March 19, 2026 — Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG)

Meeting Summary

Present: Rouse, Parodi, Mosby, Lee, Lavagnino, Julian, Clark, Brown, Hernandez, Silva · Absent: caps, Nelson

This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details — verify against the official recording and the transcript.

The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Silva. A quorum was established with Directors Rouse, Parodi, Mosby, Lee, Lavagnino, Julian, Hartman, Clark, Brown, and Aguilera Hernandez present. Director Kaps and Chair Nelson were absent. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

No public comments were received regarding items not on the agenda, either in advance or during the meeting.

The board entered a closed session to discuss the Executive Director performance evaluation and conference with labor negotiators. Counsel read into the record for the session. Upon reconvening, counsel reported that the board took no reportable action during the closed session.

Public comment was received in advance regarding Item 5D from representatives of the Oak Tree Company, which was distributed to the board. No items were pulled from the calendar for separate discussion. A motion was made by Director Julian and seconded by Director Clark to adopt the Consent Calendar. The motion passed.

Staff presented a biannual update on regional broadband initiatives, referencing the 2022 Broadband Strategic Plan. Updates included progress on Middle Mile projects involving the California Department of Technology (CDT), Lumen, and the Central Valley Integrated Networks (CVIN). Information was provided regarding the Chumash Tribe's Last Mile Network grant and unallocated federal funding accounts. A representative from the Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast provided updates on CASIF grant applications, BEAD program awards to ISPs, and survey results regarding service adequacy in the Cuyama Valley. Board discussion focused on the criteria for designated service areas, affordability of satellite plans, and efforts to verify internet speeds in the Cuyama area. Staff noted plans to coordinate with the Blue Sky Center for further community surveying. No action was required; the item was for information purposes.

Staff presented the progress on construction for the Highway 101 corridor project. The presentation detailed completed segments, ongoing work in the Montecito area, and the upcoming Santa Barbara North segment construction. Updates covered parallel projects, including roundabouts and bridge reconstructions, and anticipated traffic detours. Public comment was received regarding concerns that the closure of the Los Patos off-ramp would negatively impact local businesses. Board discussion addressed the feasibility of keeping the ramp open. Staff advised that the ramp closure was necessary for bridge construction and staging requirements and could not be delayed. No action was required; the item was for information purposes.

Staff presented the draft work program and budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. The presentation outlined managed budgets, discretionary grants, formula funding, and staff compensation, including a proposed 5.4% increase comprising a cost of living adjustment and merit increases. Discussion arose regarding the potential for a new planning study for Highway 135. Staff recommended directing them to apply for a state planning grant to fund such a study. The Board expressed support for directing staff to pursue the grant application. The budget was reviewed and will be considered for adoption at the April 16, 2026, meeting. No action was taken on the budget adoption at this meeting.

The Executive Director reported on a recent legislative day in Sacramento focused on transportation funding and transit protections. The Director recognized Fred Luna, Director of Project Delivery and Construction, for 20 years of service to the agency.

Jason Wilkinson, Deputy District Director for Caltrans, provided an update on paving operations north of Vandenberg Village on Highway 1. Temporary lane closures were noted through March 27.

CRCC Board: No significant updates were reported.
CalCOG: No update was provided due to the absence of the reporting director.
CalVans Board: Staff reported on a meeting held March 12. The board discussed funding decreases and operational cost increases. Action was taken to update billing terms and approve an emergency rate increase. Member agency dues were discussed but not acted upon. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for April 9.
Lausan Board: Staff reported on a meeting held March 16. The annual business plan was approved. Ridership was reported to have increased by 8.5%. Expanded rail service is anticipated to begin in May.

Vice Chair Silva acknowledged the efforts of staff during the recent legislative day.

The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for April 16, 2026, in Santa Maria.