Irlanda Martinez is a dedicated housing and community development professional with extensive experience in affordable housing policy, urban planning, and economic development. With a deep commitment to equity and social justice, she has spent her career advancing policies and programs that expand housing opportunities for underserved communities.
Currently serving as a Housing Programs Analyst for the City of Santa Ana, Irlanda oversees key affordable housing initiatives, ensuring regulatory compliance while spearheading policy research, program development, and community engagement efforts. She works closely with local rental property owners, developers, and city officials to preserve and expand affordable housing options, while also training and coaching staff on compliance and best practices.
Before joining the City of Santa Ana, Irlanda was a Project Manager at Harris & Associates, where she led high-impact housing, planning, and economic development projects across California. She played a key role in obtaining 6th Cycle Housing Element certification for the cities of Victorville, Irvine, Walnut Creek, and Millbrae, helped establish California’s first Community Revitalization and Investment Authority, and mentored a team of analysts, fostering their professional growth and development.
Prior to her time at Harris & Associates, Irlanda worked as an Analyst at RSG, Inc., specializing in economic development, housing compliance monitoring, and fiscal analysis. In this role, she conducted financial feasibility studies, affordable housing file audits, and relocation services for jurisdictions across California. She also played an active role in mentoring new analysts and participating in the firm's hiring process.
Beyond her professional work, Irlanda is a passionate community advocate dedicated to empowering residents and expanding housing access. She has served as a Community Development and Housing Commissioner for the City of Santa Ana, advising on housing policies that directly impact local communities. As a Board Member for THRIVE Community Land Trust, she has worked to advance permanent affordable housing solutions that prioritize community ownership and long-term affordability. Fluent in Spanish, Irlanda has also provided translation services, ensuring equitable access to housing resources and civic participation for Spanish-speaking residents.
With a strong foundation in policy analysis, project management, and community organizing, Irlanda continues to drive meaningful change in the housing sector. She is committed to leveraging her expertise to create more inclusive, sustainable, and affordable communities across Southern California.
Email: imartinez10@santa-ana.org