BOARD OF SUPERVISORSApril 5, 2011

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BodyBoard of Supervisors
MeetingRegular Meeting
Date📅 April 5, 2011

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Meeting Summary

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At a glance

Closed Session Reports

  • The board authorized the award or settlement of a permanent disability claim in the amount of 76 percent.
  • The board authorized county counsel to file a writ of mandamus involving the Department of Mental Health regarding a denial of appeals.

CSAC and NACo Updates

  • CSAC reported that a June election is impossible and that Governor Brown signed AB 109, shifting responsibility for non-violent offenders to counties.
  • NACo discussed the federal "ballot budgeting" provision requiring counties to withhold 3% of contracts and urged members to contact Congress regarding HUD impact reports.
  • The board presented awards to the executives from both associations.

Resolution of Accommodation for Patty Ball

  • The board honored Patty Ball, Employee of the Month for April 2011, from the Probation Department.
  • The resolution recognized her role in the Revenue Recovery Unit and management of the Community Service Work Program.
  • The resolution was passed and adopted.

Resolution Proclaiming Cesar Chavez Day

  • The board proclaimed March 31, 2011, as Cesar Chavez Day in Santa Barbara County.
  • Representatives from UCSB and a graduate student spoke in support of the resolution.
  • The resolution was passed and adopted.

Resolution Proclaiming California Native Plant Week

  • The board declared April 16–23, 2011, as California Native Plant Week.
  • Representatives from the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden highlighted conservation efforts and upcoming events.
  • The resolution was passed and adopted.

Resolution Honoring Neil Taylor

  • The board honored Neil Taylor, a former Parks Department employee and founder of the Kachuma Lake Nature Center.
  • The resolution included renaming Kachuma Bay to Neil Taylor Bay.
  • The resolution was passed and adopted.

Resolution Proclaiming National Public Health Week

  • The board proclaimed April 4–10, 2011, as National Public Health Week.
  • A representative from the Public Health Department discussed injury prevention and the department’s mission.
  • The resolution was passed and adopted.

Commission for Women Service Awards

  • The board received presentations from the Commission for Women regarding their annual Service Awards recipients.
  • Recipients included organizations from all five districts, such as Artisan Court, Backyard Bounty Food Bank, and Family Care Network.
  • The presentations were received and filed.

Cleanup Items (Continuances and Withdrawals)

  • The board continued the County’s cable television franchise ordinance to April 12, 2011.
  • The board continued the Santa Barbara Ranch Inland Development Agreement to May 17, 2011.
  • The board withdrew the ordinance granting a private pipeline franchise.

Human Resources - Retirement Program Alternatives

  • Staff presented recommendations to lower retirement formulas, eliminate employer contributions, and reduce post-retirement COLAs to address rising costs.
  • Public commenters raised concerns about the impact on current employees and the adequacy of the advisory committee process.
  • The board continued the item to the next meeting to allow for further review and limited public comment.

County Executive Office - Community Services Department

  • Staff proposed establishing a Community Services Department by consolidating Housing, Animal Services, Parks, and other entities.
  • The proposal aims to stabilize leadership and stretch resources, with immediate savings from eliminating certain director positions.
  • The board agreed to take the presentation and defer the decision to the next meeting.

Administrative Agenda Item A-9 (Conflict of Interest Code Amendments)

  • The board approved amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code.
  • The motion was seconded and passed.

Administrative Agenda Item A-18 (Brush Removal Ordinance)

  • The Fire Chiefs Association requested inclusion in future discussions regarding changes to the brushing ordinance.
  • The Economic Development Commission clarified that it does not intend to change existing exemptions for fire protection or agriculture.
  • The board acknowledged the comments.

Administrative Agenda (Items A-7 through A-36)

  • The board approved the remaining administrative agenda items, excluding those already voted on.
  • The motion was seconded and passed.

Summerland Abandoned Oil Wells

  • The board discussed increased reports of tar and oil on Summerland beach and the history of over 400 abandoned wells.
  • Staff identified the Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources and the State Lands Commission as relevant agencies.
  • The board approved sending a letter to state agencies requesting reports on well status and solutions, with copies to legislators.

Kong Ordinance 661 Consistency Rezone and Lot Line Adjustment

  • Staff presented a request to convert zoning from 100 AG to Ag 2100 and adjust lot lines to create 40-acre and 66.4-acre lots.
  • The project was deemed consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and exempt from CEQA.
  • The board approved the rezone and lot line adjustment subject to conditions.

Public Health – Report on Collaboration to Address Homeless Deaths

  • Staff reported on actions taken since the previous year’s Homeless Death Review Report, including the implementation of a Vulnerability Index.
  • The board requested a performance evaluation mechanism to review the effectiveness of these strategies in one year.
  • The board received and filed the staff’s recommendations with a proviso for an annual report.
No decision 0–0

Proposed Award of Exclusive Solid Waste Collection Franchise Agreements

  • Staff presented the results of a two-year competitive procurement process for Zones 2, 4, and 5.
  • Marburg Industries was selected for Zone 2, and Waste Management was selected for Zones 4 and 5.
  • The board approved the franchise agreements, noting estimated savings and enhanced service levels.

Full summary

Opening and Roll Call

  • The meeting began with a roll call confirming the presence of Supervisors Allen, Labagnino, Carbajal, Wolfe, Farr, and Gray. A moment of silence was observed for Harry Siegel, the late father of Supervisor Wolfe. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Closed Session Reports

  • Mr. Marshall reported on two items from closed session: 1. Ableby County of Santa Barbara: The board authorized the award or settlement of a permanent disability in the amount of 76 percent. 2. Litigation: The board authorized the county counsel to file a 1085 writ of mandamus involving the Department of Mental Health, State of California, seeking relief from a denial of informal and formal appeal.

Approval of Minutes

  • Motion: Approval of the minutes of March 15, 2011.
  • Procedure: Motion by Supervisor Carbajal, seconded by Supervisor Farr.
  • Outcome: Passed.

Public Comment / Guest Presentations

  • CSAC Update: Paul McIntosh, Executive Director of the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), presented updates. He noted that the deadline for a June election had passed, making a June election impossible. He reported that the CSAC board of directors voted 45-4 to support a constitutional amendment protecting counties, but noted that Governor Brown signed AB 109, which shifts responsibility for non-violent offenders to counties. McIntosh stated that the bill does not go into effect until funds are appropriated and urged staff to analyze the impact on Santa Barbara County. He advised contacting legislators regarding county-level issues.
  • NACo Update: Lenny Eliason, President-elect of the National Association of Counties (NACo), spoke on behalf of NACo. He discussed the federal "ballot budgeting" provision requiring counties to withhold 3% of contracts and remit it to the IRS, which NACo is working to repeal or forestall. He highlighted the impact of potential CDBG cuts on private sector jobs and encouraged members to contact their Congress members regarding HUD’s impact reports. He also mentioned NACo’s for-profit services, including joint purchasing contracts and a prescription drug card program available to constituents at no cost.
  • Awards: The board presented awards to Mr. Eliason and Mr. McIntosh.

Administrative Agenda Items (A-1 through A-6)

  • The board moved to approve items A-1 through A-6. A motion was made and seconded. All in favor, none opposed. The following resolutions were adopted:
  • Item A-1: Resolution of Accommodation for Patty Ball
  • Discussion: Supervisor Farr introduced the resolution honoring Patty Ball, Employee of the Month for April 2011, from the Probation Department. Mr. Allen read the resolution, noting her role in the Revenue Recovery Unit, collection of over $200,000 in delinquent payments, and management of the Community Service Work Program. Chief Probation Officer Stewart and Patty Ball spoke in support.
  • Outcome: Passed and adopted.
  • Item A-2: Resolution Proclaiming Cesar Chavez Day
  • Discussion: Supervisor Carbajal introduced the resolution proclaiming March 31, 2011, as Cesar Chavez Day in Santa Barbara County. Ms. Aida Hurtado, Director of Chicana Studies at UCSB, and Dolores Mondragon, a graduate student, spoke in support.
  • Outcome: Passed and adopted.
  • Item A-3: Resolution Proclaiming California Native Plant Week
  • Discussion: Supervisor Carbajal introduced the resolution declaring April 16–23, 2011, as California Native Plant Week. Steve Winhanger, CEO of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and Joni Kelly, Marketing and Communications Director, spoke in support, highlighting the garden’s conservation efforts and upcoming events.
  • Outcome: Passed and adopted.
  • Item A-4: Resolution Honoring Neil Taylor
  • Discussion: Supervisor Farr introduced the resolution honoring Neil Taylor, a former Parks Department employee and founder of the Kachuma Lake Nature Center. The resolution included renaming Kachuma Bay to Neil Taylor Bay. Linda Taylor, Neil’s wife, and Liz Gaspar, current naturalist at Lake Kachuma, spoke in support.
  • Outcome: Passed and adopted.
  • Item A-6: Resolution Proclaiming National Public Health Week
  • Discussion: Supervisor Farr presented the resolution on behalf of Supervisor Wolfe, proclaiming April 4–10, 2011, as National Public Health Week. Dr. Wada from the Public Health Department spoke in support, discussing injury prevention and the department’s mission.
  • Outcome: Passed and adopted.

Time Certain Item: Commission for Women Service Awards

  • Discussion: The board received presentations from the Commission for Women regarding their annual Service Awards. Recipients included:
  • 1st District: Artisan Court through YMCA Youth and Family Services (Lynn Carlson spoke).
  • 2nd District: Backyard Bounty Food Bank of Santa Barbara (spokesperson spoke).
  • 3rd District: Family Law Facilitators (Sigrid Toomey, Tracy Collada, and Debra Mullen spoke).
  • 4th District: VTC Enterprises (spokesperson spoke).
  • 5th District: Family Care Network (Rhonda Pickles and Shannon Bell spoke). The Chair noted the commission’s history since 1980 and thanked the members for their service.
  • Outcome: Presentations received and filed.

Procedural Note

  • Supervisor Carbajal noted a recusal for Item A-9 due to service on the Classified Personnel Commission for the County Education Office. The board paused the administrative agenda to address the Time Certain item at 10:00 AM, with the remainder of the administrative agenda to be completed after lunch.

Board Member Reports

  • Supervisor Labagnino: Reported attending the funeral of Clarence Minetti, the Deputy Sheriff’s Association dinner, the Santa Barbara Foundation’s scholarship presentations, and a fundraiser for Marion Medical Center. He noted he would be traveling to Sacramento for final CSAC training.
  • Supervisor Carbajal: Reported attending the Deputy Sheriff’s Association dinner and the Girls Inc. of Carpinteria open house. She also reported serving on the U.S. EPA Local Government Advisory Committee.
  • Supervisor Farr: Reported attending the Deputy Sheriff’s Association dinner and an annual event for Channel Keeper. He noted upcoming appearances at Hillel in Isla Vista and an Earth Day event in Anacapa Park.
  • The Chair: Reported attending a CSAC teleconference regarding a constitutional amendment related to county funding priorities. She stated that CSAC spent time with Governor Jerry Brown discussing the issue, which would have guaranteed counties a third position in payment priority after schools and state debt. The Chair noted that while the amendment did not pass, she voted to support it on behalf of the board. She also commented on the passing of Clarence Minetti and announced an intention to propose naming the road to Guadalupe Beach the "Clarence Minetti Road" and establishing a vista point.

Public Comment (General)

  • Andy Caldwell, representing Colab, requested the board consider reordering the agenda to separate morning and afternoon sessions to provide specific times for resolutions and reduce staff costs. The Chair stated that the board would begin moving resolutions to the afternoon starting the following week. Caldwell also suggested scheduling a lunch break to facilitate public involvement.
  • George Green, a senior staffer, agreed with Caldwell regarding the need for specific times for policy discussions, particularly concerning the retirement issue. He expressed concern that the board was not conducting the type of budget workshops held the previous year and urged the board to engage in public debate on mandated services such as indigent defense before making staff recommendations.
  • Dr. Robert L. Jones raised concerns regarding alleged racial slurs directed at a county employee, election fraud in Isla Vista, and the use of craft funds. He stated he would be hospitalized for approximately four weeks. The Chair noted her husband had recently undergone hip replacement surgery.

Cleanup Items (Continuances and Withdrawals)

  • Staff requested continuances for two items and a withdrawal for one: 1. Item 1 (General Services): Request to continue the County’s cable television franchise and license ordinance to April 12, 2011. 2. Item 2 (Planning and Development): Request to continue the Santa Barbara Ranch Inland Development Agreement to May 17, 2011. 3. Item 6 (General Services): Request to withdraw the ordinance granting a private pipeline franchise.
  • A motion was made to continue Items 1 and 2 and withdraw Item 6. The motion was seconded. The vote was taken, and the motion passed.

Human Resources - Retirement Program Alternatives (Item 4)

  • Bob McLeod from Human Resources presented a request for the board to direct staff to initiate efforts to implement recommendations from the Advisory Commission on Retirement Program Alternatives. The county faces rising retirement costs, with the contribution rate increasing from 28.8% to 34.48% of payroll effective July 1, 2011, an estimated $21 million increase. The commission’s recommendations for the future workforce include lowering retirement formulas, moving to a three-year final average salary, eliminating employer contributions and offsets, reducing the post-retirement COLA from 3% to 2%, and eliminating vacation conversions and lump sum benefits. Staff also recommended eliminating the retiree medical benefit. For the current workforce, recommendations include eliminating employer offsets, vacation conversions, and lump sum payments.
  • Supervisor Carbajal requested clarification, noting that the staff report seemed to present the most extreme recommendations as the floor for negotiations. She asked for the full spectrum of options to be presented to avoid the perception that the board was pre-dictating outcomes. McLeod clarified that these are initial proposals for bargaining and that the board is not committing to any specific outcome.
  • Public comment was taken from eight speakers:
  • Andy Caldwell (Colab) questioned why the board had not decided on a direction, suggesting a defined contribution plan as a long-term solution.
  • Dr. Robert L. Jones alleged a conflict of interest due to political contributions from public employees and called for an independent, non-partisan committee to make the decision.
  • Ray Varda (SAO Local 721) stated that the CEO’s recommendations went further than the Commission’s report, specifically regarding the elimination of retiree medical. He urged the board to consider funding policy changes recommended by SEIU before benefit reductions and requested access to actuarial estimates.
  • Susan Braden (County Employee) presented hypothetical scenarios of three workers to illustrate the impact of proposed changes on early retirees, current employees, and future hires.
  • Hunter Quinn (SEIU Local 620) argued that the proposal reneged on promises made in past contract negotiations.
  • Robin Barber (SEIU Local 620/Taxpayer) described the impact on a road maintenance worker with 25 years of service and suggested alternatives such as 30-year amortization schedules and salary caps.
  • Michael Colley (Public Works Employee) argued that the county retirement system is not in crisis, citing a 73% funding level in the 2010 valuation.
  • George Green (SEIU Local 620 Staff) criticized the advisory committee process as undemocratic and suggested 30-year amortization as a standard alternative.
  • Supervisor Wolf requested that the item be moved to the next meeting to allow her to review the testimony and presentation. The Chair proposed moving the item to the next meeting with the stipulation that public comment would be limited to those who had not yet spoken, treating the process as a continuation of the same session. Supervisor Farr clarified that public comment would remain open for those who had not spoken. A motion was made to continue the item to the next meeting with the stipulation that it be treated as a single continuous session. The motion was seconded. The vote was taken, and the motion passed.

County Executive Office - Community Services Department (Item 5)

  • Dennis Buzanich from the County Executive Office presented a proposal to establish a Community Services Department by consolidating Housing and Community Development, Animal Services, and the Parks Department. The proposal also includes the Library Advisory Committee and the Arts Commission. The stated goals are to stabilize leadership, stretch resources, and enhance customer focus. Immediate savings would come from eliminating a department director and assistant director position, moving a grants manager to a grant-funded position, and reassigning a manager to a cost analyst role. The new department would have approximately 101 FTEs.
  • The Chair asked about the placement of the Parks Commission on the organizational chart. Buzanich stated it would remain aligned with the Parks division. The Chair and Supervisor Carbajal emphasized the importance of the Parks Commission. Buzanich offered to add a motion to place the Parks Commission at the level of reporting to the department director.
  • Supervisor Carbajal expressed general support for the concept but requested clarification on the efficiencies and savings specifically related to the Animal Services division.
  • Public comment was taken from two speakers:
  • Andy Caldwell (Colab) expressed concern about rearranging organizational structures before the full scope of budget cuts is known. He suggested alternative configurations.
  • Dr. Robert L. Jones provided comment.
  • The Chair indicated that Supervisor Wolf wanted to be present for the decision on this item. The board agreed to take the staff presentation and allow public testimony, with the decision to be made at the next meeting when Supervisor Wolf is present.

Public Comment on Administrative Agenda (Items A-2, A-7, A-9)

  • Dr. Robert L. Jones spoke regarding Item A-7 (Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Services memorandum and Medical Staff Bylaws). He expressed concerns about the design and concept of the mental health department. He stated he would pass on speaking for Item A-9 (Conflict of Interest Code amendments) and noted he had previously spoken on Item A-2 (Cesar Chavez Day resolution). The Board accepted the public comment.

Administrative Agenda Item A-9 (Conflict of Interest Code Amendments)

  • Motion: A motion was made to approve Item A-9.
  • Vote: The motion was seconded. All in favor voted "Aye."
  • Outcome: Passed.

Administrative Agenda Item A-18 (Brush Removal Ordinance and Landlord/Tenant Duties)

  • Discussion:
  • Mike Minge, Fire Chief for the Carpenter Reassembling Fire Protection District and President of the County Fire Chiefs Association, requested that the County Fire Chiefs Association be included in future discussions regarding any proposed changes to Chapter 9A (the brushing ordinance).
  • Brian Trotwein from the Economic Development Commission (EDC) clarified that the EDC does not intend to change the existing exemptions in the brushing ordinance for fire protection or agriculture. He stated that the EDC is interested in subjecting other types of clearing projects to environmental review.
  • Action: The Board acknowledged the comments.

Administrative Agenda (Items A-7 through A-36, excluding A-9)

  • Motion: A motion was made to approve the remaining administrative agenda items (A-7 through A-36), with the exception of A-9 which had already been voted on.
  • Vote: The motion was seconded. All in favor voted "Aye." No opposition was recorded.
  • Outcome: Passed.

Item 7: Summerland Abandoned Oil Wells

  • Discussion:
  • Supervisor Carbajal introduced the item, noting increased reports of tar and oil on the Summerland beach. She referenced the history of over 400 abandoned oil wells in the area. She proposed requesting state and federal agencies to provide reports on the status of these wells, identify leaks, and recommend solutions.
  • Staff provided a presentation outlining the historical context of the wells and identified the Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR) and the State Lands Commission as the relevant state agencies. Staff reported that they had contacted both agencies to inquire about the status of the wells, available funds for mitigation, and short-term/long-term strategies.
  • Supervisor Carbajal proposed sending a draft letter to DOGGR and the State Lands Commission, with copies to local legislative officials, Congresswoman Capps, the Governor’s office, Lieutenant Governor Newsom, and Comptroller Chung.
  • Supervisor Doss Williams indicated willingness to sponsor legislation if administrative remedies failed.
  • Supervisor Hertzberg inquired about the history of previous interactions with state agencies regarding this issue.
  • Staff and board members discussed the history of offshore oil seepage near Summerlin Beach, noting that while three wells were plugged and abandoned in the 1990s at a cost of approximately $900,000, significant oil and tar continue to appear on the beach. Staff explained that determining whether the source is natural seepage or improperly plugged wells is necessary to access the federal Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. Board members discussed the need to re-engage state agencies due to staff turnover and term limits, suggesting that the letter to the agencies should lead with the request for an in-person presentation.
  • Public comments were received from several residents and representatives regarding the worsening conditions, specific leak sites, and potential solutions.
  • Staff clarified that jurisdiction for seaward areas lies with the State Lands Commission (property owner) and DOGGR (well plugging), and that the original oil companies are no longer in existence, making these "orphan wells" under state jurisdiction.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A motion was made to move forward with staff’s recommendation to send a letter to the State Lands Commission and DOGGR, incorporating the suggestion to request an in-person presentation, and to copy all relevant legislators. The motion included sending photographs provided by residents. A staff member suggested adding a specific deadline for the agencies to contact the county’s representative. The motion was seconded.
  • Outcome: Passed.

Agenda Item 8: Planning and Development – Kong Ordinance 661 Consistency Rezone and Lot Line Adjustment (2377 Refugio Road)

  • Discussion:
  • Staff presented a request to convert zoning from 100 AG under Ordinance 661 to Ag 2100 under the County Land Use and Development Code, accompanied by a lot line adjustment between two parcels to create lots of 40 acres and 66.4 acres. Staff stated the project is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, does not increase density, and is exempt from CEQA. The Planning Commission had recommended approval on February 9, 2011.
  • A board member asked about the cause of previous vegetation clearance on the site and whether designating a development envelope guarantees buildability. Staff responded that aerial photos indicated the site was cleared more than 20 years ago, likely before the current ownership, with no known violations. A county official clarified that designating a development envelope does not guarantee the lot is buildable but identifies the area where development would occur if it were to happen.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A motion was made to approve staff’s recommendation, including the required findings for the rezone and lot line adjustment, CEQA findings, and approval of the project subject to conditions. The motion was seconded.
  • Outcome: Passed.

Agenda Item 9: Public Health – Report on Collaboration of County Departments to Address Homeless Deaths

  • Discussion:
  • Staff presented a follow-up report on actions taken since the previous year’s Homeless Death Review Report. Key points included:
  • Approximately $8 million annually is spent on homeless programs, much of which is federal or state funding.
  • A "Vulnerability Index" was implemented in conjunction with the point-in-time count to better target resources to the most vulnerable individuals. Over 1,000 surveys were completed, identifying individuals with severe needs who were previously not in the county system.
  • Improvements in inter-departmental coordination were made, including a common release of information form, designated leads for referrals, and enhanced training for clinicians.
  • No additional funding was requested due to the fiscal situation, but opportunities to bring in federal dollars through the 1115 waiver were noted.
  • A board member expressed appreciation for the collaboration and asked about the involvement of the Sheriff’s Department. Staff confirmed that law enforcement is part of the Homeless Death Review Team and that coordination with the Sheriff’s Department is ongoing. Another board member requested that a performance evaluation mechanism be established to review the effectiveness of these strategies in one year.
  • Representatives from "Bringing Our Community Home" (BOCH) provided an update on the 10-Year Plan to end chronic homelessness, including data on the Housing First Model, the Vulnerability Index, a Jail Discharge Program, and school data indicating high rates of homelessness among students.
  • Staff clarified that the vulnerability index data allows for the identification of the specific origin of individuals, enabling housing developers to prioritize local residents. Staff noted that individuals in shelters often have credit, background, or eviction issues that disqualify them from standard affordable housing. Staff explained that the County and City Housing Authorities are working to adjust certification criteria to allow individuals who have completed treatment programs and are receiving services to qualify for housing, as shelters are at capacity.
  • Public comment was received. A board member recognized a colleague for their role as the board liaison to homeless issues. The liaison responded, emphasizing that housing projects include critical support services to keep individuals off the streets and out of the jail system. A public commenter expressed frustration regarding the handling of homeless issues, criticizing the Department of Mental Health for lacking competency in discharge planning.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A motion was made to receive and file the staff’s recommendations, with a proviso for a return with performance measures and an annual report.
  • The motion was seconded.
  • Vote Outcome: Passed.
No decision 0–0

Agenda Item 10: Proposed Award of Exclusive Solid Waste Collection Franchise Agreements in County Zones 2, 4, and 5

  • Staff Presentation:
  • Staff presented the culmination of a two-year competitive procurement process initiated in July 2009. A project team and a board subcommittee oversaw the process, which included the approval of a Request for Proposal (RFP) in September 2010 and a modification to the County Code in December 2010 to require a minimum of two haulers to preserve competition.
  • The RFP covered Zone 2 (unincorporated Goleta Valley), Zone 4 (Lompoc and San Ynez Valleys), and Zone 5 (unincorporated Santa Maria Valley). Proposals were due November 15, 2010.
  • Evaluation criteria included quality of service (35%), cost competitiveness (35%), innovative diversion programs (15%), and other factors such as financial stability and environmental considerations (15%).
  • Rankings:
  • Zone 2: Marburg Industries’ alternative proposal ranked highest (86 points), followed by Marburg’s base proposal (82.5 points), Allied Waste (77 points), and Waste Management (56 and 52.5 points).
  • Zone 4: Waste Management’s base proposal ranked highest (87 points), followed by Waste Management’s alternative (69.5 points) and Allied Waste (66.5 points).
  • Zone 5: Waste Management’s base proposal ranked highest (87 points), followed by Waste Management’s alternative (76.5 points) and Allied Waste (66.6 points).
  • Negotiations and Benefits: Negotiations were held in February 2011 with the top-ranked proposers. Agreements were finalized in March 2011. Key enhancements included additional recycling and green waste containers, curbside collection of special wastes (batteries, electronics), prepaid sharps containers, additional green waste bags, expanded bulky item collection, and automated collection in Zone 2. Marburg agreed to extend certain service enhancements to Zones 1 and 3.
  • Financial Impact: Estimated savings were $350,000 in Zone 2, $1 million in Zone 4, and $1 million in Zone 5. Staff projected a minimum 10% savings for residential rates in all zones and a minimum 15% reduction in commercial rates in Zones 4 and 5.
  • Recommendation: Staff recommended approving the agreement with Marburg Industries for Zone 2 and Waste Management for Zones 4 and 5.
  • Public Comment:
  • Support for Marburg was expressed by a former City Council member, a resident, a representative for a nonprofit organization, Marburg’s President, Marburg’s Business Manager, a civil engineer hired by Marburg, a permit engineer for Marburg, and a resident.
  • Support for Allied Waste / Concerns about Competition were raised by Waste Management’s Director of Operations, a resident, the CEO of FarmShare, a public commenter, a resident of Goleta, a resident, Allied Waste’s General Manager, an Allied Waste representative, another Allied representative, a former City of Santa Barbara employee, and a representative for a nonprofit club.
  • Board Discussion:
  • A board member thanked staff for the thorough and objective competitive process. They noted that the recommendations resulted in better rates, enhanced service, and environmental benefits. They requested that Marburg consider hiring displaced employees from the previous hauler if they meet employment standards.
  • Another board member seconded the motion, stating the process was thorough, transparent, and competitive. They noted the significant point difference in the scoring matrix between Marburg and Allied in Zone 2 and expressed satisfaction with the improved service and lower rates for unincorporated areas.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A motion was made to approve the staff’s recommendations for the solid waste collection franchise agreements.
  • The motion was seconded.
  • Vote Outcome: Passed.

Closing Remarks and Adjournment

  • The chair thanked Supervisors Farr and Carbajal for their work on the committee and acknowledged the public speakers. The chair noted that the meeting had concluded its substantive business and moved to take a final vote.

Final Motion and Vote

  • A motion was made and seconded by Mr. Allen. The chair asked for a voice vote. Members in favor were asked to say "aye," and those opposed were asked to speak. The motion passed.

Adjournment

  • The chair announced the adjournment of the meeting. The chair honored Harry Siegel (father of Supervisor Wolf), Clarence Minetti (founder of various initiatives in Santa Maria), and Sally Goetz (community leader in Lompoc). The chair indicated that the next meeting would be held in Santa Maria.