The Santa Ana City Council convened on May 6, 2025, to address various community concerns and agenda items, including significant discussions on infrastructure projects and budget oversight.

The meeting began with public comments, where residents expressed their views on the proposed rehabilitation project for First Street. One resident highlighted the extensive investment made by the city and community members in improving the area. While supporting the project, he raised concerns about the design of the bikeway component, suggesting it could exacerbate existing traffic congestion and attract negative activities, such as drug circulation. He emphasized the need for a thorough discussion involving city officials, police, and community members to ensure the project is beneficial and well-planned.

Another resident, Patricia DeSantis, addressed the council regarding the city’s budget, which reportedly includes approximately $255 million in unrestricted spending. She criticized the council for denying requests for a community oversight committee to manage $22 million in community benefit funds from a construction project. DeSantis expressed concern over recent pay raises for city officials amidst economic challenges and called for increased transparency and accountability in city spending.

Following public comments, the council moved to the consent calendar, where various items were presented for approval. Council members indicated their intentions to abstain or recuse themselves from specific items due to conflicts of interest. A motion was made to approve the consent calendar, excluding items that were pulled for further discussion.

The meeting concluded with a successful vote on the consent calendar, with most items approved and noted recusals recorded. The council members expressed a willingness to engage in further discussions on the pulled items in future meetings.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's desire for greater involvement in city governance and the careful consideration of infrastructure projects that impact local neighborhoods. The council's responsiveness to these concerns will be crucial as they move forward with planning and budgeting initiatives.