Board of Supervisors — 2026-01-05

Closed Session

• The Board discussed existing litigation involving Sable Offshore Corp. v. County of Santa Barbara.
• Counsel reviewed anticipated litigation regarding whether to initiate civil proceedings.
• County Counsel reported that no reportable action was taken on the discussed items.

• The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on January 5th, chaired by Chair Capps. The Clerk called the roll, noting Supervisor Hartmann was absent, while Supervisors Lee, Lavagnino, and Nelson were present. Supervisor Lavagnino participated from Santa Maria, and Supervisor Nelson participated from Sacramento. Chair Capps acknowledged a fatality resulting from recent storms and thanked first responders.
• The Clerk provided announcements regarding public participation methods. Public comment was solicited on general items and the closed session agenda. Karen Hauenstein provided comments regarding county financial liability and the cannabis industry. Erika Reyes, appearing on behalf of Representative Salud Carbajal, discussed the Sable Offshore Corp pipeline restart, citing the 2015 Refugio oil spill and federal regulatory permits. Thomas Becker commented on the meeting notice and stated that Supervisor Hartmann recused herself due to a conflict of interest concerning Sable Oil. Lee Danielson provided comment under conditions of privacy.
• The Board convened in closed session to discuss existing litigation involving Sable Offshore Corp. v. County of Santa Barbara and anticipated litigation regarding whether to initiate civil litigation. Upon reconvening, County Counsel reported that the Board took no reportable action on these items. No motions were moved, seconded, or decided during the open session. The meeting was adjourned until January 13th.