Santa Ana City Council Meeting - May 19, 2026 (English)

The City of Santa Ana held a City Council meeting on May 19, 2026, which included a detailed work study session on the fiscal year 2026-27 budget. Key procurement-related discussions focused on capital improvement projects, including the potential acquisition of land for Washington Square Park with a proposed budget allocation of $4 million, alongside considerations for affordable housing and land swaps to make the project feasible. The council also reviewed various budget balancing measures, including workforce changes, one-time spending recommendations, and the capital improvement program. The budget proposal aimed to avoid layoffs and furloughs while maintaining core city services, with specific attention to funding youth programs such as the PAL program, which faced proposed reductions to achieve cost savings. Additionally, the council discussed ordinances related to prohibiting secondary employment of city police officers in immigration enforcement roles and supported a state bill (AB1537) to increase transparency and accountability in this area. Several votes were taken, including approval of a construction contract for street improvements and consent calendar items. Public comments addressed community concerns about youth programs, housing, public safety, and surveillance technology. The meeting also included recognition of community members and organizations, and a special housing authority session was convened and adjourned with unanimous approval of consent items.