City Council — February 3, 2026

Five-Year Forecast and Budget Priority Setting Workshop

• Staff presented financial forecasts showing expenditures may exceed revenues by Fiscal Year 2028-2029.
• Council discussed rising pavement costs and the long-term financial implications of deferred infrastructure maintenance.
• Members supported funding priorities including the Goleta Train Depot and Splash Pad operations.
• The Council concurred with staff recommendations without making a formal motion.

• The following is a summary of the meeting record provided for the Goleta City Council of February 3rd, 2026. The provided text focuses primarily on the Five-Year Forecast and Budget Priority Setting Workshop, followed by Council Comments and Adjournment.

Five-Year Forecast and Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Priority Setting Workshop

• Staff Presentation: Staff presented the Five-Year Financial Forecast and Budget Priority Setting. The presentation highlighted revenue and expenditure projections, noting that expenditures are anticipated to exceed revenues by Fiscal Year 2028-2029 based on current assumptions. Staff outlined the "Big Six" capital projects, including the Goleta Train Depot, San Jose Creek multipurpose path, and Cathedral Oaks cribwall repair. The presentation also covered general fund balance reserves, the contingency reserve policy, and identified unfunded priorities such as deferred maintenance, pavement, and concrete programs. Personnel summaries and salary/benefit costs relative to the general fund budget were discussed.
• Council Discussion: Council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the findings.
• Pavement and Infrastructure: Council discussed the rising costs of pavement maintenance, noting estimates had increased significantly in recent years. Staff noted that current funding assumes approximately $6 million annually, while estimated needs to meet targets are higher. Council expressed concern regarding deferred maintenance costs and the long-term financial implications of deferring infrastructure repairs.
• Reserves and Funding: Discussion occurred regarding the contingency reserve policy, current reserve levels, and the potential need for adjustments. Council members questioned the city's revenue sources, including transaction use tax, sales tax, and the stability of specific industries like car dealerships and hotels.
• Priorities: Council provided feedback on funding priorities. Staff recommended funding the "Big Six" projects, ensuring the Goleta Train Depot and Splash Pad operations are maintained, and addressing Heritage Ridge Park commitments. Council indicated support for these priorities while acknowledging the need to address future deficits and maintenance reserves.
• Future Planning: Council emphasized the importance of planning for deferred maintenance reserves and potential revenue enhancements, such as the TOT tax audit or user fee studies, to address the projected deficit.
• Action: No formal motion was made. The Council indicated concurrence with staff recommendations regarding funding priorities and the continued deferment of the affordable housing fund contribution.

Public Comment

• The City Attorney announced that public comment was limited to the Five-Year Forecast and Budget Priority Setting item.
• The Clerk reported that no speaker slips had been received and no members spoke during this segment.

Council Comments and Reports

• Councilmember Garriott (Mayor Pro Tem): Reported on the Beacon erosion project benefiting Goleta Beach flood control, attendance at the US Women's Soccer Team match at UCSB (noting parking concerns), attendance at an ICE press conference, and participation in a Women in Athletics luncheon.
• Councilmember Carioco: Reported on a Coffee and Community event at the Goleta Valley Library, noting high attendance and significant community questions regarding immigration and ICE. Also noted attendance at the ICE press conference.
• Councilmember Reyes-Martin: Provided updates on upcoming committee meetings, including Public Safety and Emergency, and the Homelessness Issues Standing Committee.

Adjournment

• The Council President declared the meeting adjourned following the Council Comments.