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
Peace Week Proclamation
- Supervisor Lavagnino presented a resolution proclaiming September 14–20, 2012, as Peace Week in the Santa Maria Valley.
- The Board approved the resolution following public comment from a founding member of the People for Nonviolence Committee.
San Ynez Valley Airport
- Supervisor Carbajal requested an amendment to strike specific CEQA language from Recommendation D as irrelevant to the notice of exemption.
- The Board agreed to proceed with Recommendations A, B, C, and the amended Recommendation D.
Domestic Water Systems Ordinance
- The Board considered adopting an ordinance incorporating state small water systems into monitoring requirements.
- Public health officials noted that private wells are not currently subject to periodic testing, though some have historically shown high nitrate levels.
- The Board approved the item with the understanding that staff will analyze the feasibility of monitoring private wells with a history of contamination.
No decision 0–0
9/11 Memorial
- The Board paused for a memorial service to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks.
- Sheriff Brown and Fire Chief Dyer delivered remarks honoring law enforcement and firefighters killed on 9/11.
- Supervisors shared personal recollections, and a moment of silence was observed.
Appeal of Hearing Officer Decision
- The Board continued the item regarding abandoned vehicles to the October 2, 2012, meeting.
No decision 0–0
Playground Speed Zones Ordinance
- Public Works presented a recommendation to amend the county code to allow a 25 mph speed limit on roads adjacent to playgrounds.
- The Board approved the agenda items to avoid the need for a full engineering survey every 7–10 years for specific roads like Merida Drive.
Marion Regional Medical Center Consolidated Mental Health Treatment Center
- Supervisor Lavagnino proposed a public-private partnership to utilize the vacated Marion West building for a consolidated mental health treatment center.
- The proposal includes acute psychiatric beds, a geriatric unit, and substance abuse treatment to address the shortage of acute beds.
- The Board authorized an additional $15,000 to extend the contract with Health Management Associates for a feasibility study.
- The Board approved items 1a through 1d to proceed with the evaluation of the facility and bed distribution.
Coastal Resource Enhancement Fund Grants
- The Board reviewed recommendations for the allocation of $675,500 in 2013 CREF funds.
- The proposal included awarding $273,000 to the Gaviota Coast Plan and $402,500 for a new restroom facility at Arroyo Borough Beach County Park.
- The Board approved the recommendations, with the restroom project to be competitively bid once permits are secured.
No decision 0–0
Teleworking and Flexible Work Schedules Report
- The County Executive Office presented a report on the progress of teleworking and flexible work schedules since 2008.
- Reports indicated a 19% increase in teleworking hours in 2011 and over 50% of the workforce on flexible schedules.
- The Board received and filed the item after discussing productivity monitoring and public accessibility protocols.
Strategic Planning Process Recommendations
- Staff presented three models for a 3-to-5-year strategic planning process to inform budget decisions and resource allocation.
- The Board discussed the timeline, public outreach methods, and the need for the process to return to the Board for final goal coalescing.
- The Board agreed to continue the item to October 9th to allow staff to refine the timeline and process based on Board comments.
No decision 0–0
Closed Session
- The County Counsel reported that the Board unanimously authorized the filing of a lawsuit against Transitions to recover $431,822.
- The Board approved the termination of negotiations with the Carpinteria Unified School District regarding properties at 225 Toro Canyon Road.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Minutes
- Roll Call and Pledge: The Board of Supervisors convened for its regular meeting on September 11, 2012. Roll call was taken, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
- Minutes of September 4, 2012: A motion was made by Supervisor Carbajal and seconded by Supervisor Wolf to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. The motion passed.
Administrative Agenda
- Item A1: Peace Week Proclamation: Supervisor Lavagnino presented a resolution proclaiming September 14–20, 2012, as Peace Week in the Santa Maria Valley, noting it was the 15th year of the event. Public comment was provided by Maggie White, a founding member of the People for Nonviolence Committee. A motion was made by Supervisor Lavagnino and seconded by Supervisor Wolf to approve the resolution. The motion passed.
- Item A5: San Ynez Valley Airport (Project No. 8734): Supervisor Carbajal requested an amendment to the recommended action to strike the phrase "find that pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act CEQA section 15162" from Recommendation D, deeming it irrelevant to the notice of exemption. The Board agreed to proceed with Recommendations A, B, C, and the amended D.
- Item A10: Domestic Water Systems Ordinance (Chapter 34B): The Board considered recommendations to adopt an ordinance on the second reading regarding the incorporation of state small water systems into monitoring requirements. Jeff Young, Chair of the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, spoke in opposition to excluding private single and multi-parcel water systems, citing groundwater contamination risks. Dr. Waddick from the Public Health Department noted that ongoing periodic testing is not currently required for private wells, though a small number have historically tested positive for high nitrates. Board members discussed the cost burden on homeowners versus public health benefits, with suggestions made for periodic re-testing of wells with a history of nitrate issues and upon property transfer. Supervisor Gray suggested directing staff to analyze the feasibility of monitoring private wells with prior issues and engaging stakeholders. A motion was made by Supervisor Lavagnino and seconded by Supervisor Carbajal to approve the balance of the administrative agenda, including Item A10, with the understanding that staff would further analyze the monitoring of private wells with a history of contamination and engage stakeholders. The motion passed.
No decision 0–0
Public Comment
- Andy Caldwell (COLAB): Expressed concern that proposed Planning Commission event ordinances might be overly broad, potentially affecting private gatherings without off-site impacts. He urged the Board to ensure ordinance changes only address properties with demonstrable off-site consequences.
- Gail Elbeck: Stated that FEMA’s flood zone determinations are based on speculation, leading to unnecessary insurance costs. She requested that the Board inform the public that they can have their properties surveyed to determine actual flood risk. Mr. Farrum (Flood Department) responded that the county works with FEMA to correct map inaccuracies and assists residents in proving their structures are outside flood zones to exempt them from mandatory insurance.
- Sherry Fisher (Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District): Announced an open at-large position on the MTD Board, with applications accepted until October 1, 2012.
9/11 Memorial
- The Board paused for a memorial service to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Sheriff Brown delivered remarks honoring the 70 law enforcement officers killed on 9/11. Fire Chief Dyer delivered remarks honoring the 343 firefighters who died and called for a moment of silence. Supervisors Gray, Farr, Wolf, Lavagnino, and Carbajal shared personal recollections and reflections on the event and the dedication of first responders. A moment of silence was observed.
Departmental Agenda
- Item 1: Appeal of Hearing Officer Decision (Abandoned Vehicles): A motion was made by Supervisor Gray and seconded by Supervisor Carbajal to continue this item to the October 2, 2012, meeting. The motion passed.
- Item 2: Playground Speed Zones Ordinance: Public Works presented a recommendation to amend the county code to allow a 25 mph speed limit on roads adjacent to playgrounds, specifically targeting Merida Drive. Mr. Gary Smart, Traffic Engineer, explained that the current code does not qualify Merida Drive for a prima facie 25 mph limit and that the proposed amendment would avoid the need for a full engineering survey every 7–10 years. A motion was made by Supervisor Wolf and seconded by Supervisor Lavagnino to approve Items A and B of the agenda. The motion passed.
- Item 3: Marion Regional Medical Center Consolidated Mental Health Treatment Center (Items 1a–1d): Supervisor Lavagnino presented a proposal to address the shortage of acute psychiatric beds in Santa Barbara County, noting that the county jail currently serves as a de facto mental health facility. He described a potential public-private partnership with Marion Regional Medical Center to utilize the vacated Marion West building in Santa Maria for a consolidated mental health treatment center, including acute psychiatric beds, a geriatric psychiatric unit, substance abuse treatment, and the relocation of the CARES unit. Supervisor Lavagnino requested authorization for an additional $15,000 to extend the contract with Health Management Associates (HMA) to conduct a feasibility study. Sheriff Brown supported the concept, stating the jail is not an appropriate environment for mentally ill individuals. Ms. Nusich (County Executive Office) outlined the staff recommendation to form a multidisciplinary team and extend the HMA contract to analyze technical and fiscal aspects. Supervisor Wolf expressed support, highlighting the benefit of locating beds in North County. Supervisor Carbajal supported the item but requested that the evaluation consider the entire county’s acute bed distribution. Public speakers included Chuck Kova (Marion Regional Medical Center), Dr. Craig Hamlin (Coast Valley Substance Abuse Treatment Centers), Dr. Chuck Merrill (Emergency Physician), Dr. George Bajor (Retired Psychiatrist), Deidre Edgar, Suzanne Riordan, and Philip Green. Supervisor Gray asked questions regarding the disposition of the current Carmen Lane facility and whether the new facility would be limited to Santa Barbara County residents; Ms. Nusich confirmed these issues would be addressed in the HMA study. A motion was made by Supervisor Lavagnino and seconded by Supervisor Carbajal to approve items 1a through 1d. The motion passed.
- Item 4: Coastal Resource Enhancement Fund (CREF) Grants for 2013: Ms. Waller (County Executive Office) presented recommendations for the allocation of $675,500 in 2013 CREF funds. The proposal included revising CREF guidelines to make all funds available for general allocation, awarding $273,000 to the Gaviota Coast Plan, and awarding $402,500 for a new restroom facility at Arroyo Borough Beach County Park. Ms. Waller explained that the current restrooms are over 30 years old and lack gravity flow to the sewer system. Supervisor Gray questioned the high cost per square foot of the restroom project; Ms. Waller attributed the cost to site work and the complexity of the coastal site. Supervisor Lavagnino asked for clarification on the restrictions of CREF funds. Supervisor Wolf supported the project, noting environmental benefits. Supervisor Carbajal supported the item but expressed concern about the departure from the previous formula that allowed outside groups to compete for funds. Public speakers included Andy Caldwell (CoLab), Tom White and Adam White (Boathouse operators), Kerry Rogers (Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network), and Joanne St. John (Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network). Supervisor Wolf moved to approve the recommendations. Supervisor Gray requested separate motions, expressing a preference to vote against allocating funds to the Gaviota Coast Plan and in favor of the restroom project. Supervisor Lavagnino asked for confirmation that the project would be competitively bid once permits were secured; Ms. Waller confirmed it was currently an engineer’s estimate. A motion was made by Supervisor Wolf and seconded by Supervisor Carbajal to approve the recommendations. The motion passed.
- Item 5: Teleworking and Flexible Work Schedules Report: Ms. Muth (County Executive Office) presented a report on the county’s progress in supporting teleworking and flexible work schedules since 2008. The program aims to reduce the carbon footprint, improve job satisfaction, and attract a diverse workforce. Reports indicated a 19% increase in teleworking hours in 2011 and an additional 11% increase in 2012 compared to the 2010 baseline. Over 50% of the workforce is currently on some form of flexible schedule. Ms. Waller commented on the program as a "win-win-win" for employees, the environment, and taxpayers. Supervisor Wolf asked about the duration and review process for teleworking agreements; Ms. Muth explained that agreements can be ad hoc or ongoing, can be discontinued by either party, and require documentation of productivity expectations. Board members discussed concerns regarding productivity, accountability, and customer service responsiveness for employees working remotely or on flexible schedules. Supervisor Carbajal emphasized the need for clear protocols ensuring telecommuters remain accessible to the public. The Chair raised concerns about monitoring productivity and the additional challenges for supervisors in tracking work performed remotely. Public comment was provided by Andy Caldwell (COLAP), who supported the county’s program but suggested the county establish satellite offices in Ventura and North County to reduce commuting. He also proposed that the board send a letter to the State of California advocating for private sector employers to be allowed to implement flex schedules without incurring overtime costs. A motion was made to receive and file the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
- Closed Session Report: The Board returned from closed session. The County Counsel reported that the Board unanimously authorized the filing of a lawsuit against Transitions to recover $431,822. Additionally, the Board approved the termination of negotiations with the Carpinteria Unified School District regarding properties located at 225 Toro Canyon Road in Carpinteria.
- Item 6: Strategic Planning Process Recommendations: Mr. Buzanich presented an overview of strategic planning options for the County, outlining three models: Public-Initiated, Board-Initiated, and Integrated. Staff indicated that the process could be implemented with existing staff time and minimal additional costs for survey software. The goal is a 3-to-5-year plan to inform budget decisions and resource allocation. Supervisor Carbajal supported the integrated option but emphasized the need for the process to return to the Board for final coalescing of goals before the budget process. CEO Waller clarified that the process would be iterative, with department directors involved throughout. Supervisor Wolf questioned the timeline and suggested streamlining the process to avoid confusion. Supervisor Lavagnino asked for examples of how the strategic plan would change operations or fiscal planning. The Chair raised concerns about raising public expectations that may not be met due to mandates and limited resources. Supervisor Gray emphasized the need to reach out to the public proactively. Public comment was provided by Andy Caldwell (COLAP), who argued that strategic planning should be an ongoing part of the annual budget process, and Bruce Corso, who urged the Board to hold budget workshops earlier in the process and schedule evening meetings to accommodate working residents. The Board discussed the lack of consensus on which model to choose. The Chair noted discomfort with the "Integrated" timeline, preferring the Board to have initial steps before public outreach begins. The Board agreed to continue the discussion to allow staff to refine the timeline, incorporate feedback on survey methods and locations, and assess costs and staff time. A motion was made to receive and file the presentation, provide direction to staff to refine the timeline and process based on Board comments, and continue the item to October 9th. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
Public Comment / In Memoriam
- Supervisor Gray provided remarks honoring two individuals who contributed to the horse community in Santa Barbara County: Tim Whitney, a former national champion western rider who became a quadriplegic following a car accident and subsequently trained young people and horse enthusiasts from a wheelchair platform, and Earl Souza, a farmer who founded Souza Brothers Packing Company and managed barrel racing events. No motions were made, seconded, or decided. No vote was taken.