Meeting Summary
Present: 4-Ball, 1-Bridge, 2-Vega, 3-Starbuck, Mosby
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
City Manager Report
- Staff addressed local sharps disposal options, noting current requirements for mail packages or specific client visits.
- The Council inquired about water issues in three major parks, specifically a leaking lake near the 246 Bridge.
- A City of Lompoc garbage can located near the bridge was noted during the discussion.
Utility Rate of Return Formula
- Staff presented the methodology for transfers from the electric fund to the general fund, which has been in place since 1995.
- Council members compared the current 9% rate to other jurisdictions and questioned the impact of estimation errors.
- The Council requested further investigation into the original justification to ensure the formula is defensible.
Introduction of Ordinance No. 1752-26
- Staff presented the First Amendment Development Agreement for the River Terrace project with Williams Homes.
- The amendment locks in projected future fees, impact fees, and building codes for the developer.
- Council members discussed the maintenance responsibilities for Laurel Street and the bike path.
- The motion to approve the introduction of the ordinance passed.
Introduction of Ordinance No. 1753-26
- Staff presented an amendment to Lompoc Municipal Code Chapter 17.316 regarding feather signs in non-residential zones.
- The item was brought back for approval after previous revisions to the regulations.
- The motion to approve the introduction of the ordinance passed.
Lompoc Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
- Staff provided a status update on the plan, focusing on takeoff and landing figures and safety zone impacts.
- Council members questioned the statistical basis for safety zones and the accuracy of landing numbers.
- The motion to accept the status update and direction passed.
Adoption of Resolution No. 6848 (26)
- Staff presented a $1 million Prop 64 grant for public safety, including SROs and cannabis compliance.
- Council members clarified the distinction between grant-funded SRO positions and existing city responsibilities.
- The motion to adopt the resolution authorizing the grant acceptance passed.
Council Comments and Meeting Reports
- Council members discussed supporting a petition to open a beach segment for fishing and investigating the 7th and Pine intersection.
- Staff confirmed a meeting regarding Flock cameras is scheduled for October.
- Council members requested an expedited investigation into lost funds related to credit card processing fees.
- The Council agreed to have the City Attorney research legal mechanisms for a "homeless accountability ordinance."
Closed Session
- The Council met in closed session to discuss one item of significant exposure litigation.
- The Council gave direction to staff, but no reportable action was taken.
Full summary
Closed Session
- The Council met in closed session to discuss one item of significant exposure litigation. The Council gave direction to staff, but no reportable action was taken.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
- Pastor Ron led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
City Manager Report
- The City Manager presented a report. Discussion included questions regarding local sharps disposal options, noting that residents must currently request mail packages or meet specific client requirements at R Street. The Council also discussed water issues in three major parks, specifically asking about the status of a leaking lake near the 246 Bridge and noting a City of Lompoc garbage can located near the bridge.
Consent Calendar
- Three items were listed on the consent calendar: 1. Approval of ratification expenditures of payroll for July 31, 2026 ($2 million) and voucher registers for July 27–31, 2026 ($579,000) and August 3–7, 2026 ($1.25 million). 2. Approval of Request for Proposal No. 3109 to Engel and Gray Incorporated for an Organic Waste Processing Service Agreement. 3. Adoption of Resolution No. 6848 (26), authorizing the acceptance of Prop 64 public safety grant funds and the execution of the grant agreement.
- Public comment was received regarding Item 3. One speaker requested that Item 3 be pulled from the consent calendar for separate discussion, citing concerns about adding a sworn police officer to schools and suggesting alternative safety measures such as strengthening civilian safety officer positions and restorative justice programs. Another speaker opposed a proposed roundabout at Sweeney Road and Highway 246, requesting clarification on public input and transportation studies. A third speaker asked about garage sale permit enforcement and fees.
- Council Member Ball moved to accept the consent calendar without Item 3. Council Member Bridge seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0. Item 3 was scheduled to be heard later in the meeting.
Utility Rate of Return Formula
- Mr. Robert Cross, Management Services Director, presented a discussion on the utility rate of return formula for transfers from the electric fund to the general fund. Council members discussed the methodology, historical context, and justification for the current formula, noting that it has been in place since 1995. Questions were raised regarding the percentage (approximately 9%) compared to other jurisdictions (e.g., PG&E at 1%, San Luis Obispo at 5%) and the impact on the general fund when estimates are miscalculated. Council members expressed appreciation for the detailed explanation but requested further investigation into the original justification and methodology to ensure defensibility if challenged. No motion was taken on this item in this section.
General Oral Communications
- Public comment was received regarding: 1. School Resource Officers (SROs): One speaker supported SROs, citing safety concerns and the limitations of school security staff. Another speaker (Council Member Ball) discussed the SRO program, noting positive interactions observed at Lompoc High School and the request from the school district. The Chief of Police was invited to speak about the SRO program's benefits and policies. 2. Harassment via Anonymous Reports: A resident reported receiving numerous bogus welfare check requests over five years, causing distress. The Mayor offered to schedule a meeting with the City Manager and Police Department to investigate the issue.
Item 4: Introduction of Ordinance No. 1752-26
- This item involved the approval of the First Amendment Development Agreement with WH River Terrace 257 LLC (Williams Homes) for the River Terrace project north of East Laurel Avenue and North 12th Street. Mr. Stone presented the item, noting it locks in projected future fees, impact fees, and building codes. Council Member Ball asked if the agreement included relief on the maintenance of Laurel Street and the bike path. The Council discussed the benefits of locking in costs for the developer.
- Council Member Ball moved to approve the introduction of Ordinance No. 1752-26. Council Member Bridge seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0.
Item 5: Introduction of Ordinance No. 1753-26
- This item involved amending Lompoc Municipal Code Chapter 17.316 to modify regulations on feather signs in non-residential zones (TA 2026-0001). Mr. Stone presented the item, noting it was brought back after previous revisions. No public comment was received.
- Council Member Vega moved to approve the introduction of Ordinance No. 1753-26. Council Member Bridge seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0.
Item 6: Lompoc Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
- Mr. Stone, Planning Manager, presented a status update and direction regarding the Lompoc Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. SB CAG was present to assist. Discussion focused on the number of takeoffs and landings (referencing figures of 30,000 vs. 8,000) and the impact on safety zones. Council members questioned the statistical basis for safety zones and the accuracy of the landing numbers.
- Council Member Bridge moved to accept the status update and direction. Council Member Vega seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0.
Written Communications
- The Council reviewed written communications.
Item 3 (Resumed): Adoption of Resolution No. 6848 (26)
- This item authorized the acceptance of Prop 64 public safety grant funds. Council Member Vega discussed the grant, noting it was local money returning to the community for public safety purposes, including SROs and cannabis compliance. Council Member Starbuck asked for clarification on the relationship between the grant, cannabis compliance, and SRO funding, noting previous confusion about state vs. city responsibilities. The Chief of Police clarified that the grant funds are used for public safety initiatives, including SROs, and that cannabis compliance is a separate regulatory aspect.
- Council Member Starbuck moved to adopt Resolution No. 6848 (26). Council Member Vega seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0.
Council Comments and Meeting Reports
- Council Member Starbuck reported on several items: 1. Fishing at Surf Beach: The Council discussed a petition to open a half-mile segment of beach for fishing. Council Member Starbuck requested support for a letter to the Fish and Game Commission expressing the Council's support for the petition. Council Members Bridge, Vega, and Starbuck indicated support. 2. 7th and Pine Intersection: A resident reported an accident at 7th and Pine and requested an investigation into the need for a stop sign and accident statistics. Council Members Starbuck, Bridge, and one other member agreed to support a request for a simple report from staff. 3. Flock Cameras: Council Member Starbuck asked about the timeline for a meeting regarding Flock cameras, noting public anxiety. The City Manager indicated a meeting is scheduled for October. 4. Credit Card Processing Fees: Council Member Starbuck requested an update on the investigation into lost funds (estimated $1.6–$1.8 million) related to credit card processing fees. Council Members Bridge and Starbuck agreed to support expediting the investigation and bringing results to the next meeting. 5. Homeless Accountability Ordinance: Council Member Starbuck discussed the high percentage of housing vouchers in Lompoc compared to other cities and proposed researching a "homeless accountability ordinance" to hold communities accountable for relocating individuals to Lompoc. Council Members Bridge and Starbuck agreed to support having the City Attorney research potential legal mechanisms.
- The meeting was adjourned. The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 15th at 6:30 p.m.
Agenda Item: First Amendment to Development Agreement with Williams Homes (River Terrace Project)
- Staff presented the first amendment to the development agreement for the River Terrace project, noting that the Planning Commission recommended approval on August 12. The amendment updates the project description and maps to reflect the current development review, acknowledges new ownership by Williams Homes, recognizes a separate reimbursement agreement for cost-enhanced building inspection services, confirms the application of the 2022 California Building Standards, and confirms the application of the City’s 2025 Impact Fee Ordinance. An environmental addendum indicated no significant changes. Staff recommended introducing the ordinance by first reading, waiving further reading, and approving the amendment. Council members discussed the location of the multi-use path, clarifying that it is primarily on City property, with a connecting segment to Laurel Street on the developer’s property.
Agenda Item: Zoning Code Amendment Regarding Feather Signs
- Staff presented an amendment to the zoning code to regulate feather signs similarly to banner signs, following a June 16, 2026, Council direction. The Planning Commission recommended approval on August 12. The proposed changes include removing feather signs from the list of prohibited signs in Section 1731640B, adding standards for feather signs, and establishing additional regulatory criteria based on common law exemptions. Staff recommended introducing the ordinance by first reading, waiving further reading, and approving the zoning code text amendment. Council members discussed enforcement mechanisms, noting that code enforcement would issue notices to property owners if signs remain up longer than 60 days in commercial zones.
Agenda Item: Lompoc Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and General Plan/Zoning Code Consistency
- Staff presented options regarding the Lompoc Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) and related General Plan and Zoning Code amendments. Background included previous Council motions to work with the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) to amend the plan and clarify vague language, particularly the condition "allowed only if site outside zone would not serve intended function," which affects the proposed Pale Blue Dot project in Safety Zone 6. SBCAG responded that they are open to changing this language to "reviewed and determined by local jurisdictions on a case-by-case basis" and noted that updated operational numbers would only affect noise contours, not safety zones or compatibility criteria. Staff outlined options: continue working with SBCAG for editorial changes, use Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) terminal area forecast numbers, update the Lompoc Airport Master Plan, or overrule the ALUCP.
- Council members discussed the implications of the ALUCP on development, particularly the "Pale Blue Dot" project. One Council member expressed concern that the current language has previously halted development and recommended that the City work with SBCAG to officially remove the restrictive statement and update the Airport Master Plan with accurate operational data. Another Council member supported continuing work with SBCAG for editorial changes and updating the Master Plan. SBCAG representatives explained that safety zones are based on runway geometry and flight patterns, while noise contours are based on flight numbers and aircraft types. They stated that minor editorial changes could be made quickly, but changes to safety zones or noise contours would require a longer process. They clarified that the City Council can overrule the ALUCP with a three-fifths vote, though this carries legal risks. They also noted that height restrictions are determined by FAA standards.
- A motion was made to continue working with SBCAG to make the discussed editorial changes and bring the plan back for approval, and to separately bring back a plan to update the Lompoc Airport Master Plan with accurate numbers. The motion was seconded. The vote outcome is not recorded in this transcript segment.
Agenda Item: Prop 64 Grant for Cannabis Enforcement and Youth Prevention
- Staff presented a $1,000,000 five-year grant from the State of California Board of Community Corrections (Prop 64) for public health and safety, specifically for cannabis enforcement and youth preventive initiatives. The proposal includes hiring a School Resource Officer (SRO) for Lompoc Valley Middle School and funding cannabis compliance positions. Staff noted that the grant cannot be used to fund existing functions already covered by the General Fund.
- Council members questioned the use of funds for an SRO, noting that the grant cannot fund existing positions. One Council member raised concerns about the cost and the requirement to hire new staff rather than reassign existing personnel. Another Council member requested a comprehensive review of the cannabis fee structure and code to ensure costs are properly recovered, noting that the City currently has 20 operational commercial cannabis businesses. Staff explained that the grant would fund a new SRO position and support compliance efforts, including education and enforcement. A Police Department representative explained that the SRO role is focused on building relationships and responding to serious incidents, guided by school district policies.
- Public comment was received. One speaker argued against SROs, citing research on disproportionate impacts on students of color and lack of proven benefit in reducing violence, suggesting funds be used for after-school programs instead. Another speaker supported SROs, citing their positive interactions with students and their role in preventing a violent incident at another school.
- The vote outcome is not recorded in this transcript segment.
Agenda Item: Electric Rate of Return Calculation and True-Up
- Staff presented the annual electric rate of return calculation and true-up for the General Fund. The calculation is based on the property, plant, and equipment (net of depreciation) and a working capital allowance (120 days of operating expenses), multiplied by a 5.7% rate of return. This rate has been in place since 2006 and was grandfathered into Proposition 26. For FY25, the calculated transfer was $2,236,764, which was lower than the estimated $2.6 million. The difference of $389,948 will be refunded to the Electric Department. Staff explained that the true-up process ensures the transfer amount is accurate based on audited numbers. Council members discussed the history of the 5.7% rate and the estimation process, noting that the rate has not changed since 2006 to maintain compliance with Proposition 26.
- The vote outcome is not recorded in this transcript segment.
Public Comment: Death of Liliana Zuniga
- A member of the public requested the official report on the death of Liliana Zuniga, who died in the Lompoc Police Station jail in March 2023. The speaker stated that the complaint was investigated and found unfounded, but requested transparency regarding the circumstances of her death, the actions of the jailer, and the lack of medical attention provided. The speaker questioned why the jailer was promoted rather than reprimanded and requested that the issue be taken up with the Public Safety Commission.
Discussion on Expenditures
- A speaker noted that total spending for the year reached $1.6 million, exceeding the budgeted amount of approximately $700,000 to $800,000. The speaker attributed the higher expenditure to increased transaction volumes resulting from the post-COVID period.
Public Comment
- The chair confirmed that there were no public comments submitted via phone or Microsoft Teams at that time.