Ward 3 Newsletter: September 2025

Posted on September 30, 2025


Newsletter headerDear Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you well as we say goodbye to a scorching and challenging summer and welcome the cooler, calmer days of early fall. Personally, I’m thrilled to feel the change in weather and the sense of renewal it brings—just in time to recognize the significant events this month: 9/11, Mexican and Central American Independence, Constitution Day, Rosh Hashanah, Navratri, and the start of Latino Heritage Month.

This Latino Heritage Month, we celebrate the voices and contributions of Latina leaders across the country—leaders who guide classrooms, lead tough community fights, respond to disasters, and so much more. Yet challenges remain. Latinas—especially those navigating multiple marginalized identities—often bear the first impacts of societal and policy shifts, yet are among the least represented in the decision-making spaces that shape our communities. Despite comprising nearly 20% of the U.S. female population, Latinas hold fewer than 3% of elected offices nationwide—a stark reminder that true representation is still a work in progress.

I’m also excited to share some wonderful news: thanks to the work of my office, in partnership with OC Habitats, and our incredible volunteers, the City of Santa Ana has earned the Clean California Communities designation from Caltrans’ Clean CA initiative! This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our community in reducing litter, enhancing public spaces, and inspiring pride in our neighborhoods. Congratulations to all the residents, local organizations, volunteers, and partners whose teamwork and commitment made this achievement possible. Team JLO is proud to bring this recognition home and remains committed to putting our values into action. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you soon!

As we move forward, I remain committed to working tirelessly on your behalf—building safer streets, supporting our local businesses, expanding housing access, and creating welcoming spaces for all of our communities. Don’t forget to support OC Pride, and join me at an upcoming park clean-up, community office hours, or other community events. If you need assistance, please feel free to email my office.

Take care,
Councilwoman Jessie Lopez


Councilmember Lopez in our Community


Fiestas Patrias Celebration

Councilmember Lopez at Fiestas Patrias 2025Councilmember Lopez participating in the Fiestas Patrias 2025 Parade

This past weekend, Santa Ana came alive with music, culture, and community as we celebrated Fiestas Patrias, honoring Mexico and Central America’s independence and rich traditions. Families from across the city gathered to enjoy the annual parade, live performances, delicious food, and activities that showcased the history, pride, and vibrant spirit of our community.

Celebrating Fiestas Patrias is about more than just festivities—it’s a time to honor our cultural heritage, pass traditions to younger generations. It was wonderful to see families coming together, enjoying the music and performances, and sharing in the joy of these celebrations. Events like this remind us of the importance of unity, cultural pride, and the joy of celebrating together. Feliz Fiestas Patrias to all!


The City Manager and Mayor Returned a $6.9M State Grant for Youth Programs without Telling the City Council

I am deeply concerned and profoundly disappointed that City staff—at the highest levels of administration—relinquished over $6.9 million in state funding that the City Council unanimously approved. This funding was specifically dedicated to supporting the education, care, and development of children in Santa Ana.

This contract was not just about funding; it represented real, tangible improvements for our families and their future. Had the city manager not unilaterally decided to forfeit this critical funding, the contract would have:

  • Established new licensed child-care facilities citywide, providing safe and enriching spaces for our youth.
  • Offered S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) programming and tutoring for more than 500 children.
  • Supported job creation, licensing, and workforce training.
  • Funded essential park and facility upgrades, including park shade structures and early-learning safety improvements.
  • Helped working families access affordable, high-quality child care, enabling parents to work and children to thrive.

Instead, this opportunity was quietly rescinded behind closed doors—without public notice, City Council oversight, or honest communication from top City administration. Such actions are unacceptable and represent a severe breakdown in transparency and public trust.

As I have previously stated:
“Even if 5-year-olds or 10-year-olds don’t have lobbyists, it is our responsibility to ensure that we do everything possible to provide the services they need to live fulfilling and productive lives.”

This is not a minor procedural error—it is a serious failure in process, priorities, and transparency. When top city administrators make decisions out of public view, they erode the trust that allows local government to function effectively and deliver for the community. It is unacceptable for any administrator to disregard a City Council directive, the City Charter, and withhold information from both elected officials and the public.

You can read more about this story in the following coverage:


Team JLO at the UDW Health & Resource Fair

CM Lopez at UDW Health FairCM Lopez UDW Health Fair under a tent

Our office was excited to participate in the UDW Health and Resource Fair, where Team JLO hosted a table to connect with community members, share resources, and provide information on local services. It was a great opportunity to meet residents, answer questions, and ensure everyone knows about the programs and support available in Santa Ana. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello and engage with our team.


Supporting Student Creativity at Lydia Romero Cruz Academy

CM Lopez at Lydia Romero Cruz Academy CM Lopez at Lydia Romero Cruz Academy Classroom

Our Community Representative recently visited Ms. Ramirez’s 6th–8th grade choir class at Lydia Romero Cruz Academy. I was thrilled to sponsor her classroom and provide a few items to support students with their assignments and upcoming performances.

These talented students are already hard at work preparing for their Aladdin Musical this December, and their dedication is inspiring.

A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Ramirez for the incredible work you do to uplift and inspire the Lydia Romero Cruz Academy community.


Community Workshop: Resources for Santa Ana Families

CM Lopez at Roosevelt Walker Community WorkshopCM Lopez at Roosevelt Walker Community Workshop talking to residents

I recently hosted a community workshop at the Roosevelt-Walker Community Center to share information about the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program. This Santa Ana initiative provides financial assistance and resources for families impacted by immigration enforcement actions, including up to one month of housing or utility support for qualifying residents.

The workshop gave families an opportunity to learn more about the program, ask questions, and receive guidance on starting the application process. Thank you to everyone who joined us to connect with these important resources and support one another.

If you or someone you know may benefit from the program, please contact the Ayuda Sin Fronteras Team at (714) 565-2655 or ayudasinfronteras@santa-ana.org.


Latino Heritage Celebration at Carver Elementary

Councilmember Lopez participates at Latino Heritage Celebration At Carver Councilmember Lopez participates at Latino Heritage Celebration At Carver Group Photo

I had the pleasure of joining Carver Elementary School to celebrate Latino Heritage Month! The event was full of energy and community spirit, featuring a salsa competition, live performances by SAHS Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico, and much more.

A heartfelt thank you to all the families, staff, students, and community partners who attended and made this celebration so special. It was wonderful to come together to honor our culture, traditions, and vibrant community!


OC Habitat Partnership Update: Santiago Park & Creek Restoration

Councilmember Lopez OC Habitat Santiago Park Restoration Councilmember Lopez OC Habitat Santiago Park Restoration Clean up

We are proud of the progress we’ve made in restoring and protecting our local habitat through our partnership with OC Habitats. Since March, we’ve hosted nine of the 12 restoration events planned for 2025, with upcoming sessions scheduled for October 4 and November 1. So far, 149 volunteers have dedicated 15 hours of restoration work, removing over 1,181 lbs. of debris, trash, and invasive species from our riparian ecosystem. Together with OC Habitats and our amazing volunteers, we’ve cleared harmful plants such as black mustard, fennel, milk thistle, sweet alyssum, and nasturtium, while toxic species like castor bean are safely managed by trained staff. This effort highlights the power of community action in restoring natural spaces and protecting Santa Ana’s biodiversity.


Santa Ana’s Newest Library Branch Opens at Jerome Park

CM Lopez Jerome Outdoor Library 1CM Lopez Jerome Outdoor Library 2

I was proud to join the community in celebrating the grand opening of the Outdoor Library at Jerome Park, part of the largest expansion of the Santa Ana Public Library system in more than 50 years. With a total budget of $4.3 million, this innovative project was funded through the City of Santa Ana’s Revive Santa Ana pandemic relief initiative, local sales tax revenue, the Water Resources Division, and a Community Development Block Grant.

The Outdoor Library features a fully enclosed, self-service kiosk with nearly 400 items ranging from books to movies, as well as outdoor seating, public Wi-Fi, and more. To check out materials, residents simply need a Santa Ana Public Library card, with items available for a three-week loan period.

As the first outdoor library of its kind in our city, this project reflects Santa Ana’s commitment to expanding access to knowledge, creativity, and community resources. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating this exciting new addition to our library system.


Santa Ana Annual Emotional Wellness Convening

CM Lopez Santa Ana Emotional Wellness Convening

I participated as a panelist at the Santa Ana Emotional Wellness Convening, a community event dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and resources. During the discussion, we focused on breaking the stigma around seeking help and reinforcing that prioritizing emotional wellness is both normal and necessary.

I was able to provide my perspective on what our community needs are, and resources throughout our community. Many young women reach out to me and often ask me “How do you do it?” They see their own experiences of working with abusive men and bullies reflected in the chamber, and it’s been wonderful to meet so many of our residents, support them, and walk them through best practices that have been proven to work. Events like this are a reminder of the importance of supporting mental health and empowering individuals to seek help when they need it.


Celebrating Chicano Heritage Month

CM Lopez Chicano Heritage Festival 1CM Lopez Chicano Heritage Festival 2

August, we came together to celebrate the Chicano Heritage Festival here in Santa Ana. As a proud Santanera, I shared the importance of celebrating not only our culture and traditions, but also our shared history of resilience.

Chicano Heritage Month reminds us that in both good times and difficult times, we stand together as a community. For generations, Chicanos have fought for civil rights, human rights, and dignity in our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

Today, many of our families still face fear and injustice at the hands of the federal government that continues to target and dehumanize immigrant and Latino communities. But aquí estamos—still here, still strong, and still proud.

Our power is in our unity, our culture, and our refusal to be erased. Together, we will keep celebrating, resisting, and building a future where every Santanero, every Chicano, and every family can live with dignity and hope.


Alzheimer’s Workshop with the Senior Center

CM Lopez Alzheimer Workshop 1CM Lopez Alzheimer Workshop 2

It was important to me to host the Alzheimer’s Association OC and 211 Orange County for a special presentation at the Santa Ana Senior Center. The event provided our older adults with valuable resources, tools, and support for families and caregivers. Participants learned about the wide range of services offered by the Alzheimer’s Association, including education programs, caregiver support groups, early detection guidance, and helplines. Additionally, 211 Orange County shared information on local services, from healthcare and housing assistance to transportation and social programs, helping families navigate resources more easily. We are grateful to our partners for helping us connect the community with these vital services and ensuring our seniors and their caregivers feel supported and empowered.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s here


Supporting Youth Leadership: Volleybug Camp

CM Lopez Volleybug Camp 1CM Lopez Volleybug Camp 2

I was excited to support our Youth Commissioner, Mercy, in launching Volleybug Camp, a youth-led program that combines the fun of volleyball with important lessons on teamwork, healthy habits, and diabetes awareness. Designed especially for elementary school students, Volleybug gives kids the chance to bump, set, and spike while also learning about Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, building confidence, and supporting friends living with the condition. Our office was glad to sponsor snacks for the students during their daily practices, helping them stay energized and focused. It’s inspiring to see young leaders like Mercy making a positive impact in our community.


Celebrating the 3-Year Anniversary of the Little Arabia Designation

CM Lopez Little Arabia Celebration 1CM Lopez Little Arabia Celebration 2

I was thrilled to attend the Layali Little Arabia at Modjeska Park, celebrating the 3rd anniversary of the Little Arabia district designation. This event featured a panel, a vibrant marketplace of local food and small businesses, live performances, and more—a true reflection of the district’s rich culture and history. This anniversary is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and the invaluable contributions of our Arab American community.

It was exciting to see Ward 3 residents in attendance supporting this event. A special thank-you to the Arab American Civic Council and all the organizers for making this event possible. I remain committed to uplifting and supporting all communities across our area.


Exciting New Housing Coming to Santa Ana

CM Lopez New Housing 1 CM Lopez New Housing 2

Our Team attended the Warmington Residential Community Meeting, which highlighted plans for 36 new three-story detached homes, including 6 affordable units. These homes will be for sale, and will be built on a site that was previously YMCA space, transforming it into new housing opportunities for our city.

The project will feature two distinct home designs, with some houses following Plan 1 and others Plan 2. The assigned developer/planner is Douglas Fenn from the Planning Division, and an application has already been submitted to the City for feedback and suggestions.

Construction is expected to begin in 12 to 18 months, and the site will include 72 new parking spaces. At this time, details about purchasing qualifications and individual home prices are not yet available.

If you have any questions regarding this project please reach out to our Planning Division: (714) 557-5511 or email at dfenn@santa-ana.org.


First Street Multimodal Boulevard Study Community Workshop

CM Lopez First Street Multimodal

Our team attended the interactive meeting for the First Street Multimodal Boulevard Study. This project began in 2022 when the City of Santa Ana updated the General Plan Mobility Element, aiming to reconfigure First Street for multimodal improvements. In 2024, the Santa Ana Vision Zero Plan identified First Street as a top priority for safety enhancements, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. The City is partnering with the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) on this initiative, with funding provided by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).

The interactive workshop gave the community a chance to learn about the study, understand what “multimodal” means for First Street, and hear about planned improvements. Key goals include enhancing safety for all travelers, improving traffic flow and transit times, and making First Street more accessible for everyone. Multimodal benefits will support people of all ages and abilities while helping local businesses by making it easier to reach stores and restaurants. The workshop was also a valuable opportunity for residents to share questions, ideas, and concerns to help shape a more welcoming and accessible First Street. Thank you to everyone who attended and participated!


Celebrating 35 years of Impact with Working Wardrobes

CM Lopez Working Wardrobes

I attended the Working Wardrobes Gala, celebrating 35 years of transformative work and the incredible legacy of Jerri Rosen. A heartfelt thank you to Pam Pomush, CEO, and the entire Working Wardrobes team for their dedication, hard work, and continued support of our community. Your efforts change lives and inspire us all!


A Big Win for Santa Ana’s Small Businesses!

CM Lopez A Frame
Jessica Hurtado, 37, owner of Corazon Coffee Bar, takes out her A-frame along Main St. in Santa Ana. Credit: JULIE LEOPO, Voice of OC

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of bringing forward a proposal to support Santa Ana’s small business owners by allowing affordable A-frame signage to help promote their services and attract more foot traffic. I’m thrilled to share that on Tuesday, Sept. 16, the City Council unanimously approved this initiative, marking a significant step forward for our local business community.

Under the new ordinance, each business can display one A-frame sign without a permit, following guidelines that ensure safety and maintain the city’s streetscape. Signs must not obstruct sidewalks or vehicle sightlines, be within specific size limits, and be displayed only during business hours. The regulations are content-neutral, focusing on physical and location standards rather than messaging, aligning with state and federal guidelines.

This common-sense update provides small businesses with a cost-effective, flexible way to attract customers, while preserving Santa Ana’s commitment to pedestrian-friendly and visually appealing public spaces. The ordinance goes into effect 30 days after City Council approval, giving our small business owners a new tool to thrive and succeed.

Learn more here


Santa Ana Items of Interest


City of of Santa Ana Zoo earns Association of Zoos & Aquariums accreditation!

CM Lopez Zoo Accreditation

I am proud to share that the City of Santa Ana’s Zoo at Prentice Park has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a global gold standard recognizing excellence in animal care, education, and conservation. The Zoo, celebrating 75 years of history, has grown from its original “fifty monkeys” concept into a full zoological park and arboretum, home to a diverse collection of animals and plants.

Recent and upcoming enhancements include the “Flight! A Live Butterfly Experience,” updated goat trail and animal contact yard, renovated monkey habitats, new tortoise and reptile exhibits, and the soon-to-open River’s Edge, featuring primate habitats and endangered South American giant river otters.

The Zoo continues to offer educational programs and experiences that inspire the community to protect wildlife and wild spaces. Thank you to our incredible staff for their hard work, dedication, and passion in caring for the animals and making the Santa Ana Zoo a safe, inspiring, and educational place for our community.

The Santa Ana Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit 1801 East Chestnut Ave. or learn more at santaanazoo.org.


Quick Update: Frequently Asked Topics

Property Update:413–419 W. 17th Street

An inspection of the property at 413–419 W. 17th Street was conducted recently. The site remains clean, well-maintained, and free of graffiti, with all wall signage, including the monument sign, removed. A small opening was noted in the chain-link fence along the south side of the property; the property manager confirmed it would be repaired by the end of the day.

The Peruvian business continues to operate a few days per week. The property is monitored three times daily, and security cameras have been installed for ongoing safety.

Project Update: Amazon Building – 511 N. Grand Avenue

Grading permits for the Amazon Building at 511 N. Grand Avenue have been issued and are currently active. All remaining permits are expected to be issued soon, moving the project closer to its next phase of development.

Project Update: South Coast Technology Center 

As part of the ongoing construction at the new South Coast Technology Center, being developed by C.J. Segerstrom & Sons, tenant improvement permits were issued for 3100 and 3120 W. Lake Center Drive on Wednesday, September 17. The scope of work includes constructing improvement specific to Anduril, a major industrial employer in the industrial area off Harbor Boulevard and in the Lake Center Drive area. The project scope includes tenant improvements to provide office, manufacturing, and storage spaces that support Anduril’s expansion into the City of Santa Ana. Both buildings total a combined 200,000 square feet of new, Class A industrial space and the combined valuation for the improvements at both buildings is over $31 million.


Public Works Standard Procedure for Managing Speed on Residential Streets – Policy Update

My office and the Public Works Agency often hears from residents asking for traffic calming and safety measures, especially to slow down speeding on residential streets. Our current policy for managing speed on these streets has guided the installation of speed humps, but certain rules—like those about emergency vehicle response times—have made it hard to fully address these concerns.

As promised, we’ve updated the policy to make it easier to install speed cushions. These cushions work like speed humps to slow regular cars but are designed so fire trucks and other emergency vehicles can pass with little delay.

Thank you for your patience as we make these changes to keep our streets safer for everyone.


Investing in Our Community Assets

At our September 16th Council meeting, I voted on important projects that continue our commitment to investing in Santa Ana’s community assets—especially in Ward 3.

Agenda item 21: Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub – Phase 1

Fortunately, the Council approved moving forward with the first phase of a new Education Hub at the Santa Ana Zoo. Thanks to strong community partnerships, including over $160,000 in donations from the Friends of the Zoo, and additional funding from past years, the City is investing nearly $4.5 million into this project. The Education Hub will provide new spaces for learning, youth programming, and connecting families to nature and conservation. This is a major step forward in making our Zoo a place where education and community come together. See City Council Agenda Item 21

Agenda item 24: Santa Ana Zoo & Park Stormwater Projects

I also secured major funding through the Orange County Transportation Authority’s Environmental Cleanup Program. This includes:

  • $2.5 million for the Santa Ana Zoo Stormwater Capture and Diversion Project, which will improve water quality and protect our environment.
  • $600,000 for a new stormwater capture system at 10th and Flower Park, helping keep our parks and neighborhoods clean and sustainable.

Together, these projects bring over $3 million in outside grant funds into our city—at no cost to our general budget. These investments not only protect our environment but also make our parks and community spaces healthier for families today and for future generations. See City Council Agenda Item 24


Councilwoman Lopez Introduces Policy to Enhance Transparency and Safety in Policing

At the September 16th Council meeting, I proposed a policy directing the City Manager to develop a Santa Ana Police Department policy requiring in-car video systems in all patrol vehicles. These cameras would automatically record during high-risk situations, including vehicular pursuits and emergency responses. Ultimately, the council voted to push the item to October.

This initiative is crucial for several reasons:

  • Reducing Liability: Video evidence from in-car cameras can help clarify events, reducing the risk of costly lawsuits and protecting both officers, our residents, and the city from unfounded claims.
  • Enhancing Officer Safety: Knowing that interactions are recorded can encourage safer and more professional conduct by officers and members of the public.
  • Improving Public Trust: Transparent documentation of police activities fosters greater community confidence in law enforcement practices.

If moved forward, the City Manager is expected to return to the Council within 90 days with a final policy and implementation plan.

CM Lopez Councilmember Requested Item 29


City Council Advances The Village Santa Ana Specific Plan

CM Lopez The Village Rendering

The Council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance for the Specific Plan and Development Agreement. An important step toward transforming a 17.2-acre commercial center near South Coast Plaza into a vibrant mixed-use community: The Village Santa Ana. This redevelopment will bring modern commercial spaces, new housing, jobs, and open space, strengthening Santa Ana’s role as a cultural and economic hub in Orange County.

This allows construction in up to five phases over the next 20 years, depending on market conditions. Once complete, the project will include:

  • Up to 1,583 new residential units
  • 80,000 sq. ft. of retail and dining space
  • 300,000 sq. ft. of office space
  • 13.8 acres of open space, including 7.5 acres of publicly accessible parks and recreational areas

Buildings will range from one to 25 stories and feature a central plaza with restaurants, shops, and cultural amenities. This project is expected to generate thousands of construction and permanent jobs while bringing new opportunities and energy to South Santa Ana.

Learn more here


Policy Watch: CBP Flew Drones to Help ICE 50 Times in Last Year

Newly released records show that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) flew its surveillance drones—including powerful MQ-9 Predators—at least 50 times last year in support of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Beyond ICE, CBP has also operated drones on behalf of other federal, state, and local agencies, expanding a surveillance program that civil liberties advocates have long warned undermines constitutional rights. Notably, two Predator drones were flown over Los Angeles protests. This expanded use of military-grade drones raises serious concerns for immigrant communities and for the right to dissent without government monitoring.

Learn more here


New Census Data Show Persistent Gap Between Incomes and Rent, Impact of Rental Assistance

Fresh data from the American Community Survey show that while both rents and renter incomes rose in 2024, rents continue to outpace earnings. Median rents climbed 5.8% from 2023 to 2024, while renter incomes grew 5.3%, continuing a decades-long trend of housing costs outstripping wages. Since 2001, rents have grown nearly four times faster than renter incomes after adjusting for inflation.

This widening gap hits hardest for households with the lowest incomes — including low-wage workers, seniors, and people with disabilities — many of whom spend more than half their income on rent. In 2023, nearly one-quarter of renter households were severely cost-burdened, a record high of 12.1 million households. Rising rent burdens are a key driver of record homelessness, which reached 770,000 people in 2024.

Rental assistance programs, such as housing vouchers, remain one of the most effective tools to reduce poverty and prevent homelessness. In 2024 alone, they lifted 2.1 million people — including over 600,000 children — above the poverty line. Yet, fewer than one in four eligible households currently receive help, and proposed federal budget cuts threaten to make this lifeline even scarcer.

Expanding rental assistance is critical to closing the rent–income gap and ensuring more families can afford a safe, stable home.

CM Lopez Housing Costs Infographic


Events and Resources


Earthquake Brace + Bolt Grant Program Now Open for 2025

CM Lopez Earthquake Brace And Bolt

The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) Program is now accepting applications for 2025, offering grants to help strengthen older homes against earthquake damage. For the first time, the program has expanded to include rental and non-owner-occupied properties, giving landlords and property owners the chance to protect more residents.

Homeowners and eligible property owners in over 1,100 ZIP Codes can apply for grants up to $3,000 for seismic retrofits, with supplemental grants of up to $7,000 available for income-qualified households earning $89,040 or less per year. Since 2013, the program has assisted over 32,500 California homeowners and made communities more resilient.

Applications are open August 20 through October 1, 2025. For details, eligible ZIP Codes, and contractor resources, visit EarthquakeBraceBolt.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your home and community against future earthquakes!


Explore History Through Photography: The Other Side of Memory

CM Lopez The Other Side Of Memory

Step into the powerful photographic exhibit The Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza, now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.). Featuring rare black-and-white images from the 1960s and ’70s, the exhibition captures defining moments of activism, including the Chicano civil rights movement, Young Lords protests, feminist marches, and global gatherings. Many of these photographs are on public view for the first time, offering a unique glimpse into resistance, identity, and community.

The exhibit is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., through the end of the year. Metered parking is available on-site and nearby streets, with additional parking at lot P8 (301 W. 5th Street). Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a compelling visual history that highlights the spirit of activism in Southern California and beyond.


Summer Park Clean-Up Schedule – Join Us!

CM Santiago Park Cleanup Schedule

We’re excited about our continuous 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:

  • October 4
  • November 1

Noche de Altares 2025

CM Lopez Noche De Altares

Join our community in celebrating Noche de Altares 2025, a cherished tradition led by El Centro Cultural de México for many, many years. This community-driven event honors our loved ones through altars, music, food, and culture. We thank El Centro for continuing this beautiful tradition that brings us together year after year.

📅 Saturday, November 1, 2025

🕛 12 PM – 10 PM

📍 Calle Cuatro & Broadway, Santa Ana, CA

For more information, please direct questions to El Centro Cultural de México.


Volunteer with CRECE Urban Farms

CM Lopez CRECE Urban Farms Volunteering

Help a local urban farm and connect with your community by volunteering with CRECE Urban Farms. You can work on the farm, located at 800 N Cambridge St Orange, CA 92867, and learn about sustainable agriculture and how to start your own garden.

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and get outside. You’ll also get to enjoy some of the healthy and delicious food that you help grow.

Interested in volunteering? The farm is open:

  • Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

To sign up, simply scan the QR code on the flyer above.


Taller de Planificación Patrimonial
CM Lopez Taller De Planificacion Patrimonial

Planear para el futuro es importante, y una excelente manera de hacerlo es asistiendo al taller GRATUITO de dos partes sobre Planificación Patrimonial en la Biblioteca Pública de Derecho del Condado de Orange.

Este taller le ayudará a aprender sobre temas cruciales como testamentos, poderes notariales, directivas de atención médica avanzadas y fideicomisos. Tener estos documentos en orden puede brindarte tranquilidad y asegurar que tus deseos sean seguidos en una situación desafortunada. El taller está programado para el sábado, 18 y 25 de octubre de 2025, de 10:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m. en 515 N. Flower St., Santa Ana, CA 92703. Habrá estacionamiento gratuito y refrigerios ligeros. Para obtener más información, llama al (714) 338-6790.


Other Local Events


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.

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