Recent Council Meeting Highlights | | |
November 18
Advancing Affordable Housing in Anaheim
This week, we took another important step in addressing Anaheim’s housing affordability challenges. I joined my colleagues in approving a new funding source for affordable housing, generated by hotels around our theme parks and the Convention Center.
This initiative is expected to bring in about $3 million a year, supporting affordable housing communities, emergency rent assistance, and first-time homebuyer programs. The funding will directly benefit workers at hotels within the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District — many of whom struggle to live near their jobs or are one unexpected expense away from hardship.
This builds on several major actions we’ve taken:
-
Creating the Anaheim Local Housing Trust Fund, which now holds $16 million for affordable housing, rent assistance, and homeownership support.
-
Launching Anaheim’s first inclusionary housing policy in 2024, requiring large developments to include affordable units or contribute to our trust fund.
-
Continuing to grow beyond the 4,000 affordable apartments already available across 40 dedicated communities.
I’m proud of the work we’re doing, and I remain committed to meeting this moment with innovative, meaningful solutions for Anaheim families.
Read more about hotel affordable housing funding here.
See more about the Anaheim Local Housing Trust Fund here.
See all we do to address affordable housing here.
| | |
November 4
Utility and infrastructure agreements advanced
The Council authorized multiple Anaheim Public Utilities items related to water and power infrastructure upgrades, ensuring continued reliability for residents and businesses.
Public comments heard on local concerns
Residents addressed the Council on a range of issues during public comment, including neighborhood traffic, public safety, and city services. While no major policy items were scheduled, I reaffirmed my commitment to fiscal responsibility and revenue planning in my remarks.
October 28 — Tourism Revenue Proposal
I brought forward a proposal for a tourism tax measure for Anaheim voters, including a 3% admissions tax on large venues and a 10% parking tax on garages with 1,500+ spaces. The goal was to help close our $65 million budget gap and protect essential city services without burdening residents.
City staff estimated the combined measures could generate up to $164 million annually. I emphasized that the proposal was designed to support the city’s financial health while maintaining a strong business environment.
Although the measure did not pass, I will continue fighting for sustainable solutions to ensure our city has a properly funded general fund and can continue delivering high-quality services for all Anaheim residents.
Next Council meeting: Tuesday, December 9
Join us at City Hall at 5 p.m. or watch live by going to Anaheim.net/TV or on YouTube at Anaheim Council and Planning Commission Meetings.
| | Searching for Anaheim’s Next Police Chief | | | | |
As your councilmember, my priority is making Anaheim one of the safest cities in California — and that begins with strong leadership, community trust, and effective policing.
As we search for our next Chief of Police, I’m focused on finding a leader with proven experience, accountability, and a true commitment to serving every neighborhood in our city. We need someone who can rebuild morale, strengthen community policing, and ensure fairness and transparency across the department.
I’m looking for a chief who delivers results, supports professional development for all officers, embraces innovation, and maintains visible, responsive policing that keeps our residents safe.
This is an important moment for Anaheim, and I’m committed to helping select a leader who reflects our values and moves our city forward.
| | | Natalie Working for District 3 | | | |
Fun on Wheels
I had a great time joining Anaheim Neighborhood Services, Anaheim PD, and Neutral Grounds for Fun on Wheels in the Glen Neighbors community. Events like this help us connect with families right where they are — building trust, sharing resources, and strengthening our neighborhoods.
Loved seeing our local youth enjoying the activities and spending time with our officers and city staff.
| | |
Honoring Our Nation's Veterans
Happy Veterans Day! I was proud to join our community in recognizing the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. It was a privilege to honor our local heroes and come together in gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Deep appreciation to everyone who attended and helped make this day so special.
| | | |
Celebrating the 2025 Miss Anaheim Beautiful Court
I was honored to attend the Miss Anaheim Beautiful Court event and celebrate these hardworking young women. Looking forward to seeing all the ways they contribute to our community!
| | |
Celebrating Chicano Heritage Month
Chicano heritage is part of Anaheim’s story — and mine as a Chicana and fourth-generation Mexican American. Since 2023, we’ve formally recognized Chicano Heritage Month to honor the contributions of our Mexican American community.
This year we celebrated the Naranjeros Car Club, an Anaheim lowrider club rooted in culture and community. From car shows and school supply drives to the Anaheim Halloween Parade, they give back while preserving Chicano tradition.
I’m proud to work with the Naranjeros to promote wellness, break stigmas and support the well-being of our community.
| | | |
She Got Game Girls Basketball Clinic
I’m grateful to the LA Sparks for bringing She Got Game to Anaheim — a free two-hour clinic for girls from our local schools to sharpen their skills and train with JR Sparks elite coaches.
Every player walked away with a Sparks T-shirt, two tickets to an upcoming home game and, most importantly, game-changing coaching and memories that will last a lifetime.
Joined by my council colleagues, I was proud to see our youth given opportunities that inspire far beyond the court. A special thank-you to Anthony Brenneman and the Orange County Sports Commission for championing Anaheim’s young athletes.
As Sparks legend Candace Parker reminds us, “It’s about enjoying the process, enjoying the journey.”
| | |
National Day of Action
I was proud to join residents and community partners here in Anaheim as part of the National Day of Action, standing together in unity, peace and purpose. From Anaheim to communities across the country, we marched to defend democracy, uplift our neighborhoods and ensure every voice is heard.
A special thank-you to the Orange County Labor Federation for walking alongside us and helping ensure a safe path to City Hall. It was inspiring to see so many come together — a reminder that when we unite, our movement is stronger.
| | | | |
Chicano Art Exhibition
Thank you to everyone who joined us for a powerful evening celebrating Chicano art, culture and community in the heart of Anaheim.
The 2nd annual opening reception kicked off the Chicano Art Exhibition at the Downtown Anaheim Community Center, featuring works by Chicano art pioneer Emigdio Vasquez, his daughter Rosemary Vasquez Tuthill, and local artists Franky Castillo, Rich Romeros, Marina Aguilera, Abram Moya Jr. and Jaime “Germs” Zacarias.
A special thank-you to Anaheim Community Services for bringing this event to life and to my council colleagues for supporting Chicano heritage in Anaheim.
| | | |
Let's Celebrate the Holidays Sustainably
Join us at our Sustainability Education Center on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Trade in old holiday lights or donate a new toy and receive two free LED holiday light strands!
Explore our 9,000‑sq.-ft. center, see how Anaheim keeps our water and power running sustainably, and enjoy hands-on activities like pedaling to light bulbs, checking out solar tech, and test-driving an electric vehicle.
RSVP here!
| | |
See graffiti, a broken streetlight or dumped furniture? Report it anytime with Anaheim Anytime.
Go to Anaheim.net/anytime or download the free MyAnaheim app to quickly submit an issue, add a photo and track follow-up.
Requests are routed to the right city team during business hours. For emergencies, call 911. For nonemergency police matters, call (714) 765-1900.
Working together, we can keep Anaheim clean, safe and thriving.
| | | | |
