Santa Ana City Council approves budget and highlights road project cost transparency

Santa Ana City Council has taken significant steps to address the city's projected budget deficit, which could reach $129 million within the next decade. During the meeting on June 3, 2025, council members approved a comprehensive budget aimed at tightening financial management and enhancing transparency in public works projects.

A key discussion point came from a public speaker who highlighted the need for clearer cost assessments on road projects. He emphasized that the current costs, ranging from $8 to $2,000 per foot, warrant scrutiny to ensure fiscal responsibility. The speaker, an engineer, pointed out that many expenses stem from a lack of transparency and suggested that the city could waive certain regulatory requirements to reduce costs. His call for a more detailed breakdown of road widening expenses resonated with council members, who acknowledged the importance of multimodal transportation planning, including bike lanes and sidewalks.

The council unanimously approved the budget, which includes appropriations for various city departments, a resolution to amend the classification and compensation plan, and a commitment to deposit $1 million into the pension trust fund. This budget is seen as a proactive measure to stimulate economic growth and improve city services, with the city manager noting the addition of new staff to enhance in-house capabilities for public works.

Additionally, the council announced its sponsorship of a community event celebrating the Vietnamese American legacy, further emphasizing its commitment to cultural recognition and community engagement. As Santa Ana navigates its financial challenges, these decisions reflect a strategic approach to balancing the budget while fostering community development and infrastructure improvements.