Meeting Summary
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At a glance
National Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation recognizing the historical contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
- Representatives from Centro Corazon Comunitario shared personal histories and the organization's mission to support local families.
- The council requested upcoming event details and contact information for future community engagement.
Food Bank of Santa Barbara County Grant Update
- The Food Bank reported that community support, including the city's grant, reduced a potential 25% distribution cut to 2.5% despite federal funding losses.
- The new Farm-to-Food Bank program purchases fresh produce from local farms, including two in Buellton.
- The city's investment supported the distribution of over 363,000 pounds of food, 69% of which was fresh produce.
Median 3 Conceptual Plans on Avenue of Flags
- Staff presented five distinct areas for the median, including plazas, lawns, a food truck pod, and vendor kiosks.
- Council members debated kiosk architectural styles, with a consensus favoring a unified modern aesthetic that provides adequate shading.
- Discussion covered infrastructure needs such as ADA accessibility, water fountains, and potential alternatives to a central fountain.
- Staff will refine the designs based on council feedback regarding spatial definition and traffic calming.
Food Truck Regulations
- Staff outlined potential ordinance considerations, including hours of operation, waste disposal, and the concept of permanent food truck pods.
- Council members suggested limiting regulations to specific geographic areas like Avenue of Flags or treating trucks as special event permits.
- Concerns were raised regarding enforcement capacity and the impact on brick-and-mortar businesses.
- Staff will draft a zoning ordinance amendment based on the council's feedback on desired locations and standards.
ADA and Inclusive Playground Improvements at Oak Park
- Staff proposed upgrading the existing playground to be ADA accessible, retaining the current footprint to avoid new grading.
- Council members requested accessible surfaces, inclusive play structures, and a quiet zone for sensory regulation.
- The council expressed a preference for completing the project in the current fiscal year while allowing time for community outreach.
- Staff will prepare a grant application and proceed with further design development and budget estimation.
City Manager’s Report
- Highway 101 ramp closures at Avenue 246 are scheduled to begin on the 30th and last until mid-November.
- The library will close for staff training on October 12 and is hiring additional staff to expand Sunday hours.
- Fall Fest is scheduled for November 7–9 on Avenue of Flags.
Full summary
Meeting Start and Roll Call
- The meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. Council Member Lewis led the Pledge of Allegiance. A roll call confirmed the presence of Council Members Hornick, Lewis, Sanchez, Vice Mayor Mead, and Mayor Silva.
Public Comment (Non-Agenda Item)
- Prior to the first agenda item, Robert Kotowski, a PGA golf professional and director of the California Blind Disabled and Adaptive Golf Association, addressed the council. He offered two adaptive golf carts, referred to as "Stand Up and Play" or "Solo Rider" vehicles, to the community for use by individuals with disabilities. He stated that these vehicles allow users to stand up, pivot, and participate in activities such as bocce or horseshoes. Kotowski indicated he would coordinate with the city to schedule a training session and noted that the vehicles are currently available at the local golf course. He also mentioned upcoming PGA HOPE programs for veterans.
Agenda Item 1: Proclamation Recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month
- Mayor Silva read a proclamation recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15), citing the historical contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the community and nation. The proclamation was presented on September 20, 2026.
- Adriana Reyes, a founding board member of Centro Corazon Comunitario, spoke on behalf of the organization. She shared her personal history in Buellton, noting her family’s arrival via the Bracero Program and her parents’ long-term employment in the community. She emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices and contributions of Hispanic families. Another representative from Centro Corazon Comunitario spoke, highlighting the organization’s mission to support local families through resources, events, and partnerships, and stated that Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate culture and strengthen community bonds.
- The council asked for upcoming events and contact information. Reyes stated that the organization had just completed its Hispanic Heritage Month events and would be planning for future events, including Cinco de Mayo. She provided the email address centrocorazoncomunitario@gmail.com. A photo was taken with the representatives.
Agenda Item 2: Community Organization Support Grant Update from the Food Bank of Santa Barbara County
- Hannah Rickman, Grant Strategy Officer for the Food Bank of Santa Barbara County, presented an update on the impact of the city’s grant. She outlined the Food Bank’s mission to end hunger and transform health through nutrition, guided by a "feed" approach (Food, Education, Environment, Disaster Resilience). Rickman noted that Santa Barbara County has the highest poverty rate in California and that 40% of households do not earn enough to cover basic expenses. She reported that federal funding cuts in 2025 resulted in the loss of over $3 million in food and funding, initially threatening a 25% reduction in food distribution. Through community support, including the City of Buellton, the gap was reduced to 2.5%.
- Rickman detailed the new Farm-to-Food Bank program, launched in July 2025 to replace the canceled Local Food Purchase Agreement. This program purchases fresh produce from local and regional farmers, including two farms in Buellton (Sunrise Organics and Shepherd Farms). The food is distributed through more than 200 partner agencies, including two in Buellton: the San Ynez Valley Community Outreach (including the Buellton Senior Center) and the Veterans Pantry. In fiscal year 2026, the city’s investment supported the distribution of 363,942 pounds of food, 69% of which was fresh produce, serving approximately 1,700 neighbors. Rickman provided the website foodbanksbc.org for those in need of services.
Consent Calendar (Items 3–6)
- A motion was made to approve the consent calendar for Items 3 through 6. The motion was seconded. The vote was taken, and the motion passed.
Public Hearings
- No public hearings were scheduled for the evening.
Council Member Comments and Items Not on the Agenda
- Council members provided the following updates and comments:
- One council member noted the installation of a painting above the fireplace in the council chamber and thanked staff for organizing a recent conference.
- Another council member announced the return of the Scarecrow Festival, noting that the Public Works Department created the scarecrows with a "look up" theme to celebrate the upcoming Winterfest drone show. The city’s scarecrow is number 19, and voting for the festival begins October 1.
- The Chair noted two requests for proclamations: one for the 60th anniversary of SBCAG (Santa Barbara County Association of Governments) and one for Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. The council agreed to add these to the agenda.
- The Chair thanked a state senator for securing funding for a project in the community.
- The Chair announced an El Niño webinar hosted by the county on Thursday, October 1, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. on YouTube. The council agreed to promote this via Buellton Engage.
- A council member encouraged residents to provide input on the SYB River Trail at Fall Fest or via sbkeg.org, noting that Buellton’s section will be the first completed.
- Staff provided an update on Highway 141 ramp closures: as of the 30th, existing closed ramps will reopen, and the closures will shift to the northbound off-ramp and southbound on-ramp at Avenue 246.
- A council member noted that SBKEG was made aware of potholes near Freer and Ostrich Land due to El Niño concerns, and SBKEG indicated they would inspect them.
Agenda Item 7: Discussion of Conceptual Plans for Median 3 on Avenue of Flags
- Planning Director Andrea Keenan presented conceptual plans by Sergeant Town Planning for Median 3 on Avenue of Flags. The plan divides the median into five distinct areas: 1. Second Street Plaza (South End): Expansion of the median end with pavers, shortened crosswalks, and two Art Deco kiosks (300–600 sq. ft. each) for potential uses such as a cafe, visitor center, or restroom. 2. South Lawn: An open sloped lawn and shaded stage area for performances and community events, with flexibility for park use. 3. Food Truck Pod: A central area with a flag fountain, permanent paths for food trucks under a tree canopy, and mid-block crosswalks. 4. North Lawn: A landscaped park lawn with light tree coverage for picnics and events, buffered by pedestrian paths and parallel parking. 5. North Plaza: A plaza with four small 12x12 vendor kiosks in a streamlined modern style, potentially for incubator spaces for startup retail or food vendors, modeled after programs in Bothell, Washington.
- Three architectural styles for the kiosks were presented: Option 1 (Art Deco), Option 2 (Hybrid/Flanking Art Deco and Moderne), and Option 3 (Modern/Streamlined Moderne). The Planning Commission had previously provided generally positive feedback, emphasizing the importance of trees and landscaping. The city has allocated $150,000 for design and permitting in the current fiscal year and anticipates $775,000 for construction in fiscal year 2027-28. Staff recommended that the council provide comments and direction on whether to proceed with construction drawings.
Q&A and Discussion
- Shading: Vice Mayor Mead asked about shading for the South Lawn seating area. Staff suggested temporary shading solutions, such as shade sails or awnings, to accommodate the hot climate while maintaining open space.
- Fountain: Vice Mayor Mead expressed concern about fountains attracting birds and wasting water, suggesting alternatives such as a succulent garden or a recorded water sound. Council Member Lewis disagreed, stating a preference for a beautiful fountain despite water concerns.
- Kiosk Style: Vice Mayor Mead preferred Option 3 (Modern) but noted it offered less horizontal shading than the other options. Staff confirmed that the roofline could be extended to provide more shading. Council Member Lewis preferred the style of Option 1 (Art Deco) but found it too "closed-in" and preferred the free-flowing access of Option 3. Council Member Sanchez preferred Option 3, citing its connection to Buellton’s Route 66 Americana and optimistic, forward-looking aesthetic. All council members agreed that all kiosks should match in style.
- Design Intent: Staff explained that the design aims to create "rooms" within the highway space to make it comfortable for gathering, using spatial definition to make the area feel larger. The single-lane design is intended to slow traffic and create an enclosed feel, similar to a design in Lancaster, California.
- Flagpole: Council Member Lewis emphasized the importance of maintaining the 50-foot flagpole and ensuring the amphitheater area south of the stage has sufficient space.
- Public Restroom: A public commenter asked about restroom access. Staff confirmed that one of the kiosks could potentially house a public restroom.
- Utilization and Infrastructure: Mayor Silva emphasized the need to consider space utilization, ADA accessibility, landscaping costs, and financial viability. She suggested considering EV charging, trash receptacles, dumpster placement, and electrical wiring for events. She also suggested adding public water fountains.
- Kiosk Use: The City Manager explained that the kiosk concept is based on business incubator programs in other cities, where short-term leases allow new businesses to test their models before moving to permanent locations.
Staff Recommendation
- Staff requested council feedback to determine the next steps, including whether to proceed with construction drawings. The council provided extensive feedback on design preferences, shading, fountain alternatives, and infrastructure needs. Staff indicated they would work with the planning firm to refine the designs based on the council’s comments.
Agenda Item 8: Discussion Regarding Food Truck Regulations
- Staff presented a discussion item regarding the potential regulation of food trucks in Buellton. Staff noted that the city currently only permits food trucks for special events and that the Avenue of Flags Specific Plan encourages their presence, particularly in Median 3. Staff provided a comparison of food truck regulations in neighboring jurisdictions (Santa Barbara, County, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Maria, and Solvang) and outlined potential ordinance considerations, including hours of operation, parking, waste disposal, accessibility, signage, and the concept of "food truck pods" (permanent amenities for multiple trucks). Staff summarized Planning Commission feedback, which generally supported food trucks in specific areas like the Avenue of Flags and Industrial Way, opposed them in residential areas, and requested standards to prevent indefinite stationary placement.
- Council members provided feedback on the direction for the draft ordinance:
- Scope and Location: Several members suggested limiting the ordinance to specific geographic areas (e.g., Avenue of Flags, Industrial Way) or treating food trucks as a special event permit rather than a broad zoning change. One member expressed concern about competition with brick-and-mortar businesses and suggested a pilot approach. Another member preferred a very controlled approach limited to the Avenue of Flags economic corridor.
- Enforcement and Compliance: Members discussed the need for clear permitting processes, the ability to revoke permits for non-compliance, and methods to identify unpermitted trucks. Concerns were raised regarding the city’s capacity to enforce regulations, particularly at night.
- Related Issues: The City Manager noted that street-side vendor regulations (under SB 946) are a separate issue but suggested addressing them in tandem with the food truck ordinance to protect local businesses.
- Next Steps: Staff will draft a zoning ordinance amendment based on the council’s feedback regarding desired locations, conditions, and standards.
- Decision: No motion was made or voted upon. The item was for discussion and feedback only. Staff will return with a draft ordinance.
Agenda Item 9: Discussion of ADA and Inclusive Playground Improvements at Oak Park
- Staff presented a proposal to upgrade the playground at Oak Park to be ADA accessible and inclusive. Staff noted that the existing equipment is worn and that a previous plan for a large facility at Riverview Park is over $1 million and further out. Staff reported on a July open house where community members requested the retention of slides, the addition of a "quiet zone" for sensory regulation, and shade structures. Staff proposed maintaining the existing footprint to avoid new grading and replacing surfacing, benches, and picnic tables to improve accessibility.
- Staff outlined two budgeting options: a budget amendment for the current fiscal year or inclusion in the next fiscal year’s budget. Staff also identified a grant opportunity of up to $300,000 for equipment from a specific vendor, with a November deadline. Staff noted that using the grant would require purchasing equipment from that specific vendor, potentially affecting the bidding process.
- Council members provided feedback:
- Timing: The majority indicated a preference for completing the project in the current fiscal year, provided that due diligence and outreach are not rushed due to the grant deadline. Staff confirmed that a bid package could not be issued until January, allowing time for further outreach.
- Design and Features: Members requested accessible surfaces (no wood chips/DG), accessible swings for larger bodies, wheelchair-accessible bridges and spinners, and a mix of elevated and non-elevated play structures. There was discussion about the flexibility of modular "station" designs versus large single units, with staff noting that inclusive playgrounds often allow for easier modification and replacement of individual components.
- Outreach and Inclusion: Members emphasized the need for inclusive design that serves children of all abilities and ages, not just young children. Staff committed to further outreach, including a potential November open house coinciding with a vendor conference, and collaboration with local schools and community groups to ensure the design meets community needs.
- Procurement: Staff confirmed the intent to bid the project as a single package (equipment, installation, surfacing, and amenities) to streamline the process.
- Decision: No motion was made or voted upon. The item was for discussion and feedback. Staff will proceed with grant application preparation, further community outreach, and development of a full budget estimate, with the goal of completing the project in the current fiscal year if feasible.
City Manager’s Report
- The City Manager provided the following updates:
- Highway 101 Ramp Closures: Closures at Highway 246 are scheduled to begin on the 30th (Wednesday) and are expected to last until mid-November. The northbound off-ramp and southbound on-ramp will be closed. Detour signs will be placed by Caltrans.
- Library Updates: The library will be closed on Monday, October 12th, for all-staff training. A new librarian is expected to start on October 19th. An additional staff member is being hired to enable expanded Sunday hours, which are targeted to begin on November 1st.
- Fall Fest: The event is scheduled for November 7th through 9th on Avenue of Flags.
- Decision: No action required.
Adjournment
- The meeting was officially ended at 8:21 p.m.