COSAS Newsletter: July 16, 2026

In the July 16, 2026, edition of COSAS (City of Santa Ana Stories) learn about our Newhope Library reopening, join upcoming Zoning Code Update meetings, drop off bulky trash items, get heat and water safety tips, and find more City events, news and resources.

Subscribe to COSAS

Spotlight Photo

City of Santa Ana 4th of July Celebration.

View more photos here.

Photo Credit: City staff

To submit your own original photo of Santa Ana to be featured in the next newsletter, complete this form.

City Manager's Highlights

Newhope Library reopens after historic $7.8 million transformation

On Saturday, July 11, the Santa Ana community joined us in celebrating the reopening of the Newhope Library after a year-long closure to modernize, renovate and reimagine the 48-year-old branch library.

The $7.8 million transformation is the most extensive renovation and modernization project ever undertaken at the location, part of a historic citywide investment in our Santa Ana Public Library system.

The reimagined library has a new glass storefront-style entrance with a colorful, inviting façade, and the outdoor patio received a complete makeover as well, with new seating and a shade structure to create a welcoming space for reading and community gatherings.

Inside, it features an Innovation Lab equipped with 3D printers, a laser cutting machine for engraving, sewing machines, video and sound editing stations, and more. A new public meeting and study room, new furniture and new computers were also added.

Behind the scenes, HVAC, electrical and mechanical and audio/visual systems were upgraded and new windows and a new roof were installed - ensuring that the library can safely serve our community for decades to come.

Read more about Newhope Library

News

Learn about the Zoning Code Update at upcoming Planning Commission meetings

The City of Santa Ana is updating rules for land use and development citywide. Join the following upcoming Planning Commission study sessions to learn more:

• Part A: Outreach and Community Involvement

Monday, July 27, 5:30 p.m.

• Part B: Zoning Map and Code

Monday, August 10, 5:30 p.m.

These sessions will provide an opportunity for staff to present an overview of the ongoing Zoning Code Update process and allow for thoughtful discussion regarding future land use regulations, housing production, economic development, environmental justice, and quality of life in Santa Ana.

Join the Planning Commission study sessions in person in the City Council Chamber, 22 Civic Center Plaza, or watch online at https://www.youtube.com/cityofsantaanavideos.

Zoning Code Update: santa-ana.org/zoning-code-update

City of Santa Ana website domain moving to '.gov'

Our website is making a change!

The City of Santa Ana is transitioning our website from a .org to a .gov domain to comply with California Assembly Bill 1637 and to strengthen the security of our online services.

Beginning July 16, you'll start seeing santa-ana.gov on our website and in our communications. The existing santa-ana.org website will still work during the transition, but will redirect you to santa-ana.gov. Our City of Santa Ana email addresses will also transition to .gov later this year.

We are taking a proactive approach to ensure a smooth, secure, and transparent transition well in advance of the January 1, 2029, deadline, and thank you for your patience as we move through this process!

Celebrating National Parks and Recreation Month

July is National Parks and Recreation Month, also known as Parks Make Life Better Month, and we're celebrating by highlighting the people and places that make Santa Ana Parks and Recreation special on social media.

From fun facts and park amenities to behind-the-scenes looks at our teams, you'll get to meet the dedicated staff, volunteers, coaches, and instructors who help bring recreation to life every day.

Follow our Parks, Recreation and Community Services Agency on Instagram and Facebook as we celebrate the impact of parks and recreation and the people who make it all possible right here in Santa Ana:

Instagram: @santaanaparks

Facebook: @SantaAnaParks

Orange County Fire Authority's water safety tips for summer

As we get into the summer months, and many families start gathering at pools and beaches, the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) is encouraging the public to help prevent drownings by remaining vigilant and practicing water safety.

Swimming is a great way to stay cool and have fun during the summer, but can quickly turn dangerous if you don't know how to keep yourself or others from drowning.

OCFA's tips include never swimming alone, assigning an adult to actively watch those in the water, and following the ABCs of Water Safety:

• Active Adult Supervision - Keep infants and toddlers within an arm's reach. No one should ever swim alone, including adults.
• Barriers - Install and maintain proper fencing around the pool and spa to isolate swimming areas. Use multiple layers of protection, such as fences, gates, doors, alarms, and safety covers.
• Classes - Learn to swim by taking lessons. Learn first aid and CPR. Always keep a phone nearby to call 9-1-1.

Water safety tips

Water safety video

Beat the heat this summer at Santa Ana's cooling centers

As summer temperatures rise, Santa Ana residents are encouraged to stay safe by seeking respite inside the City's many cooling centers.

Libraries, pools, senior centers and community centers throughout Santa Ana offer cool, welcoming spaces where people can escape the heat during the hottest parts of the day. Visit the link below for a list of City of Santa Ana locations where you can beat the heat.

In addition, the Orange County Fire Authority also encourages the public to follow these safety tips:

• Limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Keep an eye on older adults, young children, neighbors, coworkers, and anyone without air conditioning.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.

Santa Ana Cooling Centers

Tales of the City

14 service members honored through Hometown Heroes military banner program

We are proud to recognize 14 local military service members with the installation of new light pole banners through our Hometown Heroes: Military Banner Program.

We installed the new banners along MacArthur Boulevard at Bristol Street with each featuring the name, photo and service branch of an active-duty military service membe

r from Santa Ana. Thank you to our local residents who are serving their nation, to the families and loved ones who applied on their behalf, and to the local businesses whose sponsorships made these inspiring tributes possible.

This year's Hometown Heroes are:

• Eduardo Romo - Navy
• Jose Navarrete - Army
• Hien Vu - Navy (sponsored by L7 Motorsports)
• Bryan Andrade - Marine Corps (sponsored by Caribou Industries)
• Edgar Sosa - Army (sponsored by Caribou Industries)
• Ruby Lopez - Navy (sponsored by Caribou Industries)
• Miguel Orozco - Navy (sponsored by Caribou Industries)
• Osbaldo Ochoa - Army (sponsored by Law Office of Denise P. Cabrera)
• Anthony Vargas - Marine Corps (sponsored by the Law Office of Denise P. Cabrera)
• Daniel Ramirez - Army (sponsored by SoCal Fencing Solutions)
• Zoe Alora Velez - Navy (sponsored by La Amiga Fabrics)
• Andres V. Rodriguez - Marine Corps (sponsored by La Amiga Fabrics)
• Ruben Mendez - Marine Corps (sponsored by La Amiga Fabrics)
• Victor Garcia - Marine Corps (sponsored by La Amiga Fabrics)

Do you want to honor a Santa Ana resident who is serving in the military? Or are you a local business who would like to sponsor a banner? The Hometown Heroes application will open again in 2027. Visit santa-ana.org/hometown-heroes for more information.

City Council Meetings

The next regular Santa Ana City Council meeting will take place on July 21, 2026, at 4:30 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 channel and 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 here to receive City meeting agenda notifications.

July 21, 2026, Meeting Agenda: https://santa-ana.gov/cc/city-meetings

Highlights from the Santa Ana City Council's July 7, 2026, meeting:

• The City Council approved awarding a $3.369 million construction contract to Onyx Paving Company, Inc. for the Local Street Preventative Maintenance FY 2025-26 Project. The work includes pavement replacement, slurry sealing, new striping and signage, and replacement of damaged curbs, gutters, sidewalks and curb ramps in neighborhoods throughout the city. Construction is expected to begin in July and be complete in October 2026.
• The City Council approved a density bonus agreement with BDC Santa Ana LLC to allow the construction of a residential development at 2100 W. Alton Ave. The development will include 36 single-family detached units, three of which will be reserved for very low-income households, and three will be reserved for moderate-income households. The project site is at the corner of Alton Avenue and Raitt Street, and currently contains remnants of the former YMCA facility.
• The City Council approved the second reading and adoption of an ordinance to dissolve five advisory bodies: the Arts and Culture Commission; Environmental and Transportation Advisory Commission; Historic Resources Commission; Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission; and Youth Commission as part of the 2026-27 fiscal year budget adoption. The City's mandated boards, commissions and committees will remain in place and will continue to provide public engagement opportunities for the Santa Ana community. The roles and duties of the boards and commissions that are being dissolved will be integrated into the mandated boards and commissions.
• The City Council voted to designate Councilmember Phil Bacerra as a voting delegate and Councilmember Jessie Lopez as an alternate for the League of California Cities (Cal Cities) 2026 Annual Conference General Assembly, taking place during the League of California Cities (Cal Cities) 2026 Annual Conference and Expo from Sept. 23-25 in Anaheim.
• The City Council adopted a resolution to place a measure on the Nov. 3, 2026, General Municipal Election ballot that asks voters if the City should maintain the 1.5 cent local sales tax without sunset, making it permanent.

Events

Find more City of Santa Ana events on our website.

See the Parks and Recreation class catalogue here.

Summer Movies in the Park Week 5: 'Guardians of the Galaxy' - July 17

Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and loved ones - it's time for another installation of Movies in the Park! Each movie night features themed crafts for kids, fun games, community resources, and complimentary popcorn (while supplies last). Activities start at 6:30 p.m.; the movie begins at dusk.

• Friday, July 17
• 6:30 - 9 p.m.
• Centennial Park, 3000 W. Edinger Ave.

Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day at El Salvador Park - July 18

The City of Santa Ana is proud to host the Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day, an opportunity for residents to properly dispose of bulky items such as furniture, mattresses, carpets, and non-donatable clothes, bedding, books, or toys. This event is free to Santa Ana residents, and no appointment is necessary. Proof of Santa Ana residency will be required. The event may end before 12 p.m. if capacity is reached.

For more information, call (714) 647-5411 or see the link below.

• Saturday, July 18
• 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
• El Salvador Park, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive

More information

Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day at Cabrillo Park - July 18

The City of Santa Ana is proud to host the Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day, an opportunity for residents to properly dispose of bulky items such as furniture, mattresses, carpets, and non-donatable clothes, bedding, books, or toys. This event is free to Santa Ana residents, and no appointment is necessary. Proof of Santa Ana residency will be required. The event may end before 12 p.m. if capacity is reached.

For more information, call (714) 647-5411 or see the link below.

• Saturday, July 18
• 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
• Cabrillo Park, 1820 E. Fruit St.

More information

Portola Park Splash Pad Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - July 18

Join us in celebrating the opening of Santa Ana's first dedicated splash pad at Portola Park, featuring a variety of interactive water play and spray elements designed to provide a fun, safe, and accessible experience for children and families. The project also includes new shade structures, outdoor showers, and renovated ADA-accessible restrooms, creating a vibrant community destination that expands recreational opportunities and enhances quality of life for Santa Ana residents.

• Saturday, July 18
• 9 a.m.
• Portola Park, 1700 E. Santa Clara Ave.

OC's Safer Summer Pool Party - July 18

The City of Santa Ana's Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency is hosting the 2026 OC's Safer Summer Pool Party presented by the Orange County Drowning Prevention Coalition and the Jasper Ray Foundation. The day includes water safety stations, both on land and in water, and helps educate the public on drowning prevention efforts and pool safety. There will be information about swimming lessons, CPR, safety, and more! Register now and secure your spot. For questions, email [email protected].

• Saturday, July 18
• 3-6 p.m.
• El Salvador Community Center, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive

More information

Craftopia: The Secret Garden in a Jar - July 21

Gather round to explore the universe of crafting and meet other crafters with Santa Ana Public Library. Bring your own project or enjoy our specialty craft of the day. Open to teens and tweens. Contact us at 714-647-6992 for more information.

• Tuesday, July 21
• 4-5:30 p.m.
• Newhope Library, 122 N. Newhope St.

Bubblemania & Company - July 23

Join Bubblemania and Company for an unforgettable bubble experience with Santa Ana Public Library. Watch stunning bubble magic and learn the fascinating science behind how bubbles work. Contact us at 714-647-6992 for more information.

• Thursday, July 23
• 12:15 p.m.-1 p.m.
• Newhope Library, 122 N. Newhope St.

Summer Movies in the Park Week 6: 'Zootopia 2' - July 24

Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and loved ones - it's time for another installation of Movies in the Park! Each movie night features themed crafts for kids, fun games, community resources, and complimentary popcorn (while supplies last). Activities start at 6:30 p.m.; the movie begins at dusk.

• Friday, July 24
• 6:30 - 9 p.m.
• Lillie King Park, 500 W. Alton Ave.

Santa Anita Park, Community Center and Pool Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - July 25

Santa Anita Park is entering an exciting new chapter with the completion of a transformative renovation that will officially open on Saturday, July 25.

The project features a new community center, a revitalized pool, and a new synthetic turf sports field that will provide safe, high-quality, year-round play. Additional improvements include a new playground, basketball court, outdoor fitness equipment, expanded parking lot, and enhanced park amenities that will serve residents and visitors for years to come.

Join us for a ribbon cutting ceremony as we unveil the transformed Santa Anita Park!

• Saturday, July 25
• 10 a.m.
• Santa Anita Park, 300 S. Figueroa St.

National Night Out 2026 - August 4

Join the Santa Ana Police Department for National Night Out! Come out to Jerome Park to meet the officers in your community, connect with community partners, and enjoy an evening with your neighbors and friends. During this free community event, the first 100 kids will receive a goodie bag (while supplies last).

• Tuesday, Aug. 4
• 4-6 p.m.
• Jerome Park, 2115 W. McFadden Ave.

My First Home Information Session - August 5

This information session introduces attendees to My First Home, a first-time homebuyer program for those looking to purchase a home in Santa Ana. The presentation includes information on eligibility, the application process, and frequently asked questions. Visit the link below to register for the workshop. Please contact us two weeks in advance if additional translation services are needed. Phone: (714) 667-2250.

• Wednesday, Aug. 5
• 6-7 p.m.
• Salgado Recreation Center, 706 N. Newhope St.

Register for My First Home workshop

Free admission to local attractions for Santa Ana residents

Did you know that Santa Ana residents can enjoy free admission to popular local attractions through special community programs and partnerships? Check out these deals to start planning your next adventure:

• Discovery Cube Orange County offers free admission to Santa Ana residents on the first Tuesday of every month. Residents get four free tickets per government-issued photo ID with address. Get more details here.
• The Santa Ana Zoo offers free admission to Santa Ana residents on the third Sunday of every month. ID is required for adults. Click here for rules and dates.
• Bowers Museum offers free general admission to all Santa Ana residents on Sundays. Proof of residency is required. Get more details here.

Get Involved

Apply to serve on a Santa Ana board or commission

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 & Commissions! The City has current vacancies on multiple Boards, Commissions, and Committees. Submit an application today for consideration by the City Council: santa-ana.gov/boards-and-commissions. Questions: [email protected].

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.

Download the mySantaAna app

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?

• How to start a business in Santa Ana
• Home Occupation Permit

Apply to work for the City of Santa Ana

• Career opportunities
• Internship program