Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Resolution A1: Honoring Gary Blair
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring Gary Blair upon his retirement from Court Special Services.
- The resolution recognized his 35 years of service and role as the longest-sitting court executive officer in California.
- It also cited his contributions to the DA’s Victim Witness Program and indigent defense contracts.
Resolution A2: Honoring Michelle Mikiewicz
- The Board adopted a resolution commending Michelle Mikiewicz upon her retirement from the Public Health Department.
- The resolution recognized her over 30 years of service in substance abuse prevention and quality improvement.
- It highlighted her contributions to various public health initiatives.
Resolution A3: Honoring Adriana Alexandrian
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring Adriana Alexandrian for her scholastic achievement at UCSB.
- The resolution recognized her receipt of the Thomas Moore Stork Award for Excellence and dual bachelor’s degrees.
- It cited her research on childbirth options for low-income women and leadership in student organizations.
Resolution A4: Honoring Guadalupe Cruz
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring Guadalupe Cruz for her scholastic achievement at UCSB.
- The resolution recognized her receipt of the Jeremy D. Friedman Memorial Award and bachelor’s degree in sociology.
- It highlighted her research on first-generation Latino students and leadership in founding student food and book banks.
Resolution A5: Santa Barbara Audubon Society
- The Board adopted a resolution of commendation honoring the Santa Barbara Audubon Society on its 50th anniversary.
- The resolution cited the society’s history and role in endangered species research, specifically the California condor.
- It also recognized the society’s educational programs and community impact.
Administrative Item A18: Conflict of Interest Code Approval (Housing Authority)
- The Board considered a conflict of interest code for the Housing Authority, focusing on governance and liability for agency debts.
- Staff indicated they would research the governance structure and liability issues to answer specific questions.
- The Board agreed to trail the item to a later time in the afternoon to allow staff to provide answers before a vote.
Departmental Item 1: Administrative Fines Ordinance Amendments
- The Board approved amendments to County Code Chapter 24A to reflect previous board actions and add new fine amounts.
- The changes include replacing the Director of Parks with the Director of Community Services as the designated official.
- New fine amounts for building code violations were added to align with Government Code section 25132.
Departmental Item 2: Contract Services with Retiree Dr. Robert Ritchie
- The Board approved a fee-for-service contract with Dr. Robert Ritchie for psychological evaluation services.
- Staff noted the arrangement is projected to save approximately $96,000 compared to hiring two psychologists through ADMHS.
- Staff confirmed that PEPRA requirements for rehiring and extra help were met.
Departmental Item 3: Agreement with Corizon Health Inc.
- The Board approved a two-year contract extension with Corizon Health for medical and mental health services to inmates and youth.
- The contract excludes juvenile mental health services, which were sent to the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council for review.
- Staff clarified that the county is solely responsible for actual medication costs and that performance penalties apply for missed service hours.
Agenda Item 4: ADMHS Published Charges
- The Board approved the first reading of an ordinance adjusting published charges for the Psychiatric Health Facility.
- The proposed charges reflect anticipated costs for fiscal year 2013-14, with increased inpatient costs and decreased outpatient per-minute charges.
- The adjustment aims to ensure maximum cost recovery for Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
Agenda Item 6: Mission Canyon Sewer District Charges
- The Board approved an 8.17% increase in sewer service charges for County Service Area 12.
- Staff explained that approximately 77% of the costs are attributable to services received from the City of Santa Barbara.
- The Board discussed potential sewer extensions for parcels on septic systems and the impact on capital reserves.
Item 5: Mission Canyon Septic System Management Charges (CSA No. 12)
- The Board approved no change to the current septic system management fee of $24 per system per year.
- Staff explained that the fee funds a voluntary maintenance program, including partial refunds for septic tank pumping.
- The district’s bifurcation into sewered and unsewered portions was driven by Regional Water Board regulations regarding contamination.
Item 7: Flood Control Benefit Assessment Program (FY 2013-14)
- The Board approved a 1.29% annual increase in flood control benefit assessments, consistent with the Cost of Living Index.
- The increase results in a less than 30-cent annual assessment increase for a typical single-family dwelling in the South Coast zone.
- The Board approved items A, B, and C as a first reading, with a second reading scheduled for July 2.
Item 8: Solid Waste Tipping Fees, Collection Rates, and Parcel Fees (FY 2013-14)
- The Board approved a significant increase in the trash tipping fee at the Tehachapi Landfill to fund an Environmental Impact Report.
- Staff recommended no changes to Kuyama Valley parcel fees and proposed amending franchise agreements to revert to a clearer CPI calculation method.
- Residential and commercial collection rates were increased by 1% to 4% depending on the location and disposal fees.
Item 9: Prohibiting Parking of Oversized Vehicles on Certain County Roads
- The Board approved a first reading of an ordinance prohibiting overnight parking of oversized vehicles on certain county roads.
- The ordinance restricts vehicles over 24 feet long, 8 feet wide, or 7 feet high from parking in the right-of-way between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- The Board noted that the ordinance allows for future restrictions on specific streets after staff analysis and public hearings.
Item 10: Revised Service Contract and Grant Compliance Management Policy
- The Board received and filed a revised service contract and grant compliance management policy with requested modifications.
- The policy requires department heads to monitor contract compliance and assign a contract manager for each board-approved contract over $100,000.
- Staff agreed to provide a follow-up memo with a detailed plan for training and implementation timelines.
Item A18: Conflict of Interest Statement for the Housing Authority (Follow-up)
- Staff clarified that the Housing Authority is a separate corporate and political public body not liable for the County’s actions.
- The Board discussed potential financial liability for judgments acquired by the Housing Authority and the identity of its legal counsel.
- The Board approved the item after confirming that the County is not liable for the Authority’s debts or malfeasance.
Closed Session
- Counsel reported that the Board had concluded conferences with legal counsel, real property negotiators, and labor negotiators.
- No action was reportable from the completed items during the closed session.
- Two remaining items were scheduled for discussion during the closed session lunch meeting.
Full summary
Meeting Reconvened and Roll Call
- The Board of Supervisors reconvened the hearing meeting for June 18. Roll call was taken, and all members were present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Approval of Minutes
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes from the June 4 meeting. No discussion occurred. The motion passed unanimously.
Closed Session Report
- Counsel reported that the Board had concluded conferences with legal counsel, real property negotiators, and labor negotiators. No action was reportable from the completed items. Two remaining items were scheduled for discussion during the closed session lunch meeting.
Public Comment
- Fifteen speakers addressed the Board on various topics:
- Plastic Bag Program: A representative from COLAB questioned the funding of the plastic bag program prior to a scheduled hearing and requested clarification on the notice process.
- Oasis Senior Center Relocation: The architect and Executive Director of Orchid Area Seniors in Service discussed the status of the Oasis Senior Center relocation project, noting that environmental clearances regarding tiger salamanders had been obtained and urging the Board to resolve real property negotiations to avoid delays.
- IHSS Worker Wages: Multiple speakers, representing labor unions and advocacy groups, requested wage increases for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) workers, citing a lack of raises since 2008 and the cost savings of in-home care compared to institutionalization. They requested the Board negotiate a wage increase and honor contractual obligations.
- Elder Abuse and Conservatorships: Several speakers raised concerns regarding elder abuse, conservatorships, and the management of estates, alleging exploitation of elderly individuals and misuse of funds by conservators and attorneys.
- Jail Mail Policy: Speakers from the "Right to Write Letters" campaign and inmates expressed opposition to the Santa Barbara County Jail’s postcard-only mail policy, arguing it restricts communication rights and impacts inmate well-being and recovery programs.
- Disability Services: A representative from the Independent Living Resource Center supported wage increases for care providers serving individuals with disabilities.
- The Chair requested a memo from the CEO regarding the status of IHSS negotiations and the state’s role. The CEO confirmed that a memo would be provided and that the issue would be addressed in closed session.
Administrative Agenda and Resolutions
- A motion was made and seconded to approve administrative agenda items A1 through A5 (Resolutions). The motion passed unanimously.
- The Board then voted on the remainder of the administrative agenda. A motion was made and seconded to approve the administrative agenda with the exception of Item A18, which was held for later discussion, and Item 825, which was continued to the next week’s meeting at the request of the County Executive Office. The motion passed unanimously.
Resolution A1: Honoring Gary Blair
- A resolution was presented honoring Gary Blair upon his retirement from Santa Barbara County Court Special Services. The resolution recognized his 35 years of service, his role as the longest-sitting court executive officer in California, and his contributions to the DA’s Victim Witness Program and indigent defense contracts. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution A2: Honoring Michelle Mikiewicz
- A resolution was presented commending Michelle Mikiewicz upon her retirement from the County of Santa Barbara Public Health Department. The resolution recognized her over 30 years of service, her roles in substance abuse prevention and quality improvement, and her contributions to public health initiatives. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution A3: Honoring Adriana Alexandrian
- A resolution was presented honoring Adriana Alexandrian for her scholastic achievement at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). The resolution recognized her receipt of the Thomas Moore Stork Award for Excellence, her dual bachelor’s degrees, her research on childbirth options for low-income women, and her leadership roles in student organizations and community advocacy. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution A4: Honoring Guadalupe Cruz
- A resolution was presented honoring Guadalupe Cruz for her scholastic achievement at UCSB. The resolution recognized her receipt of the Jeremy D. Friedman Memorial Award, her bachelor’s degree in sociology, her research on first-generation Latino students, and her leadership in founding the Associated Students Food Bank and a student-run book bank. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution A5: Santa Barbara Audubon Society
- A resolution of commendation honoring the Santa Barbara Audubon Society on its 50th anniversary was read. The resolution cited the society’s history, its role in endangered species research (specifically the California condor), and its educational programs. A representative for the society thanked the board for the recognition. The resolution was adopted.
Administrative Item A18: Conflict of Interest Code Approval (Housing Authority)
- The board considered the approval of a conflict of interest code for the Housing Authority. Discussion focused on the relationship between the Housing Authority and the County, specifically regarding governance, control, and potential liability for the agency’s debts. One supervisor requested clarification on whether the entity is a branch of the county or an independent arm’s-length entity and asked if the county is responsible for the agency’s debts. Staff indicated they would research the governance structure and liability issues. The board agreed to trail the item to a later time in the afternoon to allow staff to provide answers to these questions before a vote is taken. No vote was taken at this time.
Departmental Item 1: Administrative Fines Ordinance Amendments
- The board heard a presentation regarding amendments to County Code Chapter 24A, the Administrative Fines Ordinance. The proposed changes included adding Chapters 9A and 44 to reflect previous board actions, replacing the Director of Parks with the Director of Community Services as the designated official, designating the Director of Community Services as the hearing officer for Chapter 44 violations, and adding new fine amounts for building code violations consistent with Government Code section 25132. There were no public speakers. A motion was made and seconded to move the item. The motion passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 2: Contract Services with Retiree Dr. Robert Ritchie
- The board considered a contract for psychological evaluation services with retiree Dr. Robert Ritchie. Staff explained that the arrangement is fee-for-service at $1,200 per evaluation, rather than a salary. Staff noted that this arrangement is projected to save approximately $96,000 compared to the cost of hiring two psychologists through the Department of Mental Health Services (ADMHS). Discussion included questions about the current costs, the basis for the savings calculation, and the relationship to other items regarding ADMHS published charges. Staff clarified that the county negotiated rates with ADMHS to avoid tripling costs and that the contract with Dr. Ritchie is separate from the ADMHS published charges item. Questions were also raised regarding PEPRA requirements for rehiring/extra help, which staff confirmed were met. There were no public speakers. A motion was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 3: Agreement with Corizon Health Inc.
- The board considered a two-year contract extension with Corizon Health Inc. to provide medical, mental health, and pharmaceutical services to inmates and youth in detention facilities, effective July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2015. The contract is not to exceed approximately $10.9 million. The board was also asked to ratify a previous extension for services provided from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2013.
- Presentations were given by the Sheriff’s Office and the Probation Department. Key points included:
- Probation: The change in mental health providers from ADMHS to Corizon is driven by fiscal challenges and cost increases, not service delivery issues. Staff stated that the proposed Corizon staffing levels (FTEs) would maintain or slightly exceed the current level of direct services provided by ADMHS, including crisis intervention, evaluations, and case planning.
- Sheriff’s Office: Corizon has provided medical services since 1995 and mental health services since 2009. The contract includes a pass-through pharmacy service expected to reduce pharmaceutical costs by 25–30% compared to current vendors.
- Pharmaceutical Costs: Staff clarified that pharmaceutical costs are not fixed; the county pays the actual cost of medications. The estimated pharmaceutical costs (approx. $411,000 for Sheriff, $130,000 for Probation) are maximums for budgeting purposes. If actual costs exceed these estimates, a contract amendment and board approval would be required. If costs are lower, the county pays only the actual charges.
- Ratification: Discussion occurred regarding the ratification of the previous contract extension. Staff explained that the county is the party to the contract and that the previous extension should have been presented to the board.
- Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC): Supervisors noted that the JJCC had not formally reviewed the contract as an agenda item prior to this hearing, though they had been informed of the change. Staff attributed this to the timing of the budget process.
- Supervisors raised concerns regarding the shift from a public agency (ADMHS) to a private for-profit entity (Corizon), the potential loss of specific evidence-based protocols and coordination with county schools, and the lack of a clear breakdown of pharmaceutical costs in the contract text. Staff maintained that the scope of work ensures the same level of service and that Corizon has experience with juvenile populations.
- Commander Darren Fotheringham presented details regarding the proposed contract with Corizon Health for medical and mental health services. Key points included:
- Financial Responsibility: Section 5.3 of the contract states the County is solely responsible for actual medication costs, not projected costs.
- Performance Measures: The contract includes financial penalties for missed service hours (exceeding a 2% margin) and failure to meet National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) accreditation standards.
- Service Standards: Requirements include specific timeframes for nurse sick calls and medical evaluations for inmates held longer than 14 days.
- Continuity of Care: Corizon will provide discharge planning and continuity of care between private providers and county facilities.
- Contract Flexibility: Legal counsel confirmed that the Board can terminate specific components of the contract (such as juvenile mental health) without terminating the entire agreement, though this would require an amendment.
- Cost Savings: Staff clarified that the total savings associated with the contract are approximately $380,000, comprising roughly $300,000 in mental health service savings and approximately $80,000 in medical service savings. Additionally, ADMHS noted that if the service moves to Corizon, ADMHS would still absorb approximately $140,000–$150,000 in fixed administrative and overhead costs that are currently allocated to the probation contract.
- Service Gaps: Chief Taylor and Dr. Wada acknowledged that Corizon cannot perform the specific function of determining the need for acute psychiatric hospitalization for juveniles, a service currently provided by ADMHS staff on-site. They stated that protocols would be developed to call in ADMHS staff or an alternative provider (Safety for After Hours) to make such determinations, though specific response time protocols were not fully defined during the discussion.
- Public comment was provided by Andy Caldwell (COLAB), who questioned the Board’s scrutiny of public sector costs versus private sector fees; Jeff Bard, who expressed support for the contract; and the County Executive Office, which expressed appreciation for the Sheriff’s and Probation departments’ efforts to find cost savings.
- Board discussion focused on concerns regarding the level of service for juveniles, specifically regarding emergency psychiatric situations. Concerns were raised about the lack of a clear protocol for timely psychiatric evaluations and the absence of prior review by the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC). Questions were raised regarding the immediate response plan for acute psychiatric emergencies. Staff confirmed that custody deputies would provide immediate care and call in external providers (Safety or ADMHS) for evaluation.
- A motion was made to approve the contract as presented, excluding the addition of mental health services for juveniles. The motion included sending the juvenile mental health component to the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council for review and comment, with a recommendation to return to the Board no later than March of the following year. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 4: ADMHS Published Charges
- Dr. Wada presented recommendations regarding the adjustment of Santa Barbara County Published Charges for the Psychiatric Health Facility and Outpatient Mental Health Services.
- Purpose: To approve the first reading of an ordinance adjusting published charges and set a second reading hearing for July 2, 2013.
- Background: Published charges are used for non-Medi-Cal clients (private insurance, self-pay) and affect the Medi-Cal cost settlement process, which is capped at the lower of actual costs or published charges.
- Changes: The proposed charges reflect anticipated costs for fiscal year 2013-14. The analysis resulted in increased inpatient costs (due to full allocation of administrative/indirect costs) and decreased outpatient per-minute charges.
- Recommendation: Approval of the first reading of the ordinance to ensure maximum cost recovery for Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
- A motion was made to approve staff’s recommended action. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 6: Mission Canyon Sewer District Charges
- Martin Wilder, County Utilities Manager, presented recommendations regarding County Service Area 12 (Mission Canyon Sewer District) charges for fiscal year 2013-14.
- Proposal: An 8.17% increase in sewer service charges.
- Cost Impact: The annual charge on the tax roll would increase from $722 to $781 (equivalent to approximately $60.17 to $65.08 per month).
- Cost Breakdown: Approximately 77% of the costs are attributable to services received from the City of Santa Barbara, and 23% are for county operations.
- Recommendation: Approval of the proposed charges.
- Discussion continued regarding potential sewer extensions for parcels currently on septic systems. A board member inquired about the average size of these lots and whether new Regional Water Quality Control Board regulations regarding septic systems might pressure residents to connect to the sewer sooner, potentially straining the capital reserve. Staff explained that the original project targeted smaller lots with septic failures, while larger lots were deemed functional. Staff noted that previous studies for Palomino Road and Tunnel Road were cost-prohibitive, and the concept for new extensions relies on new beneficiaries paying construction costs through assessment zones or bonds, rather than existing ratepayers. A board member noted similar concerns in the Santa Ynez Valley regarding soil characteristics and septic failures. Another board member asked about the history of rate increases, noting the current 8.17% increase. Staff explained that increases vary annually (ranging from 4% to 10%) based on the City of Santa Barbara’s capital improvement programs, which have been ongoing since the early 2000s. A board member requested that staff work with the City to delineate the fee structure, noting that 77% of the fee goes to the City under a joint powers agreement. Another board member asked about septic tanks remaining in the sewered area; staff confirmed that a small number of parcels were granted waivers and remain on septic, generally on larger lots.
- A motion was made to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 5: Mission Canyon Septic System Management Charges (CSA No. 12)
- Public Health presented a hearing to consider recommendations for septic system management charges for CSA No. 12 (Mission Canyon Sewer District) for Fiscal Year 2013-2014. Staff proposed no change to the current fee of $24 per system per year. The fee applies to properties on septic systems within the district, separate from sewer rates. Revenues fund a voluntary maintenance program, including partial refunds for septic tank pumping (eligible once every five years) and staff time for outreach and education. Staff estimated total annual revenue from the septic area at approximately $5,700. A board member asked if this was the only area in the county with such a fee; staff confirmed it was. Staff explained the district’s bifurcation into sewered and unsewered portions was driven by the Regional Water Board due to documented contamination from septic failures in high-density areas, while upper, larger lots were deemed less of a risk and geologically difficult to sewer.
- A motion was made to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 7: Flood Control Benefit Assessment Program (FY 2013-14)
- Public Works presented the second of three rate adjustment items, concerning the Flood Control and Water Conservation District’s benefit assessments for Fiscal Year 2013-14. Staff proposed an annual increase of 1.29%, consistent with the Cost of Living Index (CPI) provision in the voter-approved assessments. For the South Coast zone, the annual assessment for a typical single-family dwelling would increase by less than 30 cents. Staff requested approval of items A, B, and C as a first reading, with a second reading and final adoption scheduled for July 2. A board member asked about the vegetation shown in a presentation photo; staff clarified it was annual vegetation removed yearly to prevent it from becoming heavy.
- A motion was made to approve as recommended. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 8: Solid Waste Tipping Fees, Collection Rates, and Parcel Fees (FY 2013-14)
- Public Works presented the final rate adjustment item, covering solid waste management services for Fiscal Year 2013-14. The presentation addressed four areas: 1. County Facility Tipping Fees: Proposed a significant increase in the trash tipping fee at the Tehachapi Landfill from $77 to $82 per ton to fund an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for a resource recovery project and capital expansion costs. Minor changes were proposed for other facilities. 2. Kuyama Valley Parcel Fees: Staff recommended no changes to the parcel fees, which are assessed on property taxes to operate the Kuyama and Venacopa transfer stations. The typical rate is $77 per single-family dwelling. 3. Franchise Agreement Amendments: Staff proposed amending three of five solid waste collection franchise agreements to adjust how the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is calculated. The new contracts used a "chained CPI" method that staff found unclear and difficult to calculate. Staff recommended reverting to the methodology used in older agreements (since 1997), which uses the All Urban Consumers (Trucking) index for Los Angeles/Riverside, comparing the same month across two years. The Auditor-Controller approved this change. 4. Collection Rates: Proposed residential rate increases ranged from 1% (Santa Maria Valley) to 3% (South Coast/Santa Ynez Valley). Commercial rate increases ranged from 2% (Lompoc/Santa Maria) to 4% (South Coast/Santa Ynez). Rates are influenced by a 2.2% CPI adjustment on the collection portion (approx. 60% of the rate) and changes in disposal fees (approx. 30% of the rate).
- A board member asked why rates did not uniformly reflect the 2.2% CPI increase plus tipping fee changes; staff explained that the impact varies by location based on specific disposal facility fees and collection methods. Another board member confirmed the use of the transportation index rather than the general CPI.
- A motion was made to accept as recommended. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 9: Prohibiting Parking of Oversized Vehicles on Certain County Roads
- Public Works presented a first reading of a proposed ordinance amendment creating an "umbrella" ordinance to prohibit the overnight parking of oversized vehicles on certain county roads. The ordinance would restrict vehicles over 24 feet long, 8 feet wide, or 7 feet high from parking in the right-of-way between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. The purpose is to address issues such as impaired sight distance, limited residential parking, and neighborhood blight, particularly as cities have implemented similar ordinances pushing vehicles into unincorporated areas. The ordinance would allow the Board to impose restrictions on specific streets in the future after staff analysis and public hearings. It would not apply to utility trucks used for occupation during the day. A board member expressed support, noting it is a growing issue in their district. Another board member asked for a blanket exemption for commercial livestock transports; staff clarified that the ordinance only grants the ability to restrict specific areas, not a blanket ban, and would not affect rural areas unless specifically designated. Another board member noted that similar restrictions exist in unincorporated Goleta but do not specifically exclude overnight RV parking.
- A motion was made to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 10: Revised Service Contract and Grant Compliance Management Policy
- The County Executive Office presented a revised service contract and grant compliance management policy, revisiting a proposal from January. Staff, including representatives from the Auditor-Controller’s department, outlined the scope of monitoring across 233 board-approved contracts. A survey indicated that only one department (Social Services) had formal written policies for contract monitoring. The policy applies to Board-approved contracts over $100,000, with recommendations for those under $100,000. Key elements include:
- Department heads are responsible for contract compliance monitoring.
- Each contract must have an assigned contract manager.
- Risk evaluation and disclosure are required during the board approval process.
- Payments must be linked to satisfactory performance, with consequences for poor performance.
- A formal process for reporting non-compliance, including corrective action plans reviewed by a Contract Compliance Oversight Committee.
- A training strategy involving technical assistance and online videos for staff.
- A board member requested that the policy include timelines for training and implementation. Staff agreed to provide a follow-up memo with a detailed plan. Another board member suggested adding language regarding disciplinary actions for staff failure to execute contracts properly, and adding performance dates and progress payments to contract terms. Staff noted that existing civil service rules govern staff discipline, but agreed to consider the language changes. Another board member suggested adding a requirement for incoming contract managers to become familiar with contract terms. A board member asked about liability insurance requirements; staff noted that existing countywide policies and risk management concurrence cover this, but agreed to include it in the checklist. A board member requested that revised documents be provided with strikethrough/underline formatting to show changes. Staff agreed to return the item as an administrative item with modifications.
- A motion was made to receive and file with the modifications. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Item A18: Conflict of Interest Statement for the Housing Authority (Follow-up)
- County Council provided a response to a question regarding the relationship between the County and the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara. Staff explained that the Housing Authority is a separate corporate and politic public body created under Health and Safety Code Section 34201, empowered by the Board of Supervisors. It has perpetual succession and the power to sue, be sued, and execute contracts. The County has appointing powers for the Authority’s commissioners but is not liable for the Authority’s actions. Any contractual relationships between the County and the Housing Authority would carry the same legal responsibilities as other county contracts. Staff indicated they could follow up with more detailed information regarding specific contractual relationships.
- A board member raised concerns regarding potential financial liability for judgments acquired by the Housing Authority, citing a previous Housing Authority meeting where a motion was made to send a legal letter to a private individual and a newspaper editor. The board member questioned the identity of the legal counsel involved, confirming with the Clerk that the attorney was from a private firm and not a county employee. Another board member offered to conduct further research into whether a county or city has ever been held responsible for the debts or malfeasance of a separate legal entity, noting that no such cases were found in prior research. The board member suggested providing this information in an opinion letter if deemed urgent.
- A motion was made to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
Adjournment
- The meeting was adjourned.