City Council — September 28, 2026

Recognition of Michael Hickey

• The Council recognized Michael Hickey for his retirement after serving as a part-time crossing guard for over 40 years.
• No public comment was received regarding this item.
• The recognition was formally presented to Mr. Hickey.

10-Year Service Award to Marisol Smith

• The Council recognized Marisol Smith, Associate Planner, for her 10 years of service to the city.
• Staff highlighted her contributions to planning cases, technology development, and public counter interactions.
• The award was presented to Ms. Smith.

Sheriff’s Recap

• Chief Brinningham reported on July and August 2026 incidents, including firearms discoveries, counterfeit currency, and narcotics arrests.
• Safety advisories were issued regarding vehicle security, reflective clothing for joggers, and the illegality of pedal-less e-bikes.
• The report noted 13 e-bike citations issued to minors and the availability of a free Restorative Justice class.
• The Council accepted the report.

First District Supervisor’s Report

• Supervisor Daisy Lee provided updates on unincorporated housing projects, El Niño preparation, and the "Food as Medicine" pilot program.
• The Red Tail project is in a "hurry up and wait" phase while the Housing Authority addresses county feedback.
• Public commenters raised concerns regarding traffic congestion, parking, and the lack of a scheduled community meeting.
• The Council passed a motion to send a letter encouraging Supervisor Lee’s office to lead a community meeting on the Red Tail project before year-end.

City Manager’s Report

• Staff provided updates on five open positions, the Franklin Creek Trail, and the Carpinteria High School crosswalk project.
• The report covered Union Pacific Railroad emergency drainage repairs, noting the city was not notified in advance despite federal preemption claims.
• Updates included e-bike enforcement statistics, PSPS preparedness, and host season volunteer metrics.
• Public commenters requested frameworks for the Surfliner Inn project, removal of story poles, and clarification on budget allocations.

Legal Guidance on Recusal

• The City Attorney explained that due process requires an impartial decision-making body for quasi-adjudicative matters.
• The Attorney distinguished between protected general policy advocacy and project-specific advocacy that may create a probability of bias.
• The Office confirmed it had reviewed relevant correspondence and case law regarding Commissioner Van Antwerp’s recusal.

Selection of Council Members for Beach Smarts Community Meeting

• Staff presented the Beach Smarts project aimed at improving sediment management and coastal resilience.
• A community meeting is scheduled for October 1, 2026, at Ash Avenue Beach.
• The Council selected two members to attend the meeting on behalf of the city.

Ratification of Winter Storm Preparedness Letter and Update

• The Council ratified the city’s participation in a regional letter to the Governor requesting expedited permitting for El Niño preparation.
• Staff provided an update on storm drain maintenance, beach berm preparation, and the availability of free sandbags.
• Questions were addressed regarding sandbag distribution locations, debris staging, and potential cost-sharing for storm response.
• The motion to ratify the letter and receive the preparedness update passed.

Economic Vitality Services Agreement with Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce

• Staff proposed a 12-month, $30,000 pilot program to strengthen city-business relationships through outreach and data collection.
• Chamber representatives described a "business engagement ladder" and highlighted their BEAM mentoring program.
• Public commenters expressed mixed views, with some supporting the partnership and others questioning the cost and tangible benefits.
• The motion to approve the agreement failed by a tie vote, with suggestions made to return with quarterly economic projections.

Update on Preliminary Review Process for Carpinteria Cultural Foundation (CCF) 10-Panel Mural Proposal

• Staff presented the preliminary review of a proposal for 10 historical mural panels at the Community Plaza.
• Expert feedback raised concerns about historical accuracy, inclusivity, and the representation of Indigenous peoples and women.
• Public commenters criticized the project for cultural insensitivity, lack of early stakeholder engagement, and aesthetic clashes.
• The applicant withdrew their application, citing other commitments and the decision not to proceed with the city at this time.

Council Member Reports

• A council member reported on UCSD coastal erosion research using sensors to track cliff and beach movement.
• Updates were shared on beach nourishment sessions, economic development financing, and AI utilization in municipalities.
• A session on community policing was discussed, citing Lancaster’s hybrid approach to coverage gaps.
• A report on budget balancing and public communication strategies from El Cerrito was noted.

Closed Session

• The Council reported meeting in closed session with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation.
• No reportable action was taken during the closed session.

• Meeting Date: September 28, 2026 Body: Carpinteria City Council

Roll Call and Opening

• Action: Roll call was taken; all Council Members (Mayer, Nomura, Solorzano, Clark, Alarcon) were present.
• Closed Session Report: The Council reported meeting in closed session with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation. No reportable action was taken.
• Pledge of Allegiance: Recited.

Agenda Item 1: Recognition of Michael Hickey

• Discussion: The Council recognized Michael Hickey for his retirement after serving as a part-time crossing guard for over 40 years (since September 1984).
• Public Comment: None received.
• Decision: Recognition was presented.

Agenda Item 2: 10-Year Service Award to Marisol Smith

• Discussion: The Council recognized Marisol Smith, Associate Planner, for 10 years of service. Staff noted her contributions to planning cases, technology development (GovWell permit software), and public counter interactions.
• Public Comment: None received.
• Decision: Award was presented.

Agenda Item 3: Sheriff’s Recap

• Discussion: Chief Brinningham provided a report covering July and August 2026 incidents, including the discovery of firearms, reports of counterfeit currency, stolen vehicles, juvenile detention for possession of nitrous oxide, and various arrests for narcotics and burglary.
• Safety Advisories: The Chief advised residents to lock vehicles, avoid leaving keys in cars, and wear reflective clothing when jogging in low-light conditions. He warned about the recreational use of nitrous oxide by minors and the illegality of pedal-less e-bikes (classified as electric motorcycles).
• E-bike Enforcement: 13 citations were issued to minors during a Goleta motor operation. Eligible minors may attend a free Restorative Justice class.
• Public Comment: None received.
• Decision: Report accepted.

Agenda Item 4: First District Supervisor’s Report

• Discussion: Supervisor Daisy Lee provided updates on unincorporated housing projects, El Niño preparation (virtual meeting scheduled for October 1, 2026), RV restrictions on Highway 192, Santa Claus Beach improvements, and the "Food as Medicine" pilot program. She also listed upcoming opportunities, including grant deadlines, community conversations, and election dates.
• Red Tail Project: Supervisor Lee stated the project is in a "hurry up and wait" phase. The Housing Authority is working with developers to address county feedback. A community meeting is being requested, with a goal to hold it before the end of the year.
• Council Questions: Council Member Nomura asked for updates on Red Tail; Supervisor Lee confirmed no new updates but noted the Housing Authority is addressing feedback. Council Member Mayer asked about potential dates for a Supervisor-led community meeting; Supervisor Lee stated she prefers the Housing Authority/developers to lead the meeting to ensure appropriate personnel are present.
• Public Comment:
• Betty Jeppesen spoke against the Red Tail project, citing concerns about emergency exits, traffic congestion, and the use of eminent domain.
• Jim Knuckles spoke against the project, citing inadequate parking and saturated street parking.
• Cindy Marcus expressed concern over dangerous parking in fire lanes and the risk of gridlock.
• Tristine Rainer expressed disappointment at the lack of progress on a community meeting and disputed the accuracy of the traffic study.
• Andy Patrick (via Zoom) urged Supervisor Lee to engage directly with the community regarding the housing crisis.
• Motion: Council Member Mayer proposed that the Council send a letter to Supervisor Lee encouraging her office to take the lead in organizing a community meeting about the Red Tail Baylor project before the end of the year.
• Second: Seconded.
• Vote: Passed by consensus.
• Decision: Staff will draft a letter from the Council supporting Supervisor Lee’s office in organizing a community meeting regarding the Red Tail project.

Agenda Item 5: City Manager’s Report

• Recruitment Updates: Five open positions were discussed, including Public Works Director, HR/Risk Manager, Accounting Specialist, Building Official, and Engineering Technician. Staff clarified these are backfills for existing approved positions.
• Capital Improvement Projects:
• Franklin Creek Trail: Grading and utility work complete; retaining walls expected end of September; concrete surface pour scheduled for October; project on track for December completion.
• Carpinteria High School Crosswalk: Sidewalks and crosswalk complete; Hawk system awaiting delivery/installation; underground utility work on hold pending change order resolution; expected completion by end of December.
• Development Applications:
• Planning Commission Agenda (Oct 5): St. Joseph’s Church item removed at their request, postponed to Nov 2. Surfliner Inn project continues with deliberations.
• Union Pacific Railroad Work: Emergency repair of five drainage culverts along the rail corridor between Rincon Bluffs and Carpinteria Bluffs. Work ongoing through December. The City was not notified in advance. The Railroad claims federal preemption exempts them from local permits, but environmental and cultural resource monitors are on-site.
• Council Questions: Council Member Mayer asked why the city was not notified in advance (staff stated it was an oversight by the railroad’s real estate team), about environmental oversight (staff stated the railroad claims federal preemption but has monitors on-site), and about safety mitigations for debris falling on the beach (staff stated they raised concerns with UPRR). Mayor Alarcon asked if public comment would be reopened on Oct 5 (staff stated the intention is to proceed directly to deliberations) and about the relationship between EIR certification and General Plan/Municipal Code (staff explained a project must satisfy CEQA thresholds and be consistent with General Plan/zoning standards).
• E-bike Enforcement & Youth Diversion: 29 citations issued through targeted enforcement. Youth diversion class scheduled for Nov 7. Successful completion allows dismissal of citations. Additional enforcement planned for Oct and Nov.
• Emergency Preparedness & Host Season:
• PSPS Update: Potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs affecting Sheffield, Vallesieto, and Kickapoo Trail circuits. Community Resource Center open at Veterans Hall.
• Host Season: May–Sept 2026: 3,600+ visitors served, 690 pups welcomed, 42 days of service, 109 volunteer shifts, 26 volunteers.
• Age Well: Emergency planning workshop for Spanish speakers held Sept 4; 20+ participants signed up for ReadySBC.
• Avocado Festival: Permit finalized; festival occurring this weekend.
• Public Comment:
• Alan Koch requested a framework for deliberations on the Surfliner Inn project.
• Jane Benefield (via Zoom) requested removal of story poles on a vacant property on Linden Street. Staff stated they will follow up with the property owner.
• Public Comment (Matters Not on Agenda):
• Kathleen Salant requested an explanation of Planning Commissioner Alexander Van Antwerp’s recusal from the Surfliner Inn deliberations.
• Mark Rock requested that the Council agendize an item to discuss dangerous conditions on the city beach.
• Victor Garza requested that the developer of the Surfliner Inn bear all costs for improvements to Elm Avenue caused by Lot 4.
• Jim Knuckles suggested that Red Tail use the existing access road rather than seeking access to Baylor Avenue.
• Betty Jeppesen cited a previous letter from former Community Development Director Steve Goja rejecting high-density development in rural areas.
• Amrita Som questioned how the Planning Commission can certify the Surfliner EIR if it does not adhere to the Carpinteria Municipal Code and General Plan.
• Cindy Marcus [Comment cut off in transcript].
• A speaker noted that insufficient parking already causes issues in local alleys and fire lanes.
• A speaker addressed the City Council regarding the budget, requesting a clear presentation on the allocation of the $5.6 million in property tax revenue, an explanation for expenses exceeding income, and information on potential service reductions or layoffs if a proposed sales tax increase fails. The speaker also requested that the City provide services in Spanish to the Hispanic community.

Agenda Item: Legal Guidance on Recusal

• Discussion: The City Attorney provided legal context regarding the recusal of Commissioner Van Antwerp. The Attorney explained that due process rights require applicants to receive a fair hearing before an impartial decision-making body. The Attorney clarified that while public officials retain First Amendment rights to speak on general policy issues, statements regarding specific quasi-adjudicative matters may create an unacceptable probability of bias, necessitating recusal. The Attorney distinguished between general policy advocacy, which is protected, and project-specific advocacy, which may impair impartiality. The Attorney confirmed that the City Attorney’s Office had reviewed relevant correspondence and case law.

Agenda Item: Consent Calendar

• Items Considered:
• 1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held September 14, 2026. 2. Receipt and filing of the warrant register for the period of September 7 through September 18, 2026. 3. Receipt and filing of the report of contracts executed by the City Manager for the period of August 4 through September 7, 2026. 4. Adoption of Resolution No. 6497 approving an amendment to the city’s conflict of interest code.
• Motion: To approve the items on the consent calendar.
• Second: Seconded.
• Vote: Passed with no opposition.

Agenda Item 11: Selection of Council Members for Beach Smarts Community Meeting

• Discussion: Staff presented information on the Beach Smarts project, led by the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District, aimed at improving sediment management and coastal resilience. A community meeting is scheduled for October 1, 2026, at Ash Avenue Beach. The Council was asked to select two members to attend. Three council members expressed interest in attending.
• Motion: To select Council Members Julia Mayer and Monica Solorzano to attend the meeting.
• Second: Seconded.
• Vote: Passed with no opposition.

Agenda Item 12: Ratification of Winter Storm Preparedness Letter and Update

• Discussion: The City Manager presented a request to ratify the city’s participation in a regional letter submitted on September 18, 2026, to Governor Newsom requesting expedited permitting and resources for the upcoming El Niño winter storm season. The letter was signed by the Interim Public Works Director. The City Manager noted that the Governor subsequently proclaimed a statewide state of emergency. Staff provided an update on the city’s preparedness efforts, including storm drain maintenance, coordination with county flood control, preparation of the winter beach berm, and the availability of free sandbags for residents. Staff emphasized 24/7 emergency response capabilities, coordination with regional partners, and the use of emergency notification systems. Questions were raised regarding the location of sandbag distribution, debris staging plans, and potential state or federal cost-sharing for storm response efforts. Staff indicated that sandbags are available at the Public Works yard, debris staging is determined case-by-case with safety as a priority, and the city is tracking costs to seek reimbursement if eligible.
• Motion: To ratify the signature on the September 18, 2026, regional letter and to receive and file the update regarding the state of emergency proclamation and winter storm preparedness activities.
• Second: Seconded.
• Vote: Passed with no opposition.

Agenda Item 13: Economic Vitality Services Agreement with Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce

• Conflict of Interest: A council member disclosed a conflict of interest regarding this item, noting they had received an endorsement and a campaign contribution from the Chamber of Commerce, and recused themselves from participation. The City Attorney confirmed no conflict of interest existed for the remaining council members.
• Discussion: Staff presented a proposal for a 12-month pilot program with the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce for $30,000, funded from the existing budget. The program aims to strengthen the relationship between the city and the local business community through direct outreach, data collection, and resource connection. Representatives from the Chamber presented the proposal, describing a "business engagement ladder" involving in-person visits, data gathering, and resource connection. They highlighted the Chamber’s BEAM mentoring program and its role in connecting businesses with resources. They stated the program would engage over 150 businesses and provide quarterly reports.
• Public Comment: Speakers expressed support for the partnership, citing the Chamber’s role in connecting businesses, supporting local schools through the CHIP program, and providing mentorship. One speaker, representing the Carpinteria Immigrant Rights Coalition, supported the agreement. Another speaker, a former small business owner, questioned the tangible benefits for small businesses and the necessity of the expenditure given the city’s budget constraints. Another speaker expressed support for the mentorship opportunities. A representative from Agilent Technologies supported the program.
• Deliberation: Council members discussed the proposal. Supporters argued that the city lacks an in-house economic development director and that the Chamber’s expertise is necessary to create a strategic plan. They noted that the funding comes from one-time funds previously allocated for an economic profile that became stale, and that the Chamber’s BEAM program is apolitical. Opponents and concerns included the lack of coordinated communication with the business community and the "sticker shock" of the $30,000 cost. Staff confirmed that the city currently has no dedicated economic development position and that two staff members would oversee the contract. Staff committed to providing regular updates via the City Manager’s Report. Staff also noted that the funding is from one-time funds, distinct from ongoing operational funds, and that the project is a risk intended to build the foundation for a future economic development strategic plan. A council member mentioned that retired executives are willing to volunteer for advisory roles. Staff indicated they lack the capacity to oversee volunteers but acknowledged the potential for utilizing such resources. Chamber representatives emphasized their role in convening community organizations, providing structured data, and their commitment to working closely with the city to ensure value.
• Motion: To approve an agreement with the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce for a 12-month economic vitality pilot program in an amount not to exceed $30,000, and to authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement subject to final review by the City Attorney.
• Second: Seconded.
• Vote: Failed by a tie vote.
• Post-Vote Discussion: A council member suggested that if the item were to return, it should include quarterly projections of anticipated economic increases resulting from the investment. The Chamber representatives expressed willingness to return with more inclusive discussions and additional data. A council member stated they would bring the item back to the Economic Vitality Committee to strengthen the proposal.

Agenda Item 14: Update on Preliminary Review Process for Carpinteria Cultural Foundation (CCF) 10-Panel Mural Proposal

• Discussion: Staff presented an update on the preliminary review of the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation’s proposal for 10 historical mural panels at the Community Plaza on Linden Avenue.
• Policy Context: Under the city’s Public Art Policy, artwork on city property is considered city speech. Council retains final authority over content. Community and expert input are advisory only. If approved, CCF would transfer ownership to the city, waive artist’s proprietary and moral rights, and consent to removal at the city’s discretion.
• Proposal Details: The panels, created by artist Rick Sharp, depict communities that have made Carpinteria home, from the Chumash to present day. They are to be printed on aluminum and mounted above the curved wall under the Ramada. CCF offered to cover fabrication, installation, maintenance, and replacement.
• Public Outreach: Outreach ran from August 20 to September 20, including two co-hosted events, an online/paper feedback form (59 responses), a newspaper ad, a project webpage, and press releases.
• Expert Review: Staff contacted 12 regional institutions and experts. Responses were received from four: the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, Dr. Miroslava Chavez-Garcia (UCSB), Dr. Paul Spickard (UCSB), and Dr. Aaron Quaining (UCSD).
• Expert Feedback Summary: Dr. Spickard questioned the context of the Chinese Exclusion Act panel. Dr. Chavez-Garcia suggested removing stereotypical elements unless historically verified, noted the absence of Native Californians and women’s contributions, and advised against idealized phrases like "pastoral paradise." The Carpinteria Valley Museum of History clarified it was not an advisor to the project and requested its statement be part of the record.
• Tribal Consultation: Staff noted that tribal representatives were contacted but did not respond. Staff indicated that compensation for review is a significant factor in securing tribal engagement.
• CCF Response: CCF representatives defended their historical research, citing memoirs and local history. They stated that the QR code component of the project allows for extensive background text and can be updated to address feedback. They noted that the panels are digital art and can be modified. They mentioned that nine of the ten panels are largely set, with the Mexican panel being the most complex.
• Public Comment:
• One commenter raised concerns about cultural sensitivity, the lack of women’s representation, the depiction of the Chumash as a thing of the past, and the failure to acknowledge pre-colonial achievements.
• Another commenter, a land use planner, opposed the project as currently constituted, arguing that public art is a community story and that the process lacked early stakeholder engagement.
• A third commenter argued the project is not a true mural, clashes with the plaza’s aesthetic, segregates ethnic groups, and presents a sanitized, historically inaccurate narrative that ignores colonization and genocide.
• Council Deliberation:
• Council members discussed the placement of the panels, with some suggesting they should be mounted on the wall rather than in the clear story above the grapevines to preserve architectural integrity and improve visibility/lighting.
• Several members expressed concern that the content of the panels requires significant revision based on public and expert feedback, particularly regarding historical accuracy, inclusivity, and the representation of women and Indigenous peoples.
• Members debated whether to send the proposal to the Architectural Review Board (ARB) or to decline to continue processing. Staff clarified that the ARB reviews site and design compatibility but not artistic merit, and that the proposal would return to Council for a final decision.
• A council member moved to receive the staff report and forward the proposal to the ARB with the comments made, authorizing the ARB to recommend changes.
• Motion Status: The motion was not seconded and died.
• Alternative directions were discussed, including declining to continue processing with the option for resubmission, or giving CCF an opportunity to respond to the feedback.
• CCF representatives stated they were withdrawing their application because they had other commitments and would take the recommendations into account but were not proceeding with the city at this time.
• Decision: The applicant (Carpinteria Cultural Foundation) withdrew their application. No further action was taken by the Council.

Agenda Item: Council Member Reports

• Coastal Erosion Research Update: A council member reported on a presentation received from UCSD regarding coastal erosion research. The presentation detailed the use of sensors in coastal cliffs to track erosion up to 24 hours in advance and sensors in cobble to track movement along beaches. The report noted that the associated grant funding covers coastal mapping of California from January through the current El Niño cycle, providing real-time data on coastline changes.
• Beach Nourishment Presentation: A council member reported attending a session by Beach Smart regarding beach nourishment.
• Economic Development Sessions: A council member reported attending sessions on financing economic development, housing, and infrastructure, as well as a session on how other municipalities utilize artificial intelligence.
• Public Communication and Finance: A council member discussed a session featuring an example from the city of El Cerrito regarding budget balancing and public communication strategies. The council member noted that while the example involved a municipality with budget difficulties, the current city has balanced budgets.
• Community Policing: A council member reported attending a session on community policing, specifically citing the city of Lancaster’s hybrid approach to filling coverage gaps.

Agenda Item: Attendance and Adjournment

• Future Attendance: The chair asked about the attendance of council members for future meetings. It was confirmed that all members would be present.
• Adjournment: The chair moved to officially adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:07 PM.