Ward 3 Newsletter: April 2026

Hello Neighbors,

April has been a full and energizing month, and it is hard to keep this newsletter short when so much meaningful work is happening across our city. From groundbreakings and park improvements to new programs and policy wins at City Council, there is a lot to be proud of and even more to look forward to.

This month also invites us to reflect and honor important moments across our diverse community. We solemnly recognize Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, holding space for the lives lost and the enduring strength of the Armenian people. We acknowledge Black April, commemorating the fall of Saigon and honoring the resilience of Vietnamese families and refugees. We celebrate Vaisakhi, marking renewal, community, and the rich traditions of our Sikh neighbors.

In the spirit of Earth Day, it was especially meaningful to come together at Edna Park to plant coast oak trees alongside our local running clubs and families. We did so in honor of Alex's life, a reminder that even in loss, we can create something lasting, rooted, and full of hope for future generations.

Thank you, as always, for staying connected, showing up, and being true partners in this work. This is our community, and the progress we are making belongs to all of us.

With gratitude,

Your Councilwoman,

Jessie Lopez

Councilmember Lopez in our Community!

Santa Ana is a designated Clean California Community!

Last year, our team, alongside OC Habitats, worked diligently toward achieving designation as a Clean California Community for Santa Ana. Through ongoing cleanups, advocacy for green spaces, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, we successfully met all 10 requirements, making Santa Ana one of the few communities recognized by Caltrans. A few weeks ago, we proudly installed our official Clean California Community sign at the park where much of this work has been centered, helping prevent trash and debris from flowing down the creek and into the ocean. This achievement reflects the power of community, and we are grateful to our volunteers, OC Habitats, and residents for coming together to keep Santa Ana clean, green, and environmentally responsible.

$250,000 for Affordable Housing Brought Home by Congressman Derek Tran

On April 10, I was proud to represent Santa Ana at a ceremony where Congressman Derek Tran presented $250,000 in federal Community Project Funding to the OC Housing Finance Trust. I serve on the Trust's Board of Directors on behalf of the City, and this funding will be leveraged into $1.25 million in affordable housing financing to support the development of 2,700 permanent affordable housing units across Orange County.

Congressman Tran now represents the west side of Santa Ana, and we've already begun conversations about additional funding opportunities for our city. This is exactly the kind of federal partnership we need to make progress on housing - and we're just getting started.

Santa Ana Fun Run - April 11

Santa Ana hit the ground running - literally! Over 3,000 participants took over the streets on April 11 for the annual Fun Run at Santa Ana Stadium, and the energy was pure Santa Ana from start to finish. Congratulations to our top finishers, and thank you to everyone who participated. Whether you ran, walked, or cheered from the sidelines, you made this event unforgettable.

Kindercaminata with Santa Ana College

I had the pleasure of attending this year's Kindercaminata, where nearly 1,000 kindergarten students from Santa Ana Unified School District visited the campus of Santa Ana College for a day of inspiration and exploration. This special event gives our youngest learners an early introduction to college life, helping them envision their future beyond high school and begin dreaming about their careers. It was incredible to see the excitement and curiosity as students walked through campus, imagining what's possible for their future. Thank you to Santa Ana College and SAUSD for the invitation and for creating such a meaningful experience for our students!

Honoring Earth Day Through Community and Remembrance

In honor of Earth Day, we hosted a meaningful tree planting event in Santa Ana that brought together community, remembrance, and environmental action. This year was especially significant as we honored Alex's life by planting coast live oak trees in his name - native to California and known for supporting hundreds of species while standing strong for generations. These trees will serve as a lasting tribute, carrying his memory forward for years to come.

Over the past four years, our office has remained committed to hands-on environmental work, from cleanups and trail restoration to advocating for greener spaces across our city. Thank you to Alex's family, our volunteers, city teams, and community partners who continue to show up and lead by example. This work reflects the power of consistent effort, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to a cleaner, greener Santa Ana.

Serving Community on Easter Day

I had the pleasure of attending the Serve the People Easter Day Event, where I spent meaningful time connecting with our community and celebrating the spirit of togetherness. The event brought families together for a day filled with joy, resources, and support, reflecting the heart of service that defines our community.

It was wonderful to see neighbors come together, share in the celebration, and uplift one another. Thank you to Serve the People and all the volunteers who made this event possible and continue to show up for our residents with compassion and care.

Santa Ana's First Dog Park

I was thrilled to attend the grand opening of Santa Ana's very first dog park, a meaningful addition for our community and our four-legged friends. The park features designated areas for both small and large dogs, creating a safe and welcoming space for all to enjoy. This milestone reflects our continued commitment to expanding recreational spaces for residents and their pets. We are also looking ahead to a pilot dog park coming to Ward 3, so stay tuned for more details as we continue investing in community centered projects.

Honoring Arab American Heritage Month

I was proud to present a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month - the first time the City of Santa Ana has formally recognized this observance. Santa Ana is one of the most diverse cities in Orange County, and our Arab American neighbors are an essential part of that story, contributing to our cultural life, small business community, and civic fabric every day.

I was joined by incredible community leaders and organizations including the Arab American Civic Council, CAIR-LA, the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, Sabil USA, Global Hope 365, and many others. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful recognition.

Arab American Women in Power Luncheon

I had the honor of attending the Arab American Women in Power Luncheon, an inspiring gathering that uplifted and celebrated the leadership, resilience, and impact of Arab American women in our communities. The event brought together leaders, advocates, and changemakers committed to empowering women and advancing equity across all sectors.

It was a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the strength that comes from community and shared purpose. I am grateful for the opportunity to be in such a meaningful space and to learn from the incredible women who continue to lead with vision, courage, and dedication.

Honoring Vaisakhi with the Sikh Community

I had the privilege of visiting the Sikh Center of Orange County in celebration of Vaisakhi, a deeply meaningful occasion marking the birth of Sikhism. This special visit was an opportunity to recognize the Center's continued dedication to faith, service, and community, and to uplift the Sikh values of selfless service that guide their work.

Their contributions strengthen unity, cultural understanding, and compassion throughout our community, while inspiring future generations to lead with purpose and care. I am grateful for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to celebrate and learn alongside such a vibrant and impactful community.

Inspiring Conversations with Our Youngest Leaders at Pio Pico

I was grateful for the opportunity to serve as a panelist at Pio Pico Elementary School, where I spent time with some of our youngest constituents hearing who inspires them and what they are dreaming about. We talked about their favorite foods, colors, books, and even the careers they are beginning to imagine for themselves.

Students also asked thoughtful and important questions, including how we can bring more restrooms to our parks, a powerful reminder that their voices matter right now, not just in the future. Thank you to our educators, Community Schools Coordinator Gloria Garcia, and the administrators at Pio Pico for creating a space where students feel supported, curious, and heard. And to our students, thank you for your energy, honesty, and for being so incredible.

Celebrating Cambodian New Year with Community

I had the honor of joining The Cambodian Family and our community to celebrate Cambodian New Year, also known as Chaul Chnam Thmey. It was a joyful and meaningful experience filled with culture, tradition, and connection. I am especially grateful to the Cambodian aunties who welcomed me with such warmth, treated me like family, and dressed me in a beautiful traditional outfit.

Thank you to The Cambodian Family and our residents for all that you do to keep our community healthy, vibrant, and rich in culture. I am deeply grateful to be trusted with your stories and traditions and to continue learning from you. Wishing everyone a year of health, prosperity, and happiness.

MainPlace / The Carina Groundbreaking

I spoke at the groundbreaking for The Carina at MainPlace. For decades, MainPlace has been more than a mall. It's been a gathering place for Santa Ana families, and it's right here in Ward 3. This next chapter brings homes, dining, entertainment, and more walkable public space to the site.

As our city grows and attracts new investment, I remain committed to making sure that growth works for the residents who are already here - the families who built this community and call it home. Developments like this bring jobs and economic activity, and it also raises important questions about affordability and who gets to benefit. I'll continue pushing to ensure that as Santa Ana evolves, longtime residents aren't left behind.

Learn more about The Carina.

Policy Wins and Council Actions

Renaming Campesino Park

At our April 7 meeting, the City Council voted to rename Cesar Chavez Campesino Park to Campesino Park, and to remove the name and likeness of Cesar Chavez from City-owned assets. This decision followed recent reporting that surfaced serious allegations of sexual abuse - allegations that are deeply disturbing and that I believe must be taken seriously. I stand with survivors, and I believe our city's public spaces should reflect our values of accountability, dignity, and respect. The park itself, and what it represents for our farmworker community, remains something I am deeply proud to honor. The name Campesino Park keeps that spirit alive.

A New Park is Coming to 10th and Flower

At our April 21 meeting, I approved a $4.6 million construction contract for a brand new one-acre neighborhood park at 10th and Flower streets. This park will include a restroom, playground, exercise equipment, a skate park, a basketball court, and more - along with a stormwater capture project that also helps protect our environment. This is a big deal for the surrounding neighborhood, and I can't wait to see it come to life.

Learn more about the new park at 10th and Flower

Major Road Investments Approved

April was a strong month for infrastructure. The Council approved:

• $21 million for Warner Avenue improvements from Oak Street to Grand Avenue, including new street lighting, landscaping, raised medians, sound walls, traffic signals, and water and storm drain upgrades.
• $4.6 million for reconstruction and rehabilitation of industrial streets including Susan Street, Garry Avenue, Carriage Drive, Yale Street, Moore Avenue, and Shannon Street.
• $1 million for road improvements at MacArthur Place from First American Way to Columbine Avenue, including replacement of failed pavement, sidewalks, curb ramps, and driveway approaches.

These are investments in the everyday quality of life of our residents - safer streets, better infrastructure, and neighborhoods we can all be proud of.

$5.6 Million in Federal Funding for Community Programs

The City Council also approved the annual action plan for our Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs - a total of $5.6 million that will go toward parks, housing, libraries, homeless services, and $1.2 million in grants for 14 local nonprofits. These dollars make a real difference for families across Santa Ana.

Read the staff report

Street Medicine Program Launches in Santa Ana

After years of advocacy, Santa Ana is finally supporting a street medicine program - and I was proud to be at the press conference on April 22 celebrating its launch. Operated by AltaMed in partnership with CalOptima, the program uses a mobile medical unit to bring healthcare, behavioral health services, peer support, and housing navigation directly to unhoused residents on our streets.

Since the program launched countywide in 2023, more than 1,100 people have been enrolled and 52 have moved into permanent housing. We're glad Santa Ana is now part of it.

To refer an unhoused person in need of support, call our outreach team at (714) 242-3706.

Ward 3 Updates and Neighborhood Progress

New Parking Coming to Ward 3

The recent reporting by The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times on César Chavez, including serious allegations of sexual abuse, is deeply disturbing. I stand with the survivors who have carried this pain for decades, and with those who have come forward despite the risks and challenges of speaking out. It is critical that we continue to listen, learn, and center the voices of those impacted.

In response, I have formally requested that the City of Santa Ana reconsider its observance of César Chavez Day. Currently, the City is closed on March 31 in recognition of this holiday. Moving forward, I have asked that this holiday be removed and replaced with a floating holiday to ensure that employees' negotiated benefits are not impacted. The State has moved to rename the holiday to Farmworkers Day, and the City can also follow suit if it does not wish to remove the 31st from the calendar.

I have also requested that his name be removed from one of our local parks. These actions reflect an ongoing commitment to ensuring that the values we uplift as a city align with accountability, respect, and the well-being of our community.

Sidewalk Power Washing along 3rd Street

A resident reached out about dirty sidewalks along 3rd Street in Downtown Santa Ana, and our team got right on it. Public Works completed a full power washing of the area and closed the work order. This is what responsive local government looks like. Your concerns matter, and we take action.

Santa Ana Is a Tree City USA - For the 27th Year in a Row

The Arbor Day Foundation has once again named Santa Ana a Tree City USA, recognizing our city's commitment to urban forest management. This is the 27th consecutive year Santa Ana has received this honor. With 50,000 street trees citywide, our urban forest is something to be proud of. For questions about City trees, contact Public Works Maintenance Services at (714) 647-3380.

Santa Ana Tourism Hits $404.5 Million in 2025

Visitor spending in Santa Ana reached $404.5 million in 2025 - a 2.6% increase from the year before. Nearly 915,000 overnight visitors came to our city, supporting close to 3,000 local jobs and generating $13.8 million in local tax revenue. That's money that goes back into city services, infrastructure, and the programs that support our families. Santa Ana's food scene, arts, entertainment, and location continue to make us a destination - and that's something we should all feel good about.

Read the report

Travel Santa Ana website

Sewer Improvement Projects Underway

A heads-up for residents: two sewer improvement projects are currently underway that may affect some neighborhoods.

The Taft Avenue Sewer Improvement Project has completed most construction along Taft Avenue and Tustin Street. Crews will return later for final paving and striping, with work continuing through late April before shifting to Sacramento Street in May.

The Santa Ana Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation Project is beginning construction in April, rehabilitating 3 miles of regional pipelines in Santa Ana and into Costa Mesa. The first phase starts on Alton Avenue between Fairview Street and Raitt Street. About 9,000 addresses in the project area have received notices. Sign up for updates at ocsan.gov/SantaAna.

Learn more about the Taft Avenue Sewer Improvement Project

Learn more about the Santa Ana Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation Project

Waste Infrastructure System Enhancement (WISE) Solid Waste Agreement

The City Council will soon be considering a new county solid waste disposal agreement called the WISE Agreement, which comes with a significant landfill rate increase - 53% beginning July 1, 2026. While this is a real cost increase, the City has limited alternatives given the County's control of regional landfill infrastructure. Rejecting the agreement would actually cost the City even more. We are reviewing the agreement carefully and will keep residents informed.

Learn more about Orange County's landfills

Upcoming Events and Resources

Secretary of State Pop-Up Shop - May 6

The California Secretary of State is bringing in-person Apostille services to the Orange County Clerk-Recorder's Office (601 N. Ross St., Room 103) on Wednesday, May 6, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. New this year: in-person Domestic Partnership registration is also available at this event.

Learn more about the apostille services

Summer Movies in the Park - June-July 2026

Mark your calendars - free outdoor movies are coming to Santa Ana parks this summer! Activities start at 6:30 p.m., movies begin at dusk. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and the whole family.

• June 5 - "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" at Delhi Park
• June 12 - "Frozen" at El Salvador Park
• June 26 - "How to Train Your Dragon" at Portola Park
• July 10 - "Goat" at Jerome Park
• July 17 - "Guardians of the Galaxy" at Centennial Park
• July 24 - "Zootopia 2" at Lillie King Park

Movies in the Park

Report Air Quality Issues

Notice excessive odors, smoke, or dust in your neighborhood? Report it to the South Coast Air Quality Management District online or by calling 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664).

Report air quality issues online

Local Events

• Resident Free 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 reading April's newsletter!

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].