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
Resolution of Commendation for Santa Barbara High School Girls Basketball Team
- The Board recognized the team as 2013-14 CIF SS Division III AA Champions and State Champion Runners Up.
- The resolution acknowledged individual player selections to All-Channel League, All-CIF, and All-Southern California teams.
- The Board adopted the resolution commending the players, coaches, parents, and supporters.
Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as Fair Housing Month
- The resolution marked the 51st anniversary of the California Fair Housing Law and the 46th anniversary of the federal civil rights law.
- Representatives from the Rental Housing Mediation Task Force and Legal Aid Foundation discussed the importance of fair housing laws.
- The Board adopted the resolution recognizing local nonprofits and urging community education on housing rights.
Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as National County Government Month
- The resolution highlighted the "Resilient Counties" theme and recognized the county’s efforts in sustainability and emergency response.
- The Board noted the county’s participation in the Earth Day celebration organized by the Community Environmental Council.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as DMV Donate Life Month
- The resolution highlighted the need for organ, tissue, marrow, and blood donations, noting over 21,000 individuals on the California waiting list.
- Speakers discussed the impact of donations and encouraged residents to register as donors when renewing driver’s licenses.
- The Board adopted the resolution.
Resolution of Commendation for Animal Shelter Assistance Program (ASAP)
- The resolution honored ASAP’s 25th anniversary and its role in reducing the euthanasia rate of adoptable cats from 90% to zero.
- The Board acknowledged the partnership between the nonprofit and the county animal control agency.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution of Accommodation Honoring Veneco Inc.
- The resolution recognized Veneco as the county’s largest taxpayer, citing its employment of over 140 residents and significant tax payments.
- The Board acknowledged the company’s donations to nonprofit organizations and its safety and reliability awards.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Kachuma Lake Recreation Area
- Public comment addressed concerns regarding the 30-day quarantine period for boats tagged at Kachuma Lake.
- A speaker suggested a scanning system for boat registration to track movement and reduce restrictions on local fishermen.
- The Board stated it would monitor the situation, noting protocols were ramped up due to recent infections in other lakes.
Impoundment of Taxing Entities
- Staff explained that the mobile home park case is pending a final ruling from the California Supreme Court, expected by April 23.
- Oil and gas cases are in various stages of appeal or settlement, with funds remaining non-spendable until resolved.
- Funds would require a budget revision to be appropriated once resolved.
Fire Department Donation
- The Board publicly thanked the Santa Barbara Firefighters Alliance for a donation of approximately $75,000 worth of equipment.
- The donation is designated for the arson dog program.
Fish and Game Commission Grants
- A board member raised concerns about a grant for a pheasant hunt, questioning if it fit conservation parameters.
- Another member clarified that the program includes education on biology, habitat, and conservation, not just firearm safety.
- The Board expressed support for most grants while noting the specific concern regarding the pheasant hunt.
TEFRA Hearing for Heritage II Apartments Project
- The Board heard a TEFRA hearing regarding an $8 million tax-exempt financing for the Heritage II Apartments Project in Vandenberg Village.
- The item required re-approval because the financing was not completed within the one-year timeframe of the previous hearing.
- The Board approved the TEFRA hearing.
Northern Branch Jail Project (AB 900 Phase 1)
- The Board reviewed the preliminary staffing plan, operating cost analysis, and local vendor and labor outreach plan for the new jail facility.
- The project is on schedule and on budget with a total state-approved budget of $96.1 million, targeting construction start in late 2015.
- The Board directed General Services staff to return with options for a Project Stabilization Agreement or Project Labor Agreement to address local workforce utilization.
- The Board noted that final board approval on a PLA is needed by November to be included in the bid package.
Community Services – Citizen Participation Plan and Federal Grant Funding
- Staff presented recommendations for the draft Citizen Participation Plan and annual action plans for CDBG, HOME, and ESG grants.
- The Board approved the staff recommendations, including an amendment to reallocate $35,000 from the Kyrie All Sidewalks project to the Isla Vista Street Lighting project.
- The motion to approve the plan and funding allocations was passed.
2014 County Capital Projects
- The Board reviewed staff recommendations for the 2014 County Capital Projects.
- The Board approved the recommendations with a modification to increase the Isla Vista street lighting program by $35,000 and decrease the sidewalk project by the same amount.
- The motion passed unanimously.
Planning and Development – Land Use and Development Code Amendments
- Staff presented recommendations to amend the Land Use and Development Codes regarding build-out periods and non-conforming structures.
- The proposal allows a 10-year period for follow-on permits and relaxes restrictions on structural alterations to legal non-conforming residential structures.
- The Board approved the package with the understanding that non-conforming use versus structure issues would be further explored by the Planning Commission.
County Executive Office – Maintenance Funding Options
- Staff presented maintenance funding options, estimating an additional annual funding need between $17 million and $39 million for buildings and parks.
- The Board discussed the scale of the deferred maintenance backlog and the limitations of current funding measures.
- No motion was taken on this item as it was presented for discussion as part of the budget workshop process.
Deferred Maintenance and Capital Planning Report
- The Board accepted the report, which includes a marginal benefit analysis for funding and a maintenance plan for the new jail facility.
- A supervisor expressed support for a policy directive requiring new construction to include a 2% maintenance provision.
- The Board noted that recommendations regarding funding allocations for fiscal year 2014-2015 will be presented at budget hearings.
Closed Session
- The board scheduled a closed session for 3:00 PM to discuss labor negotiations with unrepresented employees and managers.
- The session also included performance evaluations for the Public Defender, Fire Chief, Public Works Director, and Community Services Director.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
- The Board of Supervisors convened for the April 15 meeting. A roll call was taken, confirming all members were present, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Approval of Minutes
- Motion: To approve the minutes of the April 1, 2014 meeting.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
- Motion: To approve the minutes of the budget workshops held on April 7, 8, and 9, 2014.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Public Comment
- Three members of the public addressed the Board: 1. Adam Walters: Spoke regarding his father’s care under the Public Guardian, citing issues with medication, facility conditions, and visitation restrictions. He noted that the court system had denied his request for conservatorship. Supervisor Carbajal stated that conservatorship disputes are handled by the court system, a separate branch of government. 2. Steve Rinaldo: Discussed media coverage of mental health issues, gang-related reporting, and specific legal cases, including a teen accused in a crime and federal indictments of sheriff’s deputies. He expressed concerns about pretrial paradigms established by newspaper mug shots and requested changes in reporting practices. 3. Christine Schwartz: Represented New Beginnings Counseling Center to thank the Board for considering funding for their Safe Parking Program and Community Counseling Center, acknowledging the competitive nature of the funding process.
Agenda Management
- The Clerk noted an addendum posted on Friday adding a fifth item to the departmental agenda from the County Executive Office regarding maintenance funding options.
- Motion: To move items A1 through A6 (resolutions) to the front of the agenda.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Item A1: Resolution of Commendation for Santa Barbara High School Girls Basketball Team
- Supervisor Carbajal introduced the team, staff, and coaches. The resolution recognized the team as the 2013-14 CIF SS Division III AA Champions, 2013-14 Division III Southern California Regional Champions, and CIF Division III State Champion Runner Up. It also acknowledged individual player selections to All-Channel League, All-CIF Division III, and All-Southern California teams. The resolution commended the players, coaches, parents, and supporters.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Item A3: Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as Fair Housing Month
- Supervisor Wolfe introduced representatives from the Rental Housing Mediation Task Force, Legal Aid Foundation, and the Rental Housing Roundtable. The resolution marked the 51st anniversary of the California Fair Housing Law and the 46th anniversary of the federal civil rights law. It recognized local nonprofits providing fair housing services and urged community education on housing rights. Speakers Andrea Bufano and Mickey Flax discussed the importance of fair housing laws and shared anecdotes regarding discrimination.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Item A2: Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as National County Government Month
- Supervisor Carbajal introduced Sigrid Wright from the Community Environmental Council (CEC). The resolution highlighted the theme of "Resilient Counties" and recognized the county’s efforts in sustainability, including recycling rates and emergency response systems. It also noted the county’s participation in the Earth Day celebration organized by CEC on April 26 and 27.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Item A4: Resolution Proclaiming April 2014 as DMV Donate Life Month
- Supervisor Wolfe introduced Scott Burns, a Donate Life Ambassador, and Lisa Holzman, Donation Development Coordinator. The resolution highlighted the need for organ, tissue, marrow, and blood donations, noting that over 21,000 individuals in California are on the waiting list. It encouraged residents to register as donors when renewing driver’s licenses. Speakers discussed the impact of donations and the waiting list.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Item A5: Resolution of Commendation for Animal Shelter Assistance Program (ASAP)
- Supervisor Wolfe introduced Angela Walters Rockwell and Lee Heller from ASAP. The resolution honored ASAP’s 25th anniversary, recognizing its role in reducing the euthanasia rate of adoptable cats from 90% to zero within a year of its founding in 1989. It acknowledged the partnership between the nonprofit and the county animal control agency.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Item A6: Resolution of Accommodation Honoring Veneco Inc.
- Supervisor Adam introduced representatives from Veneco Inc. The resolution recognized Veneco as the county’s largest taxpayer, citing its employment of over 140 residents, payment of approximately $4.8 million in property taxes, and over $32 million in state royalties. It also acknowledged the company’s donations to nonprofit organizations and its safety and reliability awards.
- Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Agenda Management and Public Comment on Specific Items
- Item A15 (Kachuma Lake Recreation Area): Supervisor Farr pulled this item for public comment. Whitney Wada spoke regarding the Mandatory Vessel Inspection Program and Boat Launch Protocol. She expressed concerns about the 30-day quarantine period for boats tagged at Kachuma Lake if they subsequently visited other waters, arguing it was restrictive for local fishermen. She suggested a scanning system for boat registration to track movement. Supervisor Farr responded that the Board would monitor the situation and noted that the protocols were being ramped up due to recent infections in other lakes.
- Item A12 (Impoundment of Taxing Entities): Supervisor Farr pulled this item. She inquired about the timeline for resolving outstanding impounds related to mobile home parks and fractional aircraft. Staff explained that the mobile home park case was pending a final ruling from the California Supreme Court, expected by April 23, while the oil and gas cases were in various stages of appeal or settlement. Funds remain non-spendable until resolved and would require a budget revision to appropriate.
- Item A18 (Fire Department Donation): Supervisor Lavagnino pulled this item to publicly thank the Santa Barbara Firefighters Alliance for a donation of approximately $75,000 worth of equipment for the arson dog program.
- Item A19 (Fish and Game Commission Grants): Supervisor Farr pulled this item. She expressed support for most grants but raised concerns about a grant for a pheasant hunt, questioning if it fit the grant parameters for scientific principles of conservation. Another board member clarified that the program included education on biology, habitat, and conservation, not just firearm safety.
- Motion: To approve the balance of the agenda.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Item 2: TEFRA Hearing for Heritage II Apartments Project
- The Board heard a Tax and Equity Financial Responsibility Act (TEFRA) hearing regarding an $8 million tax-exempt financing for the Heritage II Apartments Project in Vandenberg Village, issued by the California Statewide Communities Development Authority (CSCDA). The item had been previously heard in May but required re-approval because the financing was not completed within the one-year timeframe.
- Motion: To approve the TEFRA hearing.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Item 1: Northern Branch Jail Project (AB 900 Phase 1)
- The Board addressed a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the Northern Branch Jail Project, including the approval of a preliminary staffing plan, operating cost analysis, and a local vendor and labor outreach plan.
Historical Context and Funding Overview
- Sheriff Brown provided a historical overview of jail overcrowding in Santa Barbara County, noting that the issue has persisted for over 30 years. He detailed previous efforts to address capacity, including the failed U-2000 ballot measure (2000), the conversion of the Honor Farm dormitory to a medium-security facility (2006), and the convening of a Blue Ribbon Commission (2007). The Sheriff explained that the county initially received a conditional AB 900 Phase 1 award of $56.3 million in 2008 but relinquished it due to the inability to meet the 25% cash match requirement during the recession. Subsequently, the county applied for and received an AB 900 Phase 2 conditional award of $80 million in 2012, requiring a 10% county match. Additionally, the county received a conditional SB 1022 award of $38.9 million for the STAR (Sheriff’s Treatment and Reentry) complex, also with a 10% match. The Sheriff stated that the current presentation focuses on the AB 900 phase, with efforts underway to align the SB 1022 project with the AB 900 timeline.
Project Status and Design Development
- General Services Director Matt Pontes reported that the facility design is ongoing. Architectural programming and schematic design are complete and approved by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSEC). Design development has been submitted for BSEC review, and value engineering workshops have been conducted. The project is currently entering the construction documentation phase and is reported to be on schedule and on budget. The total state-approved budget is $96.1 million. Key future milestones include State Public Works Board approval, Board approval of plans and specifications, and contract award, with construction targeted to start in late 2015 and complete in 2018.
Site Plan and Facility Layout
- The Sheriff presented the site plan, noting that the AB 900 facility is bounded by Bellerive Avenue and Black Road. The orientation accounts for agricultural fumigant buffers, wildlife corridors, and future expansion potential up to 1,500 beds. The STAR complex is planned for the northern portion of the site. The Executive Oversight Committee has reviewed and approved the site plan.
- The Sheriff described the interior layout, which centers around a main corridor supporting inmate holding areas, central control, administration, food service, intake, health services, and housing units. He contrasted the new podular design with the existing linear and dormitory-style facilities, highlighting that the new design incorporates direct supervision modules, increased glazing for visibility, and resource rooms (multi-purpose, video visitation, medical) within each pod to reduce inmate movement and escort needs. The Sheriff stated that approximately 65% of the facility will use a direct supervision model, where deputies are stationed within the housing units, while 35% will use indirect supervision.
Architectural Aesthetics and Exterior Design
- The Sheriff and Director Pontes discussed the exterior design, which aims to avoid an institutional appearance by incorporating a mission-style theme suggested by the Board of Architectural Review. This includes a facade with a tower element. Supervisor Wolf questioned the functional necessity of the tower, noting a $60,000 construction cost, and suggested the funds be redirected to mental health staffing. The Sheriff explained that the tower serves as a visual orientation point for the entrance and is integral to the mission theme, which symbolizes redemption. He noted that because 90% of the project is state-funded, the county’s share of the tower cost is approximately $6,000. Supervisor Adam and Supervisor Carbajal expressed support for the aesthetic design, noting it improves the facility's appearance for the community. Supervisor Farr and Supervisor Wolf raised concerns about the lack of solar photovoltaic panels for electricity generation, noting that only solar hot water heating is currently included due to budget constraints. Director Pontes stated that the team is evaluating options for solar arrays, including covered parking and dual-use agricultural panels, but the current budget does not support full implementation. Supervisor Farr expressed disappointment that the design did not maximize energy offset capabilities.
Sustainability and LEED Certification
- Director Pontes reported that the project is attaining a LEED Silver rating. Sustainability features include energy-efficient systems, recycled water usage, natural lighting strategies, and recycled content in building materials. The facility includes solar hot water heating, and infrastructure is in place for future photovoltaic panels. Estimates suggest that a 6.25-acre solar array could offset the facility's energy consumption (approx. 2.516 MW) at a cost of roughly $6 million, with a payback period of 10–12 years.
Local Vendor and Labor Outreach
- Kitchell, the construction management firm, presented a local vendor and labor outreach study. The study aims to maximize local participation in goods and services procurement in compliance with the California Public Contracts Code. Outreach has been conducted with local contractors associations. The plan includes requiring prospective bidders to submit local participation plans as a condition of prequalification. Supervisor Carbajal requested that local vendor procurement and local labor issues be treated as distinct items. She expressed a desire for the Board to provide direction on implementing a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) or Project Stabilization Agreement (PSA) to ensure a steady skilled workforce and prevent labor unrest delays. Councilor Ronaldo explained that a PSA is a legal option supported by California Supreme Court precedent and is distinct from local hire provisions in bid documents. He recommended that if the Board directs the pursuit of a PSA, it should follow the framework established in the 1999 California Supreme Court case. Supervisor Carbajal stated that there is a limited timeframe to negotiate such an agreement to meet the project timeline. Chair Lavagnino noted the complexity of addressing staffing, financing, and labor outreach in a single hearing and indicated that the Board would consider providing direction for General Services to return with a presentation on workforce agreements.
Local Vendor and Labor Outreach (Continued)
- The presentation detailed the evaluation of detention cell construction options, balancing cost, quality, schedule, space efficiency, and local labor participation. Options included site-constructed concrete masonry, manufactured modular cells, and metal detention panels. The team selected metal detention panels assembled on-site, citing benefits such as thinner wall thickness, high quality, and opportunities for local steel erectors, welders, and finish trades. The presentation noted that while precast/premanufactured cells rated highest in quality, the selection favored local assembly and infrastructure build-out.
Staffing Model and Requirements
- The Sheriff’s Department presented a staffing summary indicating a need for 124 custody personnel and 5 general services personnel. This includes an increase of four custody deputy positions compared to original estimates, based on reviews by Liebert & Associates and department staff. The breakdown includes one custody commander, three lieutenants, seven sergeants, seven special duty custody deputies, 73 custody deputies, seven utility workers, 17 administrative staff, and 12 other civilian staff. The presentation clarified that "Park Ranger" titles refer to grounds maintenance workers. It was noted that the Public Employees’ Retirement Reform Act (PEPRA) reduced per-employee costs, resulting in an overall cost estimate lower than originally anticipated despite the additional staff.
Operational Scenarios and Safety
- Discussion addressed operational safety, specifically response protocols in direct supervision pods. Lieutenant Meter explained that response times are rapid due to localized sub-control rooms, closed-circuit TV monitoring, and portable radios. Staff can leave low-level dormitory units to respond to emergencies in other areas. The Sheriff noted that the AB 900 facility design allows for fewer staff per inmate compared to the existing facility due to modern design efficiencies.
Hiring Timeline and Training
- The presentation outlined a four-fiscal-year hiring plan to reach the required staffing levels by the facility’s opening. The process involves recruitment, testing, background investigations, a 10-week academy, and five months of on-site training, totaling approximately 14 months per hire. The Sheriff’s Department indicated that hiring would begin in fiscal year 2015-16, with subsequent cohorts in 2016-17 and 2017-18. The department is also exploring the creation of a non-sworn "Sheriff’s Service Technician" job class for roles without direct inmate contact to potentially reduce costs.
Financial Impact and Funding Plan
- The presentation reviewed the operational cost analysis for AB 900 Phase 1, estimating additional costs of approximately $15.8 million for fiscal years 2016-17 through 2018-19, after accounting for transferred personnel and costs from the existing South County facility. The total estimated operating cost is approximately $20 million. The funding plan involves carving out a portion of general fund growth over 12 years to build a reserve fund. Due to the accelerated hiring timeline and the addition of SB 1022 (STAR) facility considerations, the Sheriff’s Department indicated that the funding plan may need modification, potentially increasing annual carve-outs by $200,000 in certain years to cover an estimated $1.8 million shortfall in transition costs. The CEO’s office confirmed that the revised transition plan requires earlier hiring, resulting in higher transition costs than previously modeled, but these funds would not be needed until after the jail opens.
Measure M and Budget Concerns
- Supervisors raised concerns regarding the impact of Measure M on the general fund, which is the primary source for jail operations. The Sheriff expressed concern that Measure M could have a detrimental impact on the general fund. Supervisors requested clarification on how transition costs, backfilling for existing staff, and the integration of the STAR facility would affect the overall budget. The Sheriff’s Department stated that the jail system should be viewed as a whole rather than three separate facilities, and that an updated funding cash flow analysis would be provided when the SB 1022 concept is presented.
State Submissions and Compliance
- The presentation listed required submissions to the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) for AB 900 compliance, including design development drawings and the operational program statement. Staff requested authority to continue making these submissions as necessary. The Board would need to approve items requiring board action in accordance with county policy and state requirements.
Timeline and Next Steps
- The timeline indicated that after board approval, the State Public Works Board would review construction documents. The Board would then need to approve plans and specifications and grant permission to bid, with this action anticipated for November. The Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the preliminary staffing plan, including the accelerated staffing proposal, would be submitted to the state as part of the AB 900 compliance process.
Project Labor Agreement (PLA)
- Discussion turned to the Project Labor Agreement (PLA). The County’s legal counsel noted that final board approval on a PLA is needed by November to be included in the bid package, and recommended that the Board provide direction on key terms sooner to allow for negotiation. Supervisors discussed the timing and the need for an independent analysis of the PLA’s impact on local hiring and costs.
CEQA Review
- The presentation noted that the Board of Supervisors certified a final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in 2008 for the site acquisition and jail construction. Addenda were considered in 2011 for the AB 900 project and in 2013 for the SB 1022 STAR extension. Staff recommended that the Board determine that no further CEQA review is required for the current approval, as there have been no scope changes since the 2013 action.
Public Comment
- The Chair announced 14 requests for public comment, with speakers limited to three minutes each. Comments began in Santa Maria.
- Andy Caldwell (Colab): Representing Colab, Caldwell stated that the project should have been initiated 30 years ago. He urged the Board to proceed with the project, noting that 90% of funding comes from the state. He expressed support for a local hire program but requested an independent analysis of the PLA to ensure it creates a level playing field for both union and non-union contractors and does not become a "deal killer" for the project.
- Joe Armendariz (Santa Barbara County Taxpayers Association): Armendariz congratulated the Sheriff on securing funding. He opposed the inclusion of a PLA, citing studies suggesting PLAs increase construction costs by 18-20% and create barriers for non-union contractors. He argued that taxpayer dollars should not be used in a way that drives up costs through politically motivated agreements.
- Tim Bennett (Business Agent, IVW Local 413; Trustee, Allan Hancock College): Bennett supported a local construction workforce agreement, citing negative experiences at Allan Hancock College where out-of-area contractors were used for over $100 million in projects. He urged the Board to keep revenue and jobs local.
- Additional Public Comment: Public comment was received regarding the proposed Project Labor Agreement (PLA) or Construction Workforce Agreement for the jail project. Speakers in favor of the agreement cited benefits such as increased local hiring, retention of local tax dollars, improved safety, reduced project delays, and opportunities for local apprenticeships. Speakers opposed to the agreement cited increased project costs, reduced competition from non-union contractors, and potential legal liabilities associated with union pension funds. One speaker representing the St. Nisban of Chumash Indians raised concerns regarding the adequacy of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) concerning archaeological sensitivity at the proposed site, requesting additional studies prior to project commencement.
Board Deliberation and Motion
- Supervisor Carbajal moved to direct General Services staff to return to the board with a Project Stabilization Agreement framework or PLA options regarding the utilization of the local construction workforce. The motion was seconded.
- Supervisor Lavagnino stated that the board would consider the most qualified individuals for the project and noted that prevailing wage laws apply regardless of union status. He indicated an open mind regarding the specific terms of the agreement, focusing on cost-effectiveness and worker access.
Vote Outcome
- The motion to direct staff to return with PLA options was passed unanimously.
Closed Session Notice
- The board scheduled a closed session for 3:00 PM to discuss labor negotiations with unrepresented employees and managers, and to conduct performance evaluations for the Public Defender, Fire Chief, Public Works Director, and Community Services Director.
Agenda Item 3: Community Services – Citizen Participation Plan and Federal Grant Funding
- Staff presented recommendations for the draft Citizen Participation Plan for fiscal years 2014–2015 and annual action plans for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). Key points included:
- HOME Funds: $843,744 available for eligible projects; $246,765 allocated to the City of Santa Maria for tenant-based rental assistance.
- CDBG Funds: $1,011,931 available for capital projects and $151,020 available for public services.
- ESG Funds: $117,285 available for homelessness programs.
- Citizen Participation Plan Revisions: Proposed changes include requiring action plan amendments only for funding increases of 50% or more, allowing flexibility in public notification methods (e.g., library distribution instead of newspaper ads), and permitting year-round acceptance of HOME applications.
Board Discussion and Amendments
- Supervisor Carbajal inquired about the decision-making process for capital projects, noting that the Capital Loan Committee reviewed applications. She questioned why the Lompoc Vets Memorial Building received less than requested; staff explained that a portion of the request (window coverings) was ineligible for CDBG funding as it was classified as furnishings and equipment.
- Supervisor Farr proposed an amendment to the CDBG capital project funding list. She requested that $35,000 be reallocated from the "Kyrie All Sidewalks" project to the "Isla Vista Street Lighting" project to complete the street lighting upsizing. Public Works staff confirmed that combining the sidewalk phases into a single bid could result in cost savings sufficient to absorb the $35,000 reduction, allowing the sidewalk project to proceed without delay. Supervisor Wolfe expressed concern about the impact on the sidewalk project but accepted the Public Works explanation regarding cost savings from combined bidding.
Motion and Vote Outcome
- The board approved the staff recommendations for the Citizen Participation Plan revisions and the federal grant funding allocations, including the amendment to reallocate $35,000 from the Kyrie All Sidewalks project to the Isla Vista Street Lighting project. The motion was passed.
Agenda Item 3: 2014 County Capital Projects
- Discussion: The board reviewed staff recommendations for the 2014 County Capital Projects.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve staff’s recommendations with a modification: increasing the Isla Vista street lighting program by $35,000 and decreasing the County Public Works sidewalk project by $35,000, with the understanding that the sidewalk project would still be completed.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Decision: The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 4: Planning and Development – Land Use and Development Code Amendments
- Discussion: Staff presented recommendations from the County and Montecito Planning Commissions to amend the County and Montecito Land Use and Development Codes and the Article 2 Coastal Zoning Ordinance. The amendments address 20 issue areas, with specific revisions recommended for two areas: maximum build-out periods for phased conditional use permits/development plans and structural alterations to non-conforming structures.
- Build-out Periods: The proposal allows a 10-year period for follow-on permits, extendable by the Planning Commission for projects relying on fundraising.
- Non-conforming Structures: The proposal relaxes restrictions on structural alterations to legal non-conforming residential structures, allowing alterations that do not extend beyond the existing exterior footprint. It also codifies procedures for unpermitted structural alterations, requiring removal or demolition if a permit cannot be issued.
- Public Comment: One speaker expressed concern regarding the requirement to demolish or alter structures if rights to continue non-conforming use terminate, arguing that older structures should be legalized rather than forced into demolition.
- Board Discussion: Board members discussed the distinction between non-conforming uses and non-conforming structures. Concerns were raised about the difficulty of separating use from structure in enforcement. Staff clarified that the current proposal only affects residential structures and that a workshop with the Planning Commission is planned to address broader non-conforming issues, including commercial and agricultural structures.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve the package as presented, with the understanding that the issue of non-conforming uses versus structures would be further explored by the Planning Commission.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Decision: The motion passed.
Agenda Item 5: County Executive Office – Maintenance Funding Options
- Discussion: Staff presented a continuation of the FY 2014-16 budget development workshops, focusing on maintenance funding options.
- Funding Needs: Based on a preliminary facility condition assessment by consultant Jorgensen, annual renewal funding needs are estimated between $22 million and $44 million (excluding roads). After deducting current spending, the additional annual funding need is estimated between $17 million and $39 million, with a midpoint of approximately $28 million.
- Roads: An additional $9 million annually is needed for road maintenance, separate from the building/park figures.
- Options Presented: Staff outlined several funding scenarios, including:
- 1. Maintaining existing funding levels plus 50% of year-end savings and one-time funding. 2. A 10-year straight-line increase in funding. 3. An accelerating contribution model (increasing annual amounts). 4. Allocating 10%, 15%, 25%, or 50% of unallocated general fund growth to maintenance.
- Observations: Near-term funding is limited. A phased approach is feasible. One-time funding can augment early years. Higher percentages of growth allocation reach funding targets faster but limit other funding opportunities.
- Next Steps: For FY 2014-15, the board will consider available one-time funding, year-end savings, and ongoing unallocated general funds. Potential uses include additional road funding and a pilot preventative maintenance program for General Services and Parks (estimated cost $1.4 million).
- Board Discussion: Board members discussed the scale of the deferred maintenance backlog (approximately $244 million for roads, buildings, and parks) and the limitations of current funding measures. One member suggested exploring revenue generation from park spaces to offset maintenance costs. Another member noted that even with proposed measures, the backlog remains significant and requires a comprehensive plan.
- Decision: No motion was taken on this item in this segment; it was presented for discussion as part of the budget workshop process.
Agenda Item: Deferred Maintenance and Capital Planning Report
- Discussion:
- Marginal Benefits of Funding: A speaker noted that while the cost-benefit analysis for repairing underutilized or severely damaged buildings may not justify repair, there is a marginal benefit to maintaining roads. It was stated that funding at the industry minimum level of 2% would provide incidental marginal improvements to the $94 million maintenance backlog by preventing the need for repeated maintenance tasks. A consultant was asked to quantify this marginal benefit regarding parks and buildings.
- Jail Facility Maintenance Plan: A supervisor inquired whether the maintenance plan for the new jail facility, the district’s largest capital project, fully covers necessary costs to prevent adding to the backlog. The CEO responded that the operating cost proposal includes approximately $725,000 for maintenance staff and materials. It was noted that this amount falls below the 2% to 4% range identified in the consultant’s analysis. The CEO’s office requested further specific information to determine if the proposed amount is sufficient for a new facility of this type.
- Policy Directive Proposal: A supervisor expressed support for a policy directive requiring that any new construction include a 2% maintenance provision to avoid future financial issues.
- Timeline and Next Steps:
- Recommendations regarding funding allocations for fiscal year 2014-2015, including potential "strike teams" for one-time funding needs, will be presented at budget hearings.
- The remainder of the consultant’s report (approximately 3,500 pages, building-by-building analysis) is expected to be presented in May.
- Funding discussions are anticipated to continue primarily during the budget process.
- Budget Principles: A supervisor asked for clarification on current budget principles regarding deferred maintenance and capital. The CEO confirmed that current recommended levels are $1.3 million for general services, $500,000 for roads, and $500,000 for parks. These amounts are reflected in the 2014-2015 recommended budget, with further funding plans to be determined upon receipt of the final report.
- Motion: To accept the report.
- Second: Seconded.
- Vote Outcome: Passed (Aye).
Adjournment
- The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 9:00 AM in Santa Maria.