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Board approves exception, county contribution to Santa Ana bikeway fencing after assaults near schools
Summary
The board authorized a one‑time exception to a 2012 MOU with the City of Santa Ana to add security fencing along the Santa Ana Delhi Channel bikeway, with Santa Ana covering about $1.1 million of a $1.2 million project and the county asked to fill an approximately $100,000 gap; supervisors noted safety concerns and the CEO cautioned about precedent.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a one‑time exception to a memorandum of understanding with the City of Santa Ana to provide additional security fencing along a portion of the Santa Ana Delhi Channel bikeway between Alton Avenue and Sunflower.
Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento said the change was requested by the city after two students walking from McArthur Intermediate were assaulted near the bike path; the city identified the segment as a safety priority and proposed additional fencing to block access. Supervisor Sarmiento described the proposal as a response to a newly identified dangerous condition adjacent to school routes.
Board members discussed project costs and contract responsibilities. Chairman Wagner and others referenced a $1.2 million total construction estimate, with Santa Ana contributing about $1.1 million and the county being asked to close the remaining gap (approximately $100,000). “It seems like given it’s their contractual obligation, closing that gap is not a big ask,” Chairman Wagner said when asking the CEO for a legal and policy perspective.
County CEO Geary cautioned the board that approving exceptions outside the MOU could set precedent. “I am concerned that it sets precedent because we get a request from other cities as well,” Geary said, noting the county already spends substantial funds across the flood control system and that consistent processes are important.
Supervisors supporting the action said the site is a public‑safety hot spot that requires prompt attention and noted an ongoing working group examining flood‑control channel encampments, outreach and longer‑term solutions. Supervisor Foley and others urged a follow‑up update and possible working‑group recommendations on hot‑spot prioritization.
The board moved and seconded the item and the exception and associated funding were approved unanimously.
Why it matters: The vote directs county funds to a flood control channel safety project adjacent to schools and highlights a broader county‑city coordination challenge over maintenance, enforcement and who pays for safety upgrades. Supervisors asked staff to return with more analysis and working‑group recommendations.
