Ward 3 Newsletter: November 2024

Dear Neighbor,

The election is over, and people are feeling a mix of emotions-some are relieved, others worried, and many are uncertain about what comes next. No matter how you're feeling, one thing remains clear: our city stands against any form of bigotry. We are a community bound by more than just proximity. We are united by shared hopes - for safe neighborhoods, a stable future for our children, and opportunities for every family to thrive. These are values that transcend politics, and they will remain at the heart of everything I fight for as your Councilwoman.

Now is not the time to despair, nor is it the time to divide ourselves further. This is the moment to stand firm in our shared resilience. Together, we will face the challenges ahead by committing to policies and programs that protect, uplift, and unite all of us. Our city will not turn its back on those who are marginalized; we will build a community where every family feels safe, valued, and empowered.

In these next four years, my focus will remain steadfast on the issues that matter most to you: housing, homelessness, community programming, upgrading our infrastructure, and continuing to bring transparency to City Hall.

While distractions from higher levels of government may come and go, I promise to keep my eyes on what truly matters - delivering tangible results for our community and standing against any attempt to undermine our progress or democracy. As we navigate uncertain times, let us remember that resilience is not just about enduring hardships; it is about coming together, lifting one another up, and building something stronger than what existed before.

Let us pause to reflect on the things that give us strength - our families, our shared values, and the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can create a fruitful city that truly values diversity, and every resident feels the promise of hope.

As we embark on this journey, let us hold fast to the words of Pablo Neruda: "You can cut all the flowers, but you can't stop the spring."

With gratitude and determination,

Councilwoman Jessie Lopez

Ward 3

Ward 3 and Citywide Highlights

Estrella Springs Grand Opening

I am incredibly proud to announce the grand opening of Estrella Springs, a transformative development providing supportive housing for formerly homeless veterans and individuals with mental health needs. As your councilwoman and Vice Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, I am committed to addressing housing insecurity and supporting those who have served our nation. This project, once a dilapidated motel, now features 89 homes with a community center offering essential services, creating a stable environment where residents can thrive. With $3.5 million in funding from the Housing Trust and a strong partnership with Jamboree Housing, Estrella Springs will house 10% of the remaining veterans experiencing homelessness in Orange County.

This achievement was made possible through funding from the City of Santa Ana, including $1.7 million in CDBG funds and 89 project-based vouchers, as well as $4.7 million from CalOptima Health, $10 million from the State's VHHP Program, and additional contributions from HUD and private partners. Together, these investments highlight our community's commitment to providing comprehensive housing solutions that not only address homelessness but also offer on-site support and resources to ensure long-term stability. Estrella Springs is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to care for our most vulnerable residents.

Councilwoman Lopez speaks with Franz, a former Marine who experienced homelessness for three years, sleeping behind a Walmart. Together, they discussed his challenges, his love for his new home, and his hopes to help others find housing.

To read more about the state of veterans, read this.

Thanksgiving Approaches

We're just days away from gathering with our families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate Thanksgiving. However you choose to spend this time, I hope you remember that you're never alone.

For me, Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year. I often travel to Washington, D.C., to visit family or welcome them here at home. It's a time filled with cherished traditions like cooking together, playing with my niece and nephew, and sharing stories over delicious meals.

To help ensure Ward 3 families feel the abundance of this season, I was proud to partner with Serve the People, CalOptima, Carrazco Law, and the Mexican Consulate to host a special turkey giveaway. Families not only received turkeys but also grocery bags, free hot chocolate, tamales, and access to health check-ups.

This season is a reminder for all of us to reflect, be grateful, and extend kindness to those around us. It's an opportunity to acknowledge the good in our lives while finding ways to give back to others. I look forward to continuing to serve Ward 3 families and connecting them to the resources they deserve. May we all take a moment to appreciate the abundance of community and care in our lives.

Santa Ana's Employee Appreciation Day

I had a blast serving food and judging the Halloween costume competition at our employee celebration! I truly enjoyed serving our incredible team, and I'm grateful for all the hard work you do.

Givo's Ice Cream

I'm excited to share with you one of Santa Ana's local gems - Givo's Ice Cream! This unique paletería brings the vibrant flavors of Michoacán to our community, offering fresh fruits and creative, mouthwatering flavors. I'm proud to support small businesses like Givo's that add so much to the heart of Santa Ana. I encourage you to stop by, try their delicious paletas and ice creams, and experience these amazing flavors for yourself! Let's show them our support and keep our local businesses thriving.

Update: Santiago Creek Tree Trimming Completed

From November 12 to November 15, 2024, Orange County Public Works (OCPW) successfully completed tree trimming activities within Santiago Creek. Crews trimmed 19 trees in 12 locations between Bristol Street and Flower Street to enhance fire safety and maintain tree health. As promised, no trees were removed during the process, and environmental personnel confirmed there was no nesting bird activity in the work area.

This maintenance project reflects our ongoing commitment to the safety and sustainability of our community spaces. Thank you to Orange County Public Works, Supervisor Sarmiento's office for their diligent work, and Ward 3 residents for your cooperation.

Addressing Quality-of-Life Issues

I recently met with the owners of Sound of Color Studio, located here in Ward 3, to discuss ongoing issues they face. During the meeting, we outlined a proactive approach to address their concerns and ensure they continue to thrive as part of our vibrant community. We're committed to supporting local businesses and fostering open communication to resolve challenges effectively.

Flood Control Funding from Supervisor Sarmiento

I am thrilled to announce that Supervisor Sarmiento has successfully secured $100,000 in funding for Santa Ana to support the cleanup of encampments. This funding is a critical step toward ensuring safer, cleaner public spaces for our community, and it reflects Supervisor Sarmiento's commitment to addressing urgent local needs. We're grateful for his dedication to improving the quality of life for Santa Ana residents.

Councilmember Lopez's Site Visits

During my recent fieldwork-where I walk through different areas of Ward 3 to see firsthand what needs attention-I came across a vandalized utility box. We immediately took action to have it replaced, ensuring our streets remain clean! I'm committed to addressing issues big and small because every detail matters when it comes to keeping Ward 3 a community we're proud of.

Santa Ana is Updating its Zoning Rules - Here's Why it Matters!

The City of Santa Ana is updating its rules for how land can be used and developed. These rules, called the Zoning Code, help decide what can be built in our neighborhoods and where things like homes, shops, and parks go.

Why is This Important?

The current rules are very old - they haven't been updated since the 1960s! It's time to bring them up to date so they fit the vision of what our community wants, follow new state laws, and make Santa Ana a better place to live and work.

This update will help make neighborhoods more welcoming and create spaces where both residents and businesses can thrive.

A big thank you to everyone who has participated and shared their ideas. Your voices are shaping the future of Santa Ana!

Santa Ana Cantos, Cuentos, y Corridos

I had an incredible time attending Cantos, Cuentos, y Corridos of Santa Ana: Stories of the Heart,an inspiring showcase of storytelling through song, spoken word, and poetry. This vibrant event, brought to life by the talented Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble, local artists, and community participants, reimagines the untold stories of Santa Ana's people, history, and culture. The performance was the culmination of community workshops that highlighted the heart and soul of our city, celebrating its unique legacy in a powerful and moving way. Pictured above are Parks and Rec Commissioner Herrera and Arts and Culture Commissioner Debra Russell.

Celebrating Breaking a Guinness World Record

Mazapán has always held a special place in our hearts and memories-from sweet treats served by neighborhood vendors to a symbol of family resilience and tradition. The world record was recently broken in our community and made history with an incredible 10-ton mazapán, breaking a Guinness World Record right here at home! It was a unique chance to celebrate our culture and come together as one vibrant community. Those who joined the festivities were part of an unforgettable moment, enjoying delicious treats and helping to make history.

Metro East Senior Apartments Update

Residents of Metro East Senior Apartments at 2222 E. First St. have voiced ongoing concerns about property management issues during several recent council meetings. The City has taken these complaints seriously and continues to address them within its legal authority. Staff has attended resident meetings at the complex and coordinated efforts with Jamboree Housing, CONAM, and other stakeholders. Since August, multiple site visits and inspections have been conducted by Code Enforcement, CDA, and SAPD to ensure gate operability and resolve issues such as damaged fencing and landscaping.

On November 8, the City issued a 30-day Notice to Comply to the property owner under the Density Bonus Housing Agreement. This notice outlines alleged deficiencies, including inadequate security, the closure of the common room, insufficient supportive services, and poor parking management. Failure to comply by December 8 may result in a Notice of Default and further enforcement actions. Additionally, the City is partnering with the Public Law Center to offer on-site workshops to support residents, despite these efforts being outside the property owner's contractual obligations.

It is important to note that the City does not own or operate the property, has no direct control over its daily management, and does not have a say in the amount of rent increases issued. Despite these restrictions, our staff will continue to assist in mitigating issues and facilitating conversations. We remain committed to advocating for residents and will continue working with tenant advocacy groups while utilizing all available tools to address these concerns.

Hometown Heroes Military Banner Program

The City of Santa Ana is honoring our military residents through the Hometown Heroes Military Banner Program! Families can nominate an active duty service member to be recognized with a custom street banner along MacArthur Blvd or Civic Center Drive.

Business Sponsorship Opportunity: Help honor our residents by sponsoring a banner! Your support will ensure our service members receive the recognition they deserve.

Military Banner Application

Business Sponsorship Opportunity

Santa Ana Public Library Digital Resources

With the temporary closure of the Main Library, Santa Ana Public Library is still offering a variety of online resources through its e-library, providing access to digital content with a library card. Highlights include:

• Hoopla: Stream or download movies, music, e-books, and more.
• Kanopy: Enjoy ad-free films, documentaries, and classic cinema.
• Comics Plus: Access thousands of comics, graphic novels, and manga.
• Mango: Learn from 71 languages with cultural insights.
• NewspaperArchive: Search historical newspapers (available at Main and Newhope Library).
• Ancestry Library Edition: Explore genealogy records at library branches.
• ABCmouse: Educational app for children ages 2-8 with interactive learning activities.

Visit Santa Ana's e-libraryto start accessing these resources.

OCTA Awards More Than $10 Million to Improve Orange County's Water Quality

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has awarded $10.6 million in Measure M funds to support projects improving water quality by reducing transportation-related pollution across the county. This funding, part of a broader environmental commitment under Measure M, enables cities and the county to remove pollutants from streets before they reach waterways. Since 2011, approximately $40 million has been awarded to 233 Tier 1 projects, which focus on reducing visible pollutants through equipment upgrades for storm drains and catch basins. Tier 2 projects support larger, regional initiatives, such as constructed wetlands and bioswales, aimed at filtering out heavy metals, chemicals, and sediment. This dual-tier approach reflects OCTA's dedication to both transportation and environmental protection.

Upcoming events

Notary Services Available at City Hall!

The Santa Ana City Clerk's Office now offers notary services Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., by appointment. The fee is $15 per signature, with valid identification required. Payments can be made via credit card, personal check, cashier's check, or money order.

To schedule, email [email protected]or call (714) 647-6520. Services are provided at Santa Ana City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza.

Suavecito's Annual Toy Drive

Join Suavecito's Annual Toy Drive at the Suavecito Headquarters, 2831 W. 1st St., on December 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.! Enjoy food, music, and raffles while supporting a great cause. Don't forget to stop by and be part of this wonderful community event!

CalOptima Health is Partnering with Hazel Health

CalOptima Health is partnering with Hazel Health and school districts across Orange County to make mental health support more accessible for school-aged students. Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, provides online therapy services through licensed, highly qualified clinicians to address students' concerns such as anxiety, depression, and peer and family relationships. K-12 students in participating school districts can access online therapy wherever they are - at school or at home, at no cost to the student or family. Please help raise awareness of this mental health service to families by sharing this information throughout our community.

Scan the QR code in the flyer above for more information, call 888-541-7063 or visit hazel.co/get-hazel to access services.

DTSA First Saturday ArtWalk

Every First Saturday
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
From Second & Broadway to Fourth & French Street

Experience the vibrant heart of our community at the DTSA ArtWalk, a free, family-friendly celebration of arts and culture! Explore live art, local vendors, live music, and dancing under the stars, while discovering over twenty galleries and studios with dynamic exhibitions and performances.

This community-driven event, hosted by The Frida Cinema, a nonprofit organization, brings the joy of art and creativity to all. Let's keep supporting arts programming that inspires and connects us. See you there!

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 [email protected]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 [email protected].

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To schedule a meeting with Councilwoman Lopez, please contact [email protected].

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