Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Isla Vista Incident Response
- Supervisor Wolff expressed concern for injured personnel and residents following recent events.
- He stated that unsponsored large crowds without mitigations are unacceptable.
- The Supervisor indicated he would work with stakeholders to bring tightened ordinances to the board.
Budget Overview and Process
- CEO Miyasato presented the budget overview, noting no funding decisions are required at this stage.
- Unallocated ongoing general fund discretionary revenue was revised to $700,000 due to a calculation error correction.
- Approximately $5.5 million in unallocated one-time revenue is anticipated for fiscal year 2014-15.
- Funding recommendations are contingent upon the outcome of Measure M, with options to be provided in late summer.
Budget Workshop – General Discussion and Performance Measures
- The Board noted the current budget document lacks division-level detail and performance measures.
- Supervisor Carbajal suggested examining a hybrid process incorporating strategic performance measures.
- Staff agreed to explore a hybrid model with the Board after the current budget cycle concludes in June.
Departmental Budgets – Policy and Executive
- The Board of Supervisors Office presented a $2.9 million operating budget with a net of 21 FTEs.
- The County Executive Office presented a $42.3 million operating budget with 58.3 FTEs.
- CEO Miyasato presented a list of departmental expansion requests, clarifying they are not yet approved.
- Staff indicated they would prioritize the most critical items for board review.
Departmental Budgets – Community Resources and Public Facilities
- The Agriculture Department presented a $4.7 million budget and committed to bringing legislative issues to the Agriculture Committee.
- Community Services requested $696,000 for expansions and $938,000 for annual maintenance renewal.
- Planning and Development requested $311,000 in ongoing funding to restore long-range planning services.
- Public Works presented a $124.8 million budget and requested $9.1 million for pavement preservation and survey resources.
Budget Workshop – Office of County Counsel
- The Office of County Counsel requested the restoration and addition of attorney positions and paralegal funding.
- Supervisor Carbajal requested an analysis of outside counsel spending over the past five to six years.
- Staff agreed to provide the requested outside counsel spending analysis and overtime data.
Non-County Agency Requests and Outside Organizations
- The Economic Vitality Team requested seed money to establish a countywide economic development entity.
- The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce discussed its contribution to the Santa Maria energy project.
- Good Samaritan Shelter opposed a recommended 40% cut to general fund homeless funding.
- Other speakers addressed various funding requests and organizational needs for board consideration.
Public Comment
- TV Santa Barbara requested continued support as its contract expires in January 2015.
- UC Cooperative Extension requested an increase in the County contract to maintain service levels.
- COLAB commented on the budget process, requesting restoration of division-level details and performance measures.
- The Courthouse Legacy Foundation requested a $40,000 grant to support the restoration of the courthouse mural room.
- The Environmental Defense Center expressed support for specific Planning and Development work group plans.
- A community services representative expressed concern over a proposed 40% budget cut.
- Staff clarified that detailed financial data remains available at lower levels despite the revised budget book format.
Full summary
Agenda Item: General Comment and Isla Vista Incident
- The meeting was called to order. Supervisor Wolff provided comments regarding recent events in Isla Vista, expressing concern for injured public safety personnel and residents. He stated that unsponsored events drawing large crowds without proper mitigations are unacceptable and noted that the majority of historical citations involve individuals from outside the area. Supervisor Wolff indicated he would continue working with stakeholders, including UCSB, City College, and the Sheriff’s Department, and stated he would bring new or tightened ordinances to the board to address streetscape and circulation issues. No motions were made or votes taken.
Agenda Item: Budget Overview and Process
- CEO Miyasato presented the budget overview, noting that the workshops are fluid and no board funding decisions or appropriations are required at this time. She explained that the binders contain draft preliminary work plans and that summary schedules for general and non-general fund revenues and expenditures will be included in the recommended budget provided in mid-May. CEO Miyasato and Budget Director Tom Alvarez updated the board on revenue figures, noting that unallocated ongoing general fund discretionary revenue was revised from $400,000 to $700,000 due to a calculation error correction and reimbursements. Approximately $5.5 million in unallocated one-time revenue is anticipated for fiscal year 2014-15. Departmental service level reductions for the coming year total approximately $1.2 million, down from $8.2 million proposed the previous year.
- Common themes identified include reduced public health funding due to realignment, expected reductions in AB 109 funding, potential increases in mental health funding due to federal reimbursement rules, and deferred maintenance. Workforce retention is a concern, with nearly a quarter of the employee population likely to retire in the next five years. CEO Miyasato stated that funding recommendations are contingent upon the outcome of Measure M. If Measure M is approved in June, the board would be asked to reevaluate or eliminate recommended restorations, seek reduction scenario options from departments by summer, leverage non-general fund sources, and redirect discretionary grants toward maintenance needs. Options would be provided to the board in late summer or early fall. The recommended budget is scheduled for release on May 15, with budget adoption hearings set for June 9 and 11.
- Supervisor Carbajal asked for clarification on the revenue changes, which CEO Miyasato confirmed were due to a calculation error and new reimbursements. Supervisor Wolff requested that staff provide a copy of a previous "cost center analysis" document to Mr. Caldwell for reference. CEO Miyasato explained that the shift to electronic formats allows for better accuracy and adaptability as the budget changes throughout the year.
Agenda Item: Budget Workshop – General Discussion and Performance Measures
- The Board discussed the budget process, noting that the current budget document lacks the division-level detail and performance measures present in previous years. Supervisor Carbajal expressed a desire to examine a hybrid process that incorporates strategic performance measures, suggesting this review occur after the current budget cycle concludes in June. Staff indicated that modifying the process before June would be challenging but agreed to explore a hybrid model with the Board after the budget is finalized. No formal motion was taken. The Board agreed to revisit the structure of the budget document and performance measures after the completion of the current budget process.
Agenda Item: Departmental Budgets – Policy and Executive
- Board of Supervisors Office: The Board’s operating budget is $2.9 million, primarily from the general fund, with 21.5 FTEs. The budget includes the use of one-time fund balance to cover increased variable costs such as utilities, IT, and general liability. There are no service level reductions or expansion requests. District 4 reduced from 4.0 to 3.5 FTEs, and District 2 plans to reduce from 4.0 to 3.5 FTEs in 2014-15, resulting in a net of 21 FTEs. Accomplishments cited include the completion of the Cuyama Valley Library and Family Resource Center, safety improvements on Highway 154, retention of community assets in Isla Vista, and exploration of inpatient mental health beds with Marion Medical Center. Objectives include maintaining long-term fiscal health, continuing work on public safety realignment (AB 109), enhancing economic development strategy, and prioritizing public safety and safety net services. No specific motions or votes were recorded.
- County Executive Office (CEO’s Office): The operating budget is $42.3 million, with 64% attributable to risk management funds and 20% ($8.2 million) from the general fund. The recommended staffing level is 58.3 FTEs. The Clerk of the Board is adding a position offset by new LAFCO revenue. HR is shifting 0.75 FTE from ADMHS to the Shared Services Division. The CEO management, HR, and other divisions reduced a total of 12 FTEs over recent years, offset by additions in Emergency Management and Risk Management. Accomplishments include the development of a five-year forecast tool, assistance with mental health systems changes and ACA implementation, establishment of a drought task force, and HR savings from lower healthcare rates and enrollment audits. Performance measure targets include 100% structural balance of the general fund budget, two large-scale emergency exercises, 100% closure of open workers' comp cases, and high compliance with safety audits. Challenges include providing countywide policy and fiscal analysis, workforce retention, implementing ACA, and sustaining positive workers' comp results. Supervisor Wolk asked about the coordination of public information and media relations. CEO Miyasato stated that the office plans to start with extra help or a small contract to test the value of a dedicated coordination role before requesting ongoing resources. Supervisor Wolk also asked about the workforce plan, which CEO Miyasato confirmed is being developed within existing HR resources without additional cost.
- Expansion Requests: CEO Miyasato presented a list of departmental expansion requests, clarifying that these are not approved but represent departmental needs. She noted that her office has not yet prioritized them for the board. Supervisor Farr asked about the process for justifying requests and whether there is a secondary tier of less critical items. CEO Miyasato explained that departments are to prioritize their most critical items. Supervisor Carbajal asked about historical funding of similar requests. CEO Miyasato noted that one request was funded two years ago.
Agenda Item: Departmental Budgets – Community Resources and Public Facilities
- Agriculture Commissioner: The Agriculture Department presented its recommended FY 14-15 operating budget of approximately $4.7 million, including a $1.6 million General Fund contribution and 33 FTEs. The presentation noted no service level reductions and no use of one-time funding. Key accomplishments cited included cost savings from converting phytosanitary certificate billing to an online system, participation in statewide pesticide advisory committees, and eradication efforts for invasive species such as light brown apple moth and Asian citrus psyllid. The department reported that agriculture contributes $2.8 billion to the county economy and provides over 25,000 jobs. Board members inquired about the cost of the workforce plan and leadership programs, the oversight of the Public Information Officer (PIO) by the CEO, and the status of the Citrus Ciliate issue in Goleta. Questions were raised regarding the $8,000 in-kind contribution to UC Cooperative Extension and the department’s role in advising residents on protecting citrus trees. Department staff explained that the $8,000 in-kind contribution covers administrative support and presentations for grower workshops. Staff detailed ongoing outreach efforts with the citrus industry to educate residents on detecting Asian citrus psyllid and provided information on alternative treatment options for infested trees. Staff also addressed regulatory changes regarding fumigant labels and the department’s role in providing local feedback to state agencies. Supervisor Wolk asked about the process for conveying concerns from local growers to the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) and other regulatory bodies. He expressed concern that the board is on the outside of policy decisions affecting growers and suggested that the Agriculture Commissioner bring legislative issues to the board’s Agriculture Committee for input. The Commissioner agreed to do so. Supervisor Wolk also asked about the Asian citrus psyllid pest found in San Luis Obispo County and whether the department would assist neighboring counties. The Commissioner confirmed they would share experience and assist.
- Community Services (Parks and Recreation): The Community Services Department presented its 2014-15 budget, which includes a $21.4 million operating budget and $2.6 million for capital projects. The department requested $696,000 for departmental expansions (including positions for housing specialists, an information systems specialist, and a park ranger) and $938,000 for annual maintenance renewal funding. The presentation noted service level reductions, including the elimination of 1.67 FTE rangers and reduced shelter service funding. Mr. Parker highlighted performance measures such as visitor numbers and online reservation usage. Supervisor Farr commented on the importance of performance measures for financial decision-making and suggested looking at vacancy rates and additional revenue sources while keeping some services free. Supervisor Wolk asked about the $935,000 annual maintenance request and how it differs from the deferred maintenance consultant study. Mr. Parker clarified that the $935,000 is for annual maintenance, while the consultant study will address deferred maintenance. Supervisor Wolk also asked about the potential for wind and solar projects to offset utility costs and the possibility of expanding online reservation systems to minimize the need for additional staffing. Mr. Parker indicated that grant opportunities would be sought and that online systems are being considered. Supervisor Carbajal suggested a review of the effectiveness of the current configuration, particularly regarding the Parks division and Housing and Community Development. Staff indicated they are working with General Services to minimize utility costs and are awaiting a consultant’s report on deferred maintenance. Supervisor Wolf asked for clarification on the source of funds for specific projects and the status of the Halama Beach and Rice Ranch projects. No formal motion was taken. The Board noted the requests for funding and organizational review for consideration during the June budget deliberations.
- Planning and Development: Dr. Russell presented the Planning and Development budget. The department presented a recommended operating budget of $17.9 million for FY 14-15 and 15-16, with a General Fund contribution of approximately $4.2 million (23% of the budget). The budget includes 86.5 FTEs, reflecting a reduction of 2.3 FTEs in long-range planning due to the loss of $311,000 in one-time funding. The department requested $311,000 in ongoing funding to restore these services. Potential service level reductions identified included delays to the Gaviota Plan ($92,000 to restore), cessation of the Hollister streetscape plan ($83,000 to restore), and the loss of matching funds for a Coastal Conservancy grant ($200,000) and a California Energy Commission grant ($299,000). The department noted that excess revenues projected at year-end could potentially be redirected to mitigate these reductions. Board members asked about the status of code enforcement, the cost of specific positions such as paralegals, and the department’s approach to performance measures. Questions were raised regarding the potential use of excess revenues to address service level reductions and the department’s strategy for maintaining staffing levels amidst fluctuating permit workloads. Department staff explained that code enforcement has improved due to better supervision and organizational changes. Staff clarified that the $311,000 request is for ongoing support of 2.3 FTEs. Staff indicated that if excess revenues are available on June 30, the Board could direct those funds to reduce service level impacts, though ongoing funding would be preferable to address the long-term funding cliff. Supervisor Carbajal asked about the funding request from the Montecito Association. Dr. Russell responded that the association is offering to help in any way possible. Supervisor Wolk expressed support for the continuation of ongoing projects and the $310,000 request, noting the department’s reduced staffing over the last 10 years and the continued public expectations for service. He stated his priority is to continue current projects and add positions as the economy improves. Supervisor Carbajal and Supervisor Wolk discussed water issues, including the board’s limited purview over comprehensive water planning involving COMB, CCWA, and water districts. Supervisor Wolk requested that the department consider starting the update of the groundwater basin study immediately due to drought concerns and reported drops in water levels. He also requested that the department push forward with a groundwater basin study for Los Alamos, noting interest from Vandenberg Air Force Base. CEO Miyasato stated that the water purveyors would be invited to present to the board in May or June to discuss responsibilities and long-term planning.
- Public Works: Mr. McAuliffe presented the Public Works budget. The department presented a proposed FY 14-15 budget totaling $124.8 million, comprising a $99.3 million operating budget, $18.2 million in roads capital projects, and $25.5 million in capital projects for resource recovery and water resources. The General Fund contribution was $2.9 million (2.3% of the total budget). The department reported 279.3 employees, an 18% reduction from 2005-06. One service level reduction was identified: a $133,800 reduction in the County Surveyor’s Office due to the loss of a survey specialist position. Two expansion requests totaling over $9.1 million were presented. Key capital projects included the San Pedro Las Vegas Creek Project, Mission Creek widening, and the Tahecus Liner Phase 3B project. Supervisor Carbajal asked about the significant increase in transportation funding from $31 million to $42 million in previous years and the subsequent leveling off. Mr. McAuliffe explained the changes. Supervisor Carbajal noted that the current year’s funding is still significantly higher than in 2012-13. Board members asked about the status of enforcement officers, the impact of eliminating three FTEs in the Public Works Field Survey Section, and the department’s response to the drought. Questions were raised about the cost of water, the potential use of the strategic reserve, and the status of the diesel plant. Department staff explained that the elimination of three FTEs in the Field Survey Section was due to reduced capital improvement work. Staff detailed the department’s participation in the CEO’s Drought Task Force and its role as the lead communicator with water purveyors. Staff addressed the service level reduction in the Surveyor’s Office, noting that the loss of the survey specialist position would impact the ability to meet state mandates for reviewing corner records within 20 days. Staff also discussed the department’s efforts to manage pavement degradation due to drought and the importance of maintaining the water supply. The presenter concluded the presentation by outlining key challenges and emerging issues. The department’s total budget enhancement request was stated as $9,133,800, comprising a $9,000,000 need for the pavement preservation program and $133,800 for a survey specialist. The presenter listed five categories for a stable future in public works: stable funding for transportation infrastructure, long-term waste management solutions, implementation of the Laguna Sanitation Master Plan for the community of Orchid, funding for survey resources to meet state mandates and project deadlines, and effective flood response and maintenance across the county’s ten zones. Supervisor Wolk inquired about the decrease in services and supplies expenditures referenced on slide D5. The presenter explained that the decrease is a combination of factors, primarily driven by capital projects for maintenance and transportation. No motions were made or votes taken.
Agenda Item: Budget Workshop – Office of County Counsel
- The Office of County Counsel presented its budget, highlighting recent legal successes, including the removal of an $80 million risk from the Northern Branch Jail Project and a California Supreme Court victory. The office reported that 59% of its legal work involves general fund activities, but it receives only 37% of its revenue from the general fund, resulting in a funding shortfall. The office requested the restoration of one 1.0 FTE attorney position, the addition of a second 1.0 FTE attorney position, $44,000 to convert a part-time paralegal to full-time, and $25,000 for professional training. Supervisors discussed the office’s reliance on overtime and the need for accurate tracking of overtime hours. Supervisor Carbajal requested an analysis of outside counsel spending over the past five to six years, including subject areas and costs, to evaluate the efficiency of in-house versus outside legal resources. Staff agreed to provide this data. No formal motion was taken. Staff agreed to provide the requested outside counsel spending analysis and overtime data.
Agenda Item: Non-County Agency Requests and Outside Organizations
- Economic Development / Chambers of Commerce: A representative from the Economic Vitality Team, formed by seven chambers of commerce in Santa Barbara County, presented a request for seed money to establish a countywide economic development entity. The proposal outlined two current projects: a three-county broadband speed assessment in partnership with the state PUC and the creation of a three-county entrepreneurial database. The request was for seed funding to hire staff and initiate marketing efforts, with the goal of reducing county contributions in future years through private sector matching. Board members inquired about the status of the Santa Maria Chamber’s participation, the specific use of the requested $150,000, and the potential impact on business attraction. Questions were raised about the necessity of the funding versus existing staff capabilities and the strategy for changing the county’s image to attract investment. The representative stated that the Santa Maria Chamber had withdrawn but that the initiative was proceeding with the other chambers. The representative explained that the seed money would be used for administrative functions, hiring, and marketing, with private sector partners matching the initial contribution. The representative emphasized the need for a coordinated countywide approach to address broader economic issues and improve the county’s competitive standing.
- Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce: A representative from the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce spoke. Supervisor Lavanino asked about the progress of the Santa Maria energy project. The representative explained that the chamber is contributing manpower and "elbow grease" rather than financial contributions, and that the county would also contribute.
- HCD (Housing and Community Development) Public Comment: Sylvia Bernard, Executive Director of Good Samaritan Shelter, spoke regarding the HCD budget. She opposed a recommended 40% cut to the general fund for homeless funding, which would result in a loss of 40 beds. She stated that Good Samaritan leverages $800,000 annually in additional funding and provides $3 million in support services. She requested that the allocation be made permanent rather than one-time. Supervisor Lavanino asked for clarification on the specific dollar amount of the cut. The speaker confirmed it was $165,000.
- Other Speakers: A representative from Santa Barbara Public Access spoke. Another speaker, Ken, spoke regarding a letter he had submitted. Supervisor Wolk stated that he was impressed by the letter and that he had previously requested a similar position be funded. He and Supervisor Carbajal indicated they would look closely at the request when considering it in June.
Agenda Item: Public Comment
- TV Santa Barbara: Matt Schuster, Executive Director of TV Santa Barbara, presented the organization’s mission and requested continued support as its contract expires in January 2015. He noted that the organization provides media production equipment, training, and programming to the community. The Board discussed the expiration of the cable franchise agreement and the negotiation process with the state and cable providers. Staff clarified that the cable company will negotiate with the state under a statewide framework, with limited local negotiation. No formal motion was taken. The Board acknowledged the contract expiration and the ongoing negotiation process.
- University of California Cooperative Extension: Mary Bianchi, UC Cooperative Extension Horticulture Advisor, presented the partnership between the County and UC Extension. She noted that County funding for Extension decreased from $287,000 in 2003 to $153,000 in 2013. The organization requested an increase in the County contract to $162,000 to maintain service levels in South County, with a goal of returning to the 2009-2010 level of $180,000. The Board listened to the presentation regarding the funding request and the role of the partnership in agricultural and community education. No formal motion was taken. The request was noted for consideration.
- COLAB (Citizens for Open, Lawful, and Accountable Budgeting): Amanda Caldwell of COLAB commented on the budget process, requesting the restoration of division-level budget details and performance measures. She raised concerns about the lack of transparency in certain areas, such as workers' compensation claims and economic development strategies. She also commented on the drought response, suggesting the Board take a more proactive stance on water resources, including the potential use of desalination and wastewater recharge. Supervisors responded to the comments, with Supervisor Carbajal reiterating the plan to review performance measures after the current budget cycle. Supervisor Wolf addressed the drought response, noting that the Board is not in "crisis mode" but is monitoring the situation. No formal motion was taken. The Board acknowledged the comments and the ongoing review of budget processes.
- Courthouse Legacy Foundation: Bill Mahan, President of the Courthouse Legacy Foundation, requested a $40,000 grant to support the restoration of the courthouse mural room. The Foundation has raised $300,000 of the $600,000 goal for the project and stated that the County grant would be leveraged to raise an additional $300,000. Supervisors expressed support for the restoration of the historic building. Supervisor Wolf noted that the project is an asset for the entire County. No formal motion was taken. The request was noted for consideration during the June budget deliberations.
- Environmental Defense Center: A staff attorney expressed support for the Planning and Development work group plan, specifically the Gaviota Coast Plan, Alternative Fuels Readiness Grant, and Coastal Resiliency Project. The speaker supported the establishment of a greenhouse gas emission threshold under CEQA, noting that the county had already completed much of the necessary environmental review for the Santa Maria Energy Project.
- Community Services: A representative from a community services organization expressed concern over a proposed 40% budget cut, stating that it would force the elimination of approximately 30 beds and disrupt a 100-day program for transitioning individuals from homelessness to housing. The organization noted that it had changed its mission to serve only Santa Barbara County residents to distinguish itself from the transient population.
- Budget Data Access: A staff member clarified that while the budget book was revised to summarize at the budget program level, detailed financial data remains available at the financial program, organization, project, activity, and area levels. The staff member stated that the goal was to improve public access to this lower-level detail, a project that was ongoing.
Adjournment
- Chair Lavanino adjourned the meeting, noting that the next meeting would be held the following day at 9:00 AM.