Meeting Summary
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
World Ocean Day and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary
- Representatives from Santa Barbara Channel Keeper and the National Marine Sanctuary presented on the ecological and economic importance of the ocean.
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring World Ocean Day and the sanctuary's mission.
Santa Barbara Airport 70th Anniversary
- The Board presented a resolution recognizing the airport's 70th anniversary and its role in the local economy and tourism.
- The resolution was adopted, citing the recent completion of the new terminal.
Employees of the Month (Auditor-Controller’s Office)
- Staff honored Xiaoli Zhang and Matthew Phillips for their work in developing and maintaining countywide computer applications.
- The Board adopted a resolution recognizing the employees' contributions to financial systems.
Administrative Agenda and Budget Revisions
- Staff presented approximately 10 budget revisions to preserve service levels for the 2011-2012 fiscal year using current-year savings.
- The Board approved the administrative agenda as modified, including the withdrawal of the Isla Vista sidewalk improvement item.
Kyrielle Photovoltaic Solar Energy Project (1 Megawatt)
- Staff discussed the mitigated negative declaration and a restoration plan for any habitat destroyed, overseen by a qualified biologist.
- The Board approved the project with modifications, including recording a covenant on the restoration area and directing staff to report back if the bond application fails.
CREF Award Contract
- Staff presented the contract for funds previously awarded by the Board in 2008 and 2009 based on CREF criteria.
- The Board reviewed the contract for the use of the allocated funds.
Hydraulic Fracturing (Hydrofracking) Informational Briefing
- Staff provided an informational briefing on the hydrofracking process, regulations, and the County's role as the lead CEQA agency.
- The Board directed staff to identify necessary expertise for oversight and continued the item to August 2, 2011.
Siting Element Amendment (Santa Maria Valley Landfill)
- Board members raised concerns regarding the lack of information on waste types, haulers, and potential impacts on surrounding property.
- The Board continued the item and scheduled a special meeting for June 16, 2011, in Santa Maria for further discussion.
Affordable Housing / In-Lieu Fees (Old Mill Run)
- Staff presented an amendment allowing for concurrent or unit-by-unit construction of affordable housing units.
- The Board continued the item to obtain further information regarding bonding and guarantees to ensure fulfillment.
Landfill / Host Fees
- A supervisor requested deferral to allow for further research into potential host fees and revenue exchange agreements.
- The Board agreed to defer the item for further research.
Aviation / Public Safety Resources (Sheriff’s Helicopter)
- Board members expressed concern over the lack of a comprehensive strategy for aviation capabilities and requested a review of resources.
- The Board directed staff and a subcommittee to review aviation capabilities and continued the item for further budgetary review.
Grand Jury Report / Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
- Staff presented a response to the Grand Jury report regarding communication during emergencies and improvements in interagency communication.
- The Board discussed the findings, with one supervisor expressing dissatisfaction with the County's response.
Mission Canyon Trails / Fire Safety
- The Mission Canyon Association raised concerns about trailhead parking and requested a credible evacuation plan.
- The Board directed staff to develop a protocol for trailhead parking and red flag days in coordination with stakeholders.
IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) Wage Rates
- Providers and advocates addressed the Board regarding the proposed wage cut from $10 to $9 per hour.
- Speakers argued that the reduction would significantly impact providers who rely on IHSS as their sole income.
Solid Waste Program Fees and Collection Services
- Staff presented the solid waste program fees for Fiscal Year 2011-12, recommending a 2% increase to maintain service levels.
- The connection fee remained unchanged at $717 per year.
Transportation Roadmap
- Staff presented the transportation roadmap, describing it as the result of an inclusive process involving public workshops.
- The Board received the presentation without a motion or vote.
Grading Ordinance and Agricultural Exemptions
- A supervisor requested the item be removed from the current agenda due to a lack of specificity in the board letter.
- The item was pulled from the agenda to return on a future departmental agenda.
PREF Contract for Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum
- Staff explained that the board letter was docketed before signatures from County Counsel, Auditor-Controller, and Risk Manager were obtained.
- The item was withdrawn from the agenda after staff confirmed the necessary approvals had been obtained.
Resolution Approving Addendum to Countywide Sidewalk Element
- The item was listed on the agenda but no specific public comment or detailed board discussion was recorded.
- The item was pulled from the agenda.
No Parking Zone on Refugio Road
- The item was listed on the agenda but no specific public comment or detailed board discussion was recorded.
- The item was continued to a later meeting referenced as June 21st.
Donation of Equipment for Sheriff’s Helicopter
- A supervisor raised concerns about the elimination of fire crew and pilot positions in related budget recommendations.
- The item was withdrawn, with a subcommittee directed to work with the sheriff, fire departments, and CEO to return with recommendations.
Labarge Vineyards LLC Development Plan
- The item involved the planning commission’s recommendation of approval for a development plan and consistency rezone.
- No specific vote outcome was recorded in the summary.
Mission Canyon Sewer District Fixed Charges
- The item proposed no change to the sewer service charge of $717 per connection per year.
- No specific vote outcome was recorded in the summary.
Board Member Reports
- Board members provided reports on their activities, including observations from other county meetings and local development issues.
- Supervisor Lavagnino provided a report on recent activities, including condolences and reports on the Indian Gaming Benefit Committee funding.
Closed Session
- The board adjourned to closed session to discuss personnel matters and other confidential items.
- The board entered closed session.
Full summary
Agenda Item: Approval of Minutes (May 17, 2011)
- Discussion: The Board considered the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting.
- Action: A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: World Ocean Day and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary
- Discussion: Penny Owens, Education Coordinator for Santa Barbara Channel Keeper, and Mike Murray of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary spoke regarding the ecological and economic importance of the ocean and the sanctuary’s mission. The Board presented a resolution honoring World Ocean Day and the sanctuary.
- Action: The Board adopted the resolution recognizing the occasion and the sanctuary.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: Santa Barbara Airport 70th Anniversary
- Discussion: The Board presented a resolution recognizing the 70th anniversary of the Santa Barbara Airport, citing its role in the local economy, tourism, and the recent completion of the new terminal.
- Action: The Board adopted the resolution.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: Employees of the Month (Auditor-Controller’s Office)
- Discussion: Mike Struve, Application Development Division Manager, and Bob Geis honored Xiaoli Zhang and Matthew Phillips for their work in developing and maintaining countywide computer applications and financial systems.
- Action: The Board adopted the resolution recognizing the employees.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: Administrative Agenda and Budget Revisions
- Discussion: Staff presented approximately 10 budget revisions to preserve services for the next fiscal year, involving designating savings from the current year to maintain service levels in the 2011-2012 budget. Staff clarified that these revisions were already accounted for in the proposed budget. The Board also reviewed clerical errors in APN and legal descriptions and modified the agenda to withdraw Item A24 (Isla Vista sidewalk improvement) and continue Item A21.
- Action: A motion was made and seconded to approve the administrative agenda, including the budget revisions, as modified.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: Kyrielle Photovoltaic Solar Energy Project (1 Megawatt)
- Discussion: Megan Burney of the Community Environmental Council supported the project, noting its significance relative to the county’s current installed capacity and its potential to hedge against rising electricity costs. Staff discussed the mitigated negative declaration, including a restoration plan for any habitat destroyed, to be overseen by a qualified biologist. The Board discussed recording a covenant on the county land used for restoration rather than a conservation easement. Supervisor Wolf proposed modifying the motion to remove the directive to find alternate funding immediately if the Qualified Energy Conservation Bond (QECB) application was unsuccessful, instead reporting the outcome and reconsidering the project in the context of other priorities.
- Action: The Board moved to approve the project with modifications: striking the phrase requiring future review by County Counsel, Auditor-Controller, and Risk Manager (as approvals were already obtained); including the recording of a covenant against the property limited to the restoration area; and directing staff to return with further direction if the bond application is unsuccessful.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: CREF Award Contract
- Discussion: Staff noted that the award was granted by the Board in 2008 and 2009 based on CREF criteria. The organization presented the contract for the use of the allocated funds. Staff indicated uncertainty regarding whether the funds could be shifted at this time but confirmed that future applications for public safety projects would be evaluated under CREF criteria. Public comment was received opposing the use of funds for a museum exhibit and suggesting redirection to public safety.
- Action: The Board reviewed the contract for the previously awarded funds.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Agenda Item: Hydraulic Fracturing (Hydrofracking) Informational Briefing
- Discussion: Staff provided an informational briefing on the hydrofracking process, clarifying that the permitting operation is a full cost-recovery operation and that the County is the lead agency for CEQA analysis while DOGGR has downhole jurisdiction. Staff outlined applicable federal and state regulations, including exemptions from certain acts, and reviewed pending legislation regarding chemical disclosure. Public comment was received from industry representatives, landowners, and environmental advocates regarding groundwater contamination, chemical disclosure, and regulatory oversight. Supervisor Carbajal expressed concern over the lack of full chemical disclosure and requested that staff return with a plan for hiring technical expertise to oversee the field during budget deliberations. Supervisor Lavagnino requested a video presentation to better understand the process.
- Action: The Board received the informational briefing and directed staff to identify necessary expertise and resources for oversight. The item was continued to August 2, 2011, to allow for questions from a representative of the State Oil and Gas Division.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Informational Briefing/Continued).
Agenda Item: Siting Element Amendment (Santa Maria Valley Landfill)
- Discussion: Staff explained that the action involves amending the Siting Element for a disposal facility on property purchased by the City of Santa Maria. Board members raised concerns regarding the lack of information regarding waste types, haulers, and potential impacts on surrounding county property. Supervisor Lavagnino requested deferral to allow for further research into potential host fees and revenue exchange agreements.
- Action: The Board decided to continue the item. A special meeting was scheduled for June 16, 2011, in Santa Maria to further discuss the issue.
- Vote Outcome: Continued.
Agenda Item: Affordable Housing / In-Lieu Fees (Old Mill Run)
- Discussion: Staff presented an amendment regarding the timing of affordable housing units, allowing for concurrent building or unit-by-unit construction. Supervisor Lavagnino expressed concern about the timing of unit construction and requested assurance (such as bonding) that the units would be built. He stated he would support the item only if there was a compelling mechanism to ensure fulfillment. Another supervisor suggested phasing the completion of affordable units alongside market-rate units.
- Action: The Board decided to continue the item to obtain further information regarding bonding and guarantees.
- Vote Outcome: Continued.
Agenda Item: Landfill / Host Fees
- Discussion: Supervisor Lavagnino expressed disappointment at the late timing of the item and requested deferral to allow for further research into potential host fees and revenue exchange agreements with other jurisdictions.
- Action: The Board agreed to defer the item for further research.
- Vote Outcome: Deferred.
Agenda Item: Aviation / Public Safety Resources (Sheriff’s Helicopter)
- Discussion: Supervisor Lavagnino expressed concern over the lack of a comprehensive strategy for aviation capabilities and requested that a subcommittee, the CEO, and relevant departments work to "right-size" aviation resources based on need and capability. A board member requested deferral until after the budget process to better understand how the helicopter fits into the overall aviation program, including ongoing costs.
- Action: The Board directed staff and a subcommittee to review aviation capabilities and return with a recommendation. The item was continued to a future date to allow for further budgetary review.
- Vote Outcome: Continued.
Agenda Item: Grand Jury Report / Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
- Discussion: Staff presented a response to the Grand Jury report regarding communication during emergencies, highlighting improvements in interagency communication and the use of Reverse 911. Supervisor Lavagnino expressed dissatisfaction with the County’s response, arguing that the County should take a leadership role in developing protocols with cities. He stated he would not vote to approve the response as adequate.
- Action: The Board discussed the Grand Jury findings.
- Vote Outcome: Failed (Based on Supervisor Lavagnino’s statement that he would not vote for it; final tally not provided in this segment).
Agenda Item: Mission Canyon Trails / Fire Safety
- Discussion: Ray Smith, President of the Mission Canyon Association, raised concerns about trailhead parking on Tunnel Road and requested a credible evacuation plan, delimited parking, and no parking during red flag days. Supervisor Carbajal directed OAS Director Michael Harris to bring together stakeholders (Fire, City, US Forest Service) to develop a protocol for parking and red flag days.
- Action: The Board directed staff to develop a protocol for trailhead parking and red flag days in coordination with stakeholders.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Directive to staff).
Agenda Item: IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) Wage Rates
- Discussion: Public comment was received from IHSS providers and advocates regarding the proposed cut from $10 to $9 per hour. Speakers argued that the reduction would significantly impact providers who rely on IHSS as their sole income and that providers have no benefits.
- Action: The Board heard public comment regarding the proposed wage reduction.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Public comment phase; no vote recorded in this segment).
Agenda Item: Solid Waste Program Fees and Collection Services
- Discussion: Staff presented the solid waste program fees for Fiscal Year 2011-12, recommending a 2% increase in program fees to maintain service levels. The connection fee remained unchanged at $717 per year.
- Action: The Board considered the fees.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (No specific vote outcome recorded in this segment).
Agenda Item: Transportation Roadmap
- Discussion: Staff presented the transportation roadmap, describing it as the result of an inclusive process involving public workshops and meetings with Board offices.
- Action: The Board received the presentation.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (No motion made or vote taken).
Agenda Item: Grading Ordinance and Agricultural Exemptions
- Discussion: A supervisor expressed confusion regarding the recommendation not to proceed with an agricultural exemption form, citing a lack of specificity in the board letter. The supervisor requested the item be removed from the current agenda to allow for further staff presentation and specific direction in a future departmental agenda.
- Action: The item was pulled from the agenda to return on a departmental agenda.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Item withdrawn/pulled).
Agenda Item: PREF Contract for Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum
- Discussion: Staff explained that due to tight scheduling constraints, the board letter was docketed before signatures from the County Counsel, Auditor-Controller, and Risk Manager were obtained. Staff confirmed that these approvals and signatures have since been obtained.
- Action: The item was withdrawn from the agenda.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Item withdrawn).
Agenda Item: Resolution Approving Addendum to Countywide Sidewalk Element
- Discussion: No specific public comment or detailed board discussion is recorded in this segment beyond the item being listed.
- Action: The item was pulled from the agenda.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Item withdrawn/pulled).
Agenda Item: No Parking Zone on Refugio Road
- Discussion: No specific public comment or detailed board discussion is recorded in this segment beyond the item being listed.
- Action: The item was continued to a later meeting (referenced as June 21st).
- Vote Outcome: Continued.
Agenda Item: Donation of Equipment for Sheriff’s Helicopter
- Discussion: A supervisor raised concerns about the elimination of fire crew/pilot positions in the related budget recommendations. The board discussed the need for a cost-effective solution and a work plan.
- Action: The item was withdrawn from the agenda. It was noted that a subcommittee composed of two board members would work with the sheriff, fire departments, and the CEO to return with recommendations.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (Item withdrawn).
Agenda Item: Labarge Vineyards LLC Development Plan
- Discussion: The item involved the planning commission’s recommendation of approval for a development plan and consistency rezone located in the Fourth District.
- Action: No specific vote outcome is recorded in this segment.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (No specific vote outcome recorded).
Agenda Item: Mission Canyon Sewer District Fixed Charges
- Discussion: The item proposed no change to the sewer service charge of $717 per connection per year for County Service Area Number 12.
- Action: No specific vote outcome is recorded in this segment.
- Vote Outcome: N/A (No specific vote outcome recorded).
Agenda Item: Board Member Reports
- Discussion: Board members provided reports on their activities, including observations from other county meetings, local development issues, and community events. Supervisor Lavagnino provided a report on recent activities, including condolences for the passing of former Supervisor Curtis Tunnell and Jeanne Ardance, attendance at various events, and reports on the Indian Gaming Benefit Committee funding.
- Action: Reports were received.
- Vote Outcome: N/A.
Agenda Item: Public Comment
- Discussion: Approximately 20 public speakers addressed the board on various issues, including hydraulic fracturing, emergency preparedness, local development, home care provider wages, and planning/internships.
- Action: Public comments were received.
- Vote Outcome: N/A.
Agenda Item: Closed Session
- Discussion: The board adjourned to closed session to discuss personnel matters and other confidential items.
- Action: The board entered closed session.
- Vote Outcome: N/A.