Dear Neighbors,
As January comes to a close, I hope the new year is off to a strong and positive start for you and your loved ones. While 2024 may be behind us, the work of building a stronger and inclusive Santa Ana never stops.
This January, I’ve hit the ground running. On January 14, we held our first City Council meeting of 2025, and I’d like to extend my congratulations to Councilmember Vazquez on being unanimously appointed as our new Mayor Pro Tem. As we step into this new chapter, I encourage you to stay engaged with our city’s progress. Your voice is essential in shaping Santa Ana’s future, and I welcome your ideas, input, and participation in upcoming initiatives. Together, we can continue building a thriving and vibrant community.
Recent Santa Ana winds have been a stark reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness. Our incredible Public Works staff has been working around the clock to address fallen trees, power outages, and wind-related damage across Ward 3. Our collaboration ensures our neighborhoods remain safe and our infrastructure remains strong. Watching the devastating fires unfold in Los Angeles and other parts of California further underscores the urgent need for year-round preparation.
We cannot always predict when or where the next disaster will strike, but we can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and protect our communities. As we move forward, I remain committed to working with our city team to strengthen our emergency response and infrastructure resilience.
In addition to local challenges, I am closely monitoring the impact of federal policies on our city. The recent freeze on federal funding, which has been temporarily blocked by a U.S. District Judge, could have significant consequences for Santa Ana. Programs that support mental health services, housing for homeless veterans, public safety, clean air and water initiatives, and disaster aid could all be affected.
This freeze comes at a time when resources for our residents are already stretched thin. I recognize the gravity of this situation and the potential hardships it may bring to everyday Santaneros. That’s why I am working closely with our federal lobbyist to understand the next steps and ensure we continue providing critical support. This is not just bureaucratic red tape — it’s a decision that could directly impact real people like you and me.
While we face serious challenges, there is also much to celebrate. As we welcome February, I want to take a moment to wish everyone a very Happy Lunar New Year! May 2025 bring you health, happiness, and success, along with new opportunities and meaningful connections. In these challenging times, I encourage you to find strength in community and extend kindness to your neighbors. Even small acts of generosity can make a big difference.
I’m excited to share updates on upcoming city projects, programs, and initiatives. Whether it’s addressing public safety, investing in sustainable infrastructure, or improving city services, I am committed to continue keeping you informed.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your Councilwoman. Here’s to a year of progress, collaboration, and hope. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions, ideas, or concerns.
Warm regards,
Jessie Lopez
Santa Ana City Council, Ward 3
Ward 3 and Citywide Highlights
Stakeholder Meeting on Santiago Creek
I attended the Santiago Creek Stakeholders Meeting alongside Congressman Lou Correa and Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. Together, we continued the important conversation about keeping funding in Santa Ana while exploring a plan to move forward on key priorities for the Santiago Creek area.
Collaboration is essential to ensuring that projects in our community receive the support and resources they need. I’m committed to working with our stakeholders and community to create a plan that benefits Santa Ana residents while preserving and enhancing our cherished Santiago Creek.
Thank you to everyone involved in this vital discussion. We look forward to continued progress and shared success!
Exciting Updates from the Santa Ana Zoo: River’s Edge Primate Trails & Otter Habitat
We recently toured the Santa Ana Zoo to get an update on the exciting improvements being made, including the River’s Edge: Primate Trails & Otter Habitat. If you’re planning a visit soon, make sure to peek through the construction fences to catch a sneak peek of the nearly finished new plantings and landscaping. The habitat trails and netting are coming together, with scaffolding still in place as we put the final touches on the project. Irrigation work is progressing, and interpretive signage is on track to enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, we’re actively working on acquiring otters to make the habitat complete. Stay tuned for more updates as we work to bring this exciting new addition to life.
Habitat for Humanity Construction Kickoff
I joined Habitat for Humanity for the construction kickoff of six new affordable homes on Washington Avenue.
This project represents more than just housing — it’s about creating opportunities for Santa Ana families to thrive. These homes will be a cornerstone for stability, growth, and community for future residents.
I’m thrilled to see these homes take shape and look forward to the day they’re filled with the stories, dreams, and aspirations of our neighbors. Together, we’re building not just homes, but a brighter future for Santa Ana families.
Ready Rep Summit with Orange County Environmental Justice and Delhi Neighborhood Association
Our office recently attended an Emergency Preparedness Summit focused on equipping families and the community with resources to prepare for extreme weather emergencies and other unexpected events. It was truly inspiring to see so many community members come together, share knowledge, and take proactive steps toward safety and resilience.
Our Community Representative, Valerie Magdaleno, along with our dedicated volunteers, provided valuable City resources to attendees, ensuring everyone had access to the tools and information needed to stay prepared.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and helped spread the word. Let’s continue to prepare for emergencies — together!
Signed Into Law: Wins For Orange County In Water Resources Development Act
Congressman Correa announced that the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), recently signed into law by President Biden, includes key priorities for Orange County. WRDA authorizes water-related studies and projects but does not provide funding.
The requests that were signed into law are:
- Santa Ana River Mainstem Project – Santiago Creek: Requires redesigning the Santiago Creek component to minimize environmental impacts, such as preserving existing trees, before construction begins on the section downstream of the I-5 to its confluence with the Santa Ana River.
- OC River Walk – Study: Authorizes a study to evaluate the OC River Walk project, aiming to transform the Santa Ana River Corridor into a major regional destination for recreation, entertainment, and economic development while enhancing water resources.
- Santa Ana River Mainstem Project – Reimbursement Authorization: Directs the Secretary to report on the status of reimbursement requests from the Orange County Flood Control District, ensuring the Corps can repay costs incurred for modifications to the project.
- Santa Ana River Mainstem Project – Appraisals/Settlements: Directs the Secretary to provide updates on requests to grant the Corps’ South Pacific Division authority to approve appraisals and settlements up to $20 million for the project, streamlining approvals for the Orange County Flood Control District.
This progress reflects a commitment to addressing Orange County’s water, recreational, and environmental needs.
Memory Lane and Flower Median Beautification
Our office is proud to collaborate with the Public Works Agency to beautify the medians along Memory Lane and Flower Street. These improvements are part of our commitment to creating clean, welcoming, and vibrant spaces for our community.
By enhancing the landscaping and overall aesthetics of our medians, we’re not only improving the look of our neighborhoods but also fostering pride in the places we call home.
Thank you to the Public Works team for their hard work and dedication to this project. Together, we’re making Santa Ana an even better place to live!
New Soft Surface at the Santa Ana Zoo Playground
I’m thrilled to announce the reopening of the playground at the Santa Ana Zoo with the addition of new soft surface flooring! This upgrade enhances the safety and enjoyment for children and families, creating a more comfortable and secure play environment. We invite you to come visit and enjoy the newly improved playground—just one of the many ways we’re working to make our community spaces even better!
Celebrating Día de los Reyes
Celebrating Día de los Reyes with our beautiful Santa Ana community was truly special! A big thank you to Chicanos Unidos for organizing this wonderful event filled with joy, tradition, and care. From sharing roscas and warm pozole to gifting toys and creating smiles, it was heartwarming to see families come together. A huge shoutout to our amazing Key Club student volunteers for helping make the day even brighter! Let’s keep honoring our traditions and supporting one another every day!
New Businesses in Santa Ana
In 2024, Santa Ana proudly welcomed 304 new businesses, marking a significant milestone for our city’s growth and economic vibrancy. This achievement reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and opportunities that our community continues to offer. We’re thrilled to support and celebrate the creativity, dedication, and hard work of these new businesses, which have become a vital part of our diverse and thriving city. Here’s to even more growth, innovation, and success in the future!
Site Visit: Graffiti Removal in the Delhi Neighborhood
It does not matter what area of the city I am in, if I see issues, I report it via our app and support the work our staff is helping us lead. I take this proactive approach weekly, regularly discussing and identifying areas in need of attention to keep our community safe and well-maintained. It’s part of our commitment to staying vigilant and responsive to the needs of our neighborhoods.
Congratulations to the Santa Ana High School Boys Water Polo Team!
The City of Santa Ana proudly recognized the Santa Ana High School Boys Water Polo Team for their incredible Championship win! We celebrate their dedication, teamwork, and outstanding performance throughout the season. Great job to the team for an amazing season and to everyone who supported them along the way. You’ve made our community proud!
Here’s to continued success in the seasons to come — Go Saints!
Grand Opening of Gerardo Mouet Park
It was truly an honor to celebrate the grand opening of Gerardo Mouet Park, a special tribute to Santa Ana’s former Parks and Recreation Director, who passed away in 2023. This beautiful new park, located at the corner of South Standard and McFadden avenues, will serve as a much-needed recreational space for our community. The park features a variety of amenities, including a skate area, basketball court, playground, green space, and more. We are proud to offer this vibrant outdoor space for families to enjoy, all while remembering the legacy of Gerardo Mouet and his dedication to our city.
Santa Ana Items of Interest
Join Us for the Orange County State of Homelessness Address
Join us virtually on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 12 to 1 p.m. for an insightful event featuring key community leaders who will report on the progress made over the past year in tackling homelessness in Orange County. Stay informed on the latest trends and learn how we can continue our collective efforts to support our most vulnerable residents. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay engaged and up-to-date on this crucial issue!
Virtual Event | 12-1 p.m
CalOptima Health Expands Street Medicine Program
CalOptima Health has approved the expansion of its Street Medicine Program to include an additional city in Orange County. Currently serving Anaheim, Costa Mesa, and Garden Grove, this program delivers critical medical services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Our office is proud to fully support the City of Santa Ana as it prepares to apply for inclusion in this program, reaffirming our commitment to bringing much-needed healthcare directly to those living on our streets.
We recognize that healthcare is a universal right, and we’ve engaged in extensive discussions within our city and with other agencies to advocate for this vital service. We are grateful to CalOptima, Supervisor Sarmiento’s office, and City staff for their partnership and tireless efforts through countless meetings to address this critical issue. Together, we remain steadfast in our shared mission to ensure that healthcare is accessible to every member of our community, no matter their circumstances.
New Business Spotlight: 4 Girls Coffee
Our office recently visited 4 Girls Coffee, a fantastic new small business in Santa Ana! Supporting local businesses is essential to fostering a thriving community, and we were excited to welcome this vibrant addition to our city.
4 Girls Coffee offers not just great coffee but also a warm and inviting space for residents to gather, connect, and enjoy. Small businesses like this are the heart of Santa Ana, and we’re proud to champion their success.
Make sure to stop by, grab a cup of coffee, and support this amazing local business! Together, we can continue to strengthen our community.
Signs of rent gouging rise across the region in fires’ wake!
In the aftermath of the January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles, there has been a significant increase in rent gouging, with landlords raising rents by an average of 15–20%, and in some cases, nearly doubling them. This practice violates California’s anti-price-gouging laws, which cap rent increases at 10% during a state of emergency. Despite warnings from officials, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta, about legal consequences for such violations, reports indicate that many landlords have significantly raised rents illegally. Read the article to learn more about the ongoing efforts to enforce these laws and protect victims during this challenging time.
As signs of rent gouging proliferate amid fires, a call for enforcement – Los Angeles Times
Illumination Foundation and CalOptima Launch First Recuperative Care Center for Unhoused Children and Families
We are excited to share that the Illumination Foundation, an Orange County-based nonprofit focused on disrupting the cycle of homelessness, has partnered with CalOptima Health to launch the nation’s first recuperative care center dedicated to unhoused children requiring medical support, and their families. The Santa Ana facility, funded by a $3.5 million CalOptima Health grant, can house up to six families in private rooms while providing critical medical care, case management, and trauma-informed counseling. This innovative program combines housing assistance with healthcare services, creating a pathway toward permanent housing for medically vulnerable, unhoused children and families. We are incredibly grateful for CalOptima Health’s support in making this vital care center a reality, and we look forward to its positive impact on our community.
California Launches New Rebates to Help Cut Home Energy Costs
California homeowners can now receive rebates of $4,000 to $8,000 to reduce the cost of purchasing and installing energy-efficient home heating and cooling heat pumps. These rebates can also be combined with other incentives for even greater savings on home electric appliances and equipment. Find your AMI and start your application today!
For more details, visit techcleanca.com/heehra.
Free Naloxone Deliveries in Orange County – FentanylSolution.org
In partnership with CalOptima, FentanylSolution.org is offering free deliveries of Naloxone (8mg Kloxxado), an over-the-counter nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone is available at no cost to all residents and businesses across Orange County. To request your free delivery, fill out the brief form here.
Youth Ride Free Bus Passes
Orange County youth aged 6 to 18 can travel for free on safe and reliable buses with the Youth Ride Free pass. These passes are available from participating schools with a parent signature required. Request a pass for your child today!
Upcoming Events & Resources
Join Us for Our Office Hours: Saturday, February 8, 2025
We invite you to attend our upcoming office hours on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Mabury Park, 1801 E. Fruit St. This is a great opportunity to discuss important topics, share your thoughts, and ask questions about the issues that matter most to you and our community. Your input is valuable, and we look forward to hearing from you. Whether you have concerns, ideas, or just want to connect, we encourage you to stop by and be part of the conversation. See you there!
Make a Difference in Your Community – Volunteer with Us!
Join Councilmember Jessie Lopez’s office as a volunteer and help create a positive impact in Santa Ana!
📍 Get involved with City-sponsored events, community cleanups, and office hours.
🤝 Connect with your neighbors, contribute to meaningful projects, and make a real difference.
📚 Earn volunteer hours while gaining valuable experience!
Ready to get started? Email us today at JessieLopez@santa-ana.org and Vmagdaleno@santa-ana.org to sign up or learn more.
Together, we can build a stronger community!
Volunteer with the Discovery Cube Today!
Discover the joy of making a difference by volunteering at the Discovery Cube! This is your chance to inspire curiosity and a love for science in children and families in our community. Whether you’re passionate about education, science, or simply giving back, your time and talents can create a lasting impact.
Learn more and sign up today at Discovery Cube Volunteer Opportunities. Join us in fostering a brighter, more curious future — volunteer now!
Start the New Year with Emergency Preparedness
he start of the new year is the perfect time to revisit your emergency preparedness kit. Make it a priority to update your “Go Kit” to ensure it meets your current needs, whether for yourself or your family. Here are some helpful tips to kickstart your resolution for 2025:
- Check the essentials: Replace any expired food, water, and first aid supplies.
- Adjust for changes: Update your kit if you’ve welcomed a new family member, gotten a pet, or moved homes.
- Include seasonal items: Prepare for winter storms with blankets, hand warmers, and battery-powered light sources.
Take a moment this month to review and reorganize your current kit, or build a new one, so you’re ready for anything the year may bring. For more information, visit ReadyOC to get started today!
Thank you for taking the time to read this month’s newsletter and for staying engaged in our community. Your involvement is what keeps Ward 3 thriving, and I’m grateful to serve you and your families.
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.
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 https://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.
We refrain from selling or sharing your personal information with anyone, and we make every effort to avoid filling your inbox with spam. Thank you for staying connected with us.
To schedule a meeting with Councilwoman Lopez, please contact aulmer@santa-ana.org.