Meeting Summary
Present: 3-Mayer, 4-Nomura, 1-Solórzano, 5-Clark, 2-Alarcon
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
Agenda Modification: Formal Statement and Moment of Silence
- The Council added an agenda item to issue a statement of solidarity with Minneapolis and observe a moment of silence for Renee Good and Alex Preti.
- The City Manager confirmed the urgency finding was met because the triggering events occurred after the agenda was posted.
- The motion to add the item to the agenda was seconded and passed.
Proclamation: Black History Month 2026
- The Council adopted a proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month, aligning with the national theme "A Century of Black History Commemorations."
- Diane Travis Teague of the Black History Celebration Committee provided remarks and invited the Council to a photo opportunity.
- The motion to adopt the proclamation was seconded and passed.
Mayoral Recognition: City Clerk Brian C. Barrett
- The Council recognized City Clerk Brian C. Barrett for achieving the Master Municipal Clerk designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.
- Council Member Mayer provided remarks regarding the Clerk’s service, and the Clerk accepted the recognition.
- The motion to adopt the mayoral recognition was seconded and passed.
Presentation: Chevron USA Inc. – Carpinteria Oil and Gas Facility Decommissioning
- Chevron’s Public Affairs Advisor presented on the decommissioning of the Carpinteria oil and gas processing facility, noting regulatory approvals for demolition have been received.
- Initial activities include tree removal in the southeast corner followed by the demolition of surface facilities, with neighbor notifications and safety training already conducted.
- The motion to receive and file the presentation was seconded and passed.
Public Information Report: First District Supervisor’s Office
- Supervisor Daisy provided updates on the Baylord Project, noting the Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on LCP rezoning modifications requiring 32% lifetime affordable units.
- The report covered the Board’s upcoming first hearing on ordinance streamlining and housing accommodation amendments, as well as cannabis odor abatement compliance deadlines.
- Additional updates included an $800,000 funding agreement for Carpinteria Bluffs and a State Lands Commission hearing regarding the termination of Chevron’s oil and gas leases.
- Public commenters raised concerns about the Baylord project’s "use by right" amendment and urged the Council to contact the Board of Supervisors to protect residents.
City Manager’s Report
- Staff provided updates on employee recruitment, including pending background screenings for aquatic instructors and the hiring of a part-time parks and facilities attendant.
- Development updates included the 45-day comment period for the Surfliner Inn Project EIR and upcoming hearings for various residential and commercial projects.
- The new Civic Plus agenda management system is live on the City website, replacing the previous Granicus system for future meetings.
- Prop 218 assessment ballots for the Landscape Maintenance and Winter Burn Districts were mailed, with ballots due by the March 9 public hearing.
Item 10: Approval and Adoption of Resolution No. 6433
- Staff proposed modifications to the Junior Lifeguard program, including a 9:00 AM start time, flexible session lengths, and a pilot afternoon beach recreation camp.
- Proposed fees include $450 for a four-week session, $900 for an eight-week session, and $200 for the afternoon camp, with corrections made for previously omitted fees.
- The revised fee schedule and program changes would become effective March 1, 2026.
- The motion to approve and adopt Resolution No. 6433 was seconded and passed.
Item 11: Authorization to Issue Notice Inviting Bids for Carpinteria Avenue Bridge Replacement
- The City Manager explained that authorizing the notice inviting bids is a procedural step with no immediate cost, allowing flexibility to advertise when utility relocations are complete.
- The project is federally funded with 88.53% federal and 11.47% city share, and the clearing and grubbing phase is already complete.
- Staff confirmed that if bids exceed estimates, the City would request additional federal funds and cover the local share.
- The motion to authorize the Public Works Director to advertise the notice inviting bids was seconded and passed.
Item 12: Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 795
- Staff presented an ordinance consolidating rules for bicycles and electric mobility devices, prohibiting sidewalk riding within the Central Traffic District.
- Key provisions include a youth diversion program for first-time minor violations, administrative citations for enforcement, and a maximum speed limit of 28 mph.
- The implementation plan involves a phased approach starting with education and outreach, followed by warnings and targeted enforcement.
- The motion to approve Ordinance No. 795 and continue the second reading to February 9, 2026, was seconded and passed.
Item 13: Period 1 Department Reports (Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget)
- Staff presented Period 1 reports for General Government, Parks and Recreation, Administrative Services, Community Development, and Public Works, noting the reporting cadence now covers two quarters.
- Departments highlighted achievements such as the Civic Plus system launch, library strategic plan adoption, and improved fine collection rates, while noting staffing constraints affecting project review times.
- Public commenters requested the addition of Marine Mammal Protection Act integration and the Shore Saver project to the city’s priority lists.
- The Council directed staff to research the legal implications of MMPA integration and agreed to add both requests to the "on-deck" list, subsequently passing a motion to receive and file the reports.
Committee Reports, Inquiries, and Other Matters
- The MTD Board confirmed that WAVE microtransit service is expected to arrive in Carpinteria this calendar year, likely during the summer.
- SPCAG reported efforts to add an additional commuter train to the line, with the first trip expected this spring.
- BEACON provided updates on the Surfers Point project and the removal of the Matilija Dam, and noted a public outreach meeting for the Chumash National Marine Sanctuary is planned for March.
- The Public Engagement Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss digital outreach reports and a human trafficking awareness campaign.
Full summary
Agenda Modification: Formal Statement and Moment of Silence
- A request was made to add an agenda item for the City of Carpinteria to issue a formal statement of solidarity with Minneapolis and communities impacted by federal immigration enforcement, and to observe a moment of silence for Renee Good and Alex Preti. The City Manager noted that adding an item after the 72-hour posting period requires a two-thirds vote and a finding of urgency; the urgency finding was satisfied because the triggering events occurred after the agenda was posted. A motion was made to add the item to the agenda. The motion was seconded and passed. Public comment was opened and closed, and Council Member Mayer led a moment of silence.
Proclamation: Black History Month 2026
- The Council discussed adopting a proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month in the City of Carpinteria, noting the national theme "A Century of Black History Commemorations." A motion was made to adopt the proclamation. The motion was seconded and passed. The proclamation was read by Council members. Diane Travis Teague of the Black History Celebration Committee provided remarks and invited the Council to a photo opportunity.
Mayoral Recognition: City Clerk Brian C. Barrett
- The Council discussed recognizing City Clerk Brian C. Barrett for achieving the Master Municipal Clerk designation, the highest professional honor from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. A motion was made to adopt the mayoral recognition. The motion was seconded and passed. The certificate text was read, Council Member Mayer provided remarks regarding the Clerk’s service, and City Clerk Barrett accepted the recognition.
Presentation: Chevron USA Inc. – Carpinteria Oil and Gas Facility Decommissioning
- Mark Korte-Nahabedian, Public Affairs Advisor at Chevron, presented on the decommissioning of the Carpinteria oil and gas processing facility. He stated that regulatory approvals for the demolition permit have been received and work is scheduled to begin the following morning. Initial activities include tree removal in the southeast corner, followed by the demolition of surface facilities. He noted that neighbor notifications were provided, FAQs were developed with the City’s PIO, and safety training was conducted with City representatives in attendance. A motion was made to receive and file the presentation. The motion was seconded and passed.
Public Information Report: First District Supervisor’s Office
- The report was initially postponed due to the supervisor’s tardiness; Supervisor Daisy arrived and provided the report.
- Baylord Project Update: The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote the following day on accepting modifications to the LCP rezones, including a requirement that at least 32% of units be affordable for the lifetime of the project. The supervisor’s office pulled Administrative Item 20 to seek clarity on the withdrawal of the builder’s remedy and CEQA/EIR requirements. The supervisor stated that the project has not been fully approved as an updated plan has not been seen; the office is waiting for the builder’s remedy to be withdrawn and a new project submitted. A December meeting was held with City, County, Housing Authority, and developer representatives to agree on increased transparency and collaboration, including co-hosted info sessions. The office is waiting for the developer to withdraw the builder’s remedy and apply through the County process, after which a meeting will be held with City and County engineers and the Fire Marshal to discuss ingress-egress options. Council Member Nomura raised concerns about infrastructure load, lack of backside access, and the need for coordination between City and County jurisdictions. The supervisor committed to providing monthly updates. City Manager Ramirez noted that the City is in an information-gathering phase regarding potential expansion of the sphere of influence and tax-sharing agreements to offset infrastructure impacts.
- Ordinance Streamlining and Housing Accommodation Amendments: The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to hold a first hearing the following day on a package intended to streamline approvals for low-impact projects, limit appeals, and modernize zoning codes. The supervisor’s office has questions regarding the impact on single-family homeowners and local businesses, and the interplay with state-mandated housing elements. Council Member Nomura requested that the Board consider the perspective of adjacent municipalities. Council Member Clark asked about the First District’s stance on limiting appeals; the supervisor indicated it needs to be relooked at.
- Cannabis Odor Abatement: Eight operators filed for extensions for carbon scrubber installation; nine submitted updated odor abatement plans. The compliance deadline is March 18. A Board of Supervisors hearing is scheduled for March 3 to decide on extensions case-by-case and to present enforcement procedures. Council Member Nomura asked about existing penalty processes; the supervisor confirmed that notices of violation are being issued, but the specific enforcement and fee processes are being finalized for presentation on March 3.
- Funding Agreement: The supervisor noted that an $800,000 funding agreement between the County and the City of Carpinteria for the Carpinteria Bluffs is scheduled for Board approval on February 3.
- Chevron Shell Mounds: A State Lands Commission hearing is scheduled for February 9 regarding the termination of Chevron’s oil and gas leases and the handling of shell mounds (platforms 4H: Hazel, Heidi, Hilda, Hope). The supervisor’s office has written letters advocating for full removal of the mounds and will make a comment at the hearing.
- Carpinteria Care Center: The supervisor offered a tour and informational presentation to the City Council regarding the County Public Health Carpinteria Care Center, highlighting its sliding scale payment model.
- Public Comment: Tristine Alvarez expressed concern about an amendment in the rezoning documents that grants "use by right," potentially eliminating discretionary review and CEQA requirements, and urged the Council to address this before the Board vote. Carl Sunken urged the Council to contact the Board of Supervisors to protect residents from the Baylord development. Betty Jepson (via Zoom) urged the Council to seek a delay on the Board vote, citing safety, parking, and infrastructure concerns, and noted that the City’s previous objections were ignored. Carl Sunken asked if the supervisor could pull the item from the agenda.
City Manager’s Report
- Employee Updates (Ryan Kentz, Assistant City Manager): Recruitment for part-time aquatic instructor/coach positions is pending background screening. Lifeguard program coordinator recruitment is open until February 4. David Rousseau joined as a part-time parks and facilities attendant on January 26, 2026. Assistant Engineer Josefina Arrechiga completed the Resident Engineers Academy.
- Development Updates (Nick Bobroff, Community Development Director): The Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Surfliner Inn Project is in a 45-day comment period (January 22 – March 9). An Environmental Review Committee (ERC) meeting is scheduled for February 18 at 5:30 p.m. to provide an overview of the EIR and accept public comment. The ERC is advisory to the Planning Commission. New businesses: Palms renovation (cafe/deli), Arnie’s Rooftop Bar (ABC license pending), Coyote’s Little Market (meat/seafood), and Ojai Roti Du (food service) are in various stages of permitting/licensing. Upcoming hearings: Architecture Review Board (Thursday, 5:30 p.m.) for Burgess-Burke Residence, Cypress Apartments, and Surf Cottages; Planning Commission (Monday, February 2) for 333 Linden Avenue residence and 912 Linden Avenue wireless facility.
- Assessment Districts (Michael Ramirez, City Manager): Prop 218 assessment ballots for the Landscape Maintenance District and Winter Burn District were mailed on January 9. Over 1,000 ballots received for Landscape Maintenance District and approximately 100 for Winter Burn District. Ballots must be received by the City Clerk by the close of the public hearing on March 9. Council Member Mayer asked about reminders; the City Manager stated that the City must maintain a strictly educational stance and will consult with the City Attorney on appropriate communication methods.
- Parks and Recreation: Age Well Aloha Friday luau on February 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Hall. Advanced care directive workshops on February 5 and 12 from 1:00–2:30 p.m. at Veterans Hall.
- Agenda Management System (Brian Barrett, City Clerk): The new Civic Plus agenda management system is live on the City website. The last meeting on the old Granicus system is the Architecture Review Board meeting on Thursday. The first meeting on Civic Plus is the Planning Commission on February 2. Features include date range selection, robust search, bookmarked agenda items, and e-comment submission.
- Public Comment: Tristine Alvarez, Carl Sunken, and Betty Jepson (via Zoom) provided comments regarding the Baylord project and the "use by right" amendment, as detailed in the Supervisor’s Office section.
Public Comment
- Carpinteria Beautiful: A representative congratulated a city worker for an honor and expressed support for the city’s stance regarding Minneapolis. The representative announced that Carpinteria Beautiful supports the "Shore Saver" program, a trash collection initiative proposed by Elias Sprague. The program involves placing baskets at busy parts of the Ocean Beach (Linden and Ash) for public use. Carpinteria Beautiful indicated it would support the program with funding and maintenance.
- Carpinteria Children’s Project (CCP): Teresa Alvarez, Executive Director, and Jessica Ramirez, Director of Family Services, thanked the Council for investing in support for immigrant residents. They reported that since July, CCP has provided grocery deliveries to 53 families, distributed 12 grants for rent and utility assistance, and connected four families to therapy and counseling. They cited ongoing fear in the community following an ICE incident on January 14, where a man was detained and a volunteer was pepper-sprayed. They requested the City fund immigrant-serving organizations, demand transparency from the Sheriff’s Department regarding ICE presence, and protect volunteers from the grassroots group Carpinteria Sin Fronteras.
- Carpinteria Community Hope Net: Fred Shaw delivered remarks from the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness regarding mental health priorities for 2026, including mindful goal setting, rest, physical activity, connection, limiting screen time, and seeking support. The 24/7 access line number was provided.
Consent Calendar
- No public comment was received. A motion was made to approve the minutes of the January 12, 2026, regular meeting; receive and file the warrant register for January 3–16, 2026; receive and file the report of contracts executed by the City Manager for December 2, 2025, through January 5, 2026; receive and file the Monthly Treasurer’s Report for December 2025; receive and file the quarterly review of the Penschland Stabilization Trust; and adopt Resolution No. 6432, ratifying Carpinteria-Summerlin Fire Protection District’s Ordinance No. 2025-02. The motion was seconded and passed.
Item 10: Approval and Adoption of Resolution No. 6433
- Topic: Rescinding Resolution No. 6384 and updating the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) Department program and facility fee schedule.
- Discussion: Staff presented proposed modifications to the Junior Lifeguard (JG) program based on parent feedback. The proposal includes changing the start time from 9:30 AM to 9:00 AM, offering two four-week sessions or one eight-week session, and piloting an optional afternoon beach recreation camp (12:30–2:30 PM). New beach recreation programming (kayak, surfing, stand-up paddleboard lessons) and "Carp Beach Nights" events were also proposed. Proposed fees include $450 for a four-week JG session, $900 for an eight-week session, and $200 for the afternoon camp. Staff noted that two Carpinteria Aquatics Club fees were inadvertently removed in a previous update and a non-profit rental rate for the community garden was missing; these would be corrected. The revised schedule would become effective March 1, 2026.
- Council members asked about the goals of the session changes (accessibility and flexibility), the status of scholarships (in development), and enrollment thresholds (staff indicated they aim to maintain previous participation levels of approximately 180–200 participants).
- A Council member asked about the Jazzercise group’s facility usage; staff stated this was outside the scope of the current report but could be addressed in a future City Manager’s report.
- Staff clarified that the afternoon camp is a new pilot and that JG fees were last updated in July of the previous year.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve and adopt Resolution No. 6433 as read by title only.
- Vote: The motion was seconded and passed.
Item 11: Authorization to Issue Notice Inviting Bids for Carpinteria Avenue Bridge Replacement
- Topic: Authorization for the Public Works Director to issue the notice inviting bids for the Carpinteria Avenue Bridge replacement project (Project No. 15016).
- Discussion: The City Manager explained that this is a procedural step with no immediate cost. The project involves removing and replacing the bridge over Carpinteria Creek. The clearing and grubbing phase is complete. Utility relocations (Southern California Edison, Cox, Frontier) are underway and must be completed before bidding can occur, with an anticipated timeline of after the summer. The project is federally funded (88.53% federal, 11.47% city).
- Council members asked about the impact of bids coming in higher than the 2010 estimate. Staff explained that the federal funding is a reimbursement program tied to the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP); as long as the project remains active in the FTIP, funding continues. If bids exceed estimates, the City would request additional federal funds and cover the local share.
- Council members asked about the timing of the bid release relative to utility work. Staff confirmed that authorizing the notice now provides flexibility to advertise when ready, rather than requiring a separate Council vote after utilities are complete. Bids are typically valid for 60 days.
- Motion: A motion was made to authorize the Public Works Director to advertise the notice inviting bids for the Carpinteria Avenue bridge replacement, Project No. 15016.
- Vote: The motion was seconded and passed.
Item 12: Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 795
- Topic: Repealing and replacing Chapter 10.60 (Bicycles) of the Carpinteria Municipal Code, entitled "Bicycles and Electric Mobility Devices."
- Discussion: Staff presented the ordinance, which consolidates rules for bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, and skateboards. Key provisions include:
- Sidewalk Riding: Prohibited for bicycles and electric mobility devices within the Central Traffic District (downtown core, adjacent streets, public parking). A citywide ban was not adopted.
- Youth Diversion Program: For first-time violations by minors under 18, an education course may be completed in lieu of a fine. A pilot partnership with MOVE Santa Barbara is proposed, with an estimated cost of $1,500.
- Enforcement: Administrative citations of $100 (first), $200 (second), and $500 (subsequent). Citations may be issued by the Sheriff’s Office and Code Enforcement. Impoundment is limited to sworn law enforcement for egregious cases.
- Other Rules: Maximum speed of 28 mph, helmet requirements for riders under 18, lighting standards, and prohibitions on stunt riding and riding in the Salt Marsh.
- Implementation: A phased approach starting with education and outreach, followed by warnings, targeted enforcement, and the youth diversion pilot.
- Council members asked about specific behaviors targeted (unsafe speeds, sidewalk riding, failure to yield, stunt riding) and how success would be measured (citation data, complaint trends, diversion program completion rates, incident reports). Staff confirmed the youth diversion courses would take place locally in Carpinteria, potentially at the school district or City Hall.
- Council members expressed support for the education-focused approach and the collaboration with community stakeholders.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve Ordinance No. 795 as read by title only and continue the second reading and adoption to the City Council meeting of February 9, 2026.
- Vote: The motion was seconded and passed via roll call.
Item 13: Period 1 Department Reports (Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget)
- Staff presented the Period 1 reports for the 2025-26 fiscal year, noting that the reporting cadence has shifted to cover two quarters (July 1–December 31) to align with the two-year budget cycle.
- General Government Department: Key activities included the celebration of the city’s 60th anniversary, the first local State of the City event, the execution of a contract for the Civic Plus agenda management system, and the administration of $136,500 in grants to local nonprofits plus $10,000 for immigration support. Staff also conducted a pre-analysis for a classification and compensation study, completed an audit for property insurance coverage, and engaged in Proposition 218 processes with assessment districts. Upcoming priorities include the launch of the agenda management software, issuing an RFP for the classification and compensation study, finalizing personnel rules, and returning to the Council with voter survey results regarding potential revenue measures. Financially, the department utilized sole-source procurement for Civic Plus and identified insurance savings. During Q&A, staff explained that increased public outreach requirements have significantly increased the time required for project reviews (e.g., from 20 to 80–90 hours), reducing the total number of projects staff can handle due to lean staffing levels where individuals often cover multiple roles.
- Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department: The Library Board of Trustees adopted a three-year strategic and operating plan, with approximately 4,900 participants in library programming during the period. The community garden established a partnership with Santa Barbara City College for a Master Gardener’s Course. The Sunday swim lessons pilot program achieved an 83.33% fill rate, meeting its cost recovery goal. Agewell expanded partnerships, including with the Carpinteria Children’s Project and the Legal Aid Foundation. The department participated in National Night Out, the HopeNet Candlelight Vigil, and the CCP Health Fair. Upcoming priorities include developing a fundraising plan for the community pool renovation, creating a youth aquatic scholarship program, finalizing Spanish translations for applications, and continuing progress on the library strategic plan. Financially, expenditures remained within the adopted budget, including purchases for the Veterans Memorial Hall and community pool supplies.
- Administrative Services Department: Staff highlighted efforts to strengthen staff capacity through professional development and the implementation of formal procurement procedures and a city credit card policy in July 2025. In November 2025, efforts began to streamline the business license compliance process, and a standardized citation and collection system was launched in October 2025. Preliminary planning for the Microsoft Office 365 migration is underway, with the citywide migration planned for the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. The department supported community engagement by contributing to the budget brief and the State of the City event. Upcoming priorities include drafting a comprehensive grant management policy, finalizing business license compliance procedures, completing the Office 365 migration, and developing a capital asset policy. Financially, all expenditures were within the adopted budget, with no items exceeding appropriations.
- Community Development Department: Staff noted that an influx of large, complex development projects required reallocation of staff time from long-range planning to current planning, impacting progress on other departmental goals. Key achievements included releasing the public draft of the general plan update, holding public workshops and committee meetings, and becoming fully operational with the Data Ticket vendor for fines and citations collection, which improved repayment rates. The Council authorized an agreement with GovWell Technologies for permit intake and processing. The Affordable Housing Subcommittee was formed in December to guide housing policy. Code Compliance staff assisted multifamily complexes with compliance audits following the July 1 effectuation of the Multifamily Smoking Ordinance. Upcoming priorities include restarting Interdepartmental Advisory Group (IDAG) meetings, building workflows for the GovWell permit platform, initiating the environmental impact report process for the general plan update, and updating accessory dwelling unit regulations. Financially, the department is ahead of budget projections in revenue, reaching 120% of annual budget projections due to high planning case volume and improved fine collection.
- Public Works Department: Staff reported on workforce training and development, including certifications for traffic control, pool operation, and hazardous waste operations. The department implemented multi-language translation on the GoGov service request platform to improve accessibility. Solid waste education efforts included partnering with Explore Ecology for student programs and executing a memorandum of understanding with Palmetto’s Network for community outreach. Community engagement activities included participation in Pumpkin Smash and Creek Week, as well as public outreach for capital projects such as the Carpinteria Living Shoreline project and Linden Avenue improvements. Upcoming priorities include completing the Linden Avenue Improvements Project and Carpinteria High School Crosswalk Safety Improvements, implementing the construction phase of the Framing Creek Trail Improvement Project, and executing an MOU with the Community Hazardous Waste Collection Center. Financially, the department reported no significant deviations from the adopted budget, noting that budget allocations are managed within specific funds.
Public Comment and Council Discussion on Department Reports
- Public commenters requested that the City Council add two items to the departmental priority lists: 1. Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Integration: Multiple speakers requested that the city incorporate MMPA protections into the Carpinteria Municipal Code to allow for local enforcement of disturbance restrictions around the harbor seal rookery, citing a decline in seal populations and the lack of local enforcement authority during non-closure periods. 2. Shore Saver Project: One speaker requested that the "Shore Saver" beach cleanup station program be added to the city’s strategic plan, noting that the program is being developed by local volunteers with support from the Coastal Collaborative and Del Mar Shore Saver programs.
- Council members discussed the requests. Staff clarified that adding items to the priority list would place them on an "on-deck" list to be addressed when staff capacity allows, rather than displacing existing priorities. Council members expressed support for adding both items to the on-deck list. However, regarding the MMPA integration, Council members raised concerns about potential legal implications, including whether it would constitute a de facto beach closure requiring Coastal Commission approval, and the associated costs and staffing requirements for enforcement. Staff indicated they would conduct initial research into the legal and practical implications of adding MMPA language to the Municipal Code, including reviewing previous findings regarding beach closures and Coastal Commission jurisdiction, and would report back to the Council with this information. The Council did not take a formal vote on a motion to adopt the priorities but agreed to direct staff to perform the requested research and consider adding the items to the on-deck list.
Motion to Receive and File Department Reports
- Staff presented an update on the strategic updates format, noting that the current version is designed for public readability and ease of understanding. Staff acknowledged current workload constraints and expressed appreciation for the council’s direction. Council members commented on the utility of budget transparency in community conversations. A motion was made to receive and file the period one department reports for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget. The motion was seconded and passed.
Legislative Update
- No updates were reported for this agenda item.
Committee Reports, Inquiries, and Other Matters
- MTD Board Update: The MTD board confirmed that the WAVE microtransit service is expected to arrive in Carpinteria this calendar year, likely during the summer months following the conclusion of the Goleta pilot. MTD staff are scheduled to present to the council and local groups regarding service usage. The board also updated its contract with EasyLift; a request was made for operational statistics regarding the service in Carpinteria to be shared with the council.
- Public Engagement Committee: The committee is scheduled to meet to discuss the latest city digital outreach report, a human trafficking awareness campaign, and a review of the committee’s scope. Staff noted that the committee is considering adding new items to its scope of work and encouraged public participation.
- SPCAG Update: SPCAG reported that they are working to add an additional commuter train to the line, with the first trip expected this spring. The new train will operate on an early schedule, with efforts underway to adjust return trip timing.
- BEACON (Beach Erosion Authority) Update: BEACON provided an update on the Surfers Point project in Ventura, which involved removing a seawall, adding bike and pedestrian access, and filling a trench with cobble to stabilize the beach. The removal of the Matilija Dam is in progress, with sand release already occurring. BEACON also presented on the Chumash National Marine Sanctuary, noting a public outreach meeting is planned for March. BEACON is scheduled to present to the City Council prior to March.
- 3CE (Central Coast Community Energy Commission) Update: A policy board meeting is scheduled for the upcoming Thursday.
Attendance of Council Members for Future Meetings
- Attendance for future meetings was confirmed.
Adjournment
- The meeting was officially adjourned at 9:37 p.m.