Official newsletter of Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua.
Keeping the community informed about local events, City news, and resources.
Mayor’s Message: Community and March Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Welcome to this month’s newsletter! Santa Ana is always buzzing with energy and progress, and I’m excited to share recent highlights and upcoming events for April.
As your mayor, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you to build a stronger, more vibrant community. Together, we’re making Santa Ana a place of opportunity, connection, and growth.
Santa Ana & Sahuayo Business Expo 2025 – A Huge Success!
The inaugural Santa Ana & Sahuayo Business Expo 2025 was an incredible milestone for our city! This event strengthened our Sister Cities partnership, creating valuable opportunities for local entrepreneurs to connect with top companies from Sahuayo, Michoacán. This expo opened doors for trade, networking, and business growth. I want to personally thank all the businesses, vendors, the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce, City staff, volunteers, and attendees who made this event possible!
Advocating for Santa Ana in Washington, D.C.
I had the honor of representing Santa Ana at the National League of Cities Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C. Alongside City Manager Alvaro Nuñez and Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez, we met with representatives from the offices of Senator Alex Padilla, Senator Adam Schiff, and Congressman Lou Correa.
We advocated for public safety, infrastructure improvements, and stronger local-federal partnerships, ensuring that Santa Ana’s needs are heard at the national level.
Expanding Healthcare Access: Street Medicine Program
Exciting news! The CalOptima Health Board has approved the expansion of the Street Medicine Program to Santa Ana. This means greater access to medical care, social services, and housing support for our unhoused neighbors. This is an important step toward a healthier, more compassionate community, ensuring that those in need receive the care and assistance they deserve.
Santa Ana Needs Your Input! – Take the City Budget Survey
The City Council is planning the 2025-26 budget, and your voice matters! Whether you are a resident, business owner, or community member, your feedback will directly shape the services, programs, and investments that impact Santa Ana.
Do not let others make decisions for you! This is your opportunity to help decide how City resources are allocated — from public safety and parks to road improvements and community programs.
By taking the survey, you play a direct role in shaping Santa Ana’s future. Make your voice heard today!
📅 Deadline to submit: April 30, 2025
Looking Ahead to April
With spring in full bloom, this is a wonderful time to celebrate new beginnings and strengthen our community bonds. I wish everyone a joyful and peaceful Easter season filled with reflection, connection, and renewed hope. Together, we can continue making Santa Ana a welcoming and thriving city for all.
I also look forward to the many exciting community events happening in April. Be sure to check them out below, and join us in celebrating everything that makes Santa Ana so special!
Thank you for being a valued part of our city’s community and success!
Sincerely,
Mayor Valerie Amezcua
Email: vamezcua@santa-ana.org
I invite you to follow me on social media for daily updates! Please connect with me, and stay tuned for upcoming news, meetings, and events in our community!
MAYOR ON THE MOVE
I’m always grateful for the opportunity to join in the wonderful events that make Santa Ana such a vibrant community. Here are a few highlights from March:
Sister Cities Santa Ana & Sahuayo Business Expo 2025
I was so honored to give welcome remarks at the inaugural Sister Cities Santa Ana & Sahuayo Business Expo. This event was a huge success, connecting local businesses with top companies from our sister city Sahuayo, Michoacan. I am looking forward to welcoming this event back next year!
GROW Conference
It was wonderful to speak at this year’s GROW Conference! This event brings together top experts to share valuable insights on current trends related to Santa Ana’s geography, resources, opportunities, and workforce. I’m excited about the continued growth and possibilities for our city.
2025 California League of Cities Policy Committee meeting
I had the privilege of attending the 2025 California League of Cities Policy Committee meeting, where I sat on the Public Safety Committee. It was an insightful discussion, listening to current legislation and collaborating on policies and resources that will enhance our community’s safety and overall quality of life. Excited to continue working together for a safer, stronger future for our city!
Testifying before the Senate Health Committee in Sacramento
I testified before the Senate Health Committee in Sacramento in support of SB 329 (Blakespear), critical legislation aimed to ensure timely investigations of complaints against alcohol and drug treatment facilities. This Bill would strengthen oversight to ensure recovery programs operate with integrity and prioritize patient well-being.
Morrison Park Neighborhood Association
Thank you to the Morrison Park Neighborhood Association for inviting me to speak at your monthly meeting. It was great to tour the new Well 39 facility and hear directly from residents about city improvements and community concerns.
Coffee with the Mayor
A big thank you to all the residents who joined me for this month’s Coffee with the Mayor! I truly appreciate all the valuable ideas and feedback. Receiving input from our community during these events is invaluable as we continue working together to improve our city and make Santa Ana a better place for all.
Recipient of the 2025 Empowering Lives Award
I was deeply humbled to receive the 2025 Empowering Lives Award at Templo Calvario Church, an honor that fuels my passion to drive transformative change.
SAPD Promotions Ceremony
I was honored to congratulate the Santa Ana Police Department’s newest Deputy Chief, Commanders, and Sergeants on their well-earned promotions!
The National League of Cities Congressional City Conference
I was honored to represent the City of Santa Ana in Washington, D.C., at the National League of Cities Congressional City Conference alongside our City Manager Alvaro Nuñez and Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez. During the conference, we worked to strengthen local-federal partnerships, enhance public safety, invest in infrastructure, and discuss key legislation. Our collective goal is to foster a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Santa Ana.
NESALL Opening Day Ceremony
It was an honor to present a certificate at the Northeast Santa Ana Little League Opening Day Ceremony. I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with all the families and wishing everyone a fantastic season filled with teamwork, growth, and unforgettable family moments.
SA Pony Baseball Opening Day Ceremony
Happy to have joined the Opening Day ceremony for the Santa Ana Pony Baseball League. It was an exhilarating experience that brought immense joy to everyone involved. It was truly uplifting to witness the beaming smiles on the faces of our young athletes.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS
Nonprofit Spotlight: Reimagine in Santa Ana
The Planning Division maintains the City’s General Plan and Zoning documents. Planning is also responsible for environmental review, historic preservation, implementation of commercial cannabis regulations, and new development. Planning provides staff support to the City’s Planning Commission, the Historic Resources Commission, and the City Council.
Learn more here.
Small Business Highlight: Aurora’s Chorizo Market
1001 S. Main St., Santa Ana
Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Ana, Aurora’s Chorizo Market has been serving up quality, Mexican-style sausages for over a decade. Established in 2012, this family-owned gem has become a staple in the community, known for its delicious, hand-crafted chorizo made from pork, chicken, or soy.
Aurora’s Chorizo Market is more than just a market; it’s a trusted partner for many local restaurants, providing top-quality products that make their way onto the plates of customers across the region. I invite you to stop by and support this community favorite!
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
OC Job Fair – Connecting Santa Ana’s Talent with Opportunity!
Santa Ana College and the Santa Ana Unified School District invite students and job seekers in the community to the OC Job Fair — an exciting opportunity to connect with employers and explore career opportunities.
📅 When: Thursday, April 24 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
📍 Where: Santa Ana College Campus | 1530 W. 17th St., Santa Ana
This free event is open to Santa Ana College students, high school students from Santa Ana Unified School District, and community job seekers. Registration is required for all attendees.
City of Santa Ana jobs and internships links:
The City of Santa Ana’s Human Resources Department, Talent Acquisition Division, collaborates with City agencies and departments to identify staffing needs and recruit top talent to serve our community. We are looking for results-oriented individuals who possess a positive attitude, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, have a proven track record of success, and are passionate about public service.
CITY RESOURCES
Need help with City services or community programs? Here’s a quick guide to available resources in Santa Ana.
📢 ALERT: MySantaAna App Expanding Language Support!
Great news! The mySantaAna mobile app is becoming even more accessible! By the end of May, the app will support English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, making it easier than ever for our diverse community to report issues and request city services.
Stay tuned for the update and continue helping us keep Santa Ana a great place to live!
📱 mySantaAna App – Report City Issues Easily
Download the mySantaAna mobile app to quickly report potholes, graffiti, downed trees, and more.
You can also request City services online
📞 Important City Contacts:
- SAPD Non-Emergency Dispatch: (714) 245-8049
- City Hall Main Line – (714) 647-5400
- Code Enforcement – (714) 667-2780
- Emergency Water Services – (714) 953-8026
- Graffiti Hotline – (877) 786-7824
- Homeless Services – (714) 242-3706 or report via the mySantaAna app.
- Public Works Dispatch (street sweeping, tree maintenance) – (714) 647-3380
🍎 Food Assistance & Homeless Support:
- Project Food Box – Fresh produce for those in need
- Project Hope Alliance – Support for families and children facing homelessness
- The Seva Collective – Free drive-through food pantry
💼 Employment & Youth Programs:
- Santa Ana Youth Employment Program (SAY)
- Santa Ana Work Center
- Santa Ana Police Athletic & Activity League (SAPAAL)
💰 Financial & Business Assistance
- It’s tax season! If you made less than $60,000 last year, you may qualify for free prep tax assistance. Find a location here: OC Free Tax Prep
Small Business Support:
Affordable Housing & Homeownership
- My First Home Program
- Sign up for Medi-Cal (regardless of immigration status)
🔌 Utility Assistance
- Southern CA Edison (Electricity): 800-447-6620
- Southern CA Gas: 800-207-8567
- Trash Pickup: 877-328-2074
- Energy & Water Bill Assistance
For more community services and city updates, visit Santa Ana’s official website.
CITY NEWS AND RECOGNITIONS
Expansion of the Street Medicine Program to Santa Ana
Great news for Santa Ana! The CalOptima Health Board has unanimously approved the expansion of the Street Medicine Program to our city.
Street Medicine will provide medical care, social services, and housing navigation support to individuals experiencing homelessness, ensuring compassionate, on-the-ground care for our most vulnerable residents. With successful programs already running in Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, and Anaheim, this expansion strengthens our commitment to a healthier, stronger Santa Ana. Together, we’re making a difference!
Read more about the Street Medicine Program
Below-market home ownership opportunities available
Are you looking to own a home at below-market prices? The City of Santa Ana, in partnership with Toll Brothers and Brandywine Homes, is offering affordable for-sale units for income-eligible buyers at two locations, 717 Lyon, which has 2- and 3-bedroom condos starting from the mid-$200,000s, and Cabrillo Crossing, which offers 3-bedroom townhomes starting from the mid-$400,000s. These homes were provided through the City’s 2021 Affordable Housing Opportunity and Creation Ordinance.
Learn more about home-ownership opportunities
HAPPENING IN APRIL – COMMUNITY EVENTS
Live Animal Show at Santa Ana Public Library!
Celebrate National Library Week with a captivating live animal show at Newhope Library! Experience the wonders of nature as expert handlers introduce a variety of fascinating creatures — sparking curiosity and a love for reading in all ages.
- 📅 When: Friday, April 11
- ⏰ Time: 4-4:45 p.m.
- 📍 Where: Newhope Library | 122 N. Newhope St.
🌳 Celebrate Arbor Day with Mayor Valerie Amezcua! 🌱🌿
Join us for a special Arbor Day Tree Planting Event hosted by Mayor Valerie Amezcua! This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors, enjoy the outdoors, and make a lasting impact on our environment.
- 📅 Date: Saturday, April 19
- ⏰ Time: 10-11 a.m.
- 📍 Location: Santiago Park | 600 E. Memory Lane
- 🚗 Parking: Available in the parking lot at Memory Lane and Lawson Way
TeenTime at Santa Ana Public Library
Chill out, grab a snack, and connect at TeenTime by SAPL! Both locations offer everything you need to study, create, and have fun:
✅ Free Wi-Fi & Study Stations (with charging ports)
💻 Chromebooks & iPads
🎮 Video Games
🎨 Craft Supplies & Creative Workshops
Open to ages 12 to 17
📍 Locations & Hours:
📅 Monday – Friday
🕑 El Salvador Community Center, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive | 2-6 p.m.
🕒 Garfield Community Center, 501 N. Lacy St. | 3-6 p.m.
Summer Splash Day Camps – Register Now!
Get ready for a summer of fun with the City of Santa Ana’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency (PRSCA)! Our Summer Splash Day Camps offer an exciting lineup of activities to keep kids active, engaged, and having a blast all summer long!
📅 Camp Dates: June 2 – August 8
📝 Registration Opens: Thursday, April 3 (Register early to secure your spot!)
👦👧 Ages: 6-12
🌊 What’s Included?
✅ 10 weeks of action-packed summer programming
✅ Weekly off-site excursions every Thursday
✅ Engaging activities & creative projects
✅ Recreation swim opportunities
🔗 Register now: Summer Splash Day Camp registration
Register for the Santa Ana Fun Run!
The Santa Ana Fun Run is back, and you won’t want to miss this groovy event!
📅 When: Saturday, May 17
🏁 Race Options: 5K, 10K & Kids Dash
🕺 Theme: Get into the spirit with ’70s-inspired retro gear!
💰 Early Bird Discount: Register by April 16 for special pricing! Don’t miss this chance to run, have fun, and celebrate with the community!
🔗 Register now: Register for the Santa Ana Fun Run
Discovery Cube Santa Ana – Resident Free Days
Great news, Santa Ana residents! Enjoy a day of fun and learning at Discovery Cube Santa Ana for FREE on the first Tuesday of every month! Get up to FOUR free tickets per government-issued photo ID with a Santa Ana address.*
📅 When: First Tuesday of every month
📍 Where: Discovery Cube Santa Ana
🔗 Learn more: Discovery Cube Promotions
Free Resident Day at Santa Ana Zoo
Santa Ana residents, enjoy a wild day at the Santa Ana Zoo—for FREE!
📅 When: Every third Sunday of the month
📍 Where: Santa Ana Zoo 1801 E. Chestnut Ave Santa Ana
🎟 Free admission with proof of residency (driver’s license or utility bill required).
🔗 Learn more: Santa Ana Resident Days
The Bowers Museum
Offers free general admission to all Santa Ana residents on Sundays through a generous donation in memory of Dorothy Goerl and courtesy of the Lockhart Family. Santa Ana residents will need to provide proof of residency through an ID, driver’s license or utility bill.
City Hall
Upcoming Holiday and Closed Friday schedule: (City Hall non-essential offices are closed on alternating Fridays throughout the year)
- Friday, April 11, 2025 – City Hall closed.
- Friday, April 25, 2025 – City Hall closed.
The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (open session) at Santa Ana Council Chamber, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana. Official City meetings are open to the public and I encourage you to participate. Council agendas and minutes may be accessed here.
Invite me
If you’d like to invite me to attend an event in your neighborhood or in connection with your organization, please feel free to make that request via email: vamezcua@santa-ana.org
For more City news, please follow City of Santa on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and share my newsletter with friends and family.