In a unanimous decision on Tuesday, July 1, the Santa Ana City Council passed a series of measures aimed at affirming the city’s commitment to its immigrant residents and responding to ongoing federal immigration enforcement activity.
The Council approved three separate actions: a resolution calling for the removal of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and military personnel from the city, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking data on recent enforcement operations, and the establishment of a $100,000 emergency assistance fund for families impacted by immigration raids.
While the city of Santa Ana does not have legal authority to expel federal agencies, the Council formally called on its federal representatives to advocate for the end of ICE’s presence and for the removal of military or federal personnel assisting in immigration efforts within city limits.
The resolution also urged that ICE officers follow proper legal identification protocols under federal regulation, and called for an end to immigration raids in public places, citing the fear and disruption such operations create in the community.
The city’s resolution reaffirmed Santa Ana’s adherence to SB 54, also known as the California Values Act, and its status as a Sanctuary City. The resolution stated that recent enforcement actions have had harmful impacts on the city’s residents and documented the community’s response to those effects.
In a separate move, the Council directed the City Manager to file a FOIA request with ICE seeking detailed records of enforcement activity in Santa Ana between January 20 and July 1, 2025. According to city officials, the request has already been submitted and a response is pending.
Additionally, the Council approved the creation of an emergency assistance program funded by $100,000 from the City’s event budget, without canceling any scheduled events. The program is designed to provide aid to families directly affected by immigration enforcement. City staff were also directed to report back within 90 days on the status of the fund and the potential for additional financial support. Residents seeking information about legal rights and available resources can visit the city’s Know Your Rights page, which provides community updates and guidance for immigrants navigating enforcement-related issues.
