City of Santa Ana, CA
01/29/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/29/2026 21:32
COSAS Newsletter: January 29, 2026
In the January 29, 2026, edition of COSAS (City of Santa Ana Stories), learn about City surveys, the 11th Annual Youth Water Poster Contest, the upcoming Tết Lunar New Year Festival, applying to serve on boards or commissions, and find more City events, news and resources.
Fun Moments at Santa Ana Zoo
Photo Credit: Yessica R.
To submit your own original photo of Santa Ana to be featured in the next newsletter, complete this form.
City Manager's Highlights
Your voice matters: Share your thoughts
The City of Santa Ana values the community's feedback and wants to hear from you. Your input helps guide City programs, services, and future priorities. We invite you to share your thoughts by participating in the surveys listed below.
Community Priorities Survey:Our Community Priorities Survey invites residents to share their priorities for City spending. Your input will help us prioritize the programs and services that are most important to our residents. The survey is available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
Take the Community Priorities Survey
Little Saigon Survey:Little Saigon is growing, and we want to ensure our local businesses and residents thrive along with it. Whether you live, work, or shop here, your vision is the key to our success. We are developing a new Vietnamese-focused Business Improvement District (BID) to create jobs, boost cultural tourism, and support our small business owners. Take the survey by Friday, Jan. 30, 2026.
Every Story Counts:The Santa Ana Public Library wants to hear how and why you use your library. Through Jan. 31, 2026, the library will capture photos and videos of library programs and services and encourage patrons to share their own library stories. Tell us how and why you use your local library by taking our survey.
Residential Parking Study: We arerevamping the permit-parking program and are seeking your input, comments and suggestions that will define the new Residential Permit Parking Program for years to come. The citywide permit parking program is intended to provide balanced parking to support residents' quality of life, visitors, businesses and commuters.
News
Tips for enjoying our Tết Lunar New Year Festival on February 7
Stories, culture, and community will converge during our upcoming Tết Lunar New Year Festival from 1-6 p.m. Feb. 7, 2026, at Centennial Park, 3000 W. Edinger Ave.
The event, which commemorates our community's Asian and Vietnamese cultures, features cultural performances and exhibits, live entertainment, dancing, food vendors, Library Lane, resources, and more. Read on for helpful tips on how best to enjoy the day's many offerings.
Schedule:The day is filled with a range of entertainment acts, kicking off at 1 p.m. with welcome music by VS Music Studio. Other highlights include a 2:05 p.m. variety show by Vietnamese Cultural Club of DeMille Language Academy, a 4:25 p.m. Ao Dai Fashion Show by Huong Sen Group, a 5:45 p.m. fireworks show and much more. View the full schedule of events here; please note that it's subject to change.
Parking:On-site event parking is available at no cost. Parking lot access points are located on the cross streets of Centennial Road and South Fairview Streetand the cross streets of Edinger Avenue and South Mohawk Drive.
Authors:We're excited to welcome guest authors Ann Chau and Thái Nguyễn to this year's event. Ms. Chau, a Southern California-based author and community advocate, brings family traditions and the Vietnamese language to life in My Ông Ngoại's Garden. Mr. Nguyễn, an Orange County-based celebrity fashion designer, celebrates heritage and the iconic áo dài in his debut picture book "Mai's Áo Dài." Catch Ms. Chau on stage at 1:30 p.m. and Mr. Nguyễn at 3:50 p.m.
Library Lane:The Santa Ana Public Library has special activities lined up for the public to enjoy at Library Lane. Be sure to stop by for games, themed activities, giveaways, library resources, and to be among the first to see the library's all-new Knowledge Mobile XL!
Santa Ana youth invited to enter City's 11th Annual Youth Water Poster Contest
Young artists of Santa Ana - it's time to get creative!
The 11th Annual Youth Water Poster Contest, presented by the City of Santa Ana's Water Resources Division, is now open and is accepting submissions until 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The City of Santa Ana's Annual Youth Water Poster Contest provides an opportunity for young people to become more aware of different water topics through artistic expression.
By using their imagination and artistic skills, students can better understand the importance of water conservation and protecting our water resources, fostering a deeper connection to their environment. This year's theme invites students to complete the phrase "Water is…" by creating artwork that illustrates what water means to them and the many ways it supports daily life, our community, and the environment.
The contest is open to students ages 5-18 who live or attend school in Santa Ana. This year's prizes include PS5s, MacBook Airs and gift cards. For contest rules, entry forms, and the 2026 Activity Book, visit the link below.
New Year's Resolution: Help Keep Local Waterways Clean
Did you know that stormwater flows untreated out to the ocean? Start the New Year right and make 2026 the year you commit to being a Waterway Protector!
Help Orange County's creeks, rivers, and ocean thrive by following these simple everyday actions:
- Pick up dog waste every time to keep bacteria out of our waterways.
- Take your car to a commercial car wash where washwater is collected and treated.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.
- Place trash in a closed bin so it doesn't blow into storm drains.
To learn more about the City's stormwater program, please visit www.santa-ana.org/stormwater-managementor https://h2oc.org.
Santa Ana Public Library's Read with Me winter reading program starts Feb. 2
The Santa Ana Public Library is hosting the Read with Me winter reading program from Feb. 2 to 28, 2026. Youth up to eighth grade can earn a certificate for a free child's meal from Panda Express by reading five books or having five books read to them.
Visit the Delhi Library at 505 E. Central Ave., Unit B, to register in person. For more information, call (714) 647-5358.
11th edition of CULTURA available now
The 11th edition of CULTURA (Winter/Spring) is here - your go-to guide for everything happening around the city with Santa Ana Parks and Recreation, the Santa Ana Public Library, and the Santa Ana Zoo. Find copies at your local senior center, community and recreation centers, or the Zoo and City Hall. Did you know you can also get the CULTURA mailed straight to your mailbox? Subscribe just once and receive all future editions at home.
Sign up now for February recreation classes
February is all about showing up for yourself. Treat yourself to movement, creativity, and a little "me time" by signing up for our February recreation classes. From gymnastics, to painting, to track and field and so much more, there's something for everyone.
Apply now to serve on Santa Ana boards or commissions, including Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee
Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity and the ability to advise on City business?
The City of Santa Ana is looking for passionate residents to serve on our boards and commissions. The City has current vacancies on multiple boards, commissions and committees.
Current vacancies include an opening on the Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee, where you can help ensure Measure X funds are used as intended for the Santa Ana community.
Apply to serve on a board or commission
Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee
Tales of the City
Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program to support local businesses
The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, Jan. 20, to continue the Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program, which will provide enhanced cleanliness, maintenance and safety throughout the city's historic downtown core.
In addition to providing regular cleaning and security guards, the new agreement includes Downtown ambassadors who will continue to assist visitors and businesses and will coordinate with the Santa Ana Police Department and the Santa Ana Multi-Disciplinary Response Team (SMART) to address quality of life and homelessness issues.
"Downtown Santa Ana is the heart of our city, and this agreement ensures it remains clean, safe and welcoming for residents, businesses and visitors alike," said Mayor Valerie Amezcua. "By investing in comprehensive cleaning, maintenance and public safety services, we are supporting our local businesses and enhancing the overall experience for everyone who spends time in our beloved downtown."
The City Council authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with Romo Enterprises Inc., doing business as DTSA Services, for up to three years and a total contract amount of up to $3.5 million. Funding for the agreement will be provided through Downtown Parking Enterprise revenues from City-owned parking garages and parking meters.
Downtown Santa Ana serves as the City's primary mixed-use district, with more than 700 businesses, 3,000 residents and over 1,000 daily visitors. As a historic downtown with high pedestrian activity, limited private parking, and frequent regional events, DTSA requires dedicated and consistent services beyond standard citywide maintenance.
City Council Meetings
At their Jan. 20, 2026, meeting, the Santa Ana City Council:
- Authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with Romo Enterprises Inc., doing business as DTSA Services, for the Downtown Santa Ana Clean & Safe Program in an amount not to exceed $1,110,764 for a term beginning March 1, 2026, and expiring February 28, 2027, with provisions for two, one-year extensions for a total agreement amount not to exceed $3.5 million.
- Appointed Councilmember David Penaloza to the position of Mayor Pro Tem for 2026.
- Appointed Councilmember Jessie Lopez as an Alternate Representative to the Southern California Association of Governments General Assembly Business Meeting.
- Approved an ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code specifying the procurement and contracting procedure for vehicle and vehicle-related equipment purchases.
- Adopted an ordinance adopting the Updated California and International Building and Fire Codes with local conditions amendments.
The next regular Santa Ana City Council meeting will take place on Feb. 3, 2026, at 4 p.m. for closed session and at 5:30 p.m. for the open meeting in Council Chambers, 22 Civic Center Plaza.
City Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, with the closed session beginning at 5 p.m. or earlier. The open meeting session begins at 5:30 p.m. Meetings have both in-person and virtual participation and attendance and are live-streamed onthe City's YouTube channeland our TV channel, CTV3 (channel 3 on Spectrum.) If you'd like to provide public comments on agenda and non-agenda items, you can email, attend in person, or join the Zoom webinar online or by phone. Subscribe hereto receive City meeting agenda notifications.
Events
Find more City of Santa Ana events on our website.
See the Parks and Recreation class catalogue here.
Salt-Paint Snowflakes for Children - January 30
Children will create their own sparkling salt-paint snowflakes using glue, salt and watercolor paint. Contact us at 714-647-5358 for more information.
- Friday, Jan. 30
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Jerome Park, 2115 W. McFadden Ave.
LEGO Builders: Unlock Your Creativity - January 31
Ready to bring your ideas to life, one brick at a time? LEGO Builders is a hands-on experience for creators of all ages, where interactive challenges and engaging projects inspire problem-solving, creativity, and innovation! Contact us at 714-647-5358 for more information.
- Saturday, Jan. 31
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- OCEA Parking Lot, 830 N. Ross St.
Pop-Up Library - February 2
Visit our Pop-Up Library locations to return items, sign up for a library card, and more! Contact us at 714-647-5358 for more information.
- Monday, Feb. 2
- 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Santa Ana City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza
Coffee with a Cop - February 4
Join the Santa Ana Police Department for the first Coffee with a Cop of 2026 at Suzy's Café. Stop by, say hello, and connect with the officers who serve the Santa Ana community.
- Suzy's Café, 2610 S. Harbor Blvd.
- Wednesday, Feb. 4
- 9-10:30 a.m.
STEAM Teens - February 5
Explore activities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math that will teach you skills through hands-on activities. Learn robotics, practice photography, and create arts and crafts projects! Contact us at 714-647-6534 for more information.
- Thursday, Feb. 5
- 4-5 p.m.
- El Salvador Community Center, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive
Tết Lunar New Year Festival - February 7
Join the City of Santa Ana for the third annual Tết Lunar New Year Festival, commemorating our community's Asian and Vietnamese cultures, held in collaboration by the Santa Ana Parks, Recreation & Community Services Agency and the Santa Ana Public Library. Come together and celebrate the year of the horse with us during this free family-friendly event with music, dance and cultural performances, plus food, family-friendly activities, vendors, resources and a fireworks show.
- Saturday, Feb. 7
- 1-6 p.m.
- Centennial Park, 3000 W. Edinger Ave.
Wilderness Club: Carbon Canyon Regional Park - February 7
The Wilderness Club is heading to Carbon Canyon Regional Park on Saturday, Feb. 7! Join us for a guided 2-3-mile hike through Carbon Canyon and its famous redwood grove, led by OC Habitats.
To prepare for the hike, an optional in-person pre-trip class will be held on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 4:30-6 p.m., covering the unique ecology and habitats of the area we'll be exploring. Attendance is encouraged but not required to participate in the hike.
Meet-up details:
Participants should meet at the Roosevelt-Walker Community Center on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 1:40 p.m. Transportation to and from Carbon Canyon will be provided, with a return time of approximately 5:15 p.m.
MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER: santa-ana.org/wilderness-club.
- Saturday, Feb. 7
- 1:40-5:15 p.m.
- Roosevelt Walker Community Center, 816 E. Chestnut Ave.
Valentine's Day Workshop - February 10
Celebrate with us at the Valentine's Day Workshop. Bring your friends and family for a fun, creative evening full of festive cheer! Participants will enjoy hands-on craft projects, personalized jewelry box decorating, light refreshments, and more. Price: $20 per family; max of six participants. Visit tinyurl.com/SAValentine26to register.
- Tuesday, Feb. 10
- 6-7:30 p.m.
- Roosevelt Walker Community Center, 816 E. Chestnut Ave.
Business Start Up Workshop (English) - February 11
The City of Santa Ana's Economic Development Division hosts Business Start-Up Workshops at Santa Ana City Hall in both English and Spanish.
Participants will learn about a variety of helpful topics, including zone and use info, business license info, certificates of occupancy, choosing the right structure for your business, business resources, and more.
- Wednesday, Feb. 11
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Santa Ana City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza (Room 1600)
Business Start Up Workshop (Spanish) - February 18
The City of Santa Ana's Economic Development Division hosts Business Start-Up Workshops at Santa Ana City Hall in both English and Spanish.
Participants will learn about a variety of helpful topics, including zone and use info, business license info, certificates of occupancy, choosing the right structure for your business, business resources, and more.
- Wednesday, Feb. 18
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Santa Ana City Hall, 20 Civic Center Plaza (Room 1600)
Resources
Report issues with the mySantaAna app
The mySantaAna mobile app puts the power of the City of Santa Ana government in the palm of your hand! Download the app to quickly and easily report issues such as potholes, graffiti, downed trees and much more. The new app is now fully functional in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
Immigration, Food and Community Resources
The City of Santa Ana provides a variety of resources and information about non-City services and programs to help the community.
Know Your Rights: Legal services and immigration information
Ayuda Sin Fronteras: Assistance for residents impacted by immigration enforcement
ImmDef Legal Services:The City of Santa Ana has a contract with Immigrant Defenders Law Center to help residents facing deportation.
Food Assistance:Santa Ana and Orange County food distributions and assistance programs
Community Resources:A variety of other programs and resources are available.
City Hall Friday and Holiday Closures
Santa Ana City Hall is open Monday through Thursday and every other Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. City Hall and non-essential City offices are closed on alternating Fridays, in addition to several observed holidays throughout the year.
See the holiday and closed Friday schedule
See our holiday street sweeping schedule
Who do I call at City Hall?
Important phone numbers:
- City Hall main line: (714) 647-5400
- Code Enforcement: (714) 667-2780
- Graffiti Hotline: (877) 786-7824
- Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026
- Public Works dispatch (street sweeping, trees): (714) 647-3380
Find more phone numbers for all City services
Utility services
- City utility services
- Southern California Edison: Call (800) 447-6620
- Southern California Gas: Call (800) 207-8567
- Trash pick-up: Call (657) 467-6220
Starting a small business?
Apply to work for the City of Santa Ana
City of Santa Ana, CA published this content on January 29, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on January 30, 2026 at 03:32 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]