Ward 3 Newsletter: February 2026

Ward 3 Family,

The start of the year is always a season of renewal and reflection. Across our community, families welcomed 2026, Armenian New Year, and Lunar New Year, unique celebrations rooted in hope, heritage, and fresh beginnings. Last month we also honored Black History Month, a time to deeply recognize the leadership, creativity, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history and here in California. From pioneers in science and innovation like Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space, to trailblazers such as Patricia Bath, whose work revolutionized ophthalmology, Black excellence has shaped our nation and inspired generations of learners, thinkers, and doers.

As we look toward March, we will celebrate Women's History Month and observe Ramadan for many of our Muslim friends and neighbors, moments to honor resilience, community, and the strength that comes from diversity.

There is a lot going on in Ward 3. This newsletter could be much longer. We have heard your feedback that sometimes they get a little lengthy, so we are doing our best to keep it shorter, but with so much progress happening, I could not help but share.

From replacing broken locks on trash receptacles and installing missing trash bins, to improving our alleys and advancing major infrastructure projects, we are focused on both the everyday details and long term investments that make our neighborhoods cleaner, safer, and stronger.

Thank you for staying engaged and being partners in investing in a community we can all be proud of.

Your Councilwoman

Jessie Lopez

Councilmember Lopez in our Community!

Connecting with Students at Santa Ana High School

It was a pleasure to join Santa Ana Active Streets (SAAS) and their student club at Santa Ana High School as they explored civic engagement and learned more about their local representatives. I had the opportunity to share updates on the policies we are currently working on, as well as several recent wins that are making a positive impact in our community.

I was especially proud to meet students who live in Ward 3. We discussed how the work we are doing at City Hall directly improves neighborhoods across Santa Ana, from infrastructure investments to real community safety and community-focused initiatives.

A special thank you to Santa Ana Active Streets for all your hard work and for inviting me to be a speaker. It's inspiring to see young leaders full of compassion and invested in shaping the future of our city.

Celebrating Tết and the Year of the Horse

Happy Lunar New Year as we welcome the Year of the Horse! This year symbolizes strength, resilience, and the courage to move forward with purpose. Thank you to our community for the beautiful Tết celebrations and for so generously sharing your rich traditions and culture. When we come together to honor and learn from one another, we make our city stronger and more united.

May this new year bring renewed momentum, unity, prosperity, and continued success for us all. Chúc Mừng Năm Mới!

Council Recognition for Areli Munguia

At a recent City Council meeting, I was thrilled to recognize Areli Munguiafor her inspiring contributions to our community and for her creative role as "Payasa, in Ojitos Mentirosos." A proud Santa Ana native, Areli has dedicated herself to uplifting residents and celebrating our city's rich culture with authenticity, joy, and heart. Whether commuting by foot or public transit, she remains deeply connected to the neighborhoods and people she serves.

Over the past year, Areli has used social media as a force for good, transforming it into a platform that sparks joy, builds cultural pride, and fosters meaningful connection. Through her creative persona "Payasa," she has created a powerful symbol of resilience, identity, and artistic expression. More than a character, Payasa reflects Areli's belief that culture, humor, and heart are essential to community.

Areli's story is a testament to creativity, authenticity, and community spirit. We celebrate her not only for her achievements, but for the way she continues to uplift Santa Ana, reminding us all to lead with joy and pride in who we are and where we come from.

Celebrating Black History Month Together

It was an honor to join our community for the Black History Parade and celebration. It was truly inspiring to see so many Santa Ana residents come together to honor Black history, culture, and the many contributions that have shaped our city and our nation. The energy, pride, and unity on display throughout the parade reflected the strength of our community.

Thank you to everyone who participated, organized, and showed up to celebrate. Events like this remind us that when we gather in recognition and respect of one another's stories, we continue building a more inclusive and connected community.

Honoring Mothers Against Drunk Driving at City Council (MADD)

It was an honor to recognize Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) California at our recent City Council meeting for their tireless advocacy and commitment to keeping our roads safe. Their work to support victims and promote stronger impaired driving laws continues to save lives and make a meaningful difference in communities across our state.

You can support MADD California by advocating for safe driving policies and making a personal commitment to never drive impaired or ride with someone who is. Every action helps protect lives and strengthen communities across California. Thank you for your partnership in this important effort.

More Progress in Ward 3: New Street Light Installed

We continue to make progress in Ward 3! During neighborhood association meetings, I hear firsthand about the needs of our residents. One request that came up repeatedly was improved lighting at Martha Lane and Hathaway Street.

Through conversations with our office and the community, Public Works identified this intersection as needing a street light. Working with SoCal Edison, we found a solution that could be implemented efficiently. I'm happy to report that our team has successfully installed a new street light at the intersection. This improvement not only enhances safety but also shows how community feedback leads to real, tangible results in our neighborhoods.

Fisher Park Trash Replacement

At a recent Fisher Park Neighborhood Association meeting, I noticed that several trash cans were missing from their designated area. I immediately reported the issue to City staff, and I'm pleased to share that they were quickly replaced.

Thank you to our Public Works team for their prompt response, and to our community members for their patience as we worked to resolve the issue.

Exciting Updates for Portola Park - Splash Pad Coming Soon!

I'm excited to share that the City is moving forward with the Portola Splash Pad and Restroom Renovation Project! This investment will bring the City's first-ever splash pad to Portola Park and modernize the existing men's and women's restrooms to better serve our families.

The new splash pad will create an accessible, water-based play area designed for children and families of all ages and abilities. The restroom renovations will address aging infrastructure and improve ADA accessibility to ensure the park is welcoming and functional for everyone. The splash pad will activate underused park space, enhance park functionality, and provide much-needed heat relief during the warmer months.

As we move forward, Concept A and Concept B are currently under consideration, and we will continue to keep you updated as we get closer to construction completion and the grand opening.

Construction was scheduled to begin in February 2026, with a targeted opening in summer 2026 and anticipated completion by June 2026, weather permitting. Once complete, Portola Park will feature upgraded, ADA-compliant restrooms and a fully operational splash pad maintained as part of regular City operations. I'm proud to support projects that create safe, inclusive, and vibrant spaces in our neighborhoods, and I can't wait for our community to enjoy this exciting new addition!

Improving Safety on the Lincoln Trail

During a recent visit to the Lincoln Trail, I noticed dips in the pathway that made it difficult for residents to walk safely. I connected with our Public Works Agency, and they quickly got to work to address the issue.

Thank you to our amazing team for keeping our parks and trails safe and accessible, ensuring families can enjoy them with peace of mind! We will continue to beautify our parks and make big changes and continue to pay attention to the little details.

Safety Upgrade Completed at Fairhaven Avenue & Cambridge Street

After hearing concerns from residents, our staff evaluated the intersection of Fairhaven Avenue and Cambridge Street and determined a protected left-turn signal was needed. Fortunately, the recent upgrade to the traffic signal controller and related equipment meant that no major capital improvements were required to implement this safety enhancement.

On February 3, Public Works completed the traffic signal modification, adding a new eastbound left-turn arrow. The work was carried out by our in-house PWA Signal Operations engineers, with support from our maintenance contractor. Thanks to in-house design and reuse of existing signal infrastructure including poles, conduit, and wiring, the project was delivered on an accelerated timeline and at minimal cost.

This upgrade improves traffic flow, enhances safety for drivers, and demonstrates how careful planning and community feedback can result in efficient, cost-effective improvements in our neighborhoods.

Alley Improvements Moving Forward in the Santa Ana Triangle

Our office was proud to successfully advocate for and secure the appropriate funding to move the alley improvement project forward in the Santa Ana Triangle Neighborhood. Investing in neighborhood infrastructure is critical to ensuring safe, accessible, and well-maintained spaces for our residents.

I approved a construction contract with Cali State Paving Inc. in the amount of $612,500 to reconstruct the neighborhood alleys. Construction is scheduled to begin on February 23, pending execution of contract documents, and is expected to be completed within approximately two months, with a target completion date of April 2026.

Thank you to our residents for your patience and continued partnership as we work to improve our neighborhoods and deliver long-overdue infrastructure upgrades.

Santa Ana Items of Interest

Update on East First Street

Since being elected in 2020, my office has worked diligently to address quality of life issues on East First Street. We have made significant progress. Every day brings different challenges, but through housing investments, support for small business owners, holding absentee property owners accountable, and using the full resources of the City Attorney's Office, we have taken meaningful action.

I can confirm that the methadone clinic on East First Street is officially closed and, based on direct conversations with our team, will not be reopening.

As some of you may know, the operator attempted to leave a few years ago, but that effort was met with resistance from other parties. I want to thank the City Attorney's Office for working closely with us to address long-standing compliance and operational concerns. Most importantly, I want to recognize the residents and small business owners along East First Street. Their persistence, documentation, and advocacy made it clear that the status quo was unacceptable.

For too long, East First Street carried impacts that others were unwilling to fully address and only shifted blame. Our office chose to take responsibility and do the work necessary to move this corridor in a more sustainable direction.

Our progress on East First Street does not stop here. I remain committed to ensuring that every neighborhood in Santa Ana receives the attention and investment it deserves so residents can live, work, and raise their families in a safe and healthy environment.

Ward 3 Shopping Center Update - 17th Street and Ross Street

I am pleased to share an important update on the long-neglected shopping center that has caused frustration. After months of follow-up and coordination with City departments, the property officially sold in February. This is a meaningful step forward, and the new ownership is committed to revitalizing the center and bringing in a balanced mix of restaurants and retail to restore activity and vibrancy to the site.

During the escrow process, the City collected nearly $149,000 in outstanding fees, including administrative fines and unpaid water bills, ensuring accountability for past neglect. I want to thank the City Manager's Office, Planning and Building, Code Enforcement, and the City Attorney's Office for their proactive work throughout this process.

Most importantly, I want to acknowledge our Floral Park Neighborhood, NA President, and the board, for their persistence, advocacy, and professionalism. Your efforts helped ensure progress and accountability. We will continue monitoring the project and keep the community informed as real improvements take shape.

The image below shows a rendering that was promised to the community but never delivered. We are glad to have new ownership in place and will continue to keep the board updated on all developments.

Help Shape the Future of First Street!

The City of Santa Ana is exploring ways to make First Street, between Bristol and Tustin, safer and more accessible for everyone - pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers. Based on community feedback, we've developed several design concepts and want to hear your thoughts! You can rank your TOP 3 preferences in the polland help guide this ongoing process.

First Street Multimodal Boulevard Study

Santa Ana's Fat of the Land Makes Yelp's Top 100 List for 2026

I'm thrilled to continue supporting Fat of the Land and to celebrate their incredible success! The restaurant recently earned national recognition, ranking No. 19 on Yelp's Top 100 Restaurants for 2026 - the only Orange County spot to make the list.

This cozy neighborhood bistro was opened by Robert Paetz, who transitioned from a career in photography to the restaurant world, bringing a vision inspired by intimate European-style eateries. Together with chef Van Duong, Fat of the Land has built a reputation for exceptional hospitality and a thoughtfully crafted menu, featuring dishes like octopus carpaccio, halibut bouillabaisse, rack of pork, and Basque cheesecake. Guests also praise the cocktails and Spanish-forward wine selection.

This recognition shines a well-deserved spotlight on a Santa Ana gem and the remarkable talent and vision thriving in our local community. Read The Orange County Register Article

Councilmember Lopez Requested Items

Making Santa Ana Parks Welcoming

At our February 17 City Council meeting, I brought forward a Council-requested item to update park rules and make our city parks more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The proposal would allow picnicking, park vending, expanded skate park use, and simplify permit requirements.

These updates aim to create a more welcoming, flexible, and user-friendly environment in our parks - so residents can gather, play, and enjoy our public spaces with greater ease.

Read my report to the City Council here.

A Big Policy Win for Santa Ana Renters!

Last year, I introduced an ordinance prohibiting anti-competitive automated rent price-fixing to protect tenants and promote fairness in our housing market. On February 17, the ordinance was brought back before the City Council and approved, marking a major policy win for our Santa Ana community.

This ordinance prevents the use of algorithm-based systems that artificially inflate rental prices through coordinated pricing practices. In a city where so many families are renters, it is critical that we take steps to ensure housing costs are not driven up by unfair, anti-competitive tools. By putting this policy in place, we are helping create a more transparent and equitable rental market, protecting working families from unjust rent increases, and reinforcing our commitment to housing stability.

Housing security is fundamental to a family's well-being, and this action reflects our continued effort to stand up for renters and keep Santa Ana a place where residents can live, work, and thrive.

Events and Resources

Santiago Creek Clean-up Schedule

Please join us for our upcoming community clean-ups at Santiago Park!

After the recent heavy rains, debris and large trash pieces have washed into the creek and surrounding park areas. Together, we can help remove litter before it flows downstream and reaches the ocean.

Invite your neighbors and friends, and let's work together to care for our public parks and keep our community clean and beautiful. We hope to see you there!

Clean Slate Clinic and Resource Fair

Join Rising Scholars for their upcoming Clean Slate Clinic & Resource Fair on March 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This event is a great opportunity for community members to receive support, access valuable resources, and learn more about available services. We encourage you to attend and share this information with anyone who may benefit.

Student Internship Opportunity with South Coast Air Quality Management District

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) is offering an incredible opportunity for college students to get involved in public service and environmental leadership. Applications are now open for the Governing Board Student Internship Program, a paid internship that provides hands-on experience in air quality policy and regional governance.

Interns will support the agency's mission to clean the air and protect the health of residents throughout the South Coast Air District by advancing practical and innovative strategies. We encourage eligible college students to apply and take advantage of this meaningful professional opportunity.

Apply Now!

Business Start-Up Workshop (English)

The City of Santa Ana's Economic Development Division hosts Business Start-Up Workshops at Santa Ana City Hall (Room 1600).

ENGLISH Workshops - held on the 2nd Wednesday of the following months 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

• 3/11/26
• 4/8/26
• 5/13/26
• 7/8/26
• 9/9/26
• 10/14/26

For more information or questions, please contact us at (714) 647-5477or [email protected]

Business Start-Up Workshop (Spanish)

La División de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Santa Ana ofrece Talleres para Iniciar Negocios en el Ayuntamiento de Santa Ana (Sala 1600). Ofrecemos los talleres en inglés y en español. Consulte a continuación las fechas de los talleres en su idioma preferido y regístrese para asistir.

SPANISH Workshops, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

• 3/18/26
• 4/15/26
• 5/20/26
• 7/15/26
• 9/16/26
• 10/21/26

Para mas información o preguntas, por favor comuníquese a (714) 647-5477 or [email protected].

2026 Business Start Up Workshops Registration

Serve the People 2026 Food Pantry Schedule

We are excited to share the Serve the People 2026 Food Pantry flyer and encourage everyone in our community to take advantage of these valuable resources. Programs like this provide essential support to families and individuals, helping ensure no one in Santa Ana goes hungry.

A big thank you to Serve the People for their incredible work and dedication to serving our community. Their efforts make a real difference in the lives of so many residents, and we encourage everyone to come out, access these resources, and support the important work they are doing.

Free Tax Preparation with SEIU and Building Skills Partnership

It's tax season! Building Skills Partnership is partnering with Service Employees International Union (SEIU) to bring free tax preparation and financial coaching to our community.

Take advantage of this valuable resource and schedule your appointment today to receive trusted support and guidance during tax season.

Interview Workshops at the Santa Ana WORK Center

Looking to sharpen your interview skills and boost your career opportunities? Join us at the Santa Ana WORK Center for a free Interview Workshop every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Workshops are held at 801 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 200, Santa Ana, CA 92701. For more information, call 714-565-2600. Don't miss this chance to practice, gain tips, and build confidence for your next job opportunity!

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 February's newsletter!