Board of Supervisors — 2026-04-21

Immigration and Election Policy Resolution

• Presenters outlined a proposal to restrict immigration enforcement on county property and prevent detention facilities.
• Staff and officials discussed legal enforceability, federal jurisdiction, and potential public safety risks.
• The Board separated the measure into distinct motions for election integrity and property access provisions.
• Both motions were adopted following the discussion of legal tools and local control mechanisms.

• On April 21, 2026, Chair Nelson called to order a Special Meeting of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors. Following the roll call, Supervisors Lavagnino, Lee, Capps, and Hartmann were present.
• Departmental Item Number One was presented by Supervisors Capps and Lee. The hearing considered recommendations regarding the prohibition of unauthorized use of county-owned property for immigration enforcement, safeguarding the integrity of county-administered elections, and evaluating legal tools to prohibit immigration detention facilities in unincorporated areas. Presenters Chris Henson and Eleanor Gartner outlined the proposal, which consisted of three parts: protecting public access to county spaces, supporting voter confidence ahead of the 2026 election cycle, and maintaining local control over land use decisions regarding potential detention facilities.
• During the discussion, Supervisor Lavagnino questioned the enforceability of the proposal, specifically regarding scenarios involving ICE activity on county property or at the jail. Chair Nelson asked questions regarding planned detention facilities, federal jurisdiction over property, and the application of the Supremacy Clause. County Counsel clarified that the proposal constitutes a county policy rather than an ordinance. Counsel noted that jurisdiction over federal land and the authority of federal agents depends on specific circumstances, such as whether an agent possesses a warrant. Sheriff Brown stated that ICE is authorized under federal law to enforce immigration laws and warned of potential safety risks if operations were diverted from county property to public streets. Sheriff Brown also raised concerns regarding potential legal conflicts with federal authority.
• Public comment was opened to the item. Multiple speakers supported the proposal, citing community safety, local control, and the need to protect voter confidence from intimidation. Organizations present included Unidos 805, Future Leaders of America, and Buen Vecino. Several speakers opposed the proposal, citing federal supremacy, the lack of evidence regarding election intimidation, and concerns regarding safety and law enforcement authority.
• Regarding the vote, Chair Nelson indicated support for the election component but expressed concerns regarding the property access and detention facility components. The item was split into two separate motions.
• 1. Item B (Elections): Supervisor Capps moved the portion pertaining to county elections. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). 2. Items A and C (Property Access and Detention Facilities): Supervisor Capps moved the portion regarding the preservation of access to county property and the evaluation of tools to prevent detention centers in unincorporated areas. The motion passed 4-1. Chair Nelson cast the dissenting vote.
• The meeting concluded with general public comment, where one speaker requested a federal independent audit of county departments regarding budget and management practices. The Chair adjourned the meeting, with the next meeting scheduled for May 5th.