Santa Ana designates JACL chapter a stakeholder for Orange County Japanese Garden, adds limited event access

At a Santa Ana City Council meeting, council members approved a resolution designating the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), Orange County chapter, as a community stakeholder in the preservation of the Orange County Japanese Garden and Tea House, and added provisions on events and notice if the site is redesigned or moved.

Supporters said the designation formalizes a long-standing community relationship and will help preserve the garden’s cultural and historical value. "To have the Japanese Garden and Tea House become a part of the city of Santa Ana is a momentous occasion for the Japanese American community," said Ryan Takeshi Gasha, president of the JACL Orange County chapter, during public comment.

The council voted unanimously after accepting amendments. Council Member Lopez moved the item; Mayor Pro Tem Phan seconded. Council Member Hernandez proposed language, later adopted as part of the motion, to allow the JACL to hold events at the garden at least four times per year without a fee; the resolution was clarified to allow additional events at the city manager’s discretion. Council Member Penalosa requested—and the council accepted—language requiring staff to notify the city council immediately if city staff begin discussions that could lead to redesign or relocation of the garden.

Speakers urged protection of the site and described its historical meaning. Alan Wu, a longtime Santa Ana resident and planning commissioner, recalled how the garden was created to symbolize welcome for returning Japanese American families after World War II. Joseph Gu, Pacific Southwest district governor for JACL, asked the council to support the resolution and to formally establish lines of communication between the city and the organization.

City staff and councilmembers emphasized partnership. Council Member Lopez thanked staff for responding to a multi-year advocacy effort and said the garden is a “beautiful asset” for residents to visit. Council Member Hernandez framed the amendment as access that enables programming: "The Orange County Japanese community under the supervision of the Salinoko, Orange County JACL will be able to hold events 4 times a year at the Orange County Japanese Garden and Tea House, free of charge," language he introduced and the council adopted in amended form.

The final vote was 7-0 in favor. The resolution, as amended, names the JACL chapter as a community stakeholder, allows at least four no-cost events per calendar year (additional events subject to the city manager’s approval), and requires staff to notify council promptly if redesign or relocation of the garden is contemplated.

The measure does not appropriate city funds for event support beyond permitting and coordination; the amended language says the city will provide services, event equipment, and coordination ‘‘as available’’ and subject to the city manager’s discretion. The council discussion noted the county had adopted similar protections earlier and that the item responds to community requests submitted since 2022.

The decision places the JACL chapter in a formal advisory role for the site and sets a process for notice and consultation if staff considers future changes.