As we say goodbye to September and welcome the Fall season, I’m excited to update you on the incredible progress we’ve made together in Ward 3. From major community events to significant improvements, I’ve been working hard to ensure our neighborhoods continue to thrive. I’m especially excited to see families enjoying the newly renovated Santiago Park, now with enhanced lighting that makes evening tennis and other park activities safer and more enjoyable.
Looking ahead, October brings some important events, including Orange County Pride, as well as Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a crucial time to raise awareness and support for an issue that affects many in our community. Both events highlight the strength and diversity we share. Together, we’ll continue building a brighter, healthier, and more inclusive future. October also kicks off the holiday season as the year winds down. While this week is still warm, cooler weather is just around the corner, along with the end of Daylight Savings Time on November 4 and the return of everything pumpkin spice.
Keep reading this newsletter for a recap of what’s been happening in Ward 3 and to see what we’ve accomplished together!
In service,
Jessie Lopez
Councilwoman
Ward 3 and citywide highlights
Santiago Fun Run
I had a blast attending the Santiago TK-8 Rainbow Fun Run for the second year in a row! This event raises funds to support STEM programs, helping our students thrive while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. A huge thanks to the dedicated PTA, our principal, and local small business, Coffee Muse for providing much-needed fuel to our amazing teachers, staff, and volunteers!
Supporting great causes and small businesses—what could be better? Go Turtles!
Crossroads at Washington grand opening
We just celebrated the grand opening of 86 new affordable housing units at Crossroads in Santa Ana! This project is a shining example of what can happen when the city and county work together. Two vacant lots—empty for over 30 years—are now homes for families in need.
As Vice Chair of the Housing Finance Trust, I’m proud to see our most vulnerable families have a place to call home. A big thank you to Isuri Ramos and Richard Santana, who led critical conversations as Community Development Commissioners and championed larger, more affordable units at the 30% AMI level.
Affordable housing isn’t just about shelter. It’s about giving families a foundation for stability and growth. Let’s keep pushing forward and continue building a future where everyone has a place to live and thrive.
A special thanks to our dedicated housing team, the County of Orange, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Related, and all our partners who made this possible!
Riverview Neighborhood Association meeting
Our office continues to consistently participate in neighborhood meetings, like the recent Riverview Neighborhood Association gathering, where we discussed public safety and street improvements. We remain dedicated to working closely with our community to address local concerns and improve the quality of life for everyone. These meetings allow us to identify new issues and find solutions together, and we’re committed to seeing this work through for real, lasting improvements.
Groundbreaking ceremony for homeless youth housing
I attended the groundbreaking of the Olive Crest complex for foster youth aging out of the system. As a councilwoman and someone who once worked two jobs while struggling with housing insecurity as a college student, I know firsthand how critical housing is for young people.
According to a recent state study, many young adults in California are quickly entering homelessness due to the unaffordability of rent and the lack of support systems. This project represents a vital step forward, offering stability to those who need it most. We must continue to invest in housing solutions like this one to truly address the homelessness crisis and ensure every young person has a safe place to call home.
Many thanks to the Olive Crest, the board of directors, and the donors who made this project possible.
Read LA Times article
Fiestas Patrias
In September, we proudly celebrated Fiestas Patrias here in Santa Ana, honoring our rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. It was a privilege to present the key to the city to our sister city, Sahuayo, as a symbol of our strong bond and shared values. The energy at the parade was incredible as we came together as a community to celebrate Mexico and Central America’s Independence Day festivities.
Participating in El Grito was a powerful reminder of our history and the importance of unity. I hope our families had a wonderful time enjoying the festivities, and I look forward to continuing these traditions for years to come!
Carnaval Moralense
I was so happy to support Carnaval USA Moralense/Tlayacapan! Celebrating our rich culture and traditions is essential in keeping the vibrant spirit of our community alive. In Santa Ana, embracing our diverse heritage not only strengthens our bonds, but also empowers future generations to carry on these meaningful customs.
Orange County Housing Finance Trust
This month at the Orange County Housing Finance Trust meeting, we approved $5,789,198 in funding for the construction of 40 permanent supportive housing units across all three of Orange County’s Service Planning Areas (or “SPAs” for short). Additionally, we initiated a Request for Proposals for Trust Management services to implement a new flat fee structure aimed at saving taxpayer money. This will enable us to allocate more funds towards developing affordable housing.
Godinez Varsity Football Game Dedicated to Anthony Garcia
We joined Alyssa and the Garcia family at the Godinez football game, where the varsity team dedicated the game to Anthony Garcia, who tragically lost his battle with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. We celebrated Anthony, who was an incredible person and touched the lives of so many in our community. We continued celebrating Anthony’s life by donating blood with Give Hope, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and supporting those affected by cancer.
Give Hope Blood Drive
Thank you to everyone who joined us on September 5th for the special blood drive in honor of our beloved friend, Anthony Garcia. A former Ward 3 resident, Anthony will always be remembered as an amazing father and friend who made a lasting impact on our community. I had the privilege of knowing Anthony since my early days at the Boys and Girls Club, and supporting City of Hope patients in his name was a true honor. Your donations could have been the lifeline someone needed—together, we gave hope and kept Anthony’s spirit alive.
Post Office Dedication Ceremony Honoring Judge James Ortega Perez
I attended the ceremony honoring the legacy of the late Judge James Perez, OC’s first Latino judge, World War II veteran, and proud product of Santa Ana public schools–just like so many of us. It was inspiring to be joined by veterans of the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Perez family as we came together to celebrate his contributions.
A special thanks to Congressman Lou Correa for hosting this memorable event. I was thrilled to help recognize the Perez family and their continued impact on Santa Ana.
Santiago Park Lighting Update
The new lighting installations at Santiago Park include enhancements for the baseball fields, tennis courts, lawn bowling center, open areas, and under the adjacent bridge.
- Baseball Field Lights: Activated based on confirmed reservations
- Tennis Courts: Lights will operate from dusk until 10 p.m.
- Lawn Bowling Lighting: Activated based on confirmed reservations
- Area/Security Lighting: Operational from dusk to dawn
National Recovery Month
We proudly recognized the Orange County Healthcare Agency’s Behavioral Health Team and declared September 2024 as National Recovery Month. This recognition highlights the important work being done to support individuals on their journey to recovery from mental health and substance use disorders. By raising awareness, we aim to reduce stigma and celebrate the strength and resilience of those in recovery, as well as the dedication of healthcare professionals and community members who provide support. Let’s continue to work together to promote recovery and create a healthier, more compassionate community for all.
Dignity Memorial’s Third Annual 2,200 Steps
I had the honor of participating in the 2,200 Steps Walk to Remember at Fairhaven Memorial. We walked together to reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and to honor the lives lost.
I also had the opportunity to speak about the on-going challenges faced by many of our brave first responders. While they rushed to save lives that day, they continue to battle health issues caused by exposure to toxic dust and debris. Their courage and sacrifice deserve our continued support and gratitude, and I remain committed to ensuring they receive the care they need.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in remembering and walking in solidarity today.
The Cambodian Family wellness sip and paint
We recently embraced our inner strength and resilience through art with The Cambodian Family. Community members painted trees as symbols of their personal journeys, reflecting the strength that grounds us and the hope that keeps us moving forward.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in celebrating emotional, social, and mental well-being.
SAY panel
I spoke to our incredible Santa Ana Unified School District students about the power of education and political engagement. It’s clear that young people in Santa Ana are passionate about key issues like affordable housing, good-paying jobs, and meaningful investments in youth programs. Thank you to our students for their willingness to learn and engage about the state of our city. Your voices are vital in shaping a brighter future for our community.
Virgin Galactic’s open house
We joined Virgin Galactic for their Open house at their Flight Campus, their engineering, design, and corporate headquarters. We discovered the future of space exploration and learned about their company as they pioneer human spaceflight.
OC Climate Action Plan Report Card
I stood proudly with my peers and local pediatricians at the climate action press conference to celebrate our recent win—funding the Climate Action Plan (CAP)! This is a critical step forward in addressing the disproportionate health impacts on our communities, like rising asthma rates. Together, we are fighting for a healthier, more equitable future for all.
Santiago Creek bridge update
As you know, I announced updates coming to the Santiago Creek Pedestrian Bridge last month. Based upon our consultant’s initial inspection, final structural load rating will be required. Assuming the load rating is positive, our Public Works Agency would then be able to perform a bridge rehabilitation project–not a full replacement.
The rehabilitation would consist of the following:
- Repairing/replacing chain link fence
- Replacing timber deck
- Replacing some longitudinal deck girders
- Grout patching exposed bearing anchor bolts
- Painting steel girders
- Replacing approach ramp to an ADA-compliant ramp
Next steps
Our Public Works Agency will prepare contract bid documents to complete the recommended scope of work, develop a cost estimate over the next three months, and then advertise for bids. We will keep you updated on this project’s progress via our newsletter and will stay in touch with neighborhood leaders about the upcoming work via email.
Santiago Park Main Street project
During the September 17 City Council meeting, you saw me vote YES to the third phase of the Santiago Park project! The plans for the Santiago Park Main Street project include adding shade trees and renovating the area to enhance its overall appeal. I will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Read the staff report
Best downtown ranking and tourism
I’m excited to announce that Downtown Santa Ana (DTSA) has been ranked #3 in the Orange County Register’s annual Best of Orange County special edition under the Best Downtown category—an honor decided by the readers themselves! This recognition not only highlights the collective effort to revitalize DTSA but also celebrates the long-standing, legacy businesses that have shaped our downtown for decades. Their deep roots and enduring presence have been instrumental in making DTSA a vibrant, culturally rich, and welcoming destination.
We are grateful for the contributions of these legacy businesses, which continue to anchor our downtown, and we also appreciate the new businesses that are bringing fresh energy and innovation to the area. Together, they create a dynamic mix that attracts visitors and keeps DTSA thriving.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our hardworking staff, dedicated DTSA merchants, and community members for their unwavering commitment to making this possible. This achievement highlights the positive impact on local tourism and revenue, benefiting our entire city.
To build on this momentum, our Economic Development team has placed an ad on page 4 of the OC Register’s print and digital editions to promote DTSA as a top downtown destination. We’re only getting started—there’s much more to come for DTSA!
Be sure to check out the article and explore the flipbook for more details on our vibrant and evolving downtown! Read the Best Downtown Article.
Read more
2024-25 artist grant application now available
The City of Santa Ana’s Arts and Culture Office is excited to announce the launch of the Investing in the Artist Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2024-25. This program offers a total of $200,000 in funding to support individual artists and 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations, with grants of up to $10,000 available.
This year’s theme, “Art & Economy: Shaping Santa Ana’s Future through Collaborative Creative Expression,” highlights the vital role artists play as microbusinesses in our city’s economic vitality. The grant aims to encourage creative projects that engage with Santa Ana’s cultural and economic landscape, promoting participatory and interactive works that reflect the impact of the arts on our community.
Artists from various mediums—including visual arts, performance, music, creative writing, and digital media—are invited to submit proposals that explore the relationship between arts and the economy while involving the community in their projects.
Applications can be submitted here. For questions, please contact Tram Le at the Arts and Culture Office at (714) 647-5355 or artsandculture@santa-ana.org.
Apply
Hampton Inn & Suites 2129 N Main Street Update
On September 4, 2024, the Planning Division received a development application for a new Hampton Inn & Suites at 2129 N. Main Street. The proposed project includes a six-story, 72,270-square-foot hotel with 135 guest rooms, 129 surface parking spaces, landscaped areas, hotel amenities, and the adaptive reuse of a 2,627-square-foot historic building as a café.
The site was previously entitled for hotel development in 2018, but the entitlement expired in 2020. This new project, owned by SA Hotel One, LP, requires Planning Commission approval for a conditional use permit (CUP) and a variance for building setbacks.
The project involves removing existing structures, including a surface parking lot, an office building (2119 N Main St), a single-family dwelling (2058 N Bush St), and three accessory structures. Two historic buildings will remain on-site, with one converted into a restaurant and another relocated for use as an establishment selling alcoholic beverages. The city alley will also be realigned with egress onto Main Street, and Caltrans is collaborating with the city on finalizing the process to relinquish the remaining local streets per the freeway agreement.
We will provide updates on public hearing dates as the proposed development progresses.
OC Veterans federal policy change
Great news for our Orange County Veterans experiencing homelessness: thanks to a recent federal policy change, veterans’ disability benefits will no longer be considered income when applying for housing vouchers and rental assistance!
This means more of our veterans will have access to the help they need, not just those already experiencing homelessness, but also those facing housing insecurity who often struggle to get assistance before it’s too late. As USC research professor Sara Kintzle said, “this will benefit not only the veterans experiencing homelessness but also those who are experiencing housing insecurity, who often can’t get help until they’re homeless.”
Read more
City accepts $963,000 award for Alternative Response Program
I’m pleased to share that this earmark was requested and awarded by Rep. Lou Correa in 2023. The funding will support our Santa Ana Multi-Disciplinary Response Teams (SMART) as they continue deploying trauma-informed social workers and mental health clinicians to respond to non-emergency 911 calls, helping to reduce the burden on our public safety system. We will receive the funds over the next two years in lump sums of $481,500, starting on October 1, 2024.
City submits application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Eviction Protection Grant Program
I’m pleased to share that the City of Santa Ana has submitted an application for HUD’s Eviction Protection Grant Program, which aims to fund nonprofit organizations and government entities to provide no-cost legal assistance to low-income tenants at risk of eviction. We have requested $2.5 million from HUD to partner with organizations like Community Legal Aid SoCal for legal assistance, 211-United Way for routing calls and collecting data, Families Forward for post-eviction wraparound services, and Latino Health Access for outreach support. This funding will cover the entire continuum of eviction prevention, from early intervention to post-eviction housing stability. The Rent Stabilization Division will keep my office updated on the timeline for award announcements from HUD.
Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) and Santa Ana Unified School District Police Department (SAUSPD) collaboration
SAPD and SAUSPD have met to collaborate for our response to school threats. At the end of the last school year, SAPD met with the SAUSPD to address jurisdictional responsibilities and explore ways to enhance our support for their efforts in keeping ur schools safe. As the new school year begins, we have proactively reached out to the SAUSPD to schedule another meeting. This meeting aims to reinforce our communication and response models, ensuring that both departments are fully aligned and prepared to handle any potential threats effectively. This continued partnership is crucial for maintaining the safety and security of our schools, and we are committed to working closely with the SAUSDPD to achieve this.
A special thanks to Councilmember Vazquez for highlighting this important need during our Joint School Collaboration Subcommittee meetings.
Targeted bus stop cleanings
The City has launched a focused initiative to clean bus stops along eight major arterials, starting on September 5th. The Public Works Agency leads the effort, with assistance from the Community Development Agency, Quality of Life Team, and SAPD. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, with positive feedback already received from community members, including a grateful bus rider who appreciated the clean stops.
Metro East Senior Concerns (2222 E First Street)
In response to the concerns raised by residents of the senior housing development at 2222 E First Street on Tuesday night, as well as the follow-up emails, our staff from the Planning and Building Agency, Community Development Agency, and Police Department have taken several important actions:
- Staff conducted a thorough review of the City agreements and project approval conditions in preparation for a meeting with the property ownership.
- Staff scheduled an in-office meeting with the property ownership for next Tuesday to address the residents’ concerns, discuss potential violations of City agreements and conditions, and facilitate ongoing dialogue between the residents and the property ownership.
Our goal is to effectively address the concerns of the residents at 2222 E First Street, ensure compliance with City agreements and project conditions, and establish a permanent process for effective communication and a resolution.
Youth ride free passes
The pass provides youth aged 6 to 18 with free travel on safe, clean and reliable buses. Youth Ride Free passes are available from your child’s participating Orange County school. A parent signature is required. If your child’s school is not distributing the Youth Ride Free pass, you may request a pass on OCTA’s website.
Request a pass
OCGO free hikes and equestrian rides
Orange County is home to some of the most beautiful protected wilderness areas in the country. Experience and enjoy the natural landscape with OCTA’s free docent-led hikes and equestrian rides!
Lace up your hiking shoes or saddle up your horse, and sign up for a free hike or equestrian ride today. Come see Orange County as it was yesterday, and as it will be tomorrow.
Sign up for a hike
Library Knowledge Mobile: Second edition – coming March 2025
In Fiscal Year 2023-24, the Knowledge Mobile made an impressive impact by visiting 247 sites and serving 23,897 patrons. It checked out 6,523 library items, created 536 new library cards, and participated in 25 special events. The mobile library reached 15 community centers, 28 parks, and 65 schools.
Due to this success, we are customizing a second, larger mobile library vehicle, which will provide more space for books and materials, as well as cutting-edge technology. This upgraded vehicle will feature a large exterior screen, sound system, and multimedia capabilities, enhancing our ability to serve the community. The improved mobile library service will better meet educational and recreational needs throughout the city.
Upcoming events
Business startup workshop
Ready to launch your business or take it to the next level? Join us at Santa Ana City Hall on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 12 – 1:30 p.m. for a Business Startup Workshop hosted by our Economic Development Division.
What to expect:
- Expert tips and resources to start or grow your business.
- A chance to get your questions answered by city staff.
- Walk-ins are welcome, or register in advance
- Available in English and Spanish
For more info, call the Business Hotline: (714) 647-5477
Third annual Santa Ana Mid-Autumn Festival
Join us for the 3rd Annual Santa Ana Mid-Autumn Festival!
Celebrate Asian cultures and the vibrant Vietnamese community at our third annual Santa Ana Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival! This free, family-friendly event honors the traditional celebration of the fall harvest and the full moon—a time for families to come together and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Festival highlights include:
- Surprise acrobat performance
- Lion dance
- Live entertainment
- Delicious food
- Cultural exhibits
- Local vendors
- Kids’ zone with inflatables
- Moon cakes and lanterns (distributed while supplies last, starting at 5 p.m.)
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Celebrate the 25th Logan Barrio Reunion at Crear Studio!
Step into history at the Logan Barrio exhibit, where you can explore over 138 years of rich culture and community through historic photographs and artifacts. From the early 20th century, when the barrio was surrounded by orchards and agriculture, to its present-day legacy, this exhibit captures the heart of Santa Ana’s original families.
Special thanks to historian Mary Garcia, the Logan Reunion Committee, the Andrade family, and Josephine “Chepa” Andrade’s grandson Michael, whose dedication has helped preserve this vital history through the Logan Barrio Archival Project.
Upcoming events
- Finding Logan: Santa Ana’s Original Barrio Documentary Screening
- Saturday, Oct. 19, 4 – 5:30 p.m. (RSVP required)
- Celebratory Closing Reception & Community Talk
- Saturday, Nov. 9, 2 – 4 p.m.
- Exhibit Hours:
- Thursdays and Fridays: 4 – 8 p.m.
- Saturdays: 12 – 4 p.m
- First Saturday Artwalk: 6 – 10 p.m
- By appointment on other days
For more information, visit loganbarrio.org.
Other local events
Resident Days at the Zoo • Third Sunday of each Month.
Bowers Museum free Sundays • Santa Ana residents get in free each Sunday.
Discovery Cube Waste Free Days • Santa Ana residents get free admission to the Discovery Cube on the first Tuesday of the month.
Councilwoman’s Office Hours • Santa Ana residents are invited to come and ask questions, share your concerns, and make suggestions about your neighborhood or the City of Santa Ana.
Stay in the loop with our office! Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on our social media platforms. If you need assistance, please reach out directly via email at jessielopez@santa-ana.org or by phone at (714) 822-0891. To access previous newsletters, please visit www.santa-ana.org/jessie-lopez. You are receiving this email because our records show that you reside in Ward 3 or because you have subscribed to Councilwoman Lopez’s newsletter. If you would like to opt out of this newsletter, please email aulmer@santa-ana.org. Thank you for staying connected with us.
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To schedule a meeting with Councilwoman Lopez, please contact aulmer@santa-ana.org.