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 Accommodation Honoring Arts Commission Employees
- The Board considered a resolution recognizing three Arts Commission employees for their contributions to equitable art access and collection maintenance.
- A representative from the Arts Commission thanked the Board and staff for their support.
- The Board voted to approve the resolution.
Resolution Proclaiming September 2018 as Suicide Prevention Month
- The Board reviewed a resolution designating September 2018 as Suicide Prevention Month in Santa Barbara County.
- The discussion highlighted suicide statistics, the importance of reducing stigma, and collaboration among local agencies.
- The Board voted to approve the resolution.
Annual Internal Audit Plan
- The Clerk noted an addendum to the administrative agenda regarding the annual internal audit plan for September 2018 through June 2019.
- The item was included in the motion to approve the balance of the administrative agenda.
- The Board voted to approve the plan as part of the administrative agenda.
2018 Update and Annual Adjustment of Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees and Inclusionary Housing Requirements
- Staff presented recommendations for updating affordable housing in-lieu fees and inclusionary housing requirements.
- Board members debated the impact of fees on housing production, the role of the free market, and the necessity of the mechanism.
- The Board voted to approve the staff recommendation.
False Alarm Cost Recovery Options
- Staff from the Sheriff’s Office presented options for addressing false alarms, recommending a "verified response" protocol to improve efficiency.
- Board members discussed the practicality of the protocol in rural areas and the need for cost recovery.
- The Board approved the staff recommendation with the condition that staff return to flesh out a secondary option if the primary is rejected.
Service and Ground Lease Agreement with Solvang Senior Center
- Staff presented a request to extend the ground lease for the Solvang Senior Center to secure funding for a new building.
- Board members discussed the importance of providing certainty to donors and financiers.
- The Board voted to approve the lease agreement.
Item A16
- A request was made to pull Item A16 from the agenda.
- The Board voted to drop the item.
Strategic Energy Planning Consulting Agreement
- Staff presented a request to enter into a consulting agreement to identify sites for utility-scale solar and wind projects.
- The project involves analyzing public and private properties to develop a roadmap for renewable energy projects.
- The Board voted to approve the consulting agreement.
State of California Homelessness Emergency Aid Program (HEAP)
- Staff presented the HEAP, a state-funded initiative providing approximately $9.385 million in block grant funding contingent on a shelter crisis declaration.
- The Board discussed the resolution declaring a shelter crisis and the language regarding health and safety standards for facilities.
- The Board voted to adopt the resolution, receive the report, and authorize the funding application.
Short-Term Sediment and Debris Management for Second and Third Districts
- Staff presented a plan for temporary stockpiling of sediment from the Carpinteria Salt Marsh on the county campus.
- Board members discussed traffic impacts, costs, and the need for a long-term disposal site.
- The Board voted to approve the temporary stockpiling and direct staff to return regarding a long-term site.
Appointment of Child Support Services Director
- The Board approved the selection of Joni Maiden as the new Child Support Services Director.
- Maiden will begin her duties on September 24, replacing Carrie Topliff who retired after 18 years.
- The Board approved the appointment and set her annual salary.
Lompoc Riverbed Activities Update
- Staff provided an update on county support for the City of Lompoc’s initiative to assist individuals in the Lompoc Riverbed.
- Lompoc Police Chief Pat Walsh reported on the initial eviction and cleanup efforts, noting that approximately 20 individuals re-inhabited the area overnight.
- The item was an informational update with no vote required.
Cali Real Campus Master Plan
- Staff indicated that a master plan for the entire Cali Real campus is being developed in a phased approach.
- A proposal for the master plan is expected to be brought back to the Board in approximately two months.
- The item was an informational update with no vote required.
Solar Energy Program
- The Board discussed a proposal to engage outside assistance to identify opportunities for solar installations on county rooftops.
- Discussion included the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy and the costs of new electricity generation projects.
- The Board voted to approve the engagement of outside assistance to move forward with the solar initiative.
Closed Session
- The CEO reported on two reportable actions taken in closed session.
- The Board authorized County Counsel to appeal the Superior Court decision in the Hample v. Civil Service Commission litigation.
- The Board appointed a Child Support Services Director.
Full summary
Agenda Item A28: Resolution of Accommodation Honoring Arts Commission Employees
- Discussion: The Board considered a resolution sponsored by Supervisor Williams to recognize Hannah Rubicaba, Julia Rutherford-Daley, and Sarah York-Rubin as the September 2018 Employees of the Month. The resolution cited their contributions to equitable art access, new initiatives in North County, and the maintenance of public art collections. A representative from the Arts Commission thanked the Board and staff for their support.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the resolution.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item A29: Resolution Proclaiming September 2018 as Suicide Prevention Month
- Discussion: The Board considered a resolution sponsored by Supervisors Williams and Wolfe to designate September 2018 as Suicide Prevention Month in Santa Barbara County. The resolution highlighted suicide statistics in California and the United States, the importance of reducing stigma, and the overlap with World Suicide Prevention Day. A representative expressed gratitude for the community’s support and collaboration among law enforcement, mental health professionals, and schools.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the resolution.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item A31: Annual Internal Audit Plan
- Discussion: The Clerk noted an addendum to the administrative agenda adding Item A31 from the Auditor-Controller regarding the annual internal audit plan for the period of September 2018 through June 2019.
- Action: The item was included in the motion to approve the balance of the administrative agenda.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously as part of the administrative agenda approval.
Agenda Item A4: 2018 Update and Annual Adjustment of Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees and Inclusionary Housing Requirements
- Discussion: Staff presented recommendations regarding the update of affordable housing in-lieu fees and inclusionary housing requirements. Public comment was received from Mr. Caldwell and others. Board members discussed the impact of fees on housing production, the role of the free market, and the necessity of the mechanism to produce affordable housing. Supervisor Adam expressed concerns about the fees being an impediment, while other members supported the mechanism as a necessary tool for housing production. The Board also discussed the impact of development fees and subsidies on housing costs, debating the effectiveness of subsidies versus market-rate development in addressing housing affordability.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation.
- Vote Outcome: Passed 4 to 1.
Agenda Item A11: False Alarm Cost Recovery Options
- Discussion: Staff from the Sheriff’s Office presented options for addressing false alarms, including a "verified response" protocol and a full alarm permit ordinance. Staff recommended the verified response protocol to improve efficiency and reduce false alarms, estimating potential savings in staff time. Public comment was received. Board members discussed the practicality of verified response in rural areas, the need for cost recovery, and the potential for a hybrid approach. Supervisor Hartman moved to approve the staff recommendation with the condition that staff return to the Board before final approval to flesh out a secondary option if the verified response is rejected.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation with the requirement for staff to return to the Board prior to final approval.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item A15: Service and Ground Lease Agreement with Solvang Senior Center
- Discussion: Staff presented a request to extend the ground lease for the Solvang Senior Center (San Ynez Valley Advisory Council). The applicant explained that the extension is necessary to secure funding for a new building, as a longer lease term is required for financial institutions. Public comment was received from Mr. Kolaski, Mr. Diaz, and Mr. Caldwell. Board members discussed the importance of providing certainty to donors and financiers.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the lease agreement.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item A16: [Item Pulled/Dropped]
- Discussion: A request was made to pull Item A16 from the agenda.
- Action: The Board voted to drop the item.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 1: Strategic Energy Planning Consulting Agreement
- Discussion: Staff presented a request to enter into a consulting agreement for strategic energy planning, specifically to identify sites for utility-scale solar and wind projects. The project, born out of the Community Choice Energy (CCE) feasibility study, involves a clean energy potential study and the development of a roadmap identifying high-priority sites for renewable energy projects (wind, solar, battery storage). The consultant, Optiny, will analyze public and private properties, assess technical and financial feasibility, and identify funding opportunities. The contract base price is $162,700, with the county’s share budgeted at $150,000. Participating cities include Carpinteria and Goleta. Staff noted that Governor Brown recently signed SB 100, requiring 100% clean electricity by 2045, making the project timely. Public comment was received from Mr. Caldwell, who argued that the contract was a waste of time and money, stating that utility companies are already mandated to increase renewable energy and that the county should instead zone land in South County for such projects. Supervisor Hartman expressed support, noting the project’s potential to bring equity to North County by identifying viable sites and reducing the burden on individual landowners for environmental review. Supervisor Wolf emphasized the need to move forward on renewable energy despite current zoning restrictions.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the consulting agreement.
- Vote Outcome: Passed 4 to 1.
Departmental Item 2: State of California Homelessness Emergency Aid Program (HEAP)
- Discussion: Staff presented the Homeless Emergency Aid Program (HEAP), a state-funded initiative providing approximately $9.385 million in one-time block grant funding to be expended between January 2019 and June 2021. The funding is contingent on the Board of Supervisors declaring a shelter crisis. Staff noted that the 2017 point-in-time count identified 1,860 persons experiencing homelessness, with 893 unsheltered. The Continuum of Care (COC) has identified four local priorities for funding: access to housing units, operating support for emergency housing interventions, housing-focused street engagement, and navigation centers. Staff clarified that while the county’s declaration covers unincorporated areas, it allows the COC to apply for funding representing the entire geographic area. Cities must separately declare a shelter crisis to receive rental assistance or capital projects within their jurisdictions. All eight incorporated cities have calendared the declaration. The Housing and Community Development (HCD) division will serve as the administrative entity and direct recipient of funds, with an additional non-competitive allocation of $311,675 approved by the COC Board for staffing and administration.
- Public Comment: Emily Allen, Program Director for Northern Santa Barbara County United Way Home for Good, stated that the program is designed to assist local governments in addressing homelessness and housing crises. She noted that emergency aid funds, combined with new outreach and treatment funds, are significant, particularly as funding for affordable housing under Senate Bill 2 becomes available. She informed the board that voters will have the opportunity to support Proposition 1 (Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond) and Proposition 2 (No Place Like Home Homeless Housing Bond) in the November ballot. Allen stated that Home for Good is prepared to collaborate with the county to facilitate a public process that consults a wide range of participants to maximize the impact of these funds. Other speakers included Cassie Roach, Kathy Hayes, Sylvia Bernard, Mr. Caldwell, and Chuck Flax. Speakers discussed the effectiveness of "housing first" strategies, the need for data-driven case management, and the urgency of addressing homelessness. A representative from COLAB (Andy Caldwell) argued that homelessness is often linked to mental illness and substance abuse, which housing alone does not solve, and criticized the county for allowing long-term encampments in the San Ynez Riverbed while closing other facilities. The City of Santa Barbara’s Housing and Human Services Manager voiced support for the resolution, noting the city’s reliance on the county as the administrative entity for HEAP eligibility. A representative from the Freedom Warming Centers supported the resolution, citing increased demand for emergency shelter services in Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and Isla Vista.
- Shelter Crisis Resolution Discussion: The Board discussed a resolution declaring a shelter crisis in Santa Barbara County. Discussion focused on the language regarding health and safety standards for facilities open to homeless individuals. Staff clarified that while the resolution allows for the suspension of certain standards, the County retains the authority to enact municipal health and safety standards to ensure minimal public health and safety. The Board emphasized the importance of ensuring safe and healthy housing conditions for individuals.
- Action: A motion was made to adopt the resolution declaring a shelter crisis, receive and file the report, and authorize the Community Services Director to submit the funding application.
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 3: Short-Term Sediment and Debris Management for Second and Third Districts
- Discussion: Staff from Public Works presented a plan for short-term sediment and debris management, specifically the temporary stockpiling of sediment from the Carpinteria Salt Marsh on the county campus on Cathedral Oaks Road. The sediment resulted from the Thomas Fire and March storms. The proposed site is adjacent to the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Fire Department. The plan included traffic management strategies, such as message boards and water trucks for dust control. Staff also requested direction to return to the Board to discuss the acquisition of a long-term county disposal site.
- Public Comment and Board Discussion: Public comment was received. Board members discussed the traffic impact, the necessity of the work for flood control, and the long-term strategy for debris management. Costs for disposal were estimated between $40 million and $80 million. Staff and supervisors discussed the limitations of federal disaster funding and the potential for slow sediment release resulting in no federal assistance. Supervisor Hartman raised concerns about the financial insecurity of the Finn account and the need to plan for limited available funds. Supervisor Wolf expressed opposition to long-distance trucking of sediment, citing cost and environmental values, and suggested using nearby sites such as Foothill Landfill or Goleta Beach. Supervisor Hartman proposed exploring trucking blackout periods during peak traffic hours to mitigate congestion on Cathedral Creek. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of prior notification to nearby residents, environmental impacts, traffic on Highway 101 and State Route 154, and the availability of alternative sites such as Fillmore. Staff provided financial information indicating that the proposed site is significantly less expensive than alternative locations. The Board discussed the need for a long-term solution and the potential for hydraulic dredging to the beach as a future option.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation for temporary stockpiling and to direct staff to return regarding a long-term disposal site.
- Vote Outcome: Passed 4 to 1.
Closed Session Report
- Discussion: The Board reconvened from closed session. The CEO reported on two reportable actions:
- 1. In the litigation case Hample v. Civil Service Commission (Case No. 16CV02220), the Board authorized County Counsel to appeal the Superior Court decision that overturned the Civil Service Commission's disciplinary action. 2. The Board appointed a Child Support Services Director.
- Action: The report was accepted.
- Vote Outcome: No vote required for the report; actions were taken in closed session.
Appointment of Child Support Services Director
- Discussion: The Board approved the selection of Joni Maiden as the new Child Support Services Director. Maiden, who has served in the department for over 24 years, will begin her duties on September 24, replacing Carrie Topliff, who retired after 18 years. Her annual salary was set at $167,002. Kelly McLaughlin, who served as interim director during the recruitment process, was thanked for her service.
- Action: The appointment was approved.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.
Lompoc Riverbed Activities Update
- Discussion: Staff provided an update on county support for the City of Lompoc’s initiative to assist individuals in the Lompoc Riverbed. The County has deployed resources from multiple departments, including Social Services, Probation, the Sheriff’s Office, Behavioral Health, and the Public Defender, to provide triage, detox services, shelter beds, hygiene kits, security, and transportation. Lompoc Police Chief Pat Walsh reported that the initial eviction and cleanup efforts were successful, with 27 individuals moved to a triage center and vehicles removed from the river. She noted that approximately 20 individuals re-inhabited the area overnight, and cleanup efforts are ongoing.
- Action: Informational update.
- Vote Outcome: N/A.
Cali Real Campus Master Plan
- Discussion: Staff indicated that a master plan for the entire Cali Real campus is being developed in a phased approach. A proposal for the master plan is expected to be brought back to the Board in approximately two months.
- Action: Informational update.
- Vote Outcome: N/A.
Solar Energy Program
- Discussion: The Board discussed a proposal to engage outside assistance to identify opportunities for solar installations on county rooftops and other structures. Discussion included the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy, the potential for reducing electricity costs for residents, and the need for expert analysis to determine appropriate sites. The Board also discussed the costs of new electricity generation projects and their impact on ratepayers, with concerns raised about the financial burden of new infrastructure compared to existing paid-off facilities and the potential for increased electricity costs for residents.
- Action: The Board moved to approve the engagement of outside assistance to move forward with the solar initiative.
- Vote Outcome: Passed.