Board of Supervisors — 2018-01-23

Appointment of 2018 Chair and Vice-Chair

• The board nominated Supervisor Williams as Chair and Supervisor Lavagnino as Vice-Chair for 2018.
• The appointments cover the Board of Supervisors, Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Water Agency, and In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority.
• The motion to approve these nominations passed.

CEO’s Report and Thomas Flood Emergency Update

• Staff reported that building officials are inspecting 166 destroyed and 391 damaged structures in Montecito.
• Local Assistance Centers remain open until February 3, with plans to transition to a smaller, targeted recovery center.
• Over 62,000 cubic yards of debris have been removed, and schools are reopening with some students returning to original campuses.
• The board inquired about mental health support for first responders and debris disposal logistics.

Item A-12: 2-1-1 Helpline Agreement

• The board reviewed the fourth amendment to the agreement with the Community Action Commission for the 2-1-1 helpline.
• The amendment involves an $80,000 General Fund contribution to support the "one-stop shopping" resource.
• The motion to approve the agreement passed 4-1.

Item A-19: Disaster Relief and Transportation Reimbursement

• The board approved a disaster relief program allowing employees to be reimbursed for alternative transportation modes used due to the natural disaster.
• Reimbursement is capped at $35 per diem for modes such as trains, ferries, or long-distance driving.
• Staff confirmed that board action was required to ensure IRS compliance and protect employees during the state of emergency.

Departmental Item D-1: Board Appointments

• The board reviewed and approved consensus positions for appointments to various boards, commissions, and committees.
• Specific assignments include Supervisor Williams serving on the Behavioral Wellness Commission and Area Agency on Aging.
• Supervisor Hartmann was appointed to the Law Library Board of Trustees and as Chair of the Kids Network Policy Council.
• Supervisor Wolf was assigned to the Retirement Board and Juvenile Justice Coordination Council.

Departmental Item D-2: Cannabis Taxation

• Staff presented a proposed cannabis operations tax for the June 2018 ballot, applying to gross receipts in the unincorporated area.
• The board adopted Option 2 tax rates, modifying the manufacturing rate to 3% to remain competitive with neighboring jurisdictions.
• The board directed staff to return on February 6 with options for both general and special tax structures.
• The decision on the licensing ordinance was moved to March 20 to allow the land use ordinance to be resolved first.

Renew 2022 Initiative

• Staff presented a strategic plan to align revenues and expenditures, focusing on efficiency, cost savings, and organizational resilience.
• Proposals included exploring a general purpose sales tax, hybrid retirement models, and public-private partnerships at Cachuma Lake.
• The board provided conceptual direction to maintain Human Services Commission grants while staff prepares options for the Notice of Funding Availability.
• The board requested a prioritized plan for implementation by April, focusing on ease of implementation and return on investment.

Closed Session

• The board convened in closed session to discuss existing litigation involving Gamlowski, McCrory, and Purter.
• A conference was held with legal counsel regarding significant litigation exposure.
• The board met with labor negotiators for employee organizations.

Meeting Start and Pledge

• The meeting was called to order by Chair Joan Hartmann. The roll was called, confirming all supervisors were present. The board stood for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Appointment of 2018 Chair and Vice-Chair

• A motion was made and seconded to nominate Supervisor Williams as Chair and Supervisor Lavagnino as Vice-Chair for the 2018 Board of Supervisors, the Board of Directors of the Flood Control and Water Conservation District, the Board of Directors of the Water Agency, the Board of Directors of the In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority, and the successor agency to the former Santa Barbara County Redevelopment Agency. The motion passed.

Remarks by Outgoing Chair

• Chair Hartmann provided remarks reflecting on her tenure, highlighting county responses to natural disasters (including the Thomas Fire and Montecito flood), the implementation of the Renew 2022 initiative, and the performance of county departments. She emphasized themes of coordination, communication, and learning from disaster responses.

Remarks by Incoming Chair and Moment of Silence

• Supervisor Williams (now Chair) provided remarks on the importance of community resilience and government service during disasters. A moment of silence was held for victims of recent disasters, and their names were read. A musical performance followed.

Approval of Minutes

• A motion was made to approve the minutes. The motion passed.

CEO’s Report and Thomas Flood Emergency Update

• CEO Mona Miyasato introduced Rob Lewin, who provided a status update on the Thomas Flood emergency. Key points included:
• Building officials are inspecting 166 destroyed and 391 damaged structures.
• Two areas of Montecito were opened to residents; further evacuations are being lifted as conditions allow.
• 62,274 cubic yards of debris have been removed; 10% of debris basins are cleared.
• Local Assistance Centers (LAC) remain open until February 3, with plans to transition to a smaller, targeted recovery center.
• Schools are open, with some students expected to return to their original schools within the week.
• Animal services are caring for over 250 animals.
• Utilities are coming online.
• Supervisors asked about the transition of the LAC, mental health support for first responders, and debris disposal. Staff confirmed plans for a recovery-phase center and noted that FEMA/State grants are being pursued for mental health first aid services.

Administrative Agenda Items

Item A-10: Sheriff’s Stepping Up Initiative

• The item was withdrawn from the agenda.

Item A-12: 2-1-1 Helpline Agreement

• The item concerned the fourth amendment to an agreement with the Community Action Commission for the 2-1-1 helpline, involving an $80,000 General Fund contribution.
• Supervisor Adam requested a roll-call vote, expressing concern over the cost.
• Supervisor Hartmann supported the helpline as a "one-stop shopping" resource but acknowledged cost concerns, committing to seek additional funding from cities.
• Supervisor Wolf highlighted the helpline's utility during recent disasters and noted contributions from other agencies and cities.
• Supervisor Lavagnino viewed the cost as a good investment for accessing county services.
• A motion was made to approve the item. The motion passed 4-1.

Item A-19: Disaster Relief and Transportation Reimbursement

• The item proposed a disaster relief program and transportation reimbursement for employees who used alternative modes of transport (e.g., train, ferry, driving long distances) due to the natural disaster.
• Supervisor Wolf asked if employees who drove via Highway 166 or 46 were eligible; staff confirmed any alternative transportation outside the normal mode was eligible, capped at $35 per diem.
• Supervisor Wolf asked if the CEO could have authorized this without board action during the state of emergency; staff explained that board action was recommended to ensure IRS compliance and protect employees.
• Supervisor Wolf asked about hotel stays; staff noted department heads had discretion to reimburse these, and FEMA individual assistance might also cover them.
• A motion was made to approve the balance of the agenda, excluding A-10 (withdrawn) and A-12 (already voted on). The motion to approve the balance of the agenda (including A-19) passed.

Public Comment

• Several members of the public addressed the board:
• William Wagoner: Suggested the county buy out destroyed home lots at full market value to create a memorial park and prevent rebuilding in unsafe areas. He also raised concerns about fraudulent land records and called for the removal of a specific judge.
• Brandon Morris: Referenced a 1967 county report on wildfire threats and recommended control burning and hazard reduction. He criticized the board's handling of transportation issues and roundabouts.
• Scott Wenz: Criticized road narrowing and roundabouts, citing traffic issues during emergencies and the cost of rail projects.
• Ed Kolaski: Expressed frustration with the planning process regarding his home remodel, alleging he was "kicked out" of a review meeting and that the process was corrupt.
• Michael Warnken: Raised concerns about judicial misconduct, specifically regarding a judge setting unaffordable child support and jailing a non-payer. He alleged corruption in the judiciary and called for oversight.
• Brandon Morris (again): Spoke on judicial oversight, alleging perjury by sheriff's deputies in a case he was involved in and criticizing the Public Defender's Office.
• Renee O'Neill: Commended the county's disaster response and urged support for fuels reduction projects in wildlands. She also supported the idea of a memorial in Montecito.

Departmental Item D-1: Board Appointments

• The board reviewed appointments to various boards, commissions, and committees:
• Behavioral Wellness Commission: Supervisor Williams to continue.
• Area Agency on Aging: Supervisor Williams to continue; Supervisor Lavagnino to serve.
• Library Advisory Committee: Supervisor Williams to continue.
• Retirement Board: Supervisor Wolf to continue; Supervisor Adam to serve.
• Community Action Commission: Supervisor Williams to continue; Supervisor Hartmann to serve as alternate.
• SENCAL: Supervisor Wolf to step down; Supervisor Hartmann to serve.
• Central Coast Collaborative: Supervisor Lavagnino to continue.
• Law Library Board of Trustees: Supervisor Hartmann to serve.
• Kids Network Policy Council: Supervisor Hartmann to serve as Chair; Supervisor Adam to serve as Vice-Chair.
• Legislative Program Committee: Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Lavagnino to continue.
• Debt Advisory Committee: Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Lavagnino to continue.
• Adult and Aging Network: Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Hartmann to continue.
• Juvenile Justice Coordination Council: Supervisor Wolf to continue as South County regular member.
• First Five: Supervisor Hartmann to continue; Supervisor Williams to serve as alternate.
• Multijurisdictional Solid Waste Task Force: Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Hartmann to continue.
• Indian Gaming Local Community Benefit Committee: Supervisor Williams to continue.
• CSAC: Supervisor Adam to serve as alternate.
• Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act Board: Supervisor Lavagnino to continue.
• Child Care Planning Council: Supervisor Wolf to continue (noted for addition to next year's list).
• A motion was made to approve the consensus positions on appointments. The motion passed.

Departmental Item D-2: Cannabis Taxation

• Staff presented an update on the development of a cannabis operations tax for the June 2018 ballot, referencing decisions made in December 2017. Staff outlined the following consensus points from the previous meeting:
• The tax would be placed on the June 2018 ballot.
• The tax basis would be gross receipts of various operator types.
• No "not-to-exceed" rate or sunset date was desired.
• Taxes would apply equally to medicinal and nonmedicinal operations.
• The tax would apply only to operations in the unincorporated area.
• The Auditor-Controller was directed to prepare a fiscal impact statement.
• Staff presented two remaining decision points for the Board: 1. Tax Rates by License Type: Staff recommended "Option 2," a revised version of the December proposal. This option includes:
• Nursery and Distributor: 1% of gross receipts (reduced from 2% in the original proposal).
• Cultivator: 4% of gross receipts.
• Manufacturer: 4% of gross receipts (reduced from 6% in the original proposal).
• A vertical integration cap of 8% for vertically integrated operations.
• Staff noted that the reduction in nursery and distributor rates would result in an estimated revenue decrease of approximately $300,000 compared to the original proposal.
• 2. Tax Type: Staff recommended a General Tax Measure. Staff explained that a Special Tax Measure would require the Board to specify spending priorities and would require a two-thirds plus one voter approval, whereas a General Tax Measure requires a simple majority. Staff recommended the General Tax Measure to avoid the higher threshold and the requirement to designate specific uses for the revenue.

Banking, Treasury, and Accounting Issues

• Jennifer Christensen, Chief Investment Officer for the County, presented on the challenges of banking cannabis revenue due to federal banking laws and the rescission of the Cole Memo.
• Segregation of Funds: Staff recommended segregating cannabis revenue into a separate banking account to mitigate fiduciary risks for the County and other pool participants (schools, special districts).
• Financial Institution: The County is currently working to identify a suitable chartered and insured financial institution willing to accept cannabis revenue. Staff noted that the State of California has shifted this risk to local jurisdictions.
• Accounting Infrastructure: The Auditor-Controller noted that the County’s accounting systems are currently set up for a single financial institution. Implementing a second institution would require duplicating accounting infrastructure, including general ledger accounts, warrant reconciliation, and disbursement systems.
• Licensing Ordinance Delay: The Treasurer’s Office requested a delay in bringing the licensing ordinance to the Board until March 20, 2018, to allow time to coordinate with other departments (Sheriff, Planning, Ag Commissioner) on the administrative details of the licensing process. Staff clarified that this delay would not impact the timeline for the tax ballot measure.
• Jurisdictional Context: Staff noted that the State Treasurer’s office was not aware of other jurisdictions segregating cannabis funds, though the State is implementing a system where distributors collect taxes and deposit them via armored car to the Federal Reserve. Staff emphasized that the County’s role as a fiduciary differs from the State’s role.

Board Discussion

• Timeline and Process: Board members discussed the tension between the need for revenue for enforcement and the desire to ensure the land use and licensing frameworks are fully developed. Some members expressed concern that moving forward with the tax before the land use ordinance is finalized could lead to unintended consequences or insufficient regulatory control. Others argued that delaying the tax to November would deprive the County of necessary revenue for public safety and enforcement, exacerbating issues in affected communities.
• Tax Rates: Questions were raised regarding the reduction of the manufacturing tax rate from 6% to 4% and the nursery/distributor rate to 1%. Staff explained that the changes were made in consultation with industry to create a more competitive rate structure and to align with the vertical integration cap. One member questioned the competitive impact of lower tax rates compared to neighboring jurisdictions (e.g., Lompoc, which has no proposed tax).
• Legal and Banking Risks: The County Counsel noted that the legal landscape is evolving due to federal prohibitions and the rescission of the Cole Memo. The recommendation to segregate funds was based on fiduciary duties to protect the County and other pool participants from potential federal liability.
• Ballot Deadline: The County Counsel clarified that to place the measure on the June 2018 ballot, the Board must complete the second reading by February 13, 2018. The first reading is scheduled for February 6, 2018. The Board cannot withdraw the measure once it is placed on the ballot.

Public Comment

• Public testimony was received from multiple individuals regarding cannabis taxation, licensing, and land use regulations.
• Taxation and Market Impact: Several speakers, representing the Santa Barbara County Libertarian Party, industry operators, and prospective businesses, expressed concerns that high tax rates (particularly on manufacturing and distribution) would drive businesses to neighboring jurisdictions with lower rates (e.g., Los Angeles, Lompoc). Speakers argued that competitive tax rates are necessary to keep revenue within the county and prevent a shift to the black market. Some speakers advocated for a 3% cultivation tax rate to remain competitive, while others supported the proposed Option 2 rates.
• Medical Access: Speakers representing patients and medical cannabis producers emphasized the need for affordable access to life-sustaining medication. They argued that high taxes could force patients into the black market or make medication unaffordable. One speaker requested a permit to operate a state-licensed topical cannabis business in the unincorporated area.
• Land Use and EDRNs: Multiple speakers raised concerns about the Environmental Designation for Rural Neighborhoods (EDRN) provisions in the Environmental Impact Report (EIR). They argued that requiring Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) for cannabis operations accessing land through EDRNs was an attempt to obstruct cultivation in Agricultural (Ag-1) zones. Speakers cited state law (SB 94) regarding access on public roads and argued that EDRNs are intended to prevent residential expansion into agricultural land, not to block agriculture.
• Enforcement and Revenue Allocation: Speakers discussed the need for robust enforcement against illegal growers, particularly in remote areas like Temecula Canyon and Sabata Canyon. There was debate regarding whether tax revenue should be designated for specific uses (special tax) or placed in the general fund. Some speakers supported a special tax with funds dedicated to law enforcement, public health, and behavioral wellness, while others preferred a general tax to allow flexibility in the budget process.
• Countywide vs. Unincorporated Area: Discussion arose regarding whether the tax ordinance should apply countywide or only to the unincorporated area. Concerns were raised about the impact on cities that have already implemented their own taxes, with suggestions for "hold harmless" provisions to avoid double taxation or competitive disadvantage for cities.

Deliberation and Motions

• Following public comment, the Board reconvened for deliberation. Staff clarified that the Board had two primary decision points: the tax rates and whether the tax would be a general or special tax. Staff noted that the ordinance could be drafted to allow the Board to withdraw or ban cannabis after an election if the measure failed.
• Discussion on Tax Structure: The Board discussed the implications of a general tax versus a special tax. A general tax would allow the Board to allocate funds through the standard budget process, while a special tax would require voter approval for specific uses and carry a higher vote threshold. Some members expressed concern that a special tax posed a higher risk of failure, potentially jeopardizing revenue needed for enforcement. Others argued that a special tax provided necessary accountability and public trust.
• Discussion on Tax Rates: The Board discussed the proposed tax rates, specifically the manufacturing rate. Some members argued for lowering the manufacturing tax rate to remain competitive with neighboring jurisdictions and to capture revenue from vertically integrated businesses. Others supported maintaining higher rates to ensure sufficient revenue for county services.
• Discussion on Jurisdiction: The Board discussed the possibility of a countywide tax ordinance. Staff noted that the statute allows the Board to specify whether the tax applies countywide or only to the unincorporated area. Concerns were raised about the impact on cities with existing taxes, and staff suggested exploring "hold harmless" provisions to prevent double taxation.

Motions and Votes

• 1. Motion on Tax Rates:
• Motion: To adopt Option 2 tax rates, with the manufacturing tax rate changed to 3%.
• Second: Seconded.
• Discussion: The Board discussed the rationale for changing the manufacturing rate, citing competitiveness and the need to capture revenue from vertically integrated businesses.
• Vote: Passed (4-1).
• 2. Motion on Tax Structure and Timeline:
• Motion: To direct staff to return on February 6th, after the land use ordinance decision, to provide options for both a general tax and a special tax, including consideration of a countywide application with "hold harmless" provisions for cities.
• Second: Seconded.
• Discussion: The Board discussed the need to make a decision on the tax structure after hearing from the Planning Commission on the land use ordinance. Staff confirmed they could prepare both options for the Board's consideration on February 6th.
• Vote: Passed (Unanimous).
• 3. Motion on Licensing Ordinance Timeline:
• Motion: To move the decision on the licensing ordinance (Item A-15) to March 20th, allowing the land use ordinance to be decided first on February 6th.
• Second: Seconded.
• Discussion: The Board discussed the sequencing of decisions, agreeing that the land use ordinance should be resolved before finalizing the licensing ordinance.
• Vote: Passed (Unanimous).

Closed Session

• The Board announced a closed session to discuss existing litigation (Gamlowski, McCrory & Purter), a conference with legal counsel regarding significant litigation exposure, and a conference with labor negotiators for employee organizations. The estimated duration was 90 minutes.

Other Business

Montecito Recovery Update

• A speaker provided an update on the recovery efforts in Montecito following the mudslides and debris flows. They described the initial response, including the opening of roadways and drainage channels, and the ongoing work to restore utilities, clear debris, and evaluate bridges. The speaker highlighted the collaborative effort of various agencies and community members in the recovery process.

Recovery Status Update

• Speakers provided a status update on recovery efforts approximately two weeks after a mud flow and debris event. The discussion noted that heavy equipment is still active, and initial impacts included houses being wiped off foundations. Current efforts focus on expanding drainage channel capacity, which remains constrained by debris, and restoring bridge capacity. Roads are largely open to full width, but signage and striping are missing and require replacement. State and county bridges require safety evaluations. Utilities (water, power, gas) need to be restored, and debris clearance is ongoing to facilitate homeowner recovery.
• Speakers described the initial emergency response, noting that calls for a vegetation fire in Montecito around 3 AM were later identified as a structure fire. The Montecito Fire Department was unable to respond due to mud flow and debris, preventing other agencies and resources from reaching the site. An active rescue operation required the opening of roadways through mud and boulders to allow access and visibility.

Legal and Labor Matters

• A report was presented regarding the cases McCrory v. County of Santa Barbara and Percher v. County of Santa Barbara. The report noted a conference with legal counsel concerning significant exposure to civil litigation in one case. Additionally, a conference with labor negotiators was held concerning all bargaining units, represented employees, managers, and executives. No reportable actions were taken.

Renew 2022 Initiative

• A presentation was given on the Renew 2022 initiative, which began in 2016 in response to pension and salary cost increases and uncertain state and federal revenues. The initiative aims to align revenues and expenditures, define work processes, and improve organizational resilience against future disasters and financial challenges. The board was asked for guidance on which ideas to pursue or discard to save staff time.
• The proposals were categorized into four groups: 1. Actions departments are already taking for efficiency and cost savings. 2. Proposals underway consistent with past board direction. 3. Ideas involving changes or significant impacts on multiple departments. 4. Other strategic ideas.
• The board was requested to focus on categories three and four. It was noted that many ideas require coordination with bargaining units and are proposed for implementation within a five-year timeframe, not immediately. The ideas were generated by department directors and a steering committee, based on a set of ten commitments agreed upon by department heads to work together for the benefit of the county.
• The presentation covered five areas: 1. Revisioning the Organization: Terry Nisich presented the county’s mission, vision, and values statements. These were derived from employee surveys (over 60% response rate) and refined for Renew 2022.
• Mission: To deliver exceptional services so Santa Barbara County’s communities can enjoy a safe, healthy, and prosperous life.
• Vision: Employees empowered to deliver exceptional public service to our communities.
• Values: Act with trust in ethics, customer focus in quality public service, accountability and professionalism, and innovation.
• 2. Rebalancing Resources: To be discussed by Jeff (name not specified in this segment). 3. Redesigning Work: To be discussed by Terry Nisich, noting that Matt Pontes was unavailable due to EOC duties. 4. Responding to Residents: To be discussed by Dennis (last name not specified). 5. Retaining High-Performing Employees: To be discussed by Lori Gentles, HR Director.
• No motions were moved, seconded, or voted upon in this segment. The board was asked for guidance on the proposed ideas.

Renew 2022 Initiative Update and Rebalancing/Redesign Proposals

Presentation of Category 3 Items (Board Direction/Policy Change)

• Staff presented nine to ten items requiring board direction or policy changes, derived from county-wide and departmental efforts: 1. Williamson Act Enforcement: A proactive compliance and enforcement approach to verify that landowners are using property for active agricultural purposes as required by their contracts. 2. General Purpose Sales Tax: Exploration of implementing a general purpose sales tax in the unincorporated area, similar to recent measures in the City of Santa Barbara. 3. Human Services Commission Grants: Review of options for the approximately $1 million annual grant program, including continuing, suspending, reducing, or redirecting funds. A specific report on this item is scheduled for later in the winter. 4. Property Tax Allocation: Two components: (a) whether to slow the current policy of directing 25% of annual property tax growth to the Fire Fund until it reaches a 17% funding level; and (b) whether to direct a portion of annual growth to a specific purpose once the Fire Fund reaches that level. 5. Hybrid Retirement Models: Exploration of hybrid retirement models (combining defined benefit and defined contribution) to improve recruitment, retention, and portability, noting that legislative changes and coordination with the Santa Barbara County Employees’ Retirement Association (SBCERA) would be required. 6. Department Management Audits: Implementation of a four-year rotation of performance audits by an outside firm to assess cost-effectiveness and metrics, rather than financial audits. 7. Permit Appeal Cost Recovery: Exploration of alternatives to cover appeal costs currently borne by the general fund, such as surcharges or increased permit fees. 8. General Plan Surcharge: Increase to the general plan surcharge on permits to cover long-term planning efforts currently funded by the general fund. 9. Public-Private Partnerships at Cachuma Lake: Exploration of partnerships for additional services, such as a "glamping" experience, to generate revenue and supplement existing services.

Presentation of Redesign Concepts

• Staff presented concepts from a redesign group of approximately 30 individuals aimed at improving organizational operations:
• Boards and Commissions: Review of the approximately 41 existing boards and commissions to determine their effectiveness and usage.
• Office Locations: Consolidation or suspension of multiple office locations to reduce overhead.
• Department Consolidation: Integration of departments serving similar populations, particularly in health and human services and municipal functions.
• Local Vendor Preference: Suspension of the 6% local vendor preference program for further review.
• Emergency Management: Potential consolidation of the Office of Emergency Management (EOC) into the Fire Department, with staff noting recent experiences and the need for further direction.
• Settlement Authority: Delegation of limited settlement authority to County Counsel and HR to improve timeliness in claims processing.
• County Council Review: Assessment of the degree of County Council review and participation in various activities to allow for delegation of initial functions.
• Ambulance Services: Development of public-private partnerships for emergency ambulance services, referencing regional contracting models.
• Air Support: Phasing out the Sheriff’s component of the air support unit to better link with Fire Department missions.
• Public Health Labs: Suspension of in-house clinical labs in favor of outside vendors for non-essential services.
• Animal Services: Modification of hours and expansion of community partnerships for spay/neuter services.
• Social Services Hours: Modification of Department of Social Services eligibility services hours, potentially returning to a standard 8-to-5 model from extended hours.
• Long-Range Planning: Review and streamlining of long-range planning projects.
• Sidewalk Maintenance: Transfer of sidewalk maintenance responsibility to adjacent property owners.
• Forest Service Roads: Removal of Forest Service roads from the county’s maintenance system, with staff noting that over 100 lane miles are involved and agreements vary by location.
• Goleta Beach Pier Hoist: Suspension of hoist services, potentially to be provided by another entity.

Presentation of Category 4 Items (Multi-Department Impact)

• Staff presented suggestions impacting multiple departments:
• Development of county-wide information technology standard policies.
• Consolidation of business and accounting functions.
• Development of county-wide best practices for facility maintenance and resource sharing.
• Improvement of the board docketing process and evaluation of paperless technology for contracts and board letters.
• Maximization and coordination of healthcare eligibility services across Social Services, Behavioral Wellness, and Public Health.
• Creation of a coordinated Geographic Information System (GIS).
• Implementation of software for Public Records Act (PRA) requests.
• Centralization of purchasing.
• Centralization of information technology service functions within the General Services Department.
• Centralization of human resource functions, noting that several departments have already moved to this model.

Presentation of Communication and Retention Strategies

• Communication: Staff presented ideas for creating a culture of engagement, including developing a baseline survey to assess resident expectations and standardizing customer service training across departments.
• Retention: Staff presented a six-month leadership certificate program for high-performing early-tenure employees (0–5 years) to improve retention. Other initiatives include revising civil service rules for flexibility, implementing a civil and respectful workplace policy, and conducting stay interviews. Staff noted that the county’s turnover rate is moderate (8–10%), with the greatest opportunity for improvement in retaining early-tenure employees.

Items Not Immediately Pursued

• Staff identified six items that are not being pursued at this time, subject to board direction: 1. Establishment of parking fees in all county beach parks. 2. Establishment of a utility user tax in the unincorporated area. 3. Establishment of a business license tax in the unincorporated area. 4. Consolidation of county offices into a single county campus. 5. Development of community service or facility districts to establish new parcel taxes. 6. Issuance of pension obligation bonds.

Discussion and Board Direction

• Forest Service Roads: Staff clarified that the county maintains over 100 lane miles of Forest Service roads under various agreements, some of which serve residents, reservoirs, and transmission towers. Staff offered to compile all agreements and information if the board wishes to pursue this further.
• Williamson Act: Staff explained that the proposal involves verifying compliance with 10-year contracts that provide property tax discounts in exchange for agricultural use.
• Cachuma Lake Partnership: Staff described the partnership as a "glamping" experience using Airstreams, expected to generate approximately $700,000–$800,000 annually in the fifth year, supplementing existing services.
• Human Services Commission:
• Public comment was received from the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Human Services Commission, urging the board to maintain funding as a safety net for residents.
• Staff noted that the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for grants needs to be issued by early February to allow for the grant cycle.
• The Human Services Commission had previously recommended looking at the "mini-grants" (approximately $60,000) for potential repurposing but did not make a recommendation regarding the remainder of the funding, which is part of a three-year cycle.
• The board discussed the timing and the need for staff to know the funding level to proceed with the NOFA.
• Decision: The board provided conceptual direction to staff to return with options for the Human Services Commission grants, including the possibility of maintaining funding in total or in part. No formal vote was taken on the specific funding level at this time. Staff will bring the NOFA discussion to the board, with the goal of issuing the NOFA by early February.
• Other Items:
• Sidewalk Maintenance: The board suggested removing the transfer of sidewalk maintenance to property owners from the list of proposals.
• Goleta Beach Pier Hoist: The board requested more information before taking action to suspend services, noting potential use by UCSB.
• Animal Services: The board expressed caution regarding the modification of hours and requested clarification on the impact.
• General Direction: The board indicated a preference for prioritizing items based on ease of implementation and return on investment, and requested that staff return in April with a prioritized plan. The board also noted the importance of revenue generation and economic vitality.

Vote Outcome

• No formal motion was made or voted upon regarding the specific proposals in this part of the transcript. The board provided conceptual direction to staff to return with further analysis, prioritization, and specific options (particularly regarding the Human Services Commission grants) for future consideration.

Review of Budget Reduction Ideas and Staffing Updates

Discussion

• Supervisor Rogan reviewed specific items from the list of potential budget actions, expressing support for licensing ride-share vehicles, enforcing the Williamson Act, and implementing a modest sales tax. She advocated for private partnerships at Kachuma Lake, full cost recovery for permit appeals, and increased general plan surcharges. Supervisor Rogan identified long-term planning capacity as a bottleneck, noting a two-year project backlog, and questioned the necessity of land use permits for single-family homes in zoned areas. She supported preserving the hoist service through fees and consolidating office locations, while defending the downtown Santa Barbara location due to its multimodal accessibility. She opposed removing items from the list given the current $24 million budget deficit and disaster recovery costs.
• Supervisor Nisich stated that the county has sufficient reserves and expected state and federal funding to manage the current challenges, emphasizing the need to maintain community confidence and avoid characterizing the situation as chaotic.
• Supervisor Hartmann requested further analysis comparing Santa Barbara County’s potential sales tax revenue with other jurisdictions (Santa Maria, Goleta). She expressed interest in consolidating or integrating departments with similar service populations to improve efficiency and service delivery, citing examples of cross-trained inspectors in other contexts. She indicated she would not remove any items from the list pending additional information.

Motion and Vote

• Supervisor Adam moved to adopt the recommended actions, specifically to receive the file and note that the items do not constitute a project under CEQA.
• The motion was put to a vote. All members in favor voted "aye."

Outcome

• The motion to receive the file and adopt the recommended actions passed.

Staffing and Process Update

• A staff representative noted that the current list represents initial ideas and that departments will subsequently submit additional budget reduction proposals. The representative acknowledged the difficulty of the discussions and highlighted the resilience of staff, specifically thanking Susan Klein Rothschild for project management support.

Adjournment

• The meeting was adjourned until January 30th.