June was a devastating and deeply emotional month for our community. We saw daily immigration raids, protests, and even the deployment of the National Guard in the heart of downtown Santa Ana. These events have left many in our community shaken, especially our elders, people who came to this country seeking safety, now forced to relive the trauma they once fled.
Since early June, we’ve witnessed numerous arrests, many occurring right outside the immigration courthouse. We’ve seen viral videos of our residents being brutalized, their due process rights ignored time and again. These moments have been painful and retraumatizing especially for those of us who are proud children of immigrants and who understand just how personal and heavy this crisis is.
Even now, in July, these raids continue. The fear remains real for too many of our neighbors.
In response, my office has moved swiftly into action:
- We’ve raised emergency funds to provide direct relief to families who are now out of work.
- We’re helping with food distribution and connecting residents with vital services.
- We’ve stood with our community in the streets, exercising our First Amendment rights and calling for dignity and justice.
- I reached out to the OCTA Board of Directors to request that “Know Your Rights” multilingual information be placed aboard OCTA buses as part of their public information and community safety efforts. I only heard back from Supervisor Sarmiento, and I’m grateful for his responsiveness and willingness to explore a solution that supports the residents who power OCTA as an agency.
I’ve also formally requested the City Manager establish a resident relief fund, and I asked that the City submit a FOIA request to ensure transparency and accountability. Earlier this year, I pushed for rail guards and additional safety measures to protect our diverse residents. Unfortunately, my proposal to reestablish the Sanctuary Working Group was not supported by Council. Instead, in May, a mass surveillance system was approved — one that has now been shown to share sensitive data with ICE.
Despite the chaos around us, the work in my office continues. We are here. We are listening. And we are responding with heart, urgency, and purpose. I remain committed to answering your messages as quickly as I can, and to continuing to support, protect, and uplift our immigrant, refugee, mixed-status, and undocumented families.
I also want to give heartfelt thanks to the Santa Ana Unified School District for continuing to provide food to our families, and to the educators and school staff who are quietly but powerfully supporting families financially and emotionally during this crisis. Your compassion does not go unnoticed. Thank you.
Now more than ever, unity matters. And together, I believe we can meet this moment with courage, compassion, and collective strength.
With care,
Jessie Lopez
Santa Ana Councilwoman
Councilmember Lopez in our community
New Cooperative Spotlight: La Milpa Café
We’re excited to welcome La Milpa Café to our growing network of cooperatives! Rooted in community and tradition, La Milpa Café offers delicious, homemade sweets and a warm, welcoming space for all. As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting local small businesses, we encourage you to stop by, support this worker-owned café, and treat yourself to something sweet. Personally, I like the horchata cold brew and Jamaica iced tea.
Learn more and plan your visit: https://www.lacolmenacoop.com/la-milpa-cafe
Celebrating the Santa Ana and Century High School Class of 2025
It was an absolute honor to attend and celebrate Santa Ana High School and Century High School’s graduation ceremony and celebrate the incredible achievements of the Class of 2025. Watching students walk across the stage, surrounded by proud families, teachers, and friends, was a powerful reminder of the resilience, determination, and brilliance that defines our Santa Ana students.
To all the graduates: congratulations on reaching this important milestone! Your hard work and perseverance have paid off, and this is just the beginning. We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in your communities and beyond. The future is yours — go claim it!
Honoring 50 Years of Little Saigon’s Resilience
The 50 Years of Little Saigon’s Resilience was a powerful celebration of Vietnamese American strength, legacy, and community. We gathered to recognize the pioneers, legacy builders, and business trailblazers who transformed hardship into hope and helped build one of the most vibrant cultural and economic centers in the country.
The event not only honored the past but also empowered the future, connecting community members with resources, business leaders, and one another. It was a reminder of the resilience that defines Little Saigon and the importance of preserving heritage while inspiring the next generation.
Thank you to everyone who made this historic gathering possible — your stories continue to uplift and inspire us all.
Honoring Mr. Mitchell for His Dedication to Santa Ana High School Students!
I had the pleasure of presenting a certificate of recognition to Mr. Mitchell for his unwavering commitment to the students of Santa Ana High School. As a teacher of Criminal Justice, Foundations of Law, and Law and Order, Mr. Mitchell has gone above and beyond to inspire and empower generations of learners.
For over a decade, he has built strong, lasting relationships with his students — many of whom continue to stay connected and credit him for shaping their educational and career journeys. His dedication to teaching and mentorship is a true reflection of the impact educators can have on young lives.
Thank you, Mr. Mitchell, for your passion, guidance, and years of service to our SAHS community!
Proclaiming June as Alzheimer and Brain Awareness Month in Santa Ana
At a recent City Council meeting, I had the honor of presenting a proclamation to the Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County, officially recognizing June as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in Santa Ana.
Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 7 million Americans — including over 700,000 Californians — and is the third leading cause of death in Orange County. This disease deeply impacts individuals, families, and entire communities.
The Alzheimer’s Association continues to lead the way in care, research, and advocacy, including vital support services right here in Orange County. I’m proud to support their mission and to stand with all those affected by this disease.
Let’s keep raising awareness, sharing resources, and working together for a future without Alzheimer’s. Lastly, “Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s” is an intimate portrayal of three families confronting the unique challenges of Alzheimer’s and how this progressive neurodegenerative disease transforms roles and relationships. Whether it’s a partner caring for a loved one or an adult child shifting into being their parent’s caregiver, these stories show how families evolve when a loved one is diagnosed.
Watch: https://www.pbs.org/video/matter-of-mind-my-alzheimers-c9lxuw/
Santiago Park Sign Installed!
I’m excited to share that new wooden signs have been installed at Santiago Park! These beautifully crafted signs add a natural and welcoming touch to one of our community’s most beloved green spaces.
A big thank you to our Public Works Department for their hard work on this project, and a heartfelt thank you to our residents for their patience. Together, we’re continuing to enhance and preserve the beauty of our parks for everyone to enjoy!
Dumpster Day at Mabury Park Neighborhood
Thank you to all the residents who participated in the Mabury Park Dumpster Day! Together, we filled bins, cleared out clutter, and made a positive impact on our neighborhood. Events like these help keep Mabury Park beautiful, safe, and welcoming for everyone. We’re grateful for your hard work and community pride — and we look forward to seeing you at the next one!
If you’d like to request another Dumpster Day, please reach out to my office at Jessielopez@santa-ana.org.
Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Bristol-Tolliver Street Urban Greening Park Project
I attended the groundbreaking of the Bristol-Tolliver Street Urban Greening Project — our City’s newest park! This 1.25-acre green space, located at the corner of Bristol and Tolliver streets, will serve as a vital community hub featuring children’s play equipment, adult fitness areas, shade structures, a basketball court, and more.
In addition to offering new recreational opportunities, this park will be the first in Santa Ana to capture and reuse stormwater runoff for irrigation — an innovative feature that will help improve water quality in the Newport Bay Watershed. This project reflects our community’s commitment to sustainability, health, and expanding access to green space for all residents. The park is expected to open in early 2026.
Santa Ana Active Streets Summer Solstice Bike Ride Fundraiser
Team JLO joined Santa Ana Active Streets for their Summer Solstice Bike Ride Fundraiser. The morning started with a community bike ride, followed by an afternoon of food, drinks, and connection at Santa Ana River Brewing Company.
This event was more than a fundraiser — it was a celebration of the work they have been doing to build safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, and a city where walking and biking feel welcoming for everyone. The support raised will help Santa Ana Active Streets continue its vital efforts throughout the year, including bike safety workshops, programs for students and families, and ongoing advocacy for better infrastructure and policies that benefit our whole community.
I’m grateful to stand alongside all those working to make Santa Ana a healthier, safer, and more connected place for all.
Councilwoman Jessie Lopez Honors The Nobodys for Their Impact on our Santa Ana Community
I’m proud to recognize The Nobodys for all they’ve done to build community and uplift Santa Ana through their music. From legendary venues and local bars to backyard shows and college campuses, they’ve brought people together and inspired countless connections. Despite the challenges that come with pursuing their passion, they’ve stayed dedicated, worked hard, and kept the dream alive. Their upcoming debut album is a testament to that resilience — and a reminder of what’s possible when a community believes in its artists. I’m grateful for their energy, their impact, and their role in making Santa Ana a place where music and culture can thrive. Thank you for making our city proud!
Santiago Park Clean Up
Team JLO recently hosted another successful Creek Cleanup and it wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible dedication of over 40 volunteers who showed up ready to make a difference! Thank you to everyone who rolled up their sleeves and helped keep our parks and waterways clean and beautiful.
Together, we cleared out cigarette butts, plastic bottle caps, food wrappers, and other litter stopping this waste from flowing into our wetlands and beaches, where it can harm wildlife and pollute our water. Your hard work truly helps protect our environment and keeps our community healthy.
Looking to pitch in next time? Check out the volunteer opportunity below. We’d love to see you out there with us!
Thank You for Running with Us, Santa Ana!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to participate and cheer at our recent Fun Run. What an uplifting and energizing day! A special shoutout to our amazing local run club for bringing their support and community spirit. It was such a joy to see everyone on the course and especially rewarding to hand out medals to our youngest runners crossing the finish line.
Events like this show just how strong, active, and connected our Santa Ana community truly is. Let’s keep the momentum going, keep moving, keep running, Santa Ana!
Ward 3 Updates
FISHER PARK TRAFFIC ALERT
No right turn from eastbound Memory Lane onto southbound Westwood Avenue set to begin testing soon.
Santa Ana Public Works will soon begin testing a no-right-turn Monday through Friday, 6-9 a.m. sign at the intersection of eastbound Memory Lane and southbound Westwood Ave as a way to try mitigating cut-through traffic that has been adversely affecting Morrison Park and Fisher Park residents, particularly those along Sharon Road. This test could last up to six months and resident feedback will be gathered as part of the process. The City will be monitoring traffic flow and numbers during this test.
Please be aware of this change, as the sign is being fabricated and could go up any day.
Project Update: 413–417 W. 17th Street
On Friday, June 27, our Code Enforcement Manager and our Planning and Building Executive Director met with the property owner, along with the project’s architect, engineer, and onsite security team.
While the property currently holds minor permits for patchwork repairs, no full plans had been submitted to the Building Safety Division for plan check at the time of the meeting. The team discussed ongoing code enforcement fines related to security gaps in fencing, graffiti, and unauthorized onsite activities by individuals experiencing homelessness. We reaffirmed our commitment to prioritize review and processing for this project, given its high visibility near Downtown and along a key commercial corridor.
We’re pleased to report that on Monday, June 30, the architect and engineer submitted complete plans to start the plan check process. City staff recognize the importance of this project and have prioritized it for expedited review. In the meantime, Code Enforcement is helping the owner register the property under the City’s Vacant Properties Registry and continues proactive site monitoring to address ongoing concerns.
Councilwoman Lopez introduces requested item to protect our community
As part of my ongoing efforts to support our community from unlawful activity, I’ve recommended that the City Council direct staff to Prepare an Ordinance Requiring all Law Enforcement Officers Operating in Santa Ana to Wear Clearly Visible Identification (Name or Badge Number) and Prohibit Face Coverings that Obscure Identity During Public Interactions.
I also recommended resolutions supporting Senate Bill 627 and Senate Bill 805. SB 627 would prohibit California law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings that obscure their identities during public interactions, with exceptions made for medical, environmental, or tactical safety reasons. It also requires visible identification and agency markings on uniforms. SB 805 would require officers to clearly display their name or badge number while on duty and prevent individuals from impersonating law enforcement, addressing growing incidents of abuse and fear in immigrant communities.
Read the Councilmember-Requested Item report here. To watch the segment, click here.
Morrison Park Update: 4 Pickleball Courts Now Open!
I’m excited to share that Morrison Park now features a 4-court pickleball setup, giving players more space to enjoy pickleball! This update is a direct result of community feedback, and we want to give a big thank you to the Morrison Park resident who reached out, as well as to our Public Works staff for making it happen.
We hope residents enjoy the new setup — and we encourage you to keep the ideas and feedback coming. Your input helps improve our shared spaces and make our community even better. See you out there!
Update on the 17th Street and Grand Avenue Shopping Center
I want to provide an update regarding the large shopping center at the corner of 17th Street and Grand Avenue. At this time, there are no active redevelopment applications for the site. However, the City’s Economic Development Division is actively marketing the site to prospective developers for potential mixed‑use commercial and housing projects, aligning with its new designation in the Santa Ana General Plan.
Given the site’s condition and current vacancy rate, our Code Enforcement Division also monitors it regularly to ensure it is properly maintained — including buildings, lighting, and landscaping. As Independence Day approaches, Code Enforcement will be working closely with the Santa Ana Police Department to deter loitering, parking lot disturbances, and illegal fireworks. In case of emergencies such as fires, public intoxication, or other imminent dangers, please call the Police Department directly.
If you notice any activity or have questions about the site, you can also contact Code Enforcement Division Manager Yvette Portugal or my office directly.
OC Sanitation District Updates, Innovation & Construction Updates
I was appointed as an alternate board member for the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San). I look forward to supporting the important work they’re doing to improve public health, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability across our region.
Here are a few key updates from OC San:
Introducing the RISE Program: OC San has launched the Resource Innovation for a Sustainable Environment (RISE) program, which focuses on advanced technologies like Supercritical Water Oxidation and Deep Well Injection to improve wastewater treatment and environmental impact. Learn more at www.ocsan.gov/RISE.
OC San was recently highlighted in the Orange County Register’s California Water insert, recognizing the district’s leadership in innovation through the RISE program. The feature is available at www.ocsan.gov and on OC San’s social media.
Construction Updates Around the County
- Costa Mesa: Pipeline rehabilitation continues along Airway Avenue and near the 405 freeway.
- Fountain Valley: A new traffic signal at Ellis Avenue and Mt. Langley Street is expected to be installed by summer.
- Huntington Beach: Soil improvement work is underway at Plant No. 2; bike trail access is reduced during construction.
- Orange: The Taft Avenue Sewer Improvement Project is ongoing through July, with work near the Taft and Shaffer intersection.
For questions about OC San construction, contact their Community Liaison at 714-378-2965 or email ConstructionHotline@ocsan.gov.
Traffic Safety Update: Fisher Park and Morrison Park
No left turn/u-turn at southbound Bristol Street and Park Lane set to begin testing.
As part of Santa Ana Public Works’ ongoing efforts to reduce cut‑through traffic and improve safety, the department will be testing new measures in the Fisher Park and Morrison Park neighborhoods. This includes a temporary closure of the left‑turn lane for southbound traffic on Bristol Street turning east onto Park Lane. This change is being implemented due to a number of serious accidents and near‑misses at that intersection.
Depending on the results of this test and input from the community, the left‑turn lane closure may be made permanent.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to create safer streets for everyone. Stay alert and drive safely!
City Updates and Resources
New Delhi Library Branch
Library Services are coming to the south side of Santa Ana — inside the Delhi Center! We’re excited to welcome you to this long-awaited new branch.
Highlights of the space include:
- A modern glass storefront entrance
- Stylish furniture and updated interior finishes
- A Knowledge Bar to help with tech support
- A new outdoor patio with play features and space for library programs
Visitors will be able to check out and return materials, access technology, and enjoy new programming designed for all ages. I can’t wait to see you there!
Outdoor Public Library at Jerome Park – Coming August 2025!
Santa Ana’s first-ever Outdoor Library is arriving this summer at Jerome Park! This exciting new space will bring library services outdoors, making it even easier for the community to connect, learn, and enjoy. These new infrastructure projects were made possible by federal pandemic recovery funds.
Features include:
- A self-service Mini-Library kiosk with nearly 400 books, movies, and more
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Programs and activities for all ages
- Inviting new spaces to gather, learn, and play
We look forward to welcoming you to this innovative library experience in July 2025!
Summer Park Clean-Up Schedule – Join Us!
Our team is excited to release our summer schedule for Santiago Park clean-ups, and we encourage all residents to participate! By joining us, you’ll help prevent debris from reaching our wetlands and the ocean, protecting our environment and keeping our parks beautiful.
Santiago Park clean-ups will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the following Saturdays:
- July 26
- September 13
- October 4
- November 1
Asthma Remediation Program at Latino Health Access Assists OC Families
The Asthma Remediation Program helps Medi-Cal families make their homes healthier and safer for those living with asthma — completely free of charge. Families can receive in-home assessments, personalized education, and free supplies like mattress dust covers, air purifiers, and pest control products. We’re here to help every step of the way.
To learn more and find out if you qualify, call us at (714) 388-6380 or fill out our online form today.
Lawn and Garden Equipment Rebate Program – Get Up to $250 Back!
Get up to $250 per equipment when you replace your old lawn and garden equipment with electric models. Purchase up to three lawn and garden equipment in store or online and get up to $250 cash back per equipment.
The program is on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out. Each electric lawn and garden equipment purchased must be cordless and include a battery and charger. You must scrap an operational and equivalent lawn and garden equipment for each electric equipment to receive the rebate.
For questions or more info please email lawnmower@aqmd.gov or call 888-425-6247 (Tuesday-Friday, 9-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m.)
OC Free Gun Lock Program Aims to Prevent Deaths
The OC Free Gun Lock Program provides Orange County residents with free gun locks to help ensure safe firearm storage. This program aims to reduce the risk of accidental injuries, deaths, suicides, and firearm theft while raising awareness about safe storage practices and California’s gun laws.
Gun locks are available at no cost to all Orange County residents. To request yours, simply fill out the online form at d4.ocgov.com/FreeGunLocks. Locks will be mailed directly to your home, along with helpful resources, including a video tutorial on proper storage and information about California’s changing firearm laws — like SB 53, which will require secure storage for all firearms starting in 2026.
IMMIGRATION RESOURCES
Know Your Rights Red Cards: Stay Informed, Stay Protected
“Know Your Rights” Red Cards are a simple, powerful tool that help community members understand and assert their constitutional rights when interacting with authorities. These cards clearly state a person’s right to remain silent and to request an attorney — vital information if you’re stopped or questioned. Carrying a Red Card can help protect you and your loved ones, especially in moments of uncertainty. It’s important that we all know our rights and have the tools to stand up for ourselves and our neighbors.
Know Your Rights: : ICE Arrests at Immigration Courthouses
I want to inform our community about the increasing number of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) arrests happening at EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review) courthouses. Government attorneys are asking immigration judges to dismiss certain cases — often leading to immediate arrests and potential deportations, especially for immigrants with orders of removal or who have been in the U.S. for less than two years.
If you or someone you know is at risk, it’s important to know your rights:
- You have the right to oppose the dismissal of your case.
- You can ask for time to consult with an attorney.
- If your case is dismissed, you have the right to appeal the judge’s decision.
- Always ask for a hearing notice before leaving the courthouse if a new hearing is scheduled.
- Do not sign anything without first speaking to a lawyer.
If you are detained and fear returning to your country, say so clearly and request a credible fear interview — even if it means repeating yourself.
For immediate legal support, contact the IMMDEF Rapid Response Hotline at (213) 833-8283 (available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
For more resources, visit: www.ImmDef.org/resources
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!
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.
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.
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.
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To schedule a meeting with Councilwoman Lopez, please contact aulmer@santa-ana.org.