Meeting Summary
Present: 1-Hornick, 2-Lewis, 3-Sanchez, 4-Mead, Silva
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Proclamation Recognizing National Voter Registration Day
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation designating September 15, 2026, as National Voter Registration Day.
- The proclamation affirmed the city’s commitment to free and fair elections and urged eligible citizens to register.
- The League of Women Voters was not present to receive the proclamation but will be contacted.
Presentation on Measure D (Santa Ynez Valley Unified School District Bond)
- Dr. Kim Sheehan presented details on an $80 million, 25-year bond for facility modernization, CTE expansion, and vehicle replacement.
- The average tax rate is $21.73 per $100,000 of assessed value, with strict independent oversight planned.
- Council members inquired about fund prioritization and cost estimates, while public commenters expressed opposition based on past bond experiences and financial burden.
- The Mayor suggested the district contact the Santa Barbara County Energy Commission for potential energy efficiency grants.
Community Organization Support Grant Update (San Ynez Valley Humane Society)
- Dr. Shawna Shank reported on a $12,500 grant awarded over two years to support clinic capacity and adoption readiness.
- Metrics for January–August 2026 included 360 adoptions, 425 surgeries, and a 97.7% average live release rate.
- The grant supported the prevention of unwanted litters and the maintenance of shelter operations.
Proclamation Honoring Brian Nelson
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation honoring Brian Nelson for his architectural work with homeless populations and community service.
- Public commenters shared memories of Nelson’s dedication and his involvement in local projects like the Children’s Museum.
- Council Member Lewis suggested working with the Children’s Museum committee to commemorate Nelson’s legacy in the construction.
Annual Report for Calendar Year 2025 from Visit San Ynez Valley
- Shelby Simm presented financial and marketing data, noting a $2.4 million economic impact and an 86.6% return on ad spend.
- The organization launched a new mobile-first website, resulting in a 35% increase in site traffic and 78% increase in impressions.
- The average length of stay increased to 2.3 days, and the organization reported record editorial coverage value.
- The item was received and filed with no further action required.
Botanic Garden Request for Fencing on Newly Acquired City Property
- Staff presented a request to install fencing on newly acquired city property adjacent to the Botanic Gardens, with an estimate of $32,000.
- The property was acquired in December 2025 after a title error was discovered, and the city retains ownership and maintenance responsibility.
- Council members discussed payment structures, prevailing wage implications, and the need for competitive bidding.
- The Council directed staff to proceed with an RFP process for the fencing work rather than approving immediate funding.
Resolution No. 26-24 – Parking Restrictions at the South Cul-de-Sac of McMurray Road
- Staff proposed red curb restrictions to address safety concerns regarding school bus visibility and maneuvering.
- The school district explained that the restrictions provide necessary clearance for the bus to turn and stop safely.
- Council members debated the necessity of the south-side restriction, with some arguing it was sufficient for the north side only.
- The motion to adopt the resolution was passed.
Departmental Reports
- The City Manager reported that Sheriff’s Lieutenant Henderson is concluding his assignment and will be replaced by Lieutenant Green on October 1.
- The 18th Annual Holiday Bazaar is scheduled for November 7 at Riverview Park, with vendor registration available online.
- The City Manager addressed concerns about used needles found at a local clinic and provided information on free sharps disposal options.
Closed Session
- No closed session was scheduled for this meeting.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Agenda Reordering
- The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. on September 14. Roll call confirmed the presence of Mayor Silva, Vice Mayor Mead, and Council Members Hornick, Lewis, and Sanchez. City Attorney Murphy noted that Council Member Sanchez was participating via teleconference and Council Member Lewis was traveling on government business, which counts as a "just cause" absence for location posting.
- The agenda was modified as follows:
- Item 1 (Proclamation honoring Brian Nelson) was moved to occur after Item 4.
- Items 11 and 12 (Avenue of Flags Median 3 and food truck regulations) were continued to a date uncertain.
- Item 15 (Closed Session) was removed as no closed session was needed.
Item 2: Proclamation Recognizing National Voter Registration Day
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation into the record designating September 15, 2026, as National Voter Registration Day. The proclamation affirmed the city’s commitment to free and fair elections and urged eligible citizens to register to vote. The Mayor noted that the League of Women Voters was not present to receive the proclamation but would be contacted. No motion or vote was recorded for this item; it was read into the record.
Item 3: Presentation on Measure D (Santa Ynez Valley Unified School District Bond)
- Dr. Kim Sheehan, representing the Santa Ynez Valley Unified School District, presented information regarding Measure D, an $80 million bond measure. Key points included:
- Purpose: Modernize aging facilities (HVAC, portables), expand Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, replace buses/vans, and improve parking/site circulation.
- Financials: The bond is an $80 million, 25-year term loan to be drawn in four installments. The average tax rate is $21.73 per $100,000 of assessed value. Dr. Sheehan clarified that tax impacts are based on assessed value (capped by Prop 13), not market value.
- Oversight: The district cited past cost-saving measures from the 2016 Measure K bond and stated that strict independent oversight would be maintained.
- Community Impact: The presentation highlighted partnerships with local trades, potential matching funds from the state, and plans for a community pool funded outside the bond through the Santa Ynez Aquatics Foundation.
Q&A and Public Comment on Item 3
- Council Questions: Council Member Lewis asked about the prioritization of funds for the first $20 million draw and requested that cost estimates be made available to the public. Dr. Sheehan confirmed that estimated costs exist for each project but noted that architectural drawings are not yet complete. Council Member Lewis also asked about coordination with local trades; Dr. Sheehan confirmed existing and planned partnerships. The Mayor suggested the district contact the 3CE (Santa Barbara County Energy Commission) for potential energy efficiency grants.
- Public Comment:
- Sue Turner-Cray: Opposed the bond, citing past unmet promises from the 2016 bond, concerns about oversight, and the financial burden on taxpayers. She questioned the necessity of an $80 million bond for 729 students and suggested funds should be shared with neighboring schools.
- Denise Ellamine: Opposed the bond, citing a lack of trust in the school board’s oversight capabilities based on the 2016 bond experience. She argued that prioritizing a competitive swimming pool over basic educational needs was inappropriate and noted that she already pays for three other bonds. She clarified the difference between assessed and market value regarding property tax impacts.
Item 4: Community Organization Support Grant Update (San Ynez Valley Humane Society)
- Dr. Shawna Shank, Executive Director of the San Ynez Valley Humane Society, presented an update on a $12,500 grant awarded over two years. Key metrics reported for January–August 2026 included:
- 425 total surgeries (271 for shelter animals, 152 for public pets).
- 360 adoptions (90% of the annual goal; a 26% increase compared to the same period last year).
- 506 animals entering care.
- 97.7% average live release rate.
- Over 1,122 volunteer hours and 264 foster placements.
- Dr. Shank stated the grant helped maintain clinic capacity, which supported adoption readiness and prevented unwanted litters. No motion or vote was recorded for this item.
Item 1 (Moved): Proclamation Honoring Brian Nelson
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation honoring Brian Nelson, a Valley resident and architect known for his work with homeless populations and his service to the community, including the Santa Ynez Valley Prayer Breakfast and the Horseman's Hangout.
- Public Comment:
- Marcia Nelson (Wife): Expressed gratitude for the recognition and shared memories of her husband’s dedication to community service.
- Michael Holliday (Architect): Spoke about his 30-year friendship with Nelson, his work on the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, and his involvement in the Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum project. He thanked the City of Buellton for its support of the museum project.
- Council Member Lewis: Expressed appreciation for Nelson’s service and suggested the Council work with the Children’s Museum ad hoc committee to find a way to commemorate Nelson’s legacy in the construction.
- Decision: The proclamation was read into the record. No formal motion or vote was explicitly recorded in the transcript for this item, but it was presented and acknowledged by the Council.
Non-Agenda Public Comment
- Holly Sierra (Former Mayor/Library Friends): Thanked the Council for support of the library, announced the unveiling of the Williamson mural on September 26, and promoted the library’s author series.
- Richard Kinklage: Asked about the status of the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program in the city, noting it was in "limbo" and expressing concern about preparedness for El Niño events.
- Kevin Little: Reiterated concerns regarding the management of the community garden, alleging that it is privately operated and that he and other community members have been disenfranchised. He urged the Council to investigate and consider alternative management to protect the rights of community gardeners.
- Additional Comments: A speaker congratulated organizers of the "Cars and Cowboys" event, noting its support for FYV community outreach and Meals on Wheels. They recognized the "Into the Forest" banners created by over 80 artists and encouraged public participation in the San Ynez Valley Trail Project outreach, specifically for Segment A in Buellton. Another speaker thanked attendees and volunteers for the "ET" movie event, reporting approximately 300 attendees. They requested that future El Niño discussions with the Public Works Director include an analysis of CERT options and training availability. Additionally, they asked the City Attorney to review a previous comment regarding a specific issue to determine if Council follow-up is required. A staff member responded that they would send an email analysis to the Council the following day.
Consent Calendar (Items 5–9)
- Motion: Council Member Lewis moved to approve the consent calendar as presented.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed.
Committee Reports
- Council Members Lewis and Sanchez reported no committee reports.
- Vice Mayor Mead reported attending the September 10 CMA Groundwater Sustainability Agency meeting as an alternate. The agency reviewed the five-year evaluation plan of the groundwater sustainability plan, determining that a formal amendment was not currently needed. The board approved work to expand groundwater data collection by adding new monitoring wells and piezometers. The board also approved the initiation of a process to update the CMA’s conflict of interest code and reviewed updates on the small GSA coalition and potential Prop 4 funding. All action items were approved.
Agenda Item 10: Annual Report for Calendar Year 2025 from Visit San Ynez Valley
- Presentation: Shelby Simm of VisitSYV (operating as the Santa Ynez Valley Hotel Association) presented the annual report. The organization is a destination marketing organization formed in 2010, funded by a $3-per-night visitor fee from 37 lodging properties and membership dues, with no government funding.
- Financials: The organization reported spending more than it brought in during the previous year to reduce its bank balance from a surplus accumulated during the pandemic. The goal is to maintain a reserve of approximately $300,000 for salary coverage.
- Marketing and Performance:
- The 2025 campaign, "Perfectly Santa Ynez Valley," resulted in a 2.3% year-over-year increase in clicks to book, a $2.4 million economic impact, and an 86.6% return on ad spend.
- Total campaign spend was approximately $42,000, generating nearly $2.5 million in revenue, close to 12,000 trips, and over 7,000 room nights.
- The organization launched a new mobile-first website for $100,000, featuring a community events calendar and interactive maps. Site traffic increased by 35%, and impressions increased by 78%.
- Social media followers increased by 8% on Facebook and 21% on Instagram.
- PR results included a record $1.5 million in editorial coverage value and a 9% increase in editorial coverage. Notable placements included Condé Nast, CBS News, and People Magazine.
- The organization hosted the One West Tourism Alliance CEO Summit in June, attracting over 55 destinations.
- Q&A:
- Vice Mayor Mead asked if VisitSYV tracks data specific to Buellton. The presenter stated that while they view the valley as a whole, their tracking systems can provide specific data, and they offer newsletters with this information.
- The Mayor asked about coordination with the 1% Vintners tax and average length of stay. The presenter confirmed the average length of stay is 2.3 days, up from 1.8 days previously, with a goal to increase it further.
- The Mayor asked about coordination with the County’s film commissioner position. The presenter stated they are tracking the issue and have previously partnered with Visit Santa Barbara on film commission support.
- Decision: No action was required. The item was received and filed.
Agenda Item 13: Botanic Garden Request for Fencing on Newly Acquired City Property
- Staff Report: Public Works Director Rose Hess presented a request from the San Ynez Valley Botanic Gardens Foundation to install fencing along the west border of the Botanic Gardens, including newly acquired city property adjacent to the gardens. The property was acquired in December 2025 after it was discovered that the title had not transferred from the original developer to the city for over 20 years.
- Cost and Scope: The Botanic Gardens provided an estimate of approximately $32,000 from Valley Gardener for fencing and site preparation. This cost is not included in the current work plan or the city’s budget allowance for Botanic Gardens maintenance. Staff requested Council direction on whether to approve the work and funding, which would require a budget amendment.
- Discussion:
- Council Member Lewis asked if there were other plans for the land. Staff confirmed there were no pre-determined plans, but the location naturally fits with the Botanic Gardens.
- The City Manager explained the history of the property acquisition, noting it was a missed dedication from the Meadow Ridge neighborhood development.
- Council Member Hornick asked about the payment structure (grant vs. direct payment) and prevailing wage implications. Staff indicated either method was possible, but city funds would trigger prevailing wage requirements. It was clarified that the city retains ownership of the land and responsibility for maintenance, and a license agreement amendment would be needed to include the property in the Botanic Gardens' boundaries.
- Vice Mayor Mead asked if the $32,000 estimate included removal of the existing fence. Staff stated this was not specified in the estimate and would need clarification. They noted that removing the existing fence without an interim fence could leave the area open to public access, which is restricted due to environmental permit conditions.
- The Mayor asked who obtained the estimate and if it was a competitive bid. Staff stated the Botanic Gardens obtained it from their preferred vendor, Valley Gardener. The city had solicited other bids, but contractors were unwilling to include site preparation.
- Council Member Lewis suggested approving the purchase up to the bid amount but seeking additional bids to potentially lower the cost.
- Council Member Sanchez supported approving the $32,000 bid to avoid further delays.
- Council Member Hornick agreed with the need for due diligence via an RFP but noted the city’s balanced budget constraints.
- The Mayor asked about timing. Council members expressed a preference for timely installation, with some noting the holiday lights season as a potential deadline. Staff requested leeway to coordinate timing with the Botanic Gardens.
- Decision: The Council directed staff to proceed with an RFP process for the fencing work. The item was not approved for immediate funding but was referred back for further action following the RFP.
Agenda Item 14: Resolution No. 26-24 – Parking Restrictions at the South Cul-de-Sac of McMurray Road
- Staff Report: Public Works Director Rose Hess presented a resolution to establish parking restrictions (red curbs) at the south cul-de-sac of McMurray Road. The request originated from the school district, whose bus driver identified safety concerns regarding visibility and maneuvering for bus drop-off and pick-up at the new Buellton Garden Apartments. The proposed restrictions include 20 feet of red curb on the north side and 20 feet on the south side of the driveway.
- Discussion:
- Council Member Sanchez questioned the necessity of the 20 feet of red curb on the south side, arguing there was no visibility problem in that direction and that removing parking space was unnecessary.
- Dr. Bailey from the school district explained that the bus needs to maneuver around the cul-de-sac to pick up students near the main entrance, and the south-side restriction provides necessary clearance for the bus to turn and stop safely without entering the facility driveway.
- Council Member Sanchez maintained that 20 feet on the north side was sufficient for the bus to pull over and pick up students.
- Vice Mayor Mead noted that standard school buses are 35–45 feet long and require significant clearance for turning and stopping, supporting the need for the additional space.
- The Mayor stated that the proposed amount of red curb was appropriate based on the input from the superintendent and public works director.
- Motion: The Mayor made a motion to move forward with Resolution No. 26-24 regarding parking restrictions at the south cul-de-sac of McMurray Road.
- Decision: The motion was passed.
Departmental Reports
- The City Manager reported that Sheriff’s Lieutenant Henderson is concluding his assignment at the end of the month and will be replaced by Lieutenant Green, who is scheduled to start on October 1. The City Manager stated that Lieutenant Green will be introduced to the Council either at a future meeting or individually.
- The City Manager announced that the 18th Annual Holiday Bazaar will be held on November 7 at Riverview Park. Vendor registration is available at bueltonrec.com.
- The City Manager reported a concern raised by the owner or lead practitioner of the medical clinic on Highway 246 regarding used needles (sharps) found in a bag at the clinic’s doorstep. The City Manager noted that it was previously assumed CVS accepted sharps, but this is not the case. The City Manager provided information on two local disposal options: 1. Marborg, the solid waste company, offers free sharps containers. Residents can call 805-963-1852 to have a container delivered. Once full, the container can be mailed back to Marborg with postage included. 2. The County Public Health Office offers free sharps containers at public health locations. More information is available at www.lessismore.org/sharps.
- The City Manager requested that residents use these programs rather than leaving sharps unattended.
City Attorney Report
- The City Attorney reported that there were no items to report for the evening.
Adjournment
- The Mayor noted that there was no closed session scheduled for the evening. The Mayor moved to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.