Mayor’s Newsletter: November 2025

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Official newsletter of Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua.

Keeping the community informed about local events, City news, and resources.

Dear Neighbors,

This past month has been full of celebrations that truly highlight Santa Ana's heart. From the Taste of Santa Ana to the Police Department's Trunk or Treat and the State of the City, I was reminded how much I love our city, its people, its energy, and the sense of community that shines when we come together.

At the same time, I know many in our community are facing challenges, especially with the recent government shutdown affecting SNAP benefits and adding extra strain on families. Please remember that you are not alone. The City of Santa Ana offers a variety of resources, including job opportunities, housing support, immigration legal defense, and financial assistance programs. You can also find a list of local food distributions hereand other community resources here.

Honoring Our Veterans

On Tuesday, November 11, we observe Veterans Day, a time to honor and express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. Your courage, dedication, and selfless service have ensured the freedom and security we cherish today.

As a community, we come together to celebrate and thank all veterans for their unwavering commitment and the inspiration they continue to provide. To all who have served, we salute you.

Community Events

Dancing with the Santa Ana Stars

For the first time ever, the Greater Santa Ana Vitality Foundation is hosting Dancing with the Santa Ana Stars on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Santa Ana Valley High School Auditorium. Enjoy an evening of community fun and entertainment as nine local leaders - including Santa Ana Chief of Police Robert Rodriguez - dance with professionals and compete for your votes, all while raising funds to support local programs. Learn more at https://gsavf.org/.

Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaways & Food Distribution

This month, my office and our community partners are coming together to help families in need with one Food Distribution Drive-Thru and two Turkey Giveaways. These events will provide essential food and resources to neighbors who may be facing challenges.

Please share this information with friends and family who could benefit:

Event Details:

• Saturday, November 15 - In partnership with Councilmembers Phil Bacerra and David Penaloza, the Orange County Labor Federation, and Mosaic Movement, the City will be distributing 500 food boxes at Centennial Park (3000 W. Edinger Ave.) beginning at 9 a.m. While supplies last.

• Saturday, November 22 - In partnership with the SEVA Collective, 600 turkeys and produce boxes will be distributed at 1441 E. Chestnut Ave., from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Drive up and pop your trunk for quick pick-up, or use our walk-up line. While supplies last.
  

• Sunday, November 23 - My office, in partnership with Congressman Lou Correa, Assemblyman Avelino Valencia, Councilmembers Phil Bacerra and David Penaloza, the Santa Ana Police Department, and the Santa Ana Police Officers Association, will host a turkey giveaway in front of SAPD Headquarters (60 Civic Center Plaza) beginning at 9 a.m. We'll be distributing 700 turkeys - available while supplies last.

As the holiday season approaches, many families have reached out with questions and concerns. My office will always remain committed to helping and being a resource for everyone. Together, the kindness and care we show one another remind me of the true spirit of Santa Ana and the strength of our community.

May this spirit of community fill you and your loved ones with warmth, joy, and gratitude this Thanksgiving. I wish you a safe and happy holiday filled with laughter, love, and wonderful memories.

Sincerely,

Mayor Valerie Amezcua

Email: [email protected]

I invite you to follow me on social media for daily updates! Please connect with me, and stay tuned for upcoming news, meetings, and events in our community!

CITY AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Our city and community partners offer programs and services to support Santa Ana residents. Here's an easy guide to the resources available to you. Use this guide to find support, get connected, and make the most of what's offered in our city.

The Santa Ana City Council and City leadership remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of every member of our community. Immigration legal services, financial assistance, food pantries, and other community resources are available to support Santa Ana residents.

The City Council has directed the City Manager to continue the Ayuda Sin Fronteras (Help Without Borders) program with an additional $100,000 in funding, and has also approved funding for legal defense services through the Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef). Santa Ana residents in need of legal assistance can contact ImmDef at (213) 634-0999 or [email protected], or call (714) 565-2655 to learn more about financial assistance available through Ayuda Sin Fronteras.

Learn more about these and other City resources available to residents affected by immigration enforcement at the links below.

Ayuda Sin Fronteras

Immigration Legal Defense

Know Your Rights

Food Assistance

Community Resources

ICE Detainee Locator

Southern California Gas Co:

SCG has provided information to help you avoid becoming a victim of fraudulent activities, including the most common scams targeting utility customers. I invite you to learn more here: https://www.socalgas.com/safety/safety-and-prevention/scams

Find more community resources here.

You can request City services online.

Important City Contacts:

• City Hall Main Line - (714) 647-5400
• Code Enforcement - (714) 667-2780
• Emergency Water Services - (714) 953-8026
• Graffiti Hotline - (877) 786-7824
• Homeless Services - (714) 242-3706 or report via the mySantaAna app.
• Public Works Dispatch (street sweeping, tree maintenance) - (714) 647-3380

Download the SantaAna app today

The mySantaAna app has expanded its language support. Now available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, it's easier than ever to report issues and request City services. Be sure to download or update the appon your smartphone to stay connected with your city.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

City of Santa Ana jobs and internships links:

The City of Santa Ana's Human Resources Department, Talent Acquisition Division, collaborates with City agencies and departments to identify staffing needs and recruit top talent to serve our community. We are looking for results-oriented individuals who possess a positive attitude, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, have a proven track record of success, and are passionate about public service.

Career opportunities

Internship program

MAYOR ON THE MOVE

State of the City

I was proud to deliver the State of the City in partnership with the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and our city leadership. We highlighted our city's achievements, ongoing projects, and future plans. It was an honor to share our progress with residents and community partners as we continue working together to make Santa Ana an even better place to live, work, and grow. You can watch the State of the City video below.

City of Santa Ana Apprenticeship Career Fair

I was happy to join the Apprenticeship Career Fair at the Santa Ana WORK Center, held in partnership with the Western States Carpenters and Laborers Local 652. This event provided valuable opportunities for residents to connect with skilled trade representatives, explore career pathways, and learn about apprenticeship programs that lead to stable, well-paying jobs.

NESALL Harvest Festival

I was thrilled to serve as a judge for the children's costume contest at the NE Santa Ana Little League (NESALL) Harvest Festival. It was wonderful to see so many creative and festive costumes, and to celebrate the spirit of our community with our families!

Town & Country 50th Anniversary

I was honored to be a guest speaker at Town & Country's 50th Anniversary Celebration. They do incredible work supporting our seniors, and it was wonderful to celebrate their dedication and impact on our community.

OC Sheriff's Academy Graduation

I had the honor of joining SAPD's seven graduates from Class #266 of the Orange County Sheriff's Academy, who completed a rigorous six-month training program. I am proud to represent the City of Santa Ana, to welcome the new officers to SAPD, and personally thank their families for their support.

School Visit at Lincoln Elementary

I had a wonderful time at Lincoln Elementary! The students asked thoughtful questions and shared their concerns about our city. Thank you to Mr. Ramirez, Principal Katayama, Mr. Castellanos, and Mr. Perez for inviting me.

SAPD Trunk or Treat

I had a great time at the Santa Ana Police Department's Trunk or Treat event! It was wonderful to see families and community members come together for a fun and safe celebration. Thank you to SAPD for creating such a memorable experience for our residents.

Coffee with the Mayor

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined me for Coffee with the Mayor. Our discussion focused on the First Street Project, featuring a comprehensive presentation and an engaging question-and-answer session with community members. I truly appreciate the thoughtful input and collaboration from residents who continue to help shape the future of our city.

Lunch with the Santa Ana Girl Scouts

I was delighted to have lunch with the Santa Ana Girl Scouts at City Hall! It's always inspiring to support our troop and all the young girls who dream big - showing them that anything is possible.

OCBJ 31st Annual Women in Business Awards

What an incredible turnout at the Orange County Business Journal's 31st Annual Women in Business Awards! I was truly honored to be nominated among so many inspiring women. It was wonderful to share the room with more than 200 accomplished and talented women who continue to make a difference in their fields and our community.

InfluenceHER Conference

I was proud to host the 3rd Annual InfluenceHER Conference in partnership with Girls Inc. and Santa Ana College. It was an inspiring day dedicated to empowering young women through leadership, mentorship, and education. Participants engaged in meaningful breakout sessions and heard from our keynote speaker, Judge Claudia Alvarez, who shared her powerful story and words of encouragement.

CITY NEWS AND RECOGNITIONS

Help Shape Santa Ana's Budget Priorities!

We invite all Santa Ana residents to complete the Community Priorities Survey. This is your chance to share what matters most when it comes to City services, programs, and how your taxpayer dollars are spent.

It's an ongoing opportunity. The survey will remain open until the City Council finalizes the fiscal year 2026-27 budget in July. The results will help ensure community voices guide key funding decisions. The survey is available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Your feedback will direct which services get priorities and ensure the CIty is responsive to what residents actually need. This survey just takes a few minutes, but it helps build a stronger Santa Ana for everyone. Thank you for helping shape Santa Ana's future.

Take the Community Priorities Survey

Recycle your used oil filter and get one for free

Through Nov. 30, residents can recycle used oil filters and receive a new one for free at participating auto parts stores in Santa Ana!

Bring used filters to O'Reilly Auto Parts (1312 W. Edinger Ave.) or AutoZone (2413 W. 17th St). Each household may receive up to two replacement filters of equal value, up to $15 each.

City completes NE Annexation Water and Sewer Main Improvements Project

Our Public Works Agency has completed the NE Annexation Water and Sewer Main Improvements Project on 17th Street, Deodar Street, Medford Avenue and Pasadena Street.

The project included 2,250 feet of new water main to improve service, 660 feet of new sewer main with resident connections and 69,000 square feet of pavement repair in residential areas. We're proud to provide these services to Santa Ana's newest residents who were annexed into the city from unincorporated county areas.

These upgrades will provide more reliable water and sewer service for the community.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Quarterly Bulky Items Drop-off Day - November 15

Our Public Works Agency, in partnership with Republic Services, will host the quarterly bulky item drop-off day. The free event allows Santa Ana residents to properly dispose of items such as furniture, mattresses, carpets and non-donatable clothes, bedding, books and toys.

• Saturday, November 15
• 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
• Memorial Park, 2102 S. Flower St.

No appointment is necessary, but proof of residency is required.

The event will end by noon or earlier if capacity is reached. Items not accepted include hazardous waste (paints, oils, chemicals, pesticides and batteries), construction materials (concrete, dirt, rocks, brick and asphalt), tires, refrigerators, freezers and air conditioning units.

For more information, call 714-647-411 or visitsanta-ana.org/trash-recycling.

Sister City Mural Unveiling - November 15

Plaza Navideña Tree Lighting Ceremony - November 22

Join us in celebrating the start of the holiday season and supporting local businesses, as we light a tree right in the heart of downtown Santa Ana.

• Saturday, November 22
• 5-8 p.m.
• Plaza Calle Cuatro, 325 E. Fourth St.

For more information, visit https://www.santa-ana.org/plaza-navidena/

Turkey Bowl Tournament - November 22

Get ready for the second annual adult kickball Turkey Bowl tournament hosted by the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Agency!

• Saturday, November 22
• 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Jerome Park, 2115 W. McFadden Ave.

Bring your coworkers, friends and family for a day packed with fun, and Thanksgiving cheer! The tournament is open to all participants ages 18 and up and is a great way to stay active this holiday season.

• Registration is now open through Nov. 9.
• $300 per team or as low as $20 for a full team of 15 players.
• Trophies, prizes for 1st and 2nd place and most creative uniform will be awarded.

To participate and register, sign up at tinyurl.com/SATurkeyBowl2.

Learn more

Discovery Cube Santa Ana - Resident Free Days

Great news, Santa Ana residents! Enjoy a day of fun and learning at Discovery Cube Santa Ana for FREEon the first Tuesday of every month! Get up to FOUR free ticketsper government-issued photo ID with a Santa Ana address.*

When:First Tuesday of every month
Where:Discovery Cube Santa Ana

Learn more: Discovery Cube Promotions

Free Resident Day at Santa Ana Zoo

Santa Ana residents, enjoy a wild day at the Santa Ana Zoo - for FREE!

When: Every third Sunday of the month
Where:Santa Ana Zoo, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana

Free admissionwith proof of residency (driver's license or utility bill required).

Learn more: Santa Ana Resident Days

Bowers Museum free admission for residents

Offers free general admission to all Santa Ana residents on Sundays through a generous donation in memory of Dorothy Goerl and courtesy of the Lockhart Family. Santa Ana residents will need to provide proof of residency through an ID, driver's license or utility bill.

Learn more here

City Hall

Upcoming Holiday and Closed Friday schedule: (City Hall non-essential offices are closed on alternating Fridays throughout the year)

• Friday, November 7 - City Hall closed
• Tuesday, November 11 - Veterans Day: City Hall closed, no street sweeping
• Friday, November 21 - City Hall closed
• Thursday, November 27 - Thanksgiving: City Hall closed, no street sweeping
• Friday, November 28 - Day after Thanksgiving: City Hall closed, no street sweeping

The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (open session) at the Santa Ana Council Chamber, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana. Official City meetings are open to the public and I encourage you to participate. Council agendas and minutes may be accessed here.

Invite me

If you'd like to invite me to attend an event in your neighborhood or in connection with your organization, please feel free to make that request via email: [email protected]

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