) the cuts had to come from there. As reported, and stated by Hacker, the District is opting to not fill open management positions at this time. *The Santanero* asked whether budget staff had considered issuing pay cuts to SAUSD's top-paid employees or reducing staff at the District headquarters. Leal did not respond to this question. --- ### Who is being laid off? In all, 546 full-time equivalents (employees) are slated to be cut if the District votes in favor Tuesday. | Service Areas | Number of FTE | | ---------------------------------------------- | ------------- | | **Elementary Instruction** | | | Teacher Elementary (General/Multiple Subjects) | 186 | | Teacher - Transitional Kindergarten | 12 | | **Secondary/Departmentalized Instruction** | | | Teacher - Math | 34 | | Teacher - English | 63 | | Teacher - Social Science | 35 | | Teacher Secondary - Business | 6 | | Teacher Secondary - French | 2 | | Teacher Secondary - Home Economics | 1 | | Teacher Secondary - Health | 1 | | **Non-Rostered Services** | | | Curriculum Specialist | 16 | | Itinerant Support Teacher | 21 | | Home and Hospital | 5 | | Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) | 17 | | Counselor – 192 days | 63 | | Counselor – 202 days | 27 | | Counselor Coach | 4 | | Instructional Coach - Future Ready | 39 | | Social Worker | 10 | | Lead Social Worker | 4 | *Source: SAUSD Board Agenda, Res. No. 24/25-3649* From *The Santanero*'s understanding, layoffs were determined based on the District's need to reduce specific services due to budget constraints, targeting positions like elementary teachers, secondary subject teachers, counselors, and non-rostered staff. Employees with less seniority were prioritized for layoffs unless specific credentials or skills were needed elsewhere. Natural attrition, such as retirements and resignations, were also considered. However, according to the resolution, the 546 FTEs did not include retirees or those opting for early retirement plans. --- Part of the community has expressed frustration over a lack of transparency and the previously agendized raise for Superintendent Almendarez. The District [responded](https://www.sausd.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6157&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=130941&PageID=1&ref=santanero.org) to the backlash on Sunday. #### ****Response to the Santa Ana Unified Community Regarding Certificated Staff Reductions - 01/26/25** ****Addressing Common Concerns: True or False?** ****1\. "The District’s plan for staff reductions is ineffective and short-sighted."** ➡ **False.** Staffing adjustments are part of a long-term strategy to align our resources with student enrollment trends and financial realities. These decisions are made carefully to ensure long-term stability while continuing to provide high-quality education. ****2\. "The District is reducing certificated staff without considering the impact on students."** ➡ **False**. Every decision is guided by our commitment to students. While reductions are challenging, the District is prioritizing core academic programs, maintaining essential student services, and exploring alternative funding sources to minimize impacts. ****3\. "This reduction will lead to minimal academic support for students."** ➡ **False.** The District remains committed to maintaining academic supports, including intervention programs, before and after school services and specialized services. Adjustments will be made to ensure resources are allocated efficiently to continue supporting student success. ****4\. "Extracurricular programs will be eliminated."** ➡ **False.** The District is ****not** eliminating any extracurricular programs. The District is working to sustain extracurricular offerings by optimizing resources and funding. The District recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities in student development. ****5\. "The District is not considering the well-being of educators, leading to burnout."** ➡ **False.** The well-being of all staff is a top priority for the District. While we acknowledge that transitions can bring challenges, our actions are guided by compliance with the labor agreement to ensure that educators’ rights and needs are respected. Additionally, we engage in open dialogue with staff and labor partners to address concerns and collaboratively identify solutions to create a positive and supportive workplace culture. ****6\. "Counseling support for students will be drastically reduced."** ➡ **Partially True.** Counseling positions will be reduced, but services to students will not. Federal COVID-19 relief funds temporarily increased counseling positions, and those funds have now expired. As a result, there will be a reduction in the number of counselors. However, the District will still maintain a student-to-counselor ratio of 353:1, which remains well below pre-pandemic levels and below most surrounding Districts and Districts across California. Before COVID-19, the District had only 58 counselors serving high school and intermediate students. During the pandemic, over 100 additional counselors were hired to expand services to elementary schools. With the anticipated reductions, the District will implement a sustainable model in which: - Every elementary school will have at least one counselor. - Larger elementary and K-8 schools will have two counselors. - Intermediate schools will have at least two counselors. - High schools will have at least four counselors, with additional counselors allocated to schools with larger enrollments. While we are transitioning from temporary pandemic-era staffing levels, we remain committed to ensuring every student has access to social-emotional and mental health support. ****7\. "Social-emotional support for students will be drastically reduced."** ➡ False. As part of the District’s strategic planning, we are expanding student support services through our School-Based Mental Health Specialist 1 and 2 positions. These roles will increase student support in the following ways: - Providing evidence-based counseling services for students and their families. - Promoting early identification of students with social-emotional concerns and recommending appropriate interventions, supports, and services to students, parents, and school staff. - Addressing barriers impacting academic, behavioral, attendance, and social-emotional success, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. ****8\. "Class sizes will increase dramatically, and combination classes will become the norm."** ➡ **False.** The district is managing staffing adjustments carefully to minimize significant changes in class sizes. While some restructuring may occur, we are working to ensure a balanced and effective learning environment for all students. Currently, the district has 24 combination classes across all elementary schools, and though this number is anticipated to increase to 40, it will not affect all schools nor will combination classes become the norm. COVID-19 relief funding allowed our classroom averages to remain low due to additional funding. As those funds expire, allocations for teaching positions at each site have been adjusted based on an increase of 0-4 students per class, depending on the grade level for elementary, and up to 3 students per secondary classes. This ensures that class sizes remain manageable while aligning with sustainable staffing levels. "There's this narrative that the Superintendent has taken an increase in salary, and that is just not true," Hacker [said](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFQuFveqtyH/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org). "The Board has not a approved an increase in salary for the Superintendent, and that is not on the table." The Board is expected to vote on the layoffs Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM at the District Headquarters. ### 2025: A Glass Half-Full Year for Santa Ana URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/editorial/2025/01/06/2025-a-glass-half-full-year-for-santa-ana/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T19:25:44.000Z This year has the potential to be transformative for Santa Ana—full of challenges and opportunities. From looming budget cuts to exciting new developments, 2025 promises to keep residents on their toes. --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/IMG_0775_Original.jpg) **Aisle in City Council Chambers. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* ### City Council In 2024, the Santa Ana City Council warned residents of impending budget cuts, driven by several factors: 1. **Measure X Sunset** Approved by voters in 2018, the sales tax increase under Measure X will begin phasing out in 2028, reducing City revenue significantly. 2. **Stagnant Housing Market** With fewer properties for sale compared to other cities, Santa Ana’s property tax revenue has taken a hit, exacerbated by a statewide housing slowdown. 3. **Declining Sales and Inflation** Santa Ana residents and visitors are spending less, partly due to the city’s high sales tax—the highest in the county—which drives shoppers to neighboring cities with lower rates. 4. **Decreased Cannabis Revenue** *The Santanero* projects declining marijuana sales as flavored THC products face new bans and dispensary prices rise. Data regarding cannabis sales is pending. The Council has a fiduciary duty to balance the budget, which could lead to funding cuts for city-sponsored events, reductions in public amenities like free parking in Downtown, and fewer community freebies such as calendars and *Cultura* magazines. Programs for youth, including those run by parks and recreation and library staff, are also at risk—raising concerns about the potential impact on youth safety and engagement. Looking ahead, the city must prepare for two global events: the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Santa Ana has the opportunity to attract an influx of tourists seeking alternatives to Los Angeles. The train connection to LA and local accommodations offer potential, but only if the city collaborates with OCTA to ensure public transit remains efficient despite increased demand. This is a chance to showcase Santa Ana’s unique character—imperfections and all. --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/DSC08840.jpg) **Inside SAUSD board room. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* ### Santa Ana Unified school board Santa Ana Unified continues to face significant challenges, including declining enrollment, staff layoffs, and possible program cuts. The district plans to lay off over 450 certificated staff this spring, with more reductions likely in the next school year due to persistently declining student enrollment. Vacant positions may be eliminated, while cuts to existing staff salaries do not appear likely. Some underutilized programs may lose funding, specifically at community schools such as Valley High School. Districtwide, a decrease in funding to afterschool programs and wellness centers is also likely. On a positive note, Chavez High School and Loren Griest Academy are turning negative perceptions around by offering recently District-cleared programs, such as an Associated Student Body course for continuation students, that provide new opportunities for engagement and growth. --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/ocstreetcarweb1-11394.jpg) **OCTA rendering of Streetcar. (OCTA)* ### OC Streetcar grand opening This summer, the long-awaited OC Streetcar is set to launch, connecting the Santa Ana train station to 17th and Harbor. With fares expected to align with current OC Bus rates, the streetcar will provide an affordable transit option for residents and visitors. The half-billion dollar project offers an exciting opportunity to *really* revitalize Downtown Santa Ana. Despite the efforts of the Revive Santa Ana plan, Downtown still has less foot traffic than it did a few years ago. --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2025/01/View-01.jpg) **Rendering of upcoming Related Bristol Project. (Related California)* ### A changing cityscape Santa Ana’s landscape is evolving with major projects on the horizon: - **Related Bristol Project**: Phase one begins this time next year, signaling big changes for the area. - **17th and Grand Redevelopment**: The failed business center could become a mixed-use hub, potentially featuring affordable housing. Sure, a Sam's Club is welcome, but affordable housing on top can put a dent in lack of *affordable* housing. Take the Costco housing plan for example. - **Warner Avenue Completion**: Construction is set to wrap up this spring, fulfilling a promise by Public Works Director Nabil Saba to Councilmember David Penaloza late last year. - **New Bike Lanes**: Phased projects will add bike lanes to Standard Avenue and McFadden Avenue, improving mobility for cyclists. - **Bristol Widening**: Long-awaited expansion efforts may finally begin between Warner and Edinger Avenues. --- ### What’s Next? The first half of 2025 is likely to be business as usual, but all eyes will be on the City Council and school board as they finalize budgets for the new fiscal year by July 1st. These decisions will set the tone for Santa Ana’s future, shaping its trajectory for years to come. The Santanero will be closely monitoring these developments, bringing you timely updates. ### Combined Local Gov. Recap - Dec. 17 & 19, 2024 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/12/21/combined-local-gov-recap-dec-17-19-2024/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:42:34.000Z Good day Santaneros! It’s Saturday, December 21st, also known as the busiest start of the weekend for last-minute shopping ahead of the holidays. As [announced on Friday](https://www.instagram.com/p/DD0xwSwprhH/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org), this is The Santanero’s first ever combined edition of the Recap Series involving this week’s city council and school board meetings. ### Your 3-Day Outlook: Sunday: Cloudy ☁️, 66°F high, 48°F low Monday: Partly sunny 🌥️, 68°F, 49°F low Christmas Eve: Chance of showers, cloudy 🌦️, 64ºF high, 52ºF low Source: National Weather Service, San Diego --- # City votes unanimously to ban encampments, unhoused addicts in public areas ![textile under the wall mounted hooks](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523737000522-87c15d8efcc4?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDF8fGhvbWVsZXNzfGVufDB8fHx8MTczNDgwNzk0Mnww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [Mihály Köles](https://unsplash.com/@mihaly%5Fkoles?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) The Santa Ana City Council voted 7-0 to ban encampments and unhoused addicts from remaining in public right-of-ways on Tuesday. *What does this mean? We explain it* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/council-votes-7-0-to-ban-encampments-and-unhoused-addicts-from-public-spaces/)*.* --- # Gerardo Mouet Park opens ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC07487.JPG) **Ribbon cutting of Gerardo Mouet Park. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Santa Ana’s newest park, built in memory of former Parks and Recreation Director Gerardo Mouet, opened up last week to a community that has patiently waited for years for the City to do something with the acre land. *See our Instagram post* [*here*](https://www.instagram.com/p/DDgUVqExJcR/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&ref=santanero.org)*.* --- # City formally apologizes to family of Edgar Vargas ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/vargas.png) **Family photo with Edgar Vargas. (KTLA)* Over 10 years have passed since the initial beating by Santa Ana police officers of Edgar Vargas. Now, the City has come to terms with its past and passed a resolution that formally apologizes to the family of Edgar Vargas. Though, Vargas could not be there to see it as he passed away in 2022\. Despite the Council sparring at eachother in November over this same item, they voted to make amends, even after a last minute attempt by Councilmember Vazquez to add a line reaffirming the City’s sanctuary status, which did not sit well with a few other Councilmembers despite a few agreeing with the status as a standalone item. *To read our previous article on this, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family/)*.* --- # SAUSD School Board — Recap ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08813-2.JPG) **Santa Ana Unified School District Administration Office. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* ## District school board approves ‘stabilization plan’ to cut 351 certificated staff, spares management The SAUSD school board voted 4-1 to lay off—at minimum—351 employees, including 169 teachers and 57 counselors in order to avoid budget deficits that would render the Board irresponsible and taken over by the County or State. The District could not say what the max amount of staff layoffs could be. *Who's being laid off? Why is this happening? We explain* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/santa-ana-unified-approves-stabilization-plan-to-cut-351-certificated-staff-spares-management/)*.* --- ## SAUSD to pay $1.2 million to install traffic light by Saddleback ![a traffic light with a street sign on it](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1652546825434-b88282889ccb?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDc1fHx0cmFmZmljJTIwbGlnaHR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM0ODA4Mzk0fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [Ruben.](https://unsplash.com/@rubenimages?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) The Santa Ana Unified School District partnered with the City of Santa Ana’s Pubic Works department to win their bid to install a traffic light on the intersection of Segerstrom Avenue and Rosewood Street, costing the District to pay out $1.2 million. The plan from the beginning to install a traffic signal after the District declared the construction of Saddleback High School’s new stadium, which will be taking place in 2025. --- ## SAUSD to partner with immigration groups to educate undocumented students and families ![brown wooden fence near green trees during daytime](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1620577789277-7801315bd4f2?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDZ8fGJvcmRlcnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MzQ4MDg0NDR8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=2000) Photo by [Greg Bulla](https://unsplash.com/@gregbulla?ref=santanero.org) / [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) As the Trump administration readies its agenda for the next four years, Santa Ana Unified is racing against time to educate its undocumented students and their families on their immigration rights. The City has maintained its sanctuary city status since the first Trump administration and the District voted 4-1 (Lebsack abstained) to reaffirm its commitment to providing guidance, education, and to undocumented students and families. They’ll soon connect with immigration groups to help teach the SAUSD community on their rights and what to do if ICE knocks on their door. The State of California also has considered itself to be a sanctuary state. With the three entities in line of sanctuary status, they’ve limited their cooperation with federal immigration enforcement authorities. The plan to educate the community will come back in about 45 days to be voted on by the Board. --- ⚠️ Trigger Warning: Suicide, Death ## Lebsack restates she posed as suicidal teen, found online vulnerabilities in District resource ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08908-1.JPG) **Board Member Brenda Lebsack at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Newly elected Board Member Brenda Lebsack told her colleagues Thursday of a time she logged into a now-former District mental health resources for students called the Trevor Project. The Project serves a one of the nation’s top LGBTQ+ mental health resource and 24/7 suicidal hotline, in which the District partnered with a few years ago. Until Lebsack was easily able to infiltrate the resource. She told her fellow board members that she lied about her date of birth and posed as a 13-year old girl that was ‘gender-confused’ and wanted to unalive herself. Lebsack explained the Trevor Project hotline ensured she wasn’t going to unalive herself and referred her to a landing page called TrevorSpace with a few supportive chatrooms, to which she said had sexually suggestive names. All in all, the District ceased to promote the Trevor Project hotline. After a nationwide hotline number was established, the District promoted that instead. She spoke of this while asking about the new telehealth service the District offers while also adding anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, which was most of what she ran her campaign on. ***If you are experiencing suicidal, substance use or other mental health crises, or are worried about a friend or loved one, please call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to 988lifeline.org.*** ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/988-logo.png) --- ## Message from The Santanero Hello, I'm Daniel Diaz, co-founder of The Santanero. I'd like to take this time to thank you for being a free subscriber. This year, we doubled our Instagram following, established a new website, and began issuing weekly Leaflets. Next year we have a few new things we're opening up, including columns, guest pieces, and a revamped graphics design for our Instagram posts. Until next week Santaneros! Stay safe and have a happy holiday season. Respectfully, Daniel Diaz ### Council votes 7-0 to ban encampments and unhoused addicts from public spaces URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/12/21/council-votes-7-0-to-ban-encampments-and-unhoused-addicts-from-public-spaces/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:42:26.000Z #### In Brief... - The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously to ban any type of encampment and prohibits those unhoused from sleeping in public right-of-ways. The law will take effect a month after another vote in January 2025. - The way it'll be enforced will comprise of the Santa Ana Police Department, the City's Quality of Life Team, Santa Ana Multi-Disciplinary Response Team (SMART), and city code enforcement officers, but primarily gives officers the discretion of issuing citations, infractions, or arrests. - What does this means? Essentially, the Council passed an ordinance that, in efforts, strives for the quality of life that resembles Irvine's or Newport Beach's bougie neighborhoods. A blanket law that covers everyone, regardless of financial or housing status. - What happens if you violate it? You may face citations, fines, criminal charges, removal of belongings, or other enforcement actions depending on the severity of the violation (Prop. 36 is in effect). - What is the protocol for approaching homeless in Santa Ana? From what The Santanero understands, SAPD is the lead agency when responding to a call on a homeless and is usually accompanied by QOLT and SMART teams. The officers cites or detains the person after the person denies help and is taken Downtown, meanwhile QOLT cleans up the person's items and discards them. CITY HALL — The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously to ban encampments and persons obstructing public right-of-ways in public spaces. Although the ordinance doesn't contain the word "homeless," those opposed say it still targets those living in the streets, specifically those who refuse help. Moreover, anyone obstructing a public right-of-way, whether they're homeless or not, is subject to a citation or arrest depending on the officer. The new ordinance won't take effect until a month after the second reading is passed in January 2025. With the recent Supreme Court ruling in [*Grants Pass v. Johnson*](https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-175%5F19m2.pdf?ref=santanero.org), [Proposition 36](https://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2024/general/pdf/prop36.pdf?ref=santanero.org), and the combined task force the City has established, residents could witness more forceful removals of "nuisances" that put a negative perception on the city. Councilmember Bacerra speaking on Item 22, 12/17/2024\. (City of Santa Ana) Councilmember Phil Bacerra grilled the County for failing to provide homeless service under their [Orange County Outreach & Engagement (OCO&E)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVodSOHFJRw&ref=santanero.org) team, adding Santa Ana shouldn't keep paying for its own services when one exists already. Councilmember David Penaloza agreed with Bacerra, but insisted "not pulling the rug out" to ensure that the teams the City has can run efficiently. > *CityNet, a.k.a. Kingdom Causes, Inc., is a partner organization that provides outreach services, connecting unsheltered individuals to resources like housing, shelters, mental health care, and social services. Rather than having Santa Ana Police officers answering the call alone, CityNet will, so police can focus other calls.* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/OC-Contact-Us-Image.jpeg) **Image by CityNet.* City Manager Alvaro Nuñez elaborated the renewal for [CityNet](https://www.citynet.org/orange-county?ref=santanero.org) is a year, with the option to renew for another year of funding, but since the budget year end in June and the new one in July. #### How many homeless agencies or departments does Santa Ana have? CityNet - **A partner organization that provides outreach services, connecting unsheltered individuals to resources like housing, shelters, mental health care, and social services.* QOLT *\- Quality Of Life Team "addresses homelessness-related issues, working with city departments and county resources to address unauthorized encampments and abandoned property and providing outreach, including shelter and mental health services, to those experiencing homelessness."* HEART - **Homeless Evaluation Assessment Response Team includes some Santa Ana Police officers that have training in mental health training. They join partner agencies as they interact with homeless to offer services, but not all the time.* PERT - **Psychological Emergency Response Team is a partnership between the Orange County Health Care Agency and SAPD and stands as a mental health and law enforcement response team to assist individuals with mental health issues, but their visibility is unconfirmed to The Santanero, pending confirmation until City Hall* reopens**.* There could be more that The Santanero has not mentioned. See callout on the bottom of this article. **Councilmember Lopez speaking on Item 22, 12/17/2024\. (City of Santa Ana)* "If you want more to be done, this is one item where we can do more than baseline county services," said Councilmember Lopez. "CityNet serves a specific purpose of being able to go out into our community." Councilmember Thai Viet Phan voiced her opposition to the wording and definitions of terms used in the original ordinance brought forth to the Council in November. "Is it not your fault for having mental health crises, is not your fault to being addicted to drugs, however it is your responsibility to get help, to accept help, and to go out and not harm others," said Phan. "We all deserve to be safe," said Amezcua. "We all deserve to be able walk at night, we all deserve to live in a place where its quiet and we can get some sleep, we all deserve to not go into our car in the morning and find its been broken into." ## Breaking down the ordinance **Why?** The Council has taken action before on removing homeless and unhoused addicts by enforcing the Public Intoxication and Substance Abuse Enforcement (PISAE) ordinance passed in summer 2023\. This tasked officers to arrest those publicly inebriated, passed out on the street, or obstructing the public right-of-way by either sleeping, trespassing, or doing drugs. With a shortage officers, overtime expenses have significantly increased at the police department, and with budget cuts looming, the City is working to offset some of the extra pay. Now with the Grants Pass decision, the City looked at what other cities were doing regarding homelessness and essentially mimicked what Irvine and other bougie cities have done: a blanket ordinance that bans nuisances in public areas, whether you're homeless or not. **What is illegal?** You can't camp or loiter in public streets, sidewalks, alleys, parks, public right-of-ways, the Civic Center, public restrooms, and bus benches. This includes sitting, lying, or sleeping in these areas or storing items within certain distances. Essentially, if Irvine doesn't allow it, neither does Santa Ana anymore. Also illegal to have in the Civic Center are tents, makeshift shelters, furniture, and propane tanks, along with uncapped needles (unless authorized by a medical specialist). The ordinance has capped the number of animals a person can own or keep to 3 animals (excluding service animals). **What if I'm just sleeping in my car or taking a nap at a park?** The Council has had and put a lot of faith in Santa Ana Police officers to make the decision of whether or not to cite a person violating the new ordinance. Based on the officer's judgement, it will determine if you get a citation or arrest or nothing. If your car appears to look like you're living in it, you can expect an officer to issue a citation or take you in on misdemeanor charge. Even if you're napping before entering your shift at work, under the ordinance, it states under section 10-402 & 10-403 that it is unlawful to use a vehicle for "human habitation" in public places, including streets, public parking lots, medians, or other public areas. The ordinance also bans people from sleeping on bus benches when the buses aren't running (specifically between 2-4 AM as Bristol and Harbor buses run about 22 hours a day). ⚠️ The Santanero has contacted City Hall staff to explain the homeless response from top to bottom since The Santanero has identified five different departments tackling homelessness and although their descriptions of them are present, it is unclear what their role is when interacting with homeless. A new article, including the new ordinance, will be posted after City Hall reopens. ### Santa Ana Unified approves 'stabilization plan' to cut 351 certificated staff, spares management URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/12/20/santa-ana-unified-approves-stabilization-plan-to-cut-351-certificated-staff-spares-management/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:42:16.000Z #### In Brief... - The SAUSD school board voted 4-1 to lay off—at minimum—351 employees, including 169 teachers and 57 counselors in order to avoid budget deficits that would render the Board irresponsible and taken over by the County or State. The District could not say what the max amount of staff layoffs could be. - Speakers voiced opposition Tuesday and instead ordered the Board to cut the Superintendent's pay, along with other high-paid non-management positions. Since the Item was 'pulled' by the Board, it wasn't taken for a vote. Those opposed say the District is sitting on $362 million is reserves which could be used, however it is required by law for Districts to have a certain percentage kept away in the event of bankruptcy. - CBO Ron Hacker said that SAUSD is "not top heavy" and was rated one of the most efficient school districts around, and added they were not looking at making cuts to management, only to review all vacancies and determine to cut those or not. - The way SAUSD positioned the timeline to be, which dates back to when Mayor Valerie Amezcua sat on the school board, attempted to make it clear to the community that the layoffs were imminent since day one (pre-COVID). Superintendent Almendarez added that the reason why cuts are being made now is because they cannot financially afford to anymore and the one-time funds used to pay their salaries have been used up. SAUSD HQ — The Santa Ana Unified School District voted 4-1 (Magdaleno opposed) Thursday to approve its ['budget stabilization plan'](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/12/RESOLUTION-NO.-24-25-3634.pdf), clearning the way for layoffs off 351 certificated staff, including 169 teachers, after projecting hefty budget deficits exceeding $175 million alongside rapidly declining enrollment in schools. According to [resolution 24/25-3634](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/12/RESOLUTION-NO.-24-25-3634.pdf), the District plans to address "financial challenges" faced by the district due to declining revenues, increasing costs, and the end of state and federal COVID relief grants, where cuts being made used one-time funds. Aside from those reasons, scores of parents are choosing to enroll their children to charter schools, further declining enrollment at the public school system. #### Who's being let go? ****Certificated Non-Management Staff:** Teachers: *No fewer than 169 positions.* Counselors: **No fewer than 57 positions.* Instructional Coaches: **No fewer than 55 positions.* Curriculum Specialists: **No fewer than 15 positions.* Itinerant (Elementary): **No fewer than 21 positions.* Home Hospital Staff: *No fewer than 5 positions.* Social Workers: **No fewer than 9 positions.* Senior Social Workers: **No fewer than 4 positions.* Teachers on Special Assignment: **No fewer than 16 positions.* ****Classified Non-Management Staff**: **All vacancies in this category will be reviewed, and positions will only be filled if deemed necessary to meet the instructional and operational needs of the district.* ****Management**: **Management vacancies will also undergo a review process, with hiring decisions based on operational necessity.* The District will take a vote in late January or early February to let go a minimum of 169 teachers, 57 counselors, 55 instructional coaches, 15 curriculum specialists, 21 elementary itinerants, 5 home hospital staff, 9 social workers, 4 senior social workers, and 16 teachers on special assignments. There is no set maximum yet. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08891.JPG) **Clerk of the Board, Valerie Magdaleno at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Newly elected board member and recently sworn-in on Tuesday, Valerie Magdaleno was the sole dissenting vote. "As a new board member, this was an incredibly difficult decision, particularly because it directly affects the lives of our students, staff, and community," said Magdaleno. "I believe it is my responsibility to thoroughly understand the District's financial situation before making a decision of this magnitude. At this time, I did not feel confident that I had a complete understanding of the District's finances or that every possible solution had been fully explored to prevent the need for rightsizing." ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08907.JPG) **President of the Board, Hector Bustos at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* President Hector Bustos got emotional, echoing Madagleno's sentiments, adding that he was elected to ensure parents and the community have a board that is financially responsible, pointing to past boards, including when Mayor Amezcua sat on the board, suggesting they weren't. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08886.JPG) Board Member, Dr. Alfonso Alvarez at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero) Dr. Alfonso Alvarez was concerned for how the changes would affect student learning, pointing to the District's emphasis on mental health during the pandemic. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08898.JPG) **Vice President of the Board, Katelyn Brazer-Aceves at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Katelyn Brazer-Aceves took a moment to thank Tuesday's speakers and those who expressed frustration, adding that their concerns were recognized. "This a decision I don't take lightly," said Brazer-Aceves. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08908.JPG) Board Member, Brenda Lebsack at a school board meeting. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero) Brenda Lebsack, also recently sworn-in, asked CBO and Associate Superintendent Ronald Hacker if there was a maximum amount of layoffs. He said no. Hacker added that the amounts were based on projections of the first interim, a period of time in which the District is preparing their budgets for the next school year. In response to a Board member's question, Hacker said he and his team did not look into pink-slipping current management at the District office, but rather said they'd look into the vacancies unfilled and likely close those. No classified staff is projected to be laid off under the proposal. Classified staff are people who work directly with or for students whether it be in cafeterias, aides, and afterschool program leaders. At a budget townhall meeting held virtually Wednesday, Hacker explained the District's budget futures, which look bleak. 🎥 **Santa Ana Unified recorded the Townhall. You can watch it* [**here*](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnUhBjegcOE&ref=santanero.org)**.* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08910.JPG) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/DSC08903.JPG) **At left, CBO and Associate Superintendent Ronald Hacker. At right, Superintendent Jerry Almendarez. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* Hacker and Superintendent Jerry Almendarez explained the history of the finances of SAUSD before the Board, saying cuts to staff were bound to happen, it was just a matter of when. In [2017](https://www.ocregister.com/2017/03/14/teachers-educators-getting-layoff-notices-from-santa-ana-anaheim-school-districts/?ref=santanero.org), the District laid off several certificated staff, due to declining enrollment. At the time, board member Cecilia Iglesias blamed the educators union for enflaming the financial situation, adding the union contract caused a $32 million increase in salaries for certificated staff. Prior to the pandemic, again, the District found itself asking teachers and other non-management staff to retire early because another round of layoffs was imminent. When the District was to decide on pushing layoffs, COVID hit, an influx of monies came in from the government, and essentially paused layoffs, but it never stopped them for good. The District received at least $402,071,696 of constricted COVID funds according to Wednesday's [presentation](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/IMG%5F6820.jpeg?ref=santanero.org), spending the most in 2021-22 and 2022-23—the school year in which classes returned in-person. It is at this point, Santa Ana Unified went on a hiring spree, allotting extra teachers, support staff, and hours attempting to swing students back into in-person learning, but in addition, was barred from laying off anyone by the State. With the order from the State in place, SAUSD could not lay off anyone, but also had to use up the money within strict guidelines and prohibitions on what the monies could be used for. In other words, if it weren't for COVID, layoffs happening presently would have occurred in 2020. Among the hundreds of tall metal air-filters now removed, gallons of hand sanitizer used, and weekly coronavirus tests done, the District's efforts in helping students resulted in having too much help among a slow progression in bouncing back from pre-pandemic levels regarding test scores, attendance, and enrollment. ### The SAEA union The Santa Ana Educators Association says it had been echoing those concerns from the beginning, that hiring people based on one-time funds would ultimately lead to layoffs. "This is just the last example of district leadership’s disregard for the future of our students, educators, and public education in our city," said Santa Ana Educators Association President Sonta Garner-Marcelo. "Our district should invest in our classrooms, not tearing them apart. Our students have some of the greatest needs in the county, yet the district wants to cut services and support. This is a great way to push students out of school but a terrible way to support them." When and if the District votes to layoff staff, at minimum, 14% of the SAEA bargaining unit would be dismissed, according to Garner-Marcelo. Superintendent Almendarez was supposed to receive a 3% raise, but the Board decided to decide the item another day. Hacker added that even if it went to effect, the raise would not cause further disruption in the budget, and although all expenditures add up, the 3% would not change the outcome of cuts happening. "This is a perfect example of how backward the priorities of District leadership are. Proposing devastating layoffs before the holidays should earn him a letter of termination, not a big raise, especially when he’s failing to earn his current annual compensation package of almost half a million dollars—$447,561," said Garner-Marcelo. According to [Transparent California](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2022/school-districts/orange/santa-ana-unified/jerry-michael-almendarez/?ref=santanero.org), Almendarez received $447,561 in compensation in 2022\. Before benefits, he received $385,655.00\. A three percent raise would added $13,427 including benefits. #### How much do people make at SAUSD? In 2022, SAUSD's highest-paid employee was Superintendent Jerry Almendarez, earning a total of $447,561, according to [OpenPayrolls](https://openpayrolls.com/rank/highest-paid-employees/california-santa-ana-unified?ref=santanero.org). The Santa Ana Educators Association President at the time, Barbara Pearson, held the [5th highest-paid spot](https://openpayrolls.com/rank/highest-paid-employees/california-santa-ana-unified?ref=santanero.org) with $231,131. For the School Board: - Dr. Alfonso Alvarez, a board member, received $9,450 in [2022](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2022/school-districts/orange/santa-ana-unified/alfonso-alvarez/?ref=santanero.org). - Katlyn Brazer-Aceves, the Vice President, took office on Dec. 9, 2022, and likely earned around $787.50, as Transparent California has no records posted yet. - Hector Bustos, the Board President, likely earned the same $787.50 in 2022 as he assumed office Dec. 9, 2022. - Valerie Magdaleno, now the board clerk, worked as a program coordinator for the City of Santa Ana in [2022](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2022/santa-ana/valerie-magdaleno/?ref=santanero.org), earned $20,854 in total. - Brenda Lebsack, now a board member, works as an adaptive physical education teacher and earned $142,982 in [2022](https://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2022/school-districts/orange/santa-ana-unified/brenda-yvonne-lebsack/?ref=santanero.org). For transparency, Ronald Hacker, who [became the CBO and Associate Superintendent](https://www.sausd.us/cms/lib/CA01000471/Centricity/Domain/133/3-28-23%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Minutes.pdf%204.20.23.pdf?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) in 2023, has a [contract](https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sausd/Board.nsf/files/CQ8QC56870C3/%24file/R.%20Hacker%20Contract%20of%20Employment%203-28-23.pdf??ref=santanero.org) listing an annual base salary of $252,348 (before benefits), making him one of the top 10 earners in the district. ### Enrollment ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/sausd-enrollment-2013-27-2.png) **Graphic by The Santanero. Source: SAUSD, 12/18/2024* The problem of declining enrollment has been occurring since the early 2000's according to SAUSD census data. On average, the District has lost 1,396 students since 2013-14, the highest being 2,436 pupils during the first year of COVID. ### State testing Third, eighth, and 11th graders are benchmark tested annually which indicates where a school district stands in regard to state standards (stuff that students should have learned how to do). Most of the District's revenue comes from how the students perform in the assessments, alongside attendance. Student state test scores indicate a positive trend since COVID, but SAUSD is still two years behind compared to the national 2019 average, almost a year behind the California state average. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-8.53.16-AM.png) Source: © 2024 The New York Times. Locally, SAUSD ranks the lowest when compared to surrounding school districts. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-9.18.24-AM.png) Source: © 2024 The New York Times. Nationally however, Santa Ana Unified isn't alone. More than half of districts nationwide are behind the 2019 national average based on 2023 test scores. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-8.54.21-AM.png) Source: © 2024 The New York Times. Tests results tell new parents on the block that are looking for schools to enroll their children in that a specific school district is ranking lower than others, which leads to a perception that lower rank school districts performing low in standardized tests essentially have students not learning. Students play the key role in scores for the District that translates into funding later on by the State, aside from attendance rates, which chronic absenteeism persists statewide and at SAUSD. Among the few reasons scores are low, students may feel overwhelmed and anxious. This is evidenced by testing blocks and dates all taking place back-to-back or with minimal breaks in between every spring. These test scores create the perception that SAUSD *public* schools are failing, making it seem like teachers aren't doing their jobs and that the responsibility for Santa Ana students' struggles lies with the adults. This leads to the belief that raises aren't justified since the scores aren't improving. This perception is enough to convince parents to enroll them elsewhere. ### Revenue outlook Revenue for SAUSD mainly comes from the Local Control Funding Formula, benchmarking districts statewide based on testing performance of their students. The more students in need of help, the more the District gets from what The Santanero understands. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/Sausd-revenue-first-interim-202425-2-1.png) **Graphic by The Santanero, data from Santa Ana Unified on 12/18/2024.* LCFF funds were shorten by 5% this school year due to enrollment numbers and stagnate absenteeism, leaving the District to source the money from federal resources. More instability with the budget stems from the State and may shrink depending on California Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposed budget in late spring, which could lead to more cuts or layoffs at the District level. ### What the community is saying? The Santanero issued a snap poll and survey Thursday at 1:00 PM asking for surveyors to put themselves on the Board and what they would do. 28 participants took the survey, which isn't much to go on admittedly, but 28 spoke their opinion on the following: - 92.8% say layoffs should not occur. - 96.4% say they'd vote no on Superintendent Almendarez' raise. - 60.7% they are not in favor of consolidating schools. - 75% are in favor of capping or reducing the salaries of top paid District employees. - 75% are in favor of auditing programs not helping enough people or reducing the number of programs doing the same thing. - 71.4% are in favor of SAUSD working with the City and County for a "all hands on deck approach" to address budget reductions at all levels. "Reduce wages of staff at the executive level so that we can keep our educational staff and programs running. We need teachers, not executive staff with enormous salaries!" said a participant said when asked about what they would do instead. When asked about Alemendarez' 3% raise, a participant said "Meh. As a student I don’t really see what he has done for us." ### Robert Rodriguez appointed new Santa Ana police chief URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/12/17/robert-rodriguez-appointed-new-santa-ana-police-chief/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:42:07.000Z SANTA ANITA — After spending over a year as interim police chief after David Valetin's sudden resignation, City Manager Alvaro Nuñez announced Tuesday during an event at Russell Elementary that Robert Rodriguez was appointed as Santa Ana police's new chief, according to a press release. > **Via press release:** *“Chief Rodriguez brings the leadership, experience and vision necessary to improve public safety, foster trust and strengthen the bond between our police force and the residents we serve," City Manager Nuñez said. "Chief Rodriguez came from humble origins and has a background that allows him to understand all aspects of the Santa Ana community’s needs and challenges.”* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/12/NEW-PIC-768x960_50.jpg) Chief Robert Rodriguez' portrait. (City of Santa Ana) #### Who is Chief Rodriguez? Chief Robert Rodriguez was born in Tijuana, Mexico and brought to the United States as a child where his parents settled in Santa Ana shortly thereafter. Despite him and his parents being undocumented immigrants, he pushed through school, joined the United States Marine Corps where he served several deployments and obtained his U.S. citizenship. After being honorably discharged in 1996, Rodriguez opted to join the Los Angeles Police Department. After a few years of that, he sought a job at Santa Ana police and has worked his way up through every rank and various section of the department. Rodriguez has a M.A. in Public Administration and is currently finishing up his doctorate at USC. Baseball wise, he is a Dodger fan. **Information abridged from the press release issued 12/16/2024.* Rodriguez has served the Santa Ana police department for 24 years, working his way from the bottom to the top. > **Via press release:** *“It is an incredible honor to serve as the Chief of Police for the city that shaped who I am today,” Chief Rodriguez said. “Santa Ana is not just where I work — it’s my home, my community, and the place where my journey began. I am deeply committed to fostering trust, improving public safety, and building strong relationships between our police department and the residents we serve. Together, we can create a safer, more united Santa Ana, where every individual feels valued and protected. I look forward to working hand in hand with our officers, City leadership, and community members to achieve this vision.”* Rodriguez is the 22nd chief of police to serve the city of Santa Ana. ### The Morning Digest: Nov. 20, 2024 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/morning-digest/2024/11/21/the-morning-digest-nov-20-2024/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:41:32.000Z Good morning Santaneros! It's Thursday, Nov. 20th and here's this week's Morning Digest. ☀️ --- [LOCAL EYE](https://www.santanero.org/tag/local-eye/) ## [Council tables revising ordinances on homelessness until Dec. 17th](https://www.santanero.org/council-tables-revising-ordinances-on-homelessness-until-dec-17th/) [![a group of tents sitting on top of a sidewalk](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1634522691437-e92c60a5505b?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMTc3M3wwfDF8c2VhcmNofDV8fGhvbWVsZXNzbmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MzIxNTE3Nzd8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=2000)](https://www.santanero.org/council-tables-revising-ordinances-on-homelessness-until-dec-17th/) **Photo by* [**Levi Meir Clancy*](https://unsplash.com/@levimeirclancy?ref=santanero.org) */* [**Unsplash*](https://unsplash.com/?utm%5Fsource=ghost&utm%5Fmedium=referral&utm%5Fcampaign=api-credit) The Council voted 6-1 on Tuesday to table taking action on Item 32, a proposal that, if approved, would amend ordinances to update regulations concerning unhoused individuals on public property. Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez was the sole dissenting vote. The [one hour and 33 minute discussion](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=aF%5FpthnHSyAv09XT&t=13215&ref=santanero.org) strayed further away from compromise and into turbulent waters, leading to several members on the dais vehemently disagreeing on the amendments. *To read the full article, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/council-tables-revising-ordinances-on-homelessness-until-dec-17th/)*.* --- [LOCAL EYE](https://www.santanero.org/tag/local-eye/) ## Hernandez to be retrained following investigation ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/11/IMG_0001.png) **Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez outside Council Chambers. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)* After hosting a special meeting one week before the election, the Council decided that Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez should be retrained on how to interact with staff and barred from being able to become mayor pro tempore (vice mayor) for one year. The Council will take action upon receiving the certified election results from the Orange County Registrar of Voters in December. --- [LOCAL EYE](https://www.santanero.org/tag/local-eye/) ## [Council upholds CPU for Maharajah House; divided neighbors speak, some with racial undertones](https://www.santanero.org/council-upholds-cpu-for-maharajah-house-divided-neighbors-speak-some-with-racial-undertones/) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/11/Screenshot-2024-11-20-at-4.28.19-PM.png) **The Maharajah House located at 2221 N. Heliotrope Drive. (Google Maps)* A home in the Floral Park neighborhood was the center of attention Tuesday after divided residents voiced their opinions—some with racial undertones—on whether or not to uphold the Planning Commission's decision in upholding a conditional use permit for the Maharajah House. The Council voted 6-1, Councilmember Phil Bacerra dissenting, to deny the appeal by Peter Christofferson and uphold the Planning Commission's decision on approving the CPU. *To read the full article, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/council-upholds-cpu-for-maharajah-house-divided-neighbors-speak-some-with-racial-undertones/)*.* --- [LOCAL EYE](https://www.santanero.org/tag/local-eye/) ## [Council spars during proposed apology to Edgar Vargas’ family](https://www.santanero.org/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family/) [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/11/vargas.png)](https://www.santanero.org/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family/) **Edgar Vargas (at left) with his family. (KTLA)* The Council threw jabs at eachother Tuesday while discussing to give direction to City staff to draft a resolution apologizing to the family of Edgar Vargas-Azarte. > In brief, Vargas was falsely accused of attacking Santa Ana police officers during an arrest in 2014 that led to felony charges, leading to his deportation while heading to contest his original case with SAPD. It later came to light that officers had lied and had [beaten up Vargas](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWGO3hYz8G8&ref=santanero.org) instead. He won a civil right case and settled with the City in 2016 for $175,000; FBI investigated, Booker pled guilty and was sentenced to probation and community service. He retired in 2018. He passed away June 18, 2022, one day short from the eighth anniversary of the beating. Olivia Azarte, mother of Vargas, became tearful and choked up while speaking during public comments, pleading for the City to give the family closure. In a 5-2 vote, the Council is expected to present a resolution that formally apologizes to the Vargas family at a later meeting. Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Councilmember Phil Bacerra voted in opposition. *To read the full article, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family/)*.* --- [LOCAL EYE](https://www.santanero.org/tag/local-eye/) ## Council to prohibit city officials’ family from being involved in city contracts In response to the corruption scandal involving former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do, the Council directed City staff to draft a resolution ordering that city officials and their immediate families are prohibited from being involved in city contracts. Mayor Valerie Amezcua added asking if the Council would agree to adding the families of other elected officials from the City to Congress. The Council did not disagree. It is expected to be presented in the coming weeks. --- ## In Next Week's Leaflet 📰 *Read this week's edition* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/issues/)*.* - ***Two parks, two bright futures*** - ***City tree lighting and holiday events*** - ***Editorial on Homelessness*** --- *Did you know as a free subscriber, you can comment on articles? Just head to our website, click on an article, and comment on the bottom.* ### Council tables revising ordinances on homelessness until Dec. 17th URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-tables-revising-ordinances-on-homelessness-until-dec-17th/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:41:16.000Z 📰 This story is part of our [Recap Series](https://www.santanero.org/tag/recap-series/). CITY HALL — The Council voted 6-1 on Tuesday to table taking action on Item 32, a proposal that, if approved, would amend ordinances to update regulations concerning unhoused individuals on public property. Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez was the sole dissenting vote. City Council discussing Item 32 on 11/19/24\. (City of Santa Ana) The one hour and 33 minute discussion strayed further away from compromise and into turbulent waters, leading to several members on the dais vehemently disagreeing on the amendements. Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Councilmembers Phil Bacerra and David Penaloza agreed amongst eachother than the item be passed as written, while Councilmembers That Viet Phan, Vazquez, Jessie Lopez, and Johnathan Ryan Hernandez voiced opposition to language in the proposed revisions. Hernandez pointed out that the City of Santa Ana maintains a the [Navigation shelter](https://www.santa-ana.org/santa-ana-navigation-center/?ref=santanero.org) with 200 beds and the City's [point-in-time dashboard](https://infogram.com/city-of-santa-ana-homeless-services-dashboard-1hxj48mmo7dv52v?ref=santanero.org). During the meeting, he explained that five beds were left available and lead to him to ask one of the main questions not just on the City’s plan to tackle homelessness, but on the minds of most residents: *Where will the unhoused go once all the beds are full?* According to City Manager Alvaro Nuñez, once that one becomes full, they’re referred to the county’s shelter—also located in Santa Ana—that beds 425, called the [Yale Navigation Center](https://www.santa-ana.org/documents/yale-navigation-center-flyer/?ref=santanero.org), it is not a walk-up and the ways in or out are to be referred in and is 18+. The [eight revisions](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/viewer?id=23541&type=2&ref=santanero.org) to four City Charter chapters in-line with police enforcing the codes regarding homelessness would alter the way police interact with unhoused individuals, depending if the officer can decipher who’s actually homeless or not and if the officer offers services and resources to them. #### Revisions (in brief) ****Sec. 10-402:** Unlawful camping ****Sec. 10-403:** Storage of personal property in public places ****Sec. 10-550:** Limitation of animals in the Civic Center ****Sec. 10-551:** No vehicles in pedestrian areas in the Civic Center ****Sec. 10-552:** Permit required to provide organized services in the Civic Center ****Sec. 10-95:** Loitering on Public Benches, etc ****Sec. 10-98:** Obstructing Public or Private Access ****Sec. 10-100:** Prohibition of obstructive matter in the public right-of-way Click [here](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/viewer?id=23541&type=2&ref=santanero.org) to read the full amendments. The City and Olive Crest broke ground in September for the upcoming transitional-aged foster youth apartment complex, opening up in the coming months. Of the many complexities with homelessness, another factor is the large amount of unhoused individuals rejected by shelters due to restrictions set by the entity or its organization running the shelter. Restrictions may involve pets, personal belongings, and drug-use. Because Santa Ana is the county seat, the County of Orange likely selected Santa Ana to host its shelter. Another possibility for the quick and visual surge in homeless population in Santa Ana is surrounding cities ‘bussing’ detained unhoused individuals to Santa Ana jail, releasing them in the early morning hours. Other cities have also jumped on the issue early on, banning encampments months to weeks ago. The city shelter, county shelter, and jail system being all in Santa Ana leads to a trifecta of visibly rampant and active homelessness, meaning the demand for beds may increase with time and be higher than what is available. The Council is expected to touch back on this item on Dec. 17th. ### Council upholds CPU for Maharajah House; divided neighbors speak, some with racial undertones URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-upholds-cpu-for-maharajah-house-divided-neighbors-speak-some-with-racial-undertones/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:41:08.000Z 📰 This story is part of our [Recap Series](https://www.santanero.org/tag/recap-series/). CITY HALL — A home in the Floral Park neighborhood was the center of attention Tuesday after divided residents voiced their opinions, some with racial undertones, on whether or not to uphold the Planning Commission's decision in approving a conditional use permit for the Maharajah House. The Maharajah House is a landmark and holds its special status because it was the 18th home of Sir Yeshwant Holkar, Maharajah of Indore, once the world's richest man. He fled India and moved to Santa Ana with his 4-year-old daughter, Usha, to avoid a Lindbergh baby situation, according to historians and [city records](https://publicdocs.santa-ana.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?dbid=1&id=29555&page=2&cr=1&ref=santanero.org). The applicants, Dr. Chan Quang and Dr. Quynh Kieu, plans to build a pavilion in the side-backyard of the property facing Heliotrope Drive, of which is [surrounded by trees](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2221+n+heliotrope/@33.7665275,-117.8750282,3a,75y,80.36h,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1slTxUmKrIf1hdY4YsK1hcUw!2e0!4m2!3m1!1s0x80dcd9b5aee3fdb7:0x4b2d576fb6cda976?sa=X&ved=1t:3780&ictx=111&ref=santanero.org). The home is [currently owned](https://publicdocs.santa-ana.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?dbid=1&id=29555&page=2&cr=1&ref=santanero.org) by Quang and Kieu according to records and has ties and artifacts from the era of Emperor Bảo Đại, the last emperor of Vietnam. Many museums and schools have exhibited or visited the home, to which some neighbors feel it is getting out of hand with a proposed pavilion. The Planning Commission held [two public meetings](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=53974&ref=santanero.org) on this specific conditional use permit in the spring and voted to continue the item indefinitely. During this time, planning staff evaluated options in hopes to address community concerns. In August, the commission [voted](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=53974&ref=santanero.org) to authorize the CPU to which an appeal was filed days later by neighbor and Floral Park Neighborhood Association Treasurer Peter Christofferson. According to [Kieu](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=8XjX%5FOcHSLbwVjYO&t=21320&ref=santanero.org), the home has hosted events and is a significant tour spot within the historic neighborhood. She added that 32 others had signed her petition along with her adjacent neighbors, including former Mayor Miguel Pulido. Christofferson, the appellate, [says](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=xUjj59gszTStMmvQ&t=21887&ref=santanero.org) Kieu hasn't been truthful in her endeavors regarding her property and wants to preserve the historic nature of the neighborhood in the event the home becomes a 'cultural center' and disrupts the consistency. Most commenters were concerned about excess traffic, added noise, and pattern of field trips to the home. But a small few expressed themselves passionately. Louise Hoffman's comment on Item 34\. (City of Santa Ana) "We absolutely do not need a cultural center on our street, in our neighborhood... Just about everybody takes quite of ownership in their house, yeah it's bothered me, I've seen it for years and years. It was an art deco house and then.. Asian things started being built. And they don't go together." [said Louise Hoffman](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=ViKy8PYnE1B%5F9YyO&t=23737&ref=santanero.org), resident on Heliotrope. Two others [mentioned](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=MQwzE2kjfHb%5FuvZ8&t=23193&ref=santanero.org) specifically property values and how the project would cause financial ruin for the properties in the neighborhood. Tracy Nguyen's comment on Item 34\. (City of Santa Ana) Tracy Nguyen is volunteer for the homeowner's Project Vietnam Foundation and [spoke](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=k%5FvnXBmsqFDHGF6K&t=23964&ref=santanero.org) in favor of the CPU, as well as putting racial undertoned remarks to rest. "I also want to acknowledge that we live in a county that houses the largest Vietnamese enclave outside of Vietnam," "I'm hearing things 'Oh, Asian-ness started coming in.' Am I not accepted? Are we not accepted? Our country, Orange County, Santa Ana is a melting pot." [said Nguyen](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=k%5FvnXBmsqFDHGF6K&t=23964&ref=santanero.org). Councilmember Phan [called out](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=-wBi2kc69AWL7KYY&t=24912&ref=santanero.org) the Floral Park Neighborhood Association for conducting several unpermitted fundraising events that have led to increased traffic for years and is suggesting that the home in question will cause further disruption. According to Christofferson, he was acting as a neighbor, not as his role in the association. "It's a little disappointing at some of the racial undertone that were made with the various speakers," [said Councilmember Penaloza](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=oMewzzJSMrpGZ0ei&t=25102&ref=santanero.org). "I will say that if today was 1938, and the Maharajah of Indore was here was trying to get approvals to build his home, I can probably guarantee you that some of you would be here speaking against it." Councilmember Phil Bacerra [acknowledged](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=hfyY-lc8GwquZcyw&t=25144&ref=santanero.org) the home's history and significance, but attempted to motion that a condition be added for the pavilion to be "[shielded](https://www.youtube.com/live/XWx87-dPbXU?si=0nMRO3zfH9vHj153&t=25364&ref=santanero.org)" on the Heliotrope side of the street. Despite the neighbor's positions, the appeal was denied and the commissions' decision in approving the conditional use permit with the assurance that the property will be following all codes and provisions, was upheld in a 6-1 vote, Councilmember Bacerra dissenting. ### Council spars during proposed apology to Edgar Vargas’ family URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:40:59.000Z 📰 This story is part of our [Recap Series](https://www.santanero.org/tag/recap-series/). CITY HALL — The Council threw jabs at eachother Tuesday while discussing to give direction to City staff to draft a resolution apologizing to the family of Edgar Vargas-Azarte. > In brief, Vargas was falsely accused of attacking Santa Ana police officers during an arrest in 2014 that led to felony charges, leading to his deportation while heading to contest his original case with SAPD. It later came to light that officers had lied and had [beaten up Vargas](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWGO3hYz8G8&ref=santanero.org) instead. He won a civil right case and settled with the City in 2016 for $175,000; FBI investigated, Booker pled guilty and was sentenced to probation and community service. He retired in 2018. Olivia Azarte, mother of Vargas, became tearful and choked up while speaking during public comments, pleading for the City to give the family closure. Olivia Azarte speaking during 11/19/24's city council meeting. (City of Santa Ana) #### Olivia Azarte's comment translated (roughly) "My name is Olivia Azarte. I am a resident of Santa Ana, ward three for more than 22 years. Tonight is a very important night for me and for my family. My comment is about the point in Item 36 in memory of my son Edgar Vargas who passed away two years ago. Sorry... In memory of his struggle with the mental health condition he was suffering from the age of the 14 when he was diagnosed with mental illness with which we had to learn to live with. This was not easy for him, let alone for his family. Because, I share with you that those with diagnosed mental conditions, all family members live through it. Sorry... In the same way, I share to you that we are a working family, and responsible, that over the years, has contributed to the Santa Ana community. I have volunteered in different organizations, and I am always willing to extend my hand to those in need. Edgar was not a troubled young man, he was a young man full of dreams and illusions, but the condition was progressing, and with it, his place in the community, in which the system which still does not know how to integrate a person with this type of diagnosis. Edgar was never aggressive with anyone, and those who knew him know that he was respectful and grateful. Mental illness was consuming and complicated with the lack of resources for being undocumented. Also, the excuse was that he was already an adult... Thank you." Benjamin Vazquez brought the item forward and ask his counterparts to join him in issuing a formal apology to the family. Some members on the dais took it as a threat to the image of the police department. Council discussing Item 36 on 11/19/24\. (City of Santa Ana) > "Edgar Vargas deserves to be alive, to be with his family. I want to send my condolences to his mother and to his loved ones and their demands for justice. Justice for the Vargas family. May this decision we're making today move our city closer to our residents and move us in the direction of preserving human live," **said Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez.** Amezcua asked City Attorney to confirm if the matter was closed by saying if litigation had obviously concluded. She also mentioned a recent sexual assault matter that occurred at Santa Ana High School involving a teacher and a student to dilute the police beating. > "I can't support this, I think this should go to the Police Oversight Commission, that's, you know, what they're for. I also don't want to come back and every single meeting because *certain* Councilmembers want to attack our police department every single meeting and have- we're gonna start with one apology and we're gonna work our way through however many *they* want to bring up... My concludes to the family, there are bad officers, there's bad doctors, bad lawyers, bad teachers... I would just say that I don't want to open us up to more. And if we do this, that's exactly—in my humble opinion—what will happen," **said** **Mayor Valerie Amezcua.** Mayor Pro Tem Thai Viet Phan explained that apologizing this time around isn't "opening up a can of worms" as suggested by Amezcua. > "What this is to me is holding ourselves accountable for the wrongdoing that took place, whether or not we as individuals are responsible. The City Council, the City of Santa Ana issued an apology for the burning of Chinatown, a crime in my opinion that took place over 100 years ago, and to me yes, officer Booker was indicted, he did something wrong, he took criminal action, we are not saying that all officers are like that, but what I think we are saying as the City of Santa Ana when we apologize to this family is to say that we, this current police department, this City, this City Council, holds ourself to a high standee of morality of values and justice. That we as a City of Santa Ana are not affiliated with someone like Mr. Booker, we do not condone that violence and we believe that all loss of life is tragic and should be avoided at all costs. So to me, what we're doing is to mend those community relationships and to say that we can do better and we are doing better. I believe that since this Council has been here, we've worked on implementing police oversight, we've worked on policies, I think the acting chief has done a great job of bringing our communities together, increasing transparency, and making sure we have the training that we will continue to implement and improve on. I don't think that holding ourselves accountable for something that this City that someone did, under color of law, that someone did while in uniform, wearing our seal, our patch, is attacking any person. Because what we're saying is that the City of Santa Ana is willing to uplift and honor anyone who is willing to serve the public but also willing to hold eachother accountable when we do something wrong." **said Mayor Pro Tem Phan.** Councilmember Penaloza, also POA-backed and funded campaign-wise, said he is supportive of the item as long as the final resolution blames the officials from *that* time. > "I don't know what the language in the resolution will be so I won't say right now if I support the resolution, but I am comfortable with having something come back and give the mother... some peace of mind and comforting. My condolences to her for the loss of her son. I know that none of us were here when this occurred. The entire police department has had a new, I mean, none of the deputy chiefs are here, none of the chiefs is different, all of their executive managnemt is different, the entire city council is different. Yeah, we've all changed up here, and there's been policies that have changed for the better, to make our police department better, so I don't see no harm in seeing a resolution come back, whether I support when it when does come back I don't know I have to see that language and what that says, but I will hope that it puts emphasis on the chief of police at that time, the staff, and the city Council of the time because it happened under their watch and those are my comments, but I am supportive of seeing something come back," **said Penaloza.** Councilmember Phil Bacerra pivoted to the number of vacant police department positions and that Vargas could've asked for an apology when settling in 2016\. He was the only Councilmember that did not publicly offer condolences to the family and rather reminded them by saying the apology wouldn't bring him back. > "If Officer Booker had not been indicted by federal prosecutors, and if he had not played guilty, and if the city had not settled Mr. Vargas' lawsuit in 2016, then I could see how this matter would be seen as unresolved, but Officer Booker *was* indicted by federal prosecutors. He pled guilty and he- and the city settled Mr. Vargas‘s lawsuit in 2016\. The time for the city to issued any sort of apology would have been at the time of settling that lawsuit. To have this discussion today unfortunately will not bring back Mr. Vargas. We would’ve been better served if we were here discussing a proposal that would help fill the vacancies in our police department, but instead we’re discussing an item that only serves to remind people that there are Councilmembers up here that just don’t like police officers, so I won’t be \[supporting\] the item." Vazquez replied to members defending the police department saying his intent was not to paint the department as disparaging, but to move forward positively. > "Bringing this forward it was not my intent to disparage any current police officers or the department *(Deep sigh from someone with a hot mic)*. It’s a point of reference of how we begin to grow and be a better city and department. It’s from moving forward and knowing that your past mistakes, we have been reflected, and we have worked on and policy has changed and been enacted to become a better city and now until you reflect on what has been in the past, apologize for the things that we have done can a city in the community that you work with, can we move forward. So, it wasn’t a disparaging of current police officers is a place of where, historically, things have happened as recent as 2014 and it is not so far ago, so we still have a lot of cleaning up to do. We’ve talked about the culture of this police department and we think we have the leadership to move forward and I’m hoping we do and this is part of that work that we need to take to move ahead," **said Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez.** Councilmember Jessie Lopez addressed the divisiveness between members on the dais. > "You know, we really have to move away from this framing that just because somebody up here supports something that you personally don’t care about that means we’re 'anti-this' or trying to 'attack PD'. That is *not* what is happening. If *you* can see a mother up here crying, struggling to get to her public comment, talking about the death of her child that happened due to injuries and you can’t take a step back and say 'You know what? Maybe we should apologize,' then we have much bigger problems here. You certainly don’t have to care about the family. You don’t have to care about what happened, but do not frame this as this council trying to attack our own PD for something that is a *fact*." **said Councilmember Lopez.** Mayor Amezcua vehemently defended her position, adding the apology would not bring back Vargas. She also bet 'dollars to donuts' that Councilmember Vazquez would bring something back before the Council to diss police. > "Are you done?" — Amezcua > "Yes." — Lopez > "Great." — Amezcua > "I would just say that *every* single meeting there’s something about Santa Ana PD here and I will stick to that and you can say I’m saying sky's blue, gray, doesn’t matter. There’s always something in here about what PD’s doing wrong and those men and women put their lives on the line every single day for every single one of us. What happened in 2014 with Mr. Vargas is terrible and I think Councilman Bacerra read it out about Officer Booker was charged, and we- the city paid, the City Attorney explained how much money the City paid. Will it bring Mr. Vargas back? No. I send my deepest condolences but we have to move forward on things. We can’t keep going back. Councilman Vazquez will be back with another issue for Santa Ana PD for us to address with Santa Ana PD. I can bet dollars to donuts he's gonna do it, because that’s what he does. I would love to see a formal resolution that you bring forward Mr.- Councilmember Vazquez with Santa Ana Unified all the children that are molested in that school. The reason recent one with the choir teacher and the allegation that she’s sleeping with students, why are you not so passionate about our children? This is- this is happening today, not in the past so that is one of the reasons why I don’t support this. We can’t keep going back. We have to move forward. We have a new city manager, hopefully new police chief, permanent one soon, new officers, some of those are retired. I mean let’s go forward, but you guys can vote any way you like, give the directions to the manager, I made my position very clear, I will not support it," **said Mayor Amezcua.** Hernandez had the last word by adding "To be pro-justice is not to be anti-police." In a 5-2 vote, the Council is expected to present a resolution that formally apologizes to the Vargas family at a later meeting. Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Councilmember Phil Bacerra voted in opposition. #### What happened to Edgar Vargas? On June 19 2014, there was a call about a burglary occurring in the central part of the city. Vargas assumably matched the description and now-retired Santa Ana Police Officer Brian Booker, along with a few more officers, gave him orders and was subsequently arrested. However, Booker and party were seen in surveillance footage punching, batting, and tasering Vargas despite complying with orders. Since footage of the incident wasn't made aware to officers and Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer, the officers lied and framed Vargas, accusing him of attacking the them first. It led to several felony charges by the District Attorney and while the case was being heard at the courthouse, Vargas was arrested by ICE agents and later deported. When footage of the beating went public, Vargas filed a civil rights lawsuit against the City, to which he won. As for the cop, Booker was sentenced to community service and misdemeanor probation in a federal court after pleading guilty. Vargas settled with the City in 2016 for an amount of $175,000 according to City Attorney Sonia Carvalho. He died on June 18, 2022, one day short of the eighth anniversary of beating. ### Lopez puts forth item that will ban city officials involving their family in contracts URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/14/lopez-puts-forth-item-that-will-ban-city-officials-involving-their-family-in-contracts/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:40:46.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — Councilmember Jessie Lopez has agendized an [item](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=54065&ref=santanero.org) that will prohibit city officials from allowing their immediate family members to be involved or partake in a contract with the city. This comes as disgraced Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do [plead guilty](https://orangecountyda.org/press/orange-county-supervisor-agrees-to-plead-guilty-to-bribery-conspiracy-involving-10-million-in-covid-relief-funds/?ref=santanero.org) to misusing COVID funds for personal gain involving his daughter as well, buying up houses instead of using funds to help seniors get their meals during the pandemic. This [item](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=54065&ref=santanero.org) will be discussed on Tuesday, Nov. 19\. To speak on the item, follow the City's [guidelines](https://www.santa-ana.org/agendas-and-minutes/?ref=santanero.org). ### Introducing the Leaflet URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/newsroom/2024/10/31/introducing-the-leaflet/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:40:36.000Z The Santanero is embarking on a new journey its phased approach of becoming a consistent newspaper. Instead of publishing four pages every week, we are striving to achieve one to two page summaries called a Leaflet, on the happenings in our city, Santa Ana. While we understand the community’s interest in wanting to report or work in journalism themselves, we simply do not have funds to pay wages as the entire paper is funded by wages co-founder Daniel Diaz entirely and has been since day one back in 2022. And he doesn't have a problem with that :) We are [accepting op-eds](https://www.santanero.org/submit/) and if cleared by The Santanero staff, your piece will end up on our website for readers to read and yes, theres a comment section (must register your email but don’t worry, we only have *free* subscriptions). We look forward to expanding the Leaflet into a four-pages with opportunites for the communty to submit events and put local small businesses into the spotlight. Click [here](https://www.santanero.org/issues/) to read our free digital issues. No clickbait! ### Special City Council Meeting Recap: Oct. 28, 2024 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/10/30/special-city-council-meeting-recap-oct-28-2024/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:40:26.000Z > *If you'd like the BottomLine, scroll to the end.* CITY HALL — The Santa Ana City Council convened Tuesday to decide the fate of Councilmember Hernandez after an ad-hoc committee and independent investigative report concluded there was evidence of him violating the City Charter and Code of Ethics. The meeting began with City Attorney Sonia Carvalho announcing she nor other city staff would direct the Council on how to move forward, but did lay out several possible outcomes: address workplace issues, admonish Hernandez, censure him, remove him from city-held committees, and other enforcement or options. During the Oct. 15 council meeting, Carvalho publicly announced to the Council that unreadacted reports regarding the investigations of Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Hernandez were available for the Councils' viewing by appointment. Councilmember Thai Viet Phan motioned to continue the item so that she could time to review it further, citing the City Clerk's release of the reports publicly two minutes into the special meeting. This prompted an irked response from Councilmember Bacerra. "It is very disappointing when I hear that people on this dais, only seven of us, that not even a majority could go down there and review the report." The Council ultimately voted 5-1 (Councilmember Bacerra in opposition, noted absence from Councilmember Lopez) to continue the item to the next meeting, which will be held after the election on Nov. 19. --- ### Public Comments 🔊 Public comment portion of Oct. 28, 2024's special city council meeting. (City of Santa Ana) Dwayne Shipp, President of the Orange County Heritage Council, spoke at the special meeting and recounted the meetings at the center of the investigation. He added that without Hernandez stepping up, the Juneteenth Festivals would have not happened. "\[Hernandez\] was the bridge that allowed us to have communication with the city the staff when there was problems," said Shipp. "The only thing I can see Councilman Hernandez being guilty of is helping Black people. Straight up." > *The report does not explicitly name the Orange County Heritage Council as the community-based organization.* --- ### The Report 📒 A few minutes into the special meeting, the City released its embargo on the conclusionary reports regarding investigations against Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Hernandez. The Santanero received the files via public records request on Tuesday at 5:34 PM. > To read the report regarding Hernandez, click [here](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/Investigation%5FHernandez.pdf). The independent investigator, Hanson Bridgett LLC., utilized "documentary evidence, including hundreds of email correspondence" and interviewed "seven individuals." They included the person who filed the complaint, Councilmember Hernandez and five "percipient witnesses" who identities have been redacted. The investigation appears to have concluded after Amezcua's investigation. > The Santanero has filed a public records request to view the "documentary evidence" used in the investigations. #### Conclusions of the Report - Quickview ****Allegation 1:** Whether City Council Member Johnathan Ryan Hernandez directed and/or interfered with City Staff in relation to any of the City's Juneteenth Festival, Chicano Heritage Festival and/or Indigenous Peoples' Day Events. **Sustained.* ****Allegation 2:** Whether City Council Member Johnathan Ryan Hernandez solicited donations for the City's Juneteenth Festival, Chicano Heritage Festival and/or Indigenous Peoples' Day that were not received by the City of Santa Ana. **Not sustained.* ****Allegation 3:** Whether City Council Member Johnathan Ryan Hernandez engaged in conduct toward City staff relating to the City's Juneteenth Festival, Chicano Heritage or Indigenous Peoples' Day Events that could be deemed to violate the City's Charter. **Sustained.* ****Allegation 4:** Whether City Council Member Johnathan Ryan Hernandez engaged in conduct toward City staff relating to the City's Juneteenth Festival, Chicano Heritage Festival or Indigenous Peoples' Day Events that could be deemed to violate the City's Code of Ethics and Conduct. **Sustained.* #### Allegation #1 To recap, ****Allegation #1** centers on Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez's accused interference in the planning and execution of city-sponsored events, specifically the Juneteenth Festival, Chicano Heritage Festival, and Indigenous Peoples' Day events, also deemed "the Special Events" by the investigator. The investigation found a "preponderance" of evidence and a history of repeated oversteps that Hernandez engaged in by: - ****Attended meetings uninvited**: Hernandez attended planning sessions intended only for city staff and community partners, where his attendance was not scheduled or expected, according to the report. - ****Directed event decisions**: According to the report, he allegedly instructed staff on specific event management details, including who should handle particular responsibilities such as event flyers, adding "it was a decision \[Hernandez\] made as policy-maker." Additionally, the report dictated Hernandez would "interject in emails sent by the CBO to the City," leading to a compromised relationship between the CBO and the City after plans stalled for the Juneteenth Festival in 2023. - ****Contacted vendors directly**: Hernandez was supposed to provide a list of potential entertainers but allegedly went beyond this, directly contacting entertainers, obtaining performance quotes, and instructing the city to work with his preferred vendors. For instance, during a planning incident involving the 2024 Chicano Heritage Festival, Hernandez allegedly helped book a band directly, setting rates and performance details independently of city staff. Despite repeated cautions from city staff, Hernandez persisted in these actions according to the report. This created confusion, as vendors and other external parties began thinking Hernandez was the primary decision-maker. The investigation concluded that these actions represented interference in violation of city procedures and sustained the ****Allegation #1** that Hernandez allegedly sought to direct and influence the planning and execution of the city’s special events. The Santanero has requested to review to evidences used in the investigation. #### Allegation #2 To recap, ****Allegation #2** did not find that Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez allegedly solicited donations for "the Special Events" by the investigator. "The Complainant (person who filed the complaint) explained that \[redacted\] belief of Hernandez' solicitation was based on speculation rather than fact and there was no documentary evidence, either direct or circumstantial, that made it more likely than not that these allegations were true," said the report. #### Allegation #3 ****Allegation #3** focused on Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez's actions towards city staff and whether or not they violated [Article IV, Section 408 of the City Charter](https://library.municode.com/ca/santa%5Fana/codes/code%5Fof%5Fordinances?nodeId=PTITHCH%5FARTIVCICO%5FDIV1GE%5FS408INADMA&ref=santanero.org). According to the investigator, Hernandez allegedly: - Attended a 2023 Juneteenth Festival planning meeting between a community-based organization (CBO) and the City's Parks and Recreation staff "fifteen minutes" into said meeting During the meeting aforementioned, the CBO's \[redacted\] said that a draft flyer was already made and before City staff could review it, Hernandez allegedly: - "Interjected" and told the City staff members that "the CBO's flyer would be the one used for the event because, in his role as policy maker, the direction he gave as the main proponent of the Juneteenth Festival was that it should be designed, organized and operated by the Black community. Hernandez then asked the City staff members whether they had any Black staff members on their marketing team." This allegedly means that Hernandez gave orders to city staff who don't work for him, which violates section 408. - A "contemporaneous" email sent by the Complainant (person who filed the complaint) to their supervisor evidences that Hernandez "understood he was in a position of influence and power that made it difficult for staff members to disagree with his direction and he exerted this power in front of the City's partner for the event." The report added Hernandez allegedly refused to "acknowledge his actions by relying on the CBO's alleged concerns with the event and his need to support his constituents." The investigation concluded that Hernandez' actions represented a violation Article IV, Section 408 and sustained ****Allegation #3**. The Santanero has requested to review to evidences used in the investigation. #### Allegation #4 Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez's actions towards city staff and if they violated City's Code of Ethics, aka ****Allegation #4**, was found substantiated by the Investigator. Hernandez allegedly: - Contacted "City staff on multiple occasions directing they include a specific entertainer for \[the Special Events\]. Even more, Hernandez would include the specific entertainer in the e-mail which compromised or gave the appearance of compromising objectivity, independence, and honesty." - "Failed to promote meaningful public involvement in the City's decision-making processes as he directed, and continuously demanded, that the City enter into agreements with the artists of his liking." **\- Report* - Claimed that "the given entertainer was who the community wanted appeared to be spin, and was not supported by credible evidence." - "Gave special treatment and consideration to a certain CBO beyond that available to others," as evidenced by "his comments during the [April 16, 2024 City Council meeting](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=6ZeH36oc4AQhyRLi&t=22901&ref=santanero.org)." *\- Report* - "Requested Council direct staff to bring a report on the City's Juneteenth Festival where the City commits to hosting the event with this specific CBO taking the lead as the City's partner for the event." - Report To recap, the Investigator found that Hernandez tried to secure a partnership with a specific community-based organization for future events without following the city’s transparent contracting process, only clarifying during a meeting that his request for a staff report pertained to the 2025-2026 fiscal year, not after the 2024 Juneteenth event. His statements, including that “Black history should be led by the Black community,” were viewed as showing special treatment for the CBO, limiting inclusive public participation and violating the City’s Code of Ethics according to the Investigator. According to the report, and to summarize the second-to-last paragraph of Allegation 4, Hernandez didn’t follow the set boundaries between his role as a Councilmember and the duties of city staff. Hernandez allegedly held meetings with entertainers and community groups on his own and didn’t update city staff until decisions were already made. When questioned about this by the Investigator, Hernandez allegedly didn’t accept responsibility; instead, he claimed the city’s issues with him were due to racism and an attempt to prevent him from supporting his constituents, something Hernandez alluded to during his comments Tuesday. The report concluded by saying "when \[Hernandez was\] confronted with his improper behavior in his interview, Hernandez would not acknowledge the issue but rather explain the City's issue was a result of racism, an attempt to criminalize him and impeded his role of doing whatever was needed to ensure his constituents felt "supported and validated". Hernandez was not merely serving the interests of his constituents but rather attempting to take responsibility, and credit, for the City's special events without the involvement of City staff." --- The investigation does not mention specifically that a specific community-based organization filed a complaint with the City citing "systemic racism." > *The Santanero has not sourced the letter Hernandez refers to in his comments on Tuesday.* --- ### BottomLine: So.. What happens now? The City Council has continued the item until Nov. 19 where they will iron out details on moving forward to hold Councilmember Hernandez accountable regarding his sustained actions in violating the City Charter and Code of Ethics. An article is forthcoming regarding the allegations against Mayor Valerie Amezcua. ### Council to seek guidance in moving forward with alleged charter violations against Hernandez URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/10/25/council-to-seek-guidance-in-moving-forward-with-alleged-charter-violations-against-hernandez/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:38:39.000Z ⚠️ The Santanero has not received or obtained a final report of the investigations and will not revise this or future articles to relieve parties involved in the investigations until the final report has been obtained and reviewed by The Santanero. SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana City Council will hold a [special meeting](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=22774&ref=santanero.org) Monday, Oct. 28 at city hall to discuss pathways to hold Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez accountable regarding alleged violations of the city charter. The meeting comes after City Attorney Sonia Carvalho [announced](https://www.santanero.org/city-council-recap-oct-15-2024/) the apparent conclusions of the investigations into Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Hernandez to which Councilmember David Penaloza [asked for guidance](https://www.youtube.com/live/gRL1Vim4aRA?si=3Cp70YytwCaUFy3y&ref=santanero.org) on moving forward. The report has yet to be released to the public. > *To see what Amezcua and Hernandez are accused of, click* [*here*](https://www.santanero.org/city-council-recap-oct-15-2024/)*.* Possible outcomes could result in Hernandez being censured by the Council, which, by definition, means formal statement of disapproval that expresses [condemnation](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/censure?ref=santanero.org) of an individual's actions. Consequences of a censure could lead to Hernandez's removal on committees, but it will not restrict his elected governing authority. Hernandez is seeking reelection in midst of the investigation while [Mario Alvarado](https://www.santanero.org/candidate-questionnaire/) is campaigning against him. Given the proximity of the election, it is unlikely the Council will motion to remove Hernandez and may allow him to complete his term expiring Dec. 2024. > *To read the agenda, click* [*here*](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=22774&ref=santanero.org)*.* ### City Council Recap: Oct. 15, 2024 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/10/16/city-council-recap-oct-15-2024/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:38:22.000Z ## TBC: Carvalho says Amezcua beat allegations, Hernandez found in violation of three city codes ⚠️ This is part of our Recap series. A full article on the investigations will be published later this week after receiving comments on parties involved. Follow our [social media](https://www.instagram.com/thesantanero/?ref=santanero.org) for updates. The following information is according to City Attorney Sonia Carvalho's remarks as the final report has not been provided to the press as yet (To Be Confirmed = TBC). CITY HALL — To recap, City Attorney Sonia Carvalho provided the public an update on the investigations against Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez. > *To watch Carvalho’s remarks click here for* [*speech A* ](https://www.youtube.com/live/gRL1Vim4aRA?t=12885&si=GDdPA2ccwRI1wkAU&ref=santanero.org)*and* [*here for B*](https://www.youtube.com/live/gRL1Vim4aRA?t=19748&si=fzOGBwIi6kQfzSTk&ref=santanero.org)*.* For context, Amezcua was being investigated for allegedly creating a [hostile work environment](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/2023-09-22-ltr-to-city-attorney-re-ridge-9-22-23-redacted.pdf), including the allegation of using racial undertones against former City Manager Kristine Ridge in 2023. Four of the five (fifth being an alleged Brown Act violation) total allegations were investigated by a firm outside the City’s jurisdiction. #### Investigative findings against Amezcua RE: Ridge **Allegation(s) below have yet to be confirmed sustained/not sustained pending review the report.* ****Allegation 1:** Violation of Section 404 of the City Charter - **Not sustained.* ****Allegation 2:** Violation of Section 408 of the City Charter - **Not sustained.* ****Allegation 3:** Violation of the City’s Code of Ethics and Conduct - **Not sustained.* ****Allegation 4:** Retaliation, Harassment, or Discrimination Against a City Employee - **Not sustained.* “The investigator found that the preponderance of evidence did not support the allegations, and therefore they were not sustained.” said Carvalho. On top of these four allegations, Amezcua faced a [Brown Act violation](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/FILE%5F5300.pdf) complaint filed by Hernandez alleging she met with Councilmembers Phil Bacerra and David Penaloza before the start of the closed session portion of the April 18, 2023 city council meeting. According to the [agenda](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=20196&ref=santanero.org), the closed session consisted of conferences with “labor negotiators” and a “performance evaluation” of then City Manager Kristine Ridge. According to [documentation](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/FILE%5F5300.pdf) released in summer 2023, information dictated that Amezcua found out about Ridge’s “evergreen” clause which, in most cases, allows a contract to be renewed automatically. This was presumably added given how many city managers were arriving and departing the City during the Pulido era. In addition, Hernandez mentioned Amezcua trying to persuade him to vote in favor of stripping Ridge’s evergreen clause and after declining, Amezcua texted Hernandez a link of an article describing an internal Santa Ana Police departmental [bulletin joke](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/10/nelson-menendez-bolo-resized.png?ref=santanero.org) regarding Brandon Lopez’s—his cousin—death by police, adding that she was “…very sorry you have to deal with this but \[Hernandez\] will see more promotions for these officers.” Because of all this, it appears Hernandez alleged that Mayor Amezcua was in violation of the Brown Act. Since Brown Act complaints deal with state laws, it was referred to the Orange County District Attorney’s office, which concluded they weren’t able to find sufficient evidence to substantiate the claim according to a letter sent and read aloud by Carvalho. The Santanero has not read or confirmed the letter. #### Investigative finding against Amezcua RE: Brown Act violation **Allegation(s) below have yet to be confirmed sustained/not sustained pending review the report.* ****Allegation:** Brown Act Violation (filed by Hernandez against Amezcua) - **Not sustained.* In Sept. 2023, former Chief of Police David Valentin announced his [retirement](https://www.instagram.com/santaana%5Fpd/p/CxtOOPcvsQy/?ref=santanero.org). Santaneros saw the exit of Ridge and payout of nearly [$600,000](https://www.santanero.org/content/files/2024/10/ridge-kristine-2.pdf) a few weeks later for emotional damages and severance after the Council voted 6-1 to accept her resignation terms. As for Councilmember Hernandez, he faced four allegations as well, all relating to his alleged interference during parks and recreation’s planning meetings for cultural events like the Chicano Heritage Festival. [Documents](https://www.scribd.com/document/730970510/Memo-to-Ridge-Re-Hernandez-Redacted?secret%5Fpassword=b1INrZluOkzrWskpF09o&ref=santanero.org#fullscreen&from%5Fembed) claim he was “overly involved” in the planning process of cultural events overseen by the parks and recreation department from 2022 to 2023\. The Chicano Heritage Festival, Indigenous People’s Day, and yearly Juneteenth Festival were events outlined in the complaint. Given that the allegations dealt with interference in administrative matters, an ad-hoc committee was established and opted to be investigated by an outside firm away from the City’s jurisdiction. For reference, [section 408](https://library.municode.com/ca/santa%5Fana/codes/code%5Fof%5Fordinances?nodeId=PTITHCH%5FARTIVCICO%5FDIV1GE%5FS408INADMA&ref=santanero.org) of the Charter states that councilmembers cannot “give orders to any subordinates of the City Manager, either publicly or privately.” A total of four separate allegations were investigated by a firm outside the City’s jurisdiction. #### Investigative findings against Hernandez RE: PRCSA **Allegation(s) below have yet to be confirmed sustained/not sustained pending review the report.* ****Allegation 1:** Solicitation of Unauthorized Donations for Events - **Not sustained.* ****Allegation 2:** Violation of Section 408 of the City Charter - **Sustained.* ****Allegation 3:** Violation of Section (Not provided) of the City Charter - **Sustained.* ****Allegation 4:** Violation of the City’s Code of Ethics and Conduct - **Sustained.* ### What is the aftermath of this? Some of the Council sought Carvalho’s guidance on next steps to which she said she’d elaborate at a later time. Some consequences could include to censure and/or remove Councilmember Hernandez from some committees, among other things. Given that the election is three weeks away, it is unlikely that the Council will vote to dismiss Hernandez. Question remains as to why the City Council voted 6-1 to settle with former City Manager Kristine Ridge prior the conclusion of the investigations, perhaps the report has the answer. ⚠️ **The Santanero has not received or obtained a final report of the investigations and will not revise this or future articles to relieve parties involved in the investigations until the final report has been obtained and reviewed by staff.* --- ## Seniors cite poor management at Metro East ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/10/234811284_723623068440011_4717636195388786826_n.jpg) Front view of the Metro East Senior Park on First Street. (Metro East Senior Park) CITY HALL — Seniors living at Metro East Senior Park on the west side of town off First Street came before the City Council Tuesday to vent their frustrations as their requests to management continue to fall on deaf ears and in some cases, allege backlash for “wasting \[management's\] time” for making multiple reports of incidents at the apartment community. Receipts were dropped off at the Council, with one renter having only been a resident for two and half months and received two rent increases. Aside from that, seniors have complained about "crackheads" doing illegal activities in the hallways within, dog feces in common areas, and people under the age of 62 be rented apartments. According to one resident living there since the place opened in 2021, the complex has been through five different management agencies, with access and communication allegedly limited from the start. First Point apartments, down the street from Metro East Senior Park, is another apartment community that see similar instances of homeless using illegal substances in or near the building. To watch Oct. 15, 2024’s public comments, click [here](https://www.youtube.com/live/gRL1Vim4aRA?si=1RhNwQ7dIaIAssQK&t=13102&ref=santanero.org) \[Video begins at 3:38:22\]. --- ## Councilmember Bacerra questions Carvalho on item-pulling procedures, then asks her not to 'interrupt' during his remarks ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/10/DSC05056.JPG) Councilmember Phil Bacerra. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero) Councilmember Phil Bacerra became vehemently frustrated Tuesday on how item-pulling procedural rules were executed despite the Council having no prior existing rules restricting what councilmembers could say after pulling items for comment only. After Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez finished his comment on item 21 of Tuesday’s agenda, Mayor Amezcua issued a backhanded compliment then asked a performative question. "I do appreciate Councilman Hernandez reading out what staff have prepared for us, but it's available to the public, correct?" City Manager Alvaro Nuñez confirmed to Amezcua that staff reports are available to the public—as all agendas are—one week in advance. Councilmember Bacerra chimed thereafter to ask City Attorney Sonia Carvalho why it is allowed for councilmembers to comment on items on the agenda without pulling them. "I can work with the Chair \[Amezcua\], I have mentioned this before," said Carvalho. I have mentioned the difference between pulling an item and pulling an item for comment." Carvalho agreed with Bacerra that rules have to implement a process outlining the actions taken by the Council regarding commenting on items. She deferred to the Council to initiate the process, adding her suggestion of allowing comments on items by someone on the dais *prior* to approving the rest of the consent calendar (with the exception of items pulled). "There's a difference between a comment and reading the whole staff report." said Amezcua. Councilmember Bacerra responded. Bacerra asks Carvalho to not "interrupt" him during his remarks. (City of Santa Ana, 10/15/24) “My concern is this, if we’re going to comment on an item, just pull the item... Look, if you want to make comments that you’re happy we approved X, Y, Z, do it in your closing comments when it doesn’t impact the actual item, but if we’re going to talk about the item while its live, let’s pull the item so that it’s clean." As Bacerra continued to reiterate his reasoning, Carvalho cut in to provide a solution for setting up a discussion at a later date, to which he scolded. “I’m sorry, please don’t interrupt me.” said Bacerra. “Don’t interrupt me.” “Okay, I’m sorry.” said Carvalho. Bacerra ended with asking Amezcua if she could work with staff to not allow members of the dais to only comment on items and instead just pull it in the event there are changes to be made before a vote is taken place. “I agree with you \[Bacerra\], I don’t want to sit here while someone’s reading the entire staff report because we have *very* talented people in our community and they are paying attention.” said Amezcua. Councilmember Hernandez defended his comments. Councilmember Hernandez defending his comments. (City of Santa Ana, 10/15/24) “There is no guideline as to how you’re supposed to comment,” said Hernandez. “I’m delivering for my constituents in Willard and across Ward 5, and I am doing due-diligence to inform our constituents of the City of Santa Ana verbally.” Hernandez added that he was simply acknowledging the action that was done and thanking city staff for the work put in. "My comment is rooted in thanking our city staff, elaborating as to what we approved, and I'm sharing my gratitude with each one of you because this is a collective decision we all made" said Hernandez. "This is not a debate, this is a simple comment saying 'Today, we got this done, I made a comment on this item, I thanked our City Manager,' I think it's quite procedural." Amezcua ended by saying she will work with City staff to establish new rules on item-pulling to avoid having persistent "issues." 📉 ****Behavior Chart Note:** Due to the tone of Bacerra’s comments towards Carvalho, with no immediate indication of a sincere apology, The Santanero had to establish a new color lower than purple on the Behavior Chart: black. For full notes on the Chart and late timings, check out the rest of this page. --- #### How Late Did The Meeting Begin? ****Meeting:** Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 The Santa Ana City Council was ****37 minutes late** to start the meeting. This is down three minutes from the last meeting held on Oct. 1, 2024, average to 37.5 minutes late per meeting. ****Time on agenda:** 5:30 PM ****Time ordered:** 6:07 PM ****Time adjourned:** 9:00 PM **Time is actual.* ### Behavior Chart - Oct. 15, 2024 ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/2d/b22d46f7-884a-4c5a-83bf-6b895a900041/content/images/2024/10/BehaviorChart101524.png) Councilmembers Lopez, Penaloza, Phan, Hernandez, and Vazquez engaged in good dialogue without resorting to childlike behavior. Mayor Amezcua received a 'stop and think' today meaning next time we can elaborate our points instead of backhanding compliments towards other members on the dais. Councilmember Bacerra's tone towards City Attorney Sonia Carvalho was completely uncalled for. So much so, we had to add a new color to the chart: black. ### Santa Ana candidates to meet in back-to-back forums URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/09/05/santa-ana-candidates-to-meet-in-back-to-back-forums/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:38:13.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana [Chamber of Commerce](https://santaanachamber.com/?ref=santanero.org) and the City [community-link sector](https://www.santa-ana.org/com-link/?ref=santanero.org) announced Tuesday that each will hold its own forum with candidates for mayor and city council. The first of two forums will be hosted by the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and is scheduled to be held on [Wednesday, Sept. 25th at Santa Ana College](https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=823606989965607&set=a.483892770603699). The event is free, but [registration is required](https://santaana.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/4173?fbclid=IwY2xjawFGx3lleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQNT1YGufrUxXUCAraxHOmamEuQQcucCfAoDFPSuWixtdKRFXtRUb8p%5FNw%5Faem%5FmJXk89YeDHHVoQicGbY8vQ&ref=santanero.org) beforehand. The second forum will be hosted by the City’s [community-link sector](https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=530587986299206&set=a.165126759511999) and will be held on Thursday, Sept. 26th at 5:30 PM at the Santa Ana Police Departments’ Community Room. The Santanero has confirmed attendance of the following candidates for both forums: Councilmember Thai Viet Phan *(incumbent for Ward 1; running for reelection)*, Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez *(incumbent for Ward 2; running for Mayor*), Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez *(incumbent for Ward 5; running for reelection),* and Jeffery Katz *(running for Ward 3)*. Both forums will be free to attend. [Registration is required](https://santaana.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/4173?fbclid=IwY2xjawFGx3lleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQNT1YGufrUxXUCAraxHOmamEuQQcucCfAoDFPSuWixtdKRFXtRUb8p%5FNw%5Faem%5FmJXk89YeDHHVoQicGbY8vQ&ref=santanero.org) for the forum hosted by the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce. --- *This article was updated to reflect the confirmation of Katz’s presence at both forums.* ### Encampment cleared, dozens arrested at UC Irvine URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/05/16/encampment-cleared-dozens-arrested-at-uc-irvine/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:38:05.000Z IRVINE, Calif. — Over a dozen law enforcement agencies, including Santa Ana Police, responded to a mutual aid request by UC Irvine administration shortly before 3:00 PM Wednesday after reports of a Palestinian solidarity group occupying the Physical Science Lecture Hall, a campus building. Sources close to the UCI encampment say 46 were arrested, but neither law enforcement or UC Irvine spokespeople have confirmed a number of arrests at press time. Once arrestees were booked at a UCI parking lot, they were put in a campus bus and taken to the Intake Release Center in downtown Santa Ana. The Santanero confirmed 12 agencies responded to mutual aid call, but Orange County District Attorney tagged nearly 22 agencies in his [post](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520144841/https://www.instagram.com/p/C7AoEEgrs7C/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==). #### Confirmed Departments Involved at UCI These confirmations are based upon video footage and live broadcasts on the air. - University of California - Irvine campus police - Irvine Police - Costa Mesa Police - Santa Ana Police - Huntington Beach Police - Newport Beach Police - Fullerton Police - Tustin Police - Garden Grove Police - Anaheim Police - Fountain Valley Police - Orange County Sheriff Department Santa Ana Police’s involvement at the dismantling of the encampment and protest at UCI is due to a mutual aid agreement between various law enforcement agencies in Orange County. Around 5:20 PM, Santa Ana Police officers were [seen](https://www.youtube.com/live/WVpFMsF52uQ?si=MUS0FyOnX5kMXvv4&t=1892&ref=santanero.org) at the science hall where police cut through the alleged student-made lock on the door handles. Santa Ana Police officers were also seen arresting two people in a chaotic scene as documented by [BreakThrough News](https://x.com/BTnewsroom/status/1790937063212351603/video/1?ref=santanero.org). “The right to peaceful assembly is a constitutional right and we encourage protestors to exercise their right to peaceful assembly; however, criminal activity which transcends peaceful assembly, including violence and vandalism of any kind, will not be tolerated,” [said](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520144841/https://www.instagram.com/p/C7AoEEgrs7C/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “Any evidence of criminal activity, including failure to obey lawful orders to disperse, will be investigated and thoroughly reviewed to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime was committed.” Spitzer said any protester arrested will be charged. Sources say they are being charged with failure to disperse. “It's a shame that peaceful free speech protests are always responded to with violence. Taking space on campus or in a building is not a threat to anyone. UCl leadership must do everything they can to avoid creating a violent scenario here. These are your students w\[ith\] zero weapons,” said Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan in a [X post](https://x.com/MayorofIrvine/status/1790885265541599301?ref=santanero.org). > It’s a shame that peaceful free speech protests are always responded to with violence. Taking space on campus or in a building is not a threat to anyone. UCI leadership must do everything they can to avoid creating a violent scenario here. These are your students w/ zero weapons. > > — Office of Mayor Farrah N. Khan (@MayorofIrvine) [May 15, 2024](https://twitter.com/MayorofIrvine/status/1790885265541599301?ref%5Fsrc=twsrc%5Etfw&ref=santanero.org) Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Niell [replied](https://x.com/RealWillONeill/status/1790916980859609388?ref=santanero.org) saying Khan’s comment was “beneath the office of Mayor.” > Police officers from Newport Beach are currently in Irvine providing assistance at the request of a mutual aid call. Your careless wording makes it appear that you are preemptively accusing our officers, and officers from the many law enforcement agencies who responded, of… > > — Will O'Neill (@RealWillONeill) [May 16, 2024](https://twitter.com/RealWillONeill/status/1790916980859609388?ref%5Fsrc=twsrc%5Etfw&ref=santanero.org) As the sun sat Wednesday, more protestors left but holdouts remained around 9:30 PM as the main, but small, group left at Aldrich Park. Some students The Santanero spoke with say the university's response was far more disrupting than the protestors or encampment ever were, including the decision to suspend campus bus transportation. A student told [KCAL News](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520144841/https://youtu.be/9o00nVopWU4?si=SV8sbB%5FgsnXzdjpM&t=293&ref=santanero.org) that the encampment did not imped his studies as he found other ways to go to class. Campus maintenance workers were seen behind skirmish lines cleaning up the encampment as police made arrests. Late in the night, workers pressure washed the chalked message made by the Palestinian solidarity group. “This is a sad and disheartening day for the UCI campus,” [said](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520144841/https://www.instagram.com/p/C7A-mvVLPuE/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fweb%5Fcopy%5Flink) Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. “I stand with all students in their efforts to peacefully protest and voice their opinions. We ask all universities to reflect on their core mission of teaching, and use opportunities like these for meaningful dialogue rather than silence and harm their students.” ### Council unanimously rejects needle-exchange proposal URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/04/17/council-unanimously-rejects-needle-exchange-proposal/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:37:41.000Z In a rare sight, the Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to oppose the establishment of a needle-exchange program initiated and run by Harm Reduction Institute. The Council wasn’t alone in rejecting the proposal. Dozens of residents voiced their concerns during public comments and submitted a few petitions signed by residents within some neighborhood associations. One topped [1,200 signatures](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520143036/https://www.change.org/p/oppose-needle-distribution-program-in-santa-ana?recruiter=1217014063&recruited%5Fby%5Fid=476d4e30-e9aa-11eb-a83c-43b3d74a9128&utm%5Fsource=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fcampaign=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fterm=share%5Fpetition&utm%5Fmedium=copylink&utm%5Fcontent=cl%5Fsharecopy%5F37967579%5Fen-US%3A4). According to Mayor Valerie Amezcua, the City has support from several surrounding cities and their representatives, along with Orange County Board Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, Senator Tom Umberg, and Congressman Lou Correa. Moreover, local law enforcement agencies, firefighter authorities, and labor unions have also signed their support in opposing the program. The idea of a needle-exchange program has been under heavy scrutiny by locals after a similar program distributed needles to drug users and were discarded in public spaces such as [libraries](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520143036/https://www.santa-ana.org/needle-distribution/?ref=santanero.org) and [parks](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520143036/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wLDb1dtI24&ref=santanero.org). The point of the program is to reduce and contain the spread of HIV, hepatitis and other diseases by distributing clean needles to users than for them to reuse, share, or inject with old ones, which could further spread disease. **Discussion of Agenda Item #27 during the Santa Ana City Council Meeting on April 16, 2024\. Credit: City of Santa Ana YouTube Channel (Starts at 4:58:06).* In [information provided](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=q9-7OiDxATzn9Py1&t=17920&ref=santanero.org) by Homeless Services Division Manager Ken Gominsky Jr. on Tuesday's meeting, HRI set up shop on Fourth Street in 2022 and was found operating without a business license or certificate of occupancy, to which Code Enforcement shut them down. #### Timeline (According to the City) ****2011 -** California Health and Safety Code 121349 is signed into law, which allows the State Department of Public Health (CDPH) to authorize entities to provide hypodermic needle and syringe exchange programs in any location the CDPH determines that conditions exist for the rapid spread of disease. ****February 2016 -** Orange County Needle Exchange Program (OCNEP) opens a needle distribution program at the Orange County Civic Center in Santa Ana. This resulted in thousands of used needles and syringes being discarded in public areas, including the Civic Center, neighborhoods, businesses, the library, and the Santa Ana Senior Center. ****Early 2018 -** OCNEP closes its needle distribution program in Santa Ana.2018 – Health and Safety Code 121349 is amended to expand the scope of materials that needle programs may distribute. ****August 6, 2018 -** The City of Santa Ana is informed that the CDPH Office of AIDS has approved OCNEP to provide a mobile needle distribution in Orange County. The authorization to operate in Santa Ana, Anaheim, Costa Mesa and Orange is granted over strong objections from the City of Santa Ana, the County and other cities. ****November 2018 -** A San Diego County Superior Court judge issues a preliminary injunction blocking OCNEP's mobile needle-exchange service from operating. ****October 2019 -** The court rules that OCNEP's proposed mobile syringe exchange program cannot operate in Orange County because the state should have reviewed the proposed syringe exchange’s potential environmental impact first. As part of that ruling, the Court found that OCNEP could not account for approximately 250,000 needles provided by OCNEP but never collected. ****2020 –** Health and Safety Code 121349 is amended to allow possession of a syringe without a prescription. ****October 6, 2020 -** Santa Ana City Council approves ordinance prohibiting syringe exchange programs (later pre-empted by State law.) ****2022 –** Health and Safety Code 121349 is amended to no longer require California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review of environmental impacts from proposed needle distribution programs. ****January 5, 2023 -** Harm Reduction Institute (HRI) files an application with CDPH to operate a needle distribution program in Santa Ana. ****May 19, 2023 -** The City of Santa Ana sends a public comment letter to CDPH officially opposing HRI's proposed needle program. ****August 11, 2023 -** CDPH sends a letter to City of Santa Ana informing the City that it has authorized HRI's needle distribution program. ****August 2023 -** The City of Santa Ana and the County of Orange continue to voice opposition to and concerns about the needle distribution program, with letters from the City Manager, Police Chief, City Councilmembers and the Orange County Health Officer. ****August 30, 2023 -** CDPH rescinds its decision to authorize HRI's needle program in Santa Ana to allow further engagement with the City, in response to the City's continued opposition efforts. ****December 20, 2023 -** HRI files a new application with CDPH to operate a mobile needle distribution program in Santa Ana. ****December 22, 2023 -** CDPH emails the City of Santa Ana City Attorney's Office an "Invitation to Consult on Syringe Services Authorization." ****January 9, 2024 -** The City of Santa Ana responds to CDPH's invitation, seeking more "robust and meaningful consultation" than CDPH is offering.This information was sourced from the City of Santa Ana. Thereafter, HRI filed with the California Department of Public Health to conduct a mobile needle-exchange program in Santa Ana and subsequently approved. Since legislation requires an entity to engage in meaningful dialogue with the host city, the CDPH revoked its clearance after the City‘s legal team discovered HRI had not done so. HRI [filed again](https://www.santa-ana.org/documents/harm-reduction-institute-application-december-20-2023/?ref=santanero.org) in December 2023, with the same intention of a mobile-style needle-exchange program. In the application, their data is derived from the [Orange County Health Care Agency](https://www.ochealthinfo.com/sites/healthcare/files/2023-06/HIV%20Fact%20Sheet%202022%202023-05-17%20FINAL.pdf?ref=santanero.org), which indicated 259 people were diagnosed with HIV in 2022. But of those 259 individuals, 17 were infected by using injection drug use whereas nearly 86% were diagnosed because of sexual contact. The City accuses HRI of misleading the public on the numbers, to which they deny the accusal. #### The Road Ahead California Department of Public Health will meet with Santa Ana elected officials and City Hall staff to discuss the matter (Dates not established yet).In between these meetings, HRI has to make meaningful consultation and also meet with residents and leaders in order for their application to legally be approved.Residents will be allowed to speak their mind and submit a comment during a 45-day window to the CDPH (Not yet established). “We do not need HRI coming here and dropping 300,000 needles in our community and only picking up 180\[,000\] ‘they think’, and leaving 120\[,000\] in our community,” [said Amezcua](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=izIFOqoYm4GXWJbR&t=18288&ref=santanero.org). HRI’s needle service will allow for ‘clients’ to request needles at a place they call home, sometimes not at a traditional house or apartment according to the [application](https://www.santa-ana.org/documents/harm-reduction-institute-application-december-20-2023/?ref=santanero.org). Councilmember Jonathan Ryan Hernandez [understood the intent](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=bfL5sleY9i86Qdb3&t=18850&ref=santanero.org) to reduce the ongoing struggles drug users and homeless endure, but agreed with the Council that the program won’t do enough to address the issue. [Sample letters](https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=ssanta+ana+needles&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&ref=santanero.org) were created by City staff for residents to use to send to local leaders to further oppose the program according to Acting City Manager Alvaro Nuñez. Executive Director of Harm Reduction Institute Carol Newark tweeted in 2023 that the organization will continue to push forward because they are “more relentless than our enemies.” David Penaloza [fired back](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=N-0fWYFfiLFVuxMO&t=19195&ref=santanero.org). “Well if protecting my residents, our parks, our neighborhoods, and our kids, makes me an enemy, then I am your worst nightmare,” said Penaloza. Mayor Pro Temp Thai Viet Phan looked at the data and pointed to the higher HIV infection rate due to sexual contact and [proposed](https://www.youtube.com/live/kCYrJx-9-AY?si=VGw1i6KtQG8VY8F-&t=19304&ref=santanero.org) more sexual education than initiating a needle program for 17 individuals countywide. “I’d love for them to show us how they’re getting to the public safety numbers, who’s their expert on their staff who’s going to tell us that they know Santa Ana public safety issues better than our residents and our staff members and the members of this council,” said Mayor Pro Temp Phan. Newark said the organization takes the issue seriously and is committed to increasing access to proper syringe disposal in the community. ### City readying to tackle against needle-exchange program, again URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/04/12/city-readying-to-tackle-against-needle-exchange-program-again/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:37:33.000Z **SAPD COMMUNITY ROOM —** City officials are preparing to oppose the Harm Reduction Institute’s (HRI) plans to launch a needle-exchange program in Santa Ana, following the organization’s second attempt to secure approval from the California Department of Public Health (CPDH). Needle-exchange programs aren't new to Santa Ana, but the opposition stance appears to be growing. As the *Orange County Register* reported years ago, similar programs have had their [permits revoked](https://web.archive.org/web/20240520155924/https://www.ocregister.com/2018/02/01/orange-countys-only-needle-exchange-shuts-down-advocates-fear-increased-hiv-transmission/?ref=santanero.org) or had [courts rule](https://www.ocregister.com/2018/04/25/mobile-needle-exchange-service-proposed-in-anaheim-costa-mesa-orange-and-santa-ana/?ref=santanero.org) against them. In 2023, HRI submitted an application that was approved by the CDPH in August. However, following significant opposition from local officials and residents, they rescinded their clearance for the program. The City claimed victory. Then, in December, HRI submitted another [application](https://www.santa-ana.org/documents/harm-reduction-institute-application-december-20-2023/?ref=santanero.org), proposing a similar mobile needle-exchange program to their initial one. This program would involve the nonprofit delivering needles to homes, RVs, and other non-traditional living spaces. ❓ **Needle-exchange programs could potentially reduce transmission levels of hepatitis and HIV.* Carol Newark, Executive Director of Harm Reduction Institute, stated in a response that the nonprofit would deliver clean needles two days a week and spend the other three days collecting used needles from the residences. “Over half of HRI’s operational time will be dedicated to taking used syringes from participants and disposing of them safely and properly,” said Newark. “HRI will also do syringe litter sweeps throughout the city, and will operate a hotline where residents can report syringe litter.” At a community meeting held on Saturday at Santa Ana police headquarters, Mayor Amezcua was joined by Councilmembers Bacerra and Penaloza to lead the discussion, along with prominent elected officials including Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-CA, 68) and Congressmember Lou Correa (D-CA, 46). Presidents and representatives from over a dozen neighborhood associations were also in attendance. “We’re public enemy number one,” said Penaloza. He added that Newark had tweeted about the opposition, stating that their nonprofit would be "more relentless than our enemies." Commander Roland Andrade delivered a brief presentation outlining the key issues that neighborhood association leaders found problematic. ### 99 Cents Only Stores files bankruptcy; all locations to close URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/04/05/99-cents-only-stores-files-bankruptcy-all-locations-to-close/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:22:08.000Z 99 Cents Only Stores operators have decided to file bankruptcy and liquidate all 371 locations starting Friday. The move comes after persistent challenges that remained well after the coronavirus pandemic. “This was an extremely difficult decision and is not the outcome we expected or hoped to achieve,” interim company CEO Mike Simoncic said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the last several years have presented significant and lasting challenges in the retail environment, including the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting consumer demand, rising levels of shrink, persistent inflationary pressures and other macroeconomic headwinds, all of which have greatly hindered the company’s ability to operate.” The company opened its first store in 1982. Both Santa Ana locations are set to close under this liquidation. ### Youth Commission faces uncertain future URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/04/05/youth-commission-faces-uncertain-future/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:21:30.000Z The youth commission is facing tough questions after its Council-picked appointees have failed to attend meetings at City Hall. According to [city staff](https://www.youtube.com/live/HZsgnwrWqs0?si=EKueGBYL9xBJVIcK&t=25454&ref=santanero.org), not enough members have showed up to establish a quorum. The staff report laid out five options: #### Staff Report's Options 1. ****Keep Youth Commission as-is.** Staff requests that Councilmembers encourage their appointees to attend meetings and remind them that they receive $100.00 per meeting. The Commission is currently missing appointees from Ward 1, Ward 3, and the Mayor (appointment listed separately on agenda for March 19, 2024). 2. ****Disband Youth Commission.** 3. ****Staff-run Youth Advisory Committee.** The City of Anaheim was experiencing similar issues with lack of quorum and participation and recently dissolved their Youth Commission and established a Youth Advisory Committee to be appointed and managed by staff, meetings to be held with any number of members present, and not subject to the Brown Act.Subcommittee for Parks and Recreation with two rotating seats for members of the Youth Subcommittee to attend Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission meetings as commissioners. 4. ****Create two seats on the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission** as done for the two Senior representatives. Youth would submit applications to the City Clerk and staff would select from the applicants for approval by the City Council. Councilmember Lopez, who has not yet filled in her seat for the youth commission, suggested the Council vacate all seats and appoint new members. Parks and Recreations Director Hawk Scott recommended to dissolve the commission and bring the youth reps under their department as done with seniors. Councilmember Vazquez agreed with Lopez but offered to create an informal advisory committee that allows students from local school to attend a meeting or have staff meet with students at their school to resolve any concerns of transportation. Mayor Pro Temp Phan was also concerned about transportation for commission members but opted to keep the commission as is and later incorporate new ideas for the group. While some agreed, Councilmember Bacerra did not. He acknowledged that there could be some reasons behind the appointees not being able to attend meetings, claiming his representative is always showing up because he is good at selecting candidates. Councilmember Penaloza agreed with Lopez as well. Mayor Amezcua’s representative, although sworn in recently, also failed to respond to meeting requests. The Council voted 7-0 to accept the staff report and decide later what to do with the commission if attendance remains flatlined. A former member of the youth commission visions a different approach. Mia Verdin was Councilmember Lopez’s appointee from 2021 until 2023. “I believe that dissolving it and restructuring it in a more informal and advisory capacity would encourage participation from young people,” said Verdin. “Having bureaucratic barriers feels unnecessary when you’re trying to give a platform to the youth of the city.“ The commissions’ appointees usually favor those with aspirations to attend college and obtain degrees in higher education, but Verdin says it attracts students thinking of their résumés and college options meaning they are often the most busiest students in the city. “Another large problem is that there’s no proper training for commissioners to navigate a bureaucratic space such as a commission. When I was first appointed, I had no idea was a “quorum” or “motion” was. These spaces and platforms must be restructured to be more accessible to young people or if we insist on keeping things as they are, there must be more support provided for the individuals involved.” Verdin believes the advisory capacity should be emphasized when discussing the future of the commission. While there are many students in the city that are self-driven and wanting to help their community, finding, keeping and maintaining communication with an appointee should be priority number one. Currently, youth commissioners get paid $100 each time they attend a meeting, an incentive for keeping appointees on the commission. ### Newly Released Documents Show Santa Ana Police Union's Grip on Santa Ana Mayor URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/29/newly-released-documents-show-santa-ana-police-unions-grip-on-santa-ana-mayor/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:21:00.000Z #### ***City records allege Mayor Amezcua ousted two top officials as a favor for cops and violated state open meeting law*** 📰 **This article has been re-published from* [**KnockLA*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425082204/https://knock-la.com/santa-ana-mayor-amezcua-police-union-political-favors/?ref=santanero.org) *with permission.* In what appears to be a political favor to the Santa Ana Police Officers Association, Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua played a pivotal role in the removal of then-City Manager Kristine Ridge and then-Chief David Valentin, as revealed by public records acquired by *Knock LA*. The role of the police labor union and Mayor Amezcua in the ouster of Ridge and Valentin was revealed in a [legal claim](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24512647-2023-09-22-ltr-to-city-attorney-re-ridge-9-22-23-redacted?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org) submitted to the city by Ridge. In that claim, Ridge alleged that she experienced “discrimination, harassment, retaliation and \[pressure\] to take illegal action.” Meanwhile, Councilmember Johnathan Hernandez submitted an [ethics complaint](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24524064-brown-act-violation-04-18-2023-city-attorney-dislcosure-2?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org) on August 1, 2023, to the city attorney alleging that Amezcua violated the state’s [Brown Act](https://knock-la.com/what-is-the-brown-act/?ref=santanero.org) in carrying out the strategy to “fire the City Manager and \[Police\] Chief \[David\] Valentin.” This complaint is still pending. Ridge’s claim, dated September 22, 2023, threatened legal action against the city and sparked settlement discussions. This ultimately resulted in her [resignation and the city council’s vote to pay her a settlement of over $600,000](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24512697-ridge-kristine-2?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org) to settle her legal claim. Attempts by the city to [conceal the reasons](https://cityofsantaanaca.nextrequest.com/requests/23-2116?ref=santanero.org) behind the substantial payout to Ridge were highlighted when it repeatedly declined to release her claim in response to numerous public records requests made by *Knock LA* over nearly six months. Ultimately, the city council discussed *Knock LA’s* Public Records Act request for the disclosure of Ridge’s legal claim in a closed session at the city council on March 5, after *Knock LA* emailed relevant case law to the city attorney, showing the document was indeed a public record. The city released the record on March 11. Via email, city spokesperson Paul Eakins stated that the “matter was placed on the closed session agenda due to significant exposure to litigation…” and that “…questions arose about the confidentiality of the document. Staff needed time to evaluate the issues and obtain legal advice before releasing the document.” Hernandez’s ethics complaint, shared with *Knock LA*, alleged that Amezcua “was adamant about firing the Chief and demonstrated knowledge and an understanding that in order to fire the Chief she has to fire the City Manager (CM), Kristine Ridge.” Hernandez alleged Amezcua stated that the “\[SAPOA\] is not lobbying her or forcing her to attempt \[the strategy\]…” This strategy is what the [SAPOA allegedly asked for in 2016](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24524060-rojas-complaint?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org) when then-Chief Carlos Rojas was ousted by former SAPOA-funded elected officials. In a 2016 lawsuit, Rojas alleged that city officials backed by the SAPOA conspired to oust him as police chief by first firing then-city manager David Cavazos. The strategy was allegedly orchestrated by the SAPOA, former Mayor Miguel Pulido, and former councilmembers Jose Solorio and Juan Villegas. Rojas’ lawsuit states “Serrano and the POA spent approximately $300,000.00-$400,000.00 in the 2016 elections to support candidates who agreed in advance that, if elected, they would vote to remove \[Cavazos, Rojas and City Attorney Sonia Carvalho\]”. The strategy ushered in by Amezcua is a repeat of history by one of the city’s largest political players. --- While the press release attached to the severance and release agreement between the city and Ridge includes amicable language from Amezcua and Ridge, the claim, which initiated the settlement talks, tells a different story. Ridge alleged that she “endured repeated pressure from specific elected officials contrary to State law to take care of Police Union President, Gerry Serrano’s, pension” and had “been repeatedly directed to provide Mr. Serrano with a higher paying salaried position without regard to civil service provisions nor qualifications.” According to Ridge’s claim, Amezcua threatened Ridge’s job after Ridge told the mayor that placing a certain item on the city council agenda would violate the Brown Act – the state’s opening meeting law. Because the City redacted the agenda item from Ridge’s claim letter when it released the letter to *Knock LA*, it is unclear how the placement of the item on the agenda would have violated the Brown Act. Ridge’s claim letter also alleges that during the city’s contract negotiations with the police union, Amezcua “prohibited Ms. Ridge from speaking or answering questions…” related to those negotiations. The mayor’s alleged gag order directed at Ridge denied the city’s top officer the ability to provide input on contract negotiations between the city and the police union, the latter of which is Amezcua’s largest donor. --- Amezcua received almost [$218,000 from the SAPOA in support of her 2022 mayoral campaign](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24524062-document-65?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org). She endorsed the SAPOA’s failed recall attempt of council member Jessie Lopez. She has also publicly announced that she is [“proud”](https://x.com/bencamach0/status/1714832826435297647?s=20&ref=santanero.org) to have the support of the SAPOA. ![A flyer advocating for the recall of Councilmember Jessie Lopez, endorsed by Mayor Amezcua: "Santa Ana is wrestling with the dangers of street racing, parks and public spaces that belong to our families being taken over by public intoxication, and a homeless problem that is out of control. City Hall needs leaders that can address these problems with REAL solutions.m Please vote YES on the recall."](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425082204im_/https://www.santaneroradio.org/content/images/2025/06/mayor_amezcua_jessie_lopez_recall_campaign_support_flier-resize-480-2c360-ssl-1.jpg) A flyer advocating for the recall of Councilmember Jessie Lopez, endorsed by Mayor Amezcua. **(Photo: Ben Camacho | Knock LA)* According to Hernandez’s complaint, he met with Amezcua on December 15, 2022, two days after she was sworn in as mayor. The complaint states that she had “knowledge of ‘Evergreen’ and shared her concerns about it” at that first meeting. “Evergreen” is a reference to a clause in the former [city manager’s contract](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24512696-cm-ridge-kristine-2019?responsive=1&title=1&ref=santanero.org) that perpetually renewed the contract, absent a written notice. More recently, Ernesto Conde, a former SAPOA consultant, stated in a lawsuit declaration that he and then-SAPOA President Gerry Serrano modeled an “evergreen” clause contained in a contract between the SAPOA and Conde’s public relations company after Ridge’s evergreen clause. In a phone interview with *Knock LA*, Hernandez said that “the evergreen ensures that \[the city has\] a city manager or an executive manager…\[T\]hey wouldn’t be able to just leave on a whim. The evergreen would either extend a contract for an additional year or two years or in some cases, up to five.” Ridge’s claim states these issues were “not remotely an exhaustive list of the misconduct…” and includes redacted information as well as allegations of discriminatory remarks made by Amezcua towards Ridge. Both the claim and the ethics complaint came at a time when the power dynamic on the city council was being contested by the [SAPOA’s recall effort of Councilmember Lopez](https://knock-la.com/santa-ana-recall-city-council-police-association/?ref=santanero.org). Lopez was targeted by the SAPOA for voting against the police association’s labor proposals in late 2022\. Ridge and her attorney did not respond to multiple requests for comment. The city’s half-year concealment of Ridge’s claim is consistent with recent government actions to push for more secrecy. State legislators Josh Lowenthal and Blanca Pacheco introduced bills that target the California Public Records Act (CPRA). This comes after Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein-Soto submitted a proposal to other legislators last year that also targeted the [CPRA](https://knock-la.com/city-of-la-sues-knock-la-reporter-second-time/?ref=santanero.org). Ridge’s claim and Hernandez’s complaint are windows into the SAPOA’s efforts to exert power over the city’s top elected official — the mayor. Regarding the status of Ridge’s claim and Hernandez’s ethics complaint, Eakins stated that “…the Council had formed ad hoc committees to address both of these matters. We have no additional information to share at this time.” Amezcua did not respond to repeated requests for comment. ### Council to consider prohibiting short-term rentals citywide URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/26/council-to-consider-prohibiting-short-term-rentals-citywide/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:20:36.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana City Council will consider adopting and [urgency ordinance](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/item?id=52741&ref=santanero.org) that would explicitly prohibit short-term rentals (STRs). This includes Airbnb’s and Vrbo’s. Besides the noise complaints reported by nextdoor neighbors of STRs, and added issues to parking and trash, the headfront of the proposed ordinance highlights the city’s efforts to reduce housing shortages. According to the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation, there is a need of [3,137 permanent housing units](https://santa-ana.primegov.com/portal/viewer?id=4165&type=0&ref=santanero.org). Over 1,100 short-term rentals were identified in Santa Ana on various STR websites, meaning 35% of housing need would be available. In addition to the findings, the City’s code enforcement has reported 120 cases of short-term rentals that have been cited or notified that they are in violation of the City’s municipal code (SAMC), specifically the zoning codes. 36 reports were for STRs with owners residing at the same address while 84 reports involved properties owned by an LLC, managed by separate entity, or found the owner living at another address. “STRs are not, and have never been, a permitted use under the City’s zoning code,” said the staff report. As of writing, there is no Transient Occupation Tax (TOT) enacted by the City of Santa Ana or County of Orange for short-term rentals at a home setting. AB 584, a [state bill](https://ctweb.capitoltrack.com/public/search.aspx?id=ad485199-37cd-42cd-8217-d19b4d257119&session=23&s=SB+584&t=bill&ref=santanero.org), could enact a 15% TOT if passed. There is local and county TOT, but primarily targets hotels. Those with Airbnb’s and Vrbo’s in Santa Ana mostly rent out their homes to make extra income in order to keep up with the effects of inflation. Despite owning valuable property in highly desired areas of the county, the rentals hold merit as it gives travelers the chance to explore Santa Ana, which adds dollars to the City’s revenue fund. This isn’t the city’s first fight to terminate STRs. In [2015](https://santaana.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view%5Fid=2&clip%5Fid=447&meta%5Fid=25201&ref=santanero.org), the City proposed an emergency ordinance to bar STRs. In 2022, the Planning and Building department, lead by Minh Thai, was met with about 60 homeowners and investors voicing opposition to the prohibition of STRs according to a [comment](https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Ask-about-your-listing/I-received-a-Cease-and-Desist-for-operating-a-short-term-rental/m-p/1899996?ref=santanero.org) left on Airbnb’s community center. “The head of our group received an email from the executive director stating that the planning commission felt the cons far outweighed the pros in allowing STRs to operate in the city and therefore would be moving forward on prohibiting STRs in the city,” said Ana2038. Between a housing crisis and forecasted revenue slumps for the City, the Council will decide how to proceed with the urgency ordinance Tuesday evening, Apr. 2. ### Governor Newsom extends deadline of FAFSA to May 2 URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/26/governor-newsom-extends-deadline-of-fafsa-to-may-2/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:17:33.000Z SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that extends the deadline for California students to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to May 2. [AB 1887](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425075341/https://digitaldemocracy.calmatters.org/bills/ca%5F202320240ab1887?slug=CA%5F202320240AB1887&ref=santanero.org), introduced by Assemblywoman Cervantes (D-Riverside) quickly passed through the California Legislature last week and made its way to the desk of the governor. The bill states most programs under the Student Aid Commission, including the DREAM Act application, one of the prominent programs in the state. Thousands of students with undocumented parents have faced challenges with the revised version of the FAFSA. Since the launch of the application on Dec. 31, 2023, the form has seen six delays or revisions in order to simplify the process. Students should look into their decision deadlines for schools they have applied to as most colleges and universities have a choice deadline of May 1st. ### City Council votes 4-1 to approve redlined ceasefire resolution URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/06/city-council-votes-4-1-to-approve-redlined-ceasefire-resolution/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:17:23.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City Council voted 4-1 (with two absences by Councilmembers Bacerra and Penaloza) to adopt a redlined resolution by Councilmember Phan calling a bilateral ceasefire, releasing of all hostages, and to establish diplomacy on both sides. As Councilmember Vazquez began his final comments, a part of crowd cheered while disappointed members of the public expressed dismay. “This is not how we do business in Santa Ana…If anyone touches anyone, I’m sorry, they should be arrested,” yelled Mayor Amezcua. “You guys got what you wanted, so go out peacefully…You say you’re peaceful, but you’re not.” Mayor Amezcua fiercely took charge of the last portion of the meeting, refusing to allow Mayor Pro Tem Phan and Councilmember Lopez to interject to clam the crowd. Mayor Pro Tem Phan said outright that her decision on the resolution was not due to harassment since the original resolution was presented in December. She also said it was not a time to celebrate and added tonight was “not our best moment.” Mayor Amezcua ended the meeting by thanking Santa Ana Police for arresting a suspect involved in the shooting that left a 3 year-old girl shot and critically injured. Councilmembers Bacerra and Penaloza left earlier in the meeting. ### Child shot while sitting in car says SAPD URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/02/26/child-shot-while-sitting-in-car-says-sapd/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:17:10.000Z 17TH/SPURGEON — A female toddler was shot while sitting in her parents’ car according to Santa Ana Police. The child was rushed to nearby CHOC in critical condition. It is unclear as to how the shooting unfolded late Sunday. Santa Ana Police continues their investigation and has [closed off blocks](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425070247/http://nixle.us/F8Z87?ref=santanero.org) surrounding the 17th and Spurgeon Street area. ### Press calls City’s media rules unlawful URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/01/11/press-calls-citys-media-rules-unlawful/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:14:54.000Z A comprehensive protest against Santa Ana's new media policy at public meetings has been launched by the First Amendment Coalition, with support from various journalistic entities, including *The Santanero*. In a detailed letter to Thomas R. Hatch, the interim city manager, the Coalition strongly criticized the city's stance, which they claim hinders journalists' ability to report on civic affairs effectively. The policy in question outlines specific zones for media equipment and recording activities, a move the Coalition deems excessive and an affront to the Ralph M. Brown Act's provisions on press freedoms. The city's policy, meant to minimize disruptions at public meetings, has been labeled as overly restrictive and potentially unconstitutional, as it limits when and where journalists can film or record, raising alarms about the broader implications for transparency and accountability in local government. Legal Director David Loy of the First Amendment Coalition stated, "We urge you to immediately withdraw the policy and commit to adhering to the Brown Act and respecting press rights." The letter goes on to detail the Act’s clauses, emphasizing the right to record public meetings without significant disruption. Santa Ana now faces a pivotal moment where the necessity for order at public meetings is pitted against the fundamental rights of a free press. The outcome of this may set a precedent for how media policies are shaped in relation to public gatherings and the scrutiny of government proceedings, especially ahead of an election year. *The Santanero*, represented by co-founder Daniel Diaz, also expressed strong disapproval of Santa Ana's media policy. In the letter to Thomas Hatch, they argue that the policy conflicts with press freedom laws, potentially obstructing the media's essential role in promoting transparent governance. *The Santanero*'s response and call for policy revision underline the growing resistance against the city's approach to media regulation. For a comprehensive understanding of our stance, readers are encouraged to view *The Santanero*'s full letter to Thomas Hatch available online. ### OCTA will add trip to 150 route during the morning rush URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/01/08/octa-will-add-trip-to-150-route-during-the-morning-rush/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:12:35.000Z 📰 **This is an update to an* [**opinion piece*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://www.instagram.com/p/C0nITPyvNI5/?igsh=MTdlMjRlYjZlMQ%3D%3D&ref=santanero.org) *written by Daniel Diaz, a 150 bus route daily commuter (and El Santanero’s community reporter), published late last year.* After numerous attempts by residents calling on OCTA to add a route to the morning rush of the 150, I reached out in late fall and OCTA replied they “lack resources.” I then emailed Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua (who also recently announced her new position representing Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento on the OCTA Board of Supervisors). She relayed my concerns to city staff and by extension OCTA. Within a few weeks, OCTA sent out an email to me. “Ridership data shows that trips on Route 150 between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. are experiencing high passenger loads. OCTA plans to add a trip to address this high demand after the holidays when students return to school,” said OCTA in a Jan. 3 email. In my opinion, I asked that OCTA work in collaboration with the city and school district to come to terms on a solution. It appears OCTA has, just in time for when students come back from winter break. --- ### OCTA eBusbook [*https://www.octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/routes-and-schedules/routes-and-schedules/*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://www.octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/routes-and-schedules/routes-and-schedules/?ref=santanero.org) ### Public transportation apps for Apple devices Apple Maps app: [*https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-maps/id915056765*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-maps/id915056765?ref=santanero.org) Transit app:[*https://apps.apple.com/us/app/transit-subway-bus-times/id498151501*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://apps.apple.com/us/app/transit-subway-bus-times/id498151501?ref=santanero.org) Moovit app: [*https://apps.apple.com/us/app/moovit-all-transit-options/id498477945*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://apps.apple.com/us/app/moovit-all-transit-options/id498477945?ref=santanero.org) Google Maps app: [*https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354?ref=santanero.org) ### Public transportation apps for Android devices Transit app: [*https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thetransitapp.droid&hl=en\_US&gl=US*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thetransitapp.droid&hl=en%5FUS&gl=US&ref=santanero.org) Moovit app: [*https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tranzmate&hl=en\_US&gl=US*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tranzmate&hl=en%5FUS&gl=US&ref=santanero.org) Google Maps app: [*https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&hl=en*](https://web.archive.org/web/20240425080457/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&hl=en&ref=santanero.org) ### Statement on the City of Santa Ana's media policies URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2023/12/23/statement-on-the-city-of-santa-anas-media-policies/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:12:22.000Z Our emailed statement to Interim City Manager Thomas R. Hatch can be found here. Our social media statement is as follows: > “El Santanero acknowledges the city’s regulations regarding media access to public meetings. We believe that these rules might conflict with state and federal laws that safeguard press freedom. It is important to remember that elected officials, by the nature of their roles, are subject to media scrutiny. Restricting media access or confining journalists to designated areas can be seen as a departure from best practices in transparent governance. While we understand the importance of safety in public spaces, we suggest that the city consults with the Fire Marshal, City Attorney and related staff to find solutions that do not compromise the rights of journalists and the public. The ability to operate under media scrutiny is a fundamental aspect of public service. Elected officials should be prepared to engage constructively with the press, recognizing its essential role in a democratic society.” - Daniel Diaz, Co-Founder of El Santanero (Social Media Statement pub. 12/23/2023) The official City media meeting policy can be found here. ### Gerry Serrano promoted to unemployment by City URL: https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2023/08/01/gerry-serrano-promoted-to-unemployment-by-city/ Last updated: 2025-12-26T18:12:11.000Z SANTA ANA, Calif. — Gerry Serrano has “been separated” from working with the City’s police union officials said Monday. “Mr. Serrano has been separated from City service pending retirement pursuant to a confidential personnel matter,” said Paul Eakins, the city’s public information officer. For years, Serrano led a controversial position in Santa Ana politics, filing recall attempts for a few years and ending it with a recall against Councilmember Jessie Lopez (Ward 3) and another pending against Thai Viet Phan (Ward 1). In addition, Serrano lost multiple lawsuits against the city, forcing the union to pay the city hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees. Tomorrow, the City Council is expected to discuss recall measures and scheduling of the special election. With Serrano now out at the union, the City awaits announcement of the union’s new president.