Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Resolution of Commendation for Brian Yule
- Supervisor Williams presented a resolution honoring Emergency Manager Brian Yule as the November 2018 Employee of the Month.
- The resolution cited his service during the Thomas Fire and 1-9 Debris Flow, including coordination of emergency operations.
- The Board approved the resolution.
Resolution Supporting UN CEDAW
- Supervisors Wolf and Hartman presented a resolution supporting U.S. ratification of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
- The resolution noted that local adherence promotes equity in healthcare, education, and employment.
- The Board approved the resolution via roll call.
Resolution Proclaiming Nurse Practitioners Week
- Supervisor Hartman presented a resolution declaring November 11–17, 2018, as Nurse Practitioners Week in Santa Barbara County.
- The resolution highlighted the role of nurse practitioners in providing primary, acute, and specialty care.
- The Board approved the resolution.
Acceptance of $50,000 Donation from Gordon Trust
- The Director of Behavioral Wellness presented the acceptance of a $50,000 cash donation from the Gordon Trust.
- The funds are designated for direct client services.
- The Board approved the item.
Adjustment to Park Fee Schedule for Veterans
- The item proposed a fee reduction for veterans’ annual passes at county parks.
- Supervisor Hartman noted the alignment with state park policies and the recent Fallen Warrior Memorial dedication.
- The Board approved the item.
FY 2018-2019 First Quarter Budget and Financial Status Report
- Staff presented the report, noting that the budget is performing within appropriations with a positive $1.7 million variance in discretionary revenues.
- Improved projections were noted for the Sheriff’s Department and Behavioral Wellness compared to prior years.
- The Board accepted the presentation, as the item was already approved via the balance of the A agenda vote.
Calle Real Campus Master Plan
- General Services presented the master plan for the Calle Real campus, indicating an RFP would be issued to select a consultant for the entire campus.
- Supervisor Wolf emphasized the need to adhere to Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan policies regarding community outreach.
- Supervisor Adam suggested considering a broader, county-wide view of workforce and asset utilization.
- The Board approved the item.
Public Safety Realignment Act Plan Modification
- Probation presented a modification to the FY 2018-2019 Public Safety Realignment Act plan to allocate funds toward supportive housing.
- The item was described as a partnership between Probation and Housing and Community Development.
- The Board approved the item.
Acceptance of Public Health Institute Grant Agreement
- Public Health presented the acceptance of a grant agreement with the Public Health Institute funded by the California Endowment.
- Dr. Del Reynoso addressed concerns regarding data confidentiality and survey design, stating that data collection is conducted by neutral researchers.
- The Board approved the item.
Commission for Women Annual Report
- The Commission for Women presented its annual report, highlighting the "Women Speak Up" events and subcommittee work in outreach and policy.
- The report noted the Commission's move to the Department of Community Services and upcoming work on the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage.
- The Board received the report without a motion.
2019 Board of Supervisors Schedule of Meeting Dates and Locations
- The County Executive Office presented the proposed schedule, which includes 31 regular meetings and a three-week summer recess.
- Supervisor Lavinino stated the schedule reflects his leadership preferences as incoming Chair.
- The Board adopted the calendar unanimously.
Presentation on Emergency Alerting in Santa Barbara County
- Staff presented survey findings indicating that 84% of respondents believed they were signed up for Aware & Prepare, though only 12% of the county population is registered.
- Staff detailed system limitations, including WEA character limits, and improvements in cross-agency coordination.
- The Board received and filed the presentation and the associated CEQA recommendation unanimously.
Formation of an Improvement Zone within the Laguna County Sanitation District
- Public Works presented a hearing to consider the formation of an improvement zone to assist the Sheriff’s Department with wastewater needs for the Northern Branch Jail project.
- Staff recommended establishing a benefit assessment zone to fund facilities required to convey wastewater to the Laguna County Sanitation District Wastewater Reclamation Plant.
- The Board adopted staff’s recommendations unanimously.
Amendment of County Code Chapters 9, 23, and 28 for Shared Mobility Devices and Business Encroachments
- Public Works presented amendments to regulate shared mobility devices and business operations encroaching on sidewalks or the right-of-way.
- Discussion included the geographic scope of the ordinance and the ability to revoke permits for non-compliance.
- The Board adopted staff’s recommendations, including text changes to Chapter 9, unanimously.
Santa Barbara County-wide Integrated Storm Water Resource Plan
- The Water Agency presented the plan, which identifies and prioritizes 18 conceptual stormwater projects based on multi-benefit scores.
- Five projects were selected for advanced development, with staff recommending submission to the State Water Resources Control Board.
- The Board adopted staff’s recommendations unanimously.
Local Coastal Program Amendment for Coastal Resiliency
- Planning and Development presented a hearing to consider amending the Coastal Land Use Plan to prepare for sea level rise and coastal hazards.
- Staff identified five significant policy issues where County staff did not incorporate Coastal Commission draft revisions.
- The Board continued the item to December 11 for further discussion and potential adoption of specified changes.
Closed Session
- The Board considered existing litigation involving Santa Barbara Channel Keeper, San Luis Obispo Coast Keeper, and Santa Maria Valley Water Conservation District.
- The Board also considered labor negotiations with Santa Barbara County Firefighters Local 2046.
- County Counsel reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
- The Chair called the meeting to order and conducted roll call.
Approval of Minutes
- Discussion: The Board considered the approval of minutes for the meetings of October 16 and October 22.
- Motion: Approval of the minutes.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A40: Resolution of Commendation for Brian Yule
- Discussion: Supervisor Williams presented a resolution honoring Brian Yule, Emergency Manager, as the November 2018 Employee of the Month. The resolution cited his service during the Thomas Fire and 1-9 Debris Flow, including extended hours, coordination of emergency operations, and improvements to animal services coordination and alerting systems. Comments were provided by the CEO’s office, OEM leadership, and Brian Yule.
- Motion: Approval of the resolution.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A41: Resolution Supporting UN CEDAW
- Discussion: Supervisors Wolf and Hartman presented a resolution in support of the United States ratification or accession to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The resolution noted that the U.S. is the only industrialized nation not to ratify the convention and that local adherence promotes equity in healthcare, education, and employment. Members of the Commission for Women were present at the podium.
- Motion: Approval of the resolution.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed via roll call.
Agenda Item A42: Resolution Proclaiming Nurse Practitioners Week
- Discussion: Supervisor Hartman presented a resolution declaring November 11–17, 2018, as Nurse Practitioners Week in Santa Barbara County. The resolution highlighted the role of nurse practitioners in providing primary, acute, and specialty care and the benefits of full practice authority. Suzette Chafee, Vice President of the California Association of Nurse Practitioners Santa Barbara County Chapter, spoke on behalf of the group.
- Motion: Approval of the resolution.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Balance of A Agenda
- Discussion: The Board considered the approval of the balance of the A agenda items not previously pulled.
- Motion: Approval of the balance of the A agenda items.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A7: Acceptance of $50,000 Donation from Gordon Trust
- Discussion: Alice Glykorn, Director of Behavioral Wellness, presented the item regarding the acceptance of a $50,000 cash donation from the Gordon Trust for direct client services. Tracy Jackson, representative of the Gordon Trust, was present.
- Motion: Approval of the item.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A9: Adjustment to Park Fee Schedule for Veterans
- Discussion: The item proposed a fee reduction for veterans’ annual passes at county parks. Chris Benton, a disabled Vietnam combat veteran, spoke in support of the measure. Supervisor Hartman noted the alignment with state park policies and the recent Fallen Warrior Memorial dedication.
- Motion: Approval of the item.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A15: FY 2018-2019 First Quarter Budget and Financial Status Report
- Discussion: Although previously voted on as part of the balance of the A agenda, Supervisor Wolf requested a presentation to highlight positive fiscal trends. Staff presented the report, noting that the budget is performing within appropriations. Key points included a positive $1.7 million variance in discretionary revenues and improved projections for the Sheriff’s Department and Behavioral Wellness compared to prior years.
- Decision: The Board accepted the presentation; the item was already approved via the balance of the A agenda vote.
Agenda Item A16: Calle Real Campus Master Plan
- Discussion: General Services presented the item regarding the master plan for the Calle Real campus in the Second District. Supervisor Hartman inquired about the approach to workspace design and the use of consultants. Staff indicated an RFP would be issued to select a consultant for the entire campus, including land and buildings, with a public commenting period. Supervisor Wolf emphasized the need to adhere to specific policies in the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan regarding community outreach and noted that the campus is surrounded by homes. Supervisor Adam suggested considering a broader, county-wide view of workforce and asset utilization rather than focusing solely on this campus, though staff maintained the phased approach starting with Calle Real.
- Motion: Approval of the item.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A21: Public Safety Realignment Act Plan Modification
- Discussion: Probation presented the item regarding a modification to the FY 2018-2019 Public Safety Realignment Act plan. Supervisor Wolf noted this followed board direction to allocate funds from the Community Corrections Program (CCP) toward supportive housing, citing over $2 million in approved funding. The item was described as a partnership between Probation and Housing and Community Development (HCD).
- Motion: Approval of the item.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Agenda Item A24: Acceptance of Public Health Institute Grant Agreement
- Discussion: Public Health presented the item regarding the acceptance of a grant agreement with the Public Health Institute (PHI) funded by the California Endowment. Claire Weinman, President of the Grower Shipper Association, expressed concerns about the grant’s language, specifically regarding data confidentiality, the definition of "base building organization," and the potential bias in survey design and outcomes related to agricultural field sanitation. Dr. Del Reynoso responded, stating that the project aims to collaboratively design a survey instrument with researchers and stakeholders, ensuring no personal information is revealed and that data collection is conducted by neutral researchers. Supervisor Wolf and Supervisor Hartman expressed support for the collaborative approach to gathering unbiased data on field sanitation conditions.
- Motion: Approval of the item.
- Action: Motion made and seconded.
- Vote: Passed.
Public Comment (Non-Agenda Items)
- Greg Gorga (Santa Barbara Maritime Museum) thanked the Board for funding support for the "History of Oil and the Santa Barbara Channel" exhibit through the Coastal Resource Enhancement Fund.
- Ed Kolaski spoke regarding difficulties with the Board of Architectural Review concerning a home remodel in the Second District. The Chair and County Counsel reminded the speaker of guidelines regarding politeness and the scope of public comment. The speaker continued to express frustration with the process and made personal remarks, which the Chair asked to cease.
Departmental Item 1: Commission for Women Annual Report
- Discussion: Margs Fitzwilliam and Anna Everett, Chair of the Commission for Women, presented the annual report. Highlights included the "Women Speak Up" events in March, which received a national Achievement Award from the National Association of Commissions for Women. The report covered subcommittee work in outreach, policy, leadership development, and veterans' stand-down support. The Commission noted its move to the Department of Community Services and upcoming work on the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage. Commissioners introduced themselves and outlined future priorities, including policy advocacy, education, leadership building, and support for women veterans. Supervisors Wolf, Lavinino, and Hartman offered comments acknowledging the Commission's work and national recognition. Supervisor Hartman expressed appreciation for the commission’s work, specifically noting the listening sessions and the filming at the Veterans Stand Down. The Chair commended the commission for its structured annual program of specific accomplishments.
- Decision: The report was received. No motion was made.
Agenda Item: 2019 Board of Supervisors Schedule of Meeting Dates and Locations
- Discussion: The County Executive Office presented the proposed schedule, which includes 31 regular meetings, budget workshops, a three-week summer recess, and a practice of not holding meetings on Tuesdays immediately following a Monday holiday. Supervisor Lavinino, as incoming Chair, stated the schedule reflects his leadership preferences. The Board discussed the November 12 meeting date, which follows Veterans Day. Staff noted that while the current year includes a meeting the day after Veterans Day due to other scheduling constraints, the Board has discretion to adjust future dates. Supervisor Williams suggested avoiding meetings on election days in the future.
- Motion: Supervisor Lavinino moved to adopt the calendar.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Presentation on Emergency Alerting in Santa Barbara County
- Discussion: Assistant CEO Terri Nisich and Undersheriff Saul Linder presented an overview of emergency alerting systems, including Aware & Prepare, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), and Radio Ready.
- Survey Findings: Staff presented results from a recent survey of 4,000 respondents. Key findings included that 84% of respondents believed they were signed up for Aware & Prepare, though only 12% of the total county population is currently registered. 52% of those not receiving alerts were unaware of the system. 80% preferred text alerts, and 89% wanted alerts if an event occurred within their zip code.
- System Limitations and Improvements: Staff explained that WEA messages are limited to 90 characters (with expansion to 360 characters expected in May of the following year). They detailed improvements in cross-agency coordination, including modified computer-aided dispatch to allow agencies to locate each other’s units, and training for dispatchers to issue alerts.
- Board Questions:
- Supervisor Wolf asked about the coordination with Southern California Edison regarding Public Safety Power Shutoffs. Staff explained the utility notifies the county 72 hours prior to a potential shutdown, with public notifications beginning at 48 hours.
- Supervisor Wolf inquired about the difference between Aware & Prepare and Nixle. Staff explained Nixle is a separate system with a 138-character limit, and the county recommends signing up for both.
- Supervisor Hartman asked about the status of WEA character limits and suggested adding emergency alerting information to the ReadySBC website.
- Supervisor Lavinino asked about strategies to increase the low registration rate (12%) and what other jurisdictions are doing. Staff noted they are reviewing other jurisdictions and relying on new legislation (SB 821) to access utility customer data for alerting purposes, subject to opt-out.
- Supervisor Williams asked for an estimate of the number of people who receive no alert at all during an incident. Staff stated they do not have a specific estimate but noted that 85% of the population has a cell phone and 40% have landlines.
- Motion: A motion was made to receive and file the presentation and the associated CEQA recommendation.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Formation of an Improvement Zone within the Laguna County Sanitation District
- Discussion: Public Works presented a hearing to consider the formation of an improvement zone to allow the Laguna County Sanitation District to assist the Sheriff’s Department with wastewater needs for the Northern Branch Jail project. Staff presented a recommendation to establish a benefit assessment zone to fund facilities required to convey wastewater from the jail to the Laguna County Sanitation District Wastewater Reclamation Plant. The presentation noted that topography necessitates a pump station, screening, and control facilities. The action was coordinated with the Sheriff’s Department and General Services Department and is pursuant to the Health and Safety Code. Staff recommended adopting a resolution to establish the benefit zone, receiving and filing the assessment engineer’s report, and adopting an ordinance to establish the benefit assessment. No public comments were received.
- Motion: Adoption of staff’s recommendations.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Amendment of County Code Chapters 9, 23, and 28 for Shared Mobility Devices and Business Encroachments
- Discussion: Public Works presented a hearing to consider amendments to County Code Chapters 9, 23, and 28 to regulate shared mobility devices (scooters, e-bikes) and business operations encroaching on sidewalks or the right-of-way. Staff explained that current county regulations do not specifically address scooters or shared mobility devices, creating a regulatory gap. The proposed amendments aim to create a framework for regulation, including permit requirements, fee structures, and conditions for encroachment permits.
- Board Discussion: Discussion included the geographic scope of the ordinance, with board members debating whether regulations should apply countywide or be limited to specific areas like Isla Vista. County Counsel clarified that state vehicle code preempts county regulation in certain areas, leaving sidewalks and curbs as the primary area for local regulation. Board members inquired about the ability to revoke permits for non-compliance during the permit term; County Counsel confirmed that existing code provisions allow for revocation or suspension. Questions were also raised regarding fleet size limitations, data sharing requirements, and the potential for revenue generation beyond cost recovery. Staff indicated that specific permit conditions, including insurance requirements and fleet size limits, would be addressed in a subsequent resolution.
- Motion: Adoption of staff’s recommendations, including text changes to Chapter 9.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed unanimously.
Closed Session Report
- The Board entered closed session to consider four matters: existing litigation involving Santa Barbara Channel Keeper vs. County of Santa Barbara; San Luis Obispo Coast Keeper vs. Santa Maria Valley Water Conservation District; Santa Maria Valley Water Conservation District vs. Adam et al.; and labor negotiations with Santa Barbara County Firefighters Local 2046. One board member recused themselves from the two litigation matters involving the Santa Maria Valley Water Conservation District. Upon returning to open session, County Counsel reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.
Agenda Item: Santa Barbara County-wide Integrated Storm Water Resource Plan
- Discussion: The Water Agency presented the Santa Barbara County-wide Integrated Storm Water Resource Plan, developed in response to state legislation (Proposition 1 and SB 985) requiring an approved plan to access state grant funding for stormwater projects. The plan was developed collaboratively with eight partner agencies, including several cities and water districts. It identifies and prioritizes 18 conceptual stormwater projects based on multi-benefit scores (water quality, supply, flood management, etc.). Five projects were selected for advanced development. Staff recommended receiving and filing the plan, authorizing submission to the State Water Resources Control Board, and determining the action is not a project under CEQA.
- Board Discussion: Board discussion focused on the criteria for project selection, specifically regarding groundwater depletion and recharge. Staff clarified that while groundwater depletion was not the sole criterion, projects were selected in areas where water would be meaningfully used or infiltrate. Board members noted that parks and schools are high-value targets for future projects. Staff confirmed that the plan is adaptive and allows for the addition of new projects in the future.
- Motion: Adoption of staff’s recommendations.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Local Coastal Program Amendment for Coastal Resiliency (Case No. 17GPA4 and 170RD15)
- Discussion: Planning and Development presented a hearing to consider a resolution amending the Coastal Land Use Plan (LCP) and an ordinance amending Article 2 of Chapter 35 (Zoning) to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to sea level rise and coastal hazards.
- Staff Presentation: Long-range planning staff presented the proposed LCP amendment, which includes Coastal Hazard Screening Area Maps for 2030, 2060, and 2100. The maps utilize two scenarios: a medium sea level rise scenario (Appendix J) for general development review and a high sea level rise scenario (Proposed Attachment K) for subdivisions and lot line adjustments. The amendment proposes a development review process where projects within hazard screening areas require site-specific hazard reports using technical guidelines. Key provisions include:
- Anticipated Life Standards: 75 years for residential/commercial development; longer periods for critical infrastructure.
- Redevelopment Threshold: Structural alterations exceeding 50% of a non-conforming structure trigger new development standards. The baseline date for this calculation is proposed as the LCP certification date.
- Shoreline Protective Devices: Continued allowance for existing structures, with stricter standards prioritizing natural methods, requiring mitigation of adverse impacts, and mandating removal if no longer needed or if the public trust boundary migrates inland.
- CEQA Exemption: The amendment is exempt from environmental review under CEQA Guideline Section 15265, shifting compliance burden to the California Coastal Commission.
- Policy Discrepancies: Staff identified five significant policy issues where County staff did not incorporate Coastal Commission draft revisions, noting these are likely to be points of contention during certification:
- 1. Definition of Existing Development: County proposes using the LCP certification date; Coastal Commission proposes January 1, 1977. 2. Removal of Existing Development: County proposes removal if damaged/unsafe or services cannot be maintained; Coastal Commission adds removal if encroaching on public trust land or requiring shoreline protection. 3. Future Shoreline Protection Waiver: Coastal Commission recommends a recorded waiver prohibiting future shoreline protection; County staff disagrees, citing Coastal Act allowances. 4. Shoreline Protection Permit Limits: Coastal Commission recommends 20-year permit increments and periodic monitoring plans; County staff did not incorporate this. 5. Flood Proofing Exemption: County proposes exempting structural alterations for flood proofing from the 50% redevelopment threshold; Coastal Commission staff recommends against this exemption.
- Board Discussion:
- Sunset Provisions: A board member requested a sunset provision to review predictions if they prove statistically insignificant. Staff responded that Proposed Policy 3-7 requires monitoring sea level rise against tidal gauge/satellite data and reporting to the Board every 10 years (or sooner if necessary), allowing for map and scenario updates.
- Anticipated Life Standards: A board member inquired about the 75-year standard versus the 100-year standard used in the Eastern Glade Valley Community Plan. Staff clarified that new language in Policy 3-10 states that the most restrictive standard (longest anticipated life) shall take precedence in case of conflict. A board member suggested changing the standard to 100 years, noting that many existing structures are older than 75 years.
- Sea Level Rise Scenario: Discussion focused on whether to adopt the medium or high scenario. One board member expressed concern about the accuracy of the 2100 projection, noting that the model does not account for Highway 101 as a barrier, potentially overestimating hazards north of the freeway. Staff explained that site-specific hazard studies, which include a site visit by a licensed professional, would allow for adjustments if local barriers (like the freeway) mitigate hazards. Staff also noted that a "shortcut" report process for obvious topographic protections was in the draft but not agreed to by Coastal Commission staff.
- Building Life: Debate occurred between 75 and 100 years. One board member preferred 75 years to avoid potential stricter requirements from the Coastal Commission, while another preferred 100 years but accepted 75 if the "most restrictive standard applies" language remained.
- Review Period: A board member requested a 5-year review period instead of 10 years to allow for quicker adjustments based on new data.
- Textual Changes: A board member requested changing "should" to "shall" in Policy 3-22 regarding Union Pacific Railroad inundation identification. Staff confirmed this could be done as a minor text edit.
- Coastal Commission Positions: The board discussed the five policy issues where County and Coastal Commission staff disagreed. Staff indicated they would need direction from the board on whether to hold firm on the County's positions or negotiate.
- Public Comment:
- One speaker urged the adoption of the high sea level rise scenario, citing recent scientific literature indicating accelerating climate change and tipping points.
- Another speaker supported the high sea level rise scenario and a 100-year building life, arguing that conservative planning protects public safety and that many local structures are 75–100+ years old.
- A third speaker advocated for conservative policies, citing the precautionary principle and the higher cost of remediation versus prevention, and requested a more robust public participation process.
- Outreach Summary: Staff provided a summary of public outreach efforts conducted over the past year, including three public workshops in Carpinteria, Goleta, and Gaviota; an interactive sea level rise demonstration at Summerland Park; presentations to local groups such as the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors, the Building Industry Association, the County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee, and the Citizens Planning Association; media coverage; online flyover videos and mapping tools; and mailed and emailed notices to coastal property owners and stakeholders.
- Specific Revisions Discussed:
- Policy 3-22: A request was made to change the language in the second and third sentences from "should" to "shall" regarding the identification of areas at risk of inundation and the consideration of those risks.
- Policy 3-18: A request was made to incorporate Section 30260 into this policy.
- Policy 3-10: A request was made to acknowledge that other standards exist and that the most restrictive standard must be complied with, specifically regarding the Eastern Gleada Valley.
- Policy 3-20: A request was made to include Highway 217. Staff confirmed that Highway 217 was studied as part of the vulnerability assessment and is already subject to flooding.
- Scenario Selection: A request was made to adopt the high scenario for the 75-year life and to include a five-year review.
- Motion: To continue the item to December 11 for further discussion and potential adoption of the specified changes.
- Action: Motion seconded.
- Vote: Passed (4-1).
Adjournment
- The meeting was adjourned.