Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Resolution A71: Commendation for 2018 Congressional App Challenge Recipients
- The board honored four Santa Barbara High School students for winning the 2018 Congressional App Challenge.
- The resolution recognized the creation of the "Santa Barbara Highlights" app and the importance of supporting women in computer science.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution A72: Commendation for Theodore A. Filotti
- The board honored Auditor-Controller Theodore A. Filotti upon his retirement after 26 years of service.
- A separate resolution from the State Controller’s Office recognized his contributions to the profession statewide.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution A73: Commendation for Janet Wolfe
- The board honored Supervisor Janet Wolfe upon her retirement after 12 years of service in the Second District.
- The resolution detailed her leadership on issues such as the Emergency Operations Center and the Eastern Goleta Valley Plan.
- The resolution was passed with one abstention.
Item A23: Fire Department – Waiver of Competitive Bid for Used Fire Helicopter
- Fire Chief Dyer proposed purchasing a used UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter to replace aging Huey aircraft.
- The proposal highlighted the new aircraft's superior water capacity, speed, and suitability for night operations at an estimated cost of $4.9 million.
- The board approved the waiver of competitive bid for the purchase.
Item 68: Planning and Development – Appeal Hearing Scheduling
- The board addressed an appeal regarding the North Fork Ranch Frost Ponds project.
- Supervisor Snedden recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest regarding adjacent property ownership.
- The hearing was rescheduled to February 5 to accommodate a scheduling conflict.
Agenda Item 1: Community Services – Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
- Staff presented a proposal to approve $350,000 in HOME funds for security and utility deposit assistance to low-income households.
- The funds are allocated to the County Housing Authority and the City of Santa Maria to serve approximately 196 households.
- The board approved the item with corrections to the budget documentation regarding deposit allocations.
Agenda Item 2: Community Services – Energy and Climate Action Plan (ECAP) 2017 Progress Report
- Staff reported that greenhouse gas emissions in the unincorporated county increased by 14% between 2007 and 2016, missing the 2020 reduction goal.
- The board discussed the reliability of agricultural emission data and the feasibility of more frequent reporting on specific program measures.
- The board adopted staff’s recommendation with an amendment to increase the greenhouse gas reduction target to 50% below 1990 levels by 2030.
- Staff was directed to report back in six to nine months on countywide actions regarding renewable generation and vehicle fleet electrification.
Agenda Item: 2019 Legislative Platform (Final Adoption)
- The County Executive Office presented the final 2019 legislative platform, including federal and state legislative reports.
- Reports highlighted successes in securing property tax backfill and debris removal funding following wildfires.
- The board adopted the 2019 legislative platform with a vote of 4-1.
Agenda Item: Shared Mobility Devices and Road Right-of-Way Fees
- Public Works presented a permit program to regulate shared mobility devices and road right-of-way usage for business purposes.
- The board discussed deployment zones, safety concerns, and the legal authority of the Road Commissioner to set conditions.
- The board adopted staff’s recommendation with a requirement for an informational report on permit applications within two months.
Agenda Item: Coastal Resiliency Project – Local Coastal Program Amendment
- Staff presented revisions to the Local Coastal Program to address sea level rise and coastal hazards using the "high" scenario for analysis.
- The amendments include requiring coordination with Caltrans and Union Pacific Railroad to protect public access.
- The board adopted staff’s recommendation unanimously.
Agenda Item: Agricultural Employee Dwelling (AED) Ordinance Amendments
- Staff presented amendments to the Land Use and Development Code regarding AEDs in AG-1 and AG-2 zones.
- Revisions include requiring Conditional Use Permits for larger dwellings and clarifying employment requirements for on-site staff.
- The board adopted staff’s recommendation, noting that the "eco-village" concept could be explored in the future.
Closed Session
- Staff noted an addendum to the agenda adding a closed session item regarding the Schlags v. County of Santa Barbara workers' comp claim.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
- The Chair called the meeting to order and conducted roll call. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Approval of Minutes
- Motion: Approval of the minutes from December 4th.
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Hartman.
- Decision: Passed.
Approval of Balance of Agenda
- Motion: Approval of the balance of the agenda, excluding Items 23, 68, and Resolutions A71–A73 (which were pulled for separate consideration).
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Hartman.
- Decision: Passed unanimously.
Resolution A71: Commendation for 2018 Congressional App Challenge Recipients
- Discussion: Supervisor Williams presented a resolution honoring Gabriel Inglise, Madeline Rogers, Joy Patterson, and Carly Delson of Santa Barbara High School’s Computer Science Academy for winning the 2018 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 24th District. The resolution cited their creation of the "Santa Barbara Highlights" app and the importance of supporting women in computer science. Supervisor Wolf added brief remarks.
- Decision: Passed and adopted.
Resolution A72: Commendation for Theodore A. Filotti
- Discussion: A resolution sponsored by all five board members honored Auditor-Controller Theodore A. Filotti upon his retirement after 26 years of service. George Lowless, Chief Operating Officer of the California State Controller’s Office, presented a separate resolution from the State Controller’s Office recognizing Filotti’s contributions to the profession statewide. Filotti provided remarks thanking the board, staff, and family.
- Decision: Passed and adopted.
Resolution A73: Commendation for Janet Wolfe
- Discussion: A resolution sponsored by all five board members honored Supervisor Janet Wolfe upon her retirement after 12 years of service as the Second District Supervisor. The resolution detailed her service on various boards and commissions, her advocacy for vulnerable populations, and her leadership on issues such as the Emergency Operations Center and the Eastern Goleta Valley Plan.
- Motion: Motion to accept Resolutions A71 through A73.
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Lavagnino.
- Decision: Passed with one abstention (Supervisor Wolfe).
Guest Presentations and Board Comments for Supervisor Wolfe
- Discussion: Several guests presented proclamations or commendations to Supervisor Wolfe, including Anna Everett (Chair, Santa Barbara County Commission for Women), Mayor Paula Brody (City of Goleta), Mayor Kathy Murillo (City of Santa Barbara), Vianney Lopez (Office of Assemblymember Monique Limon), State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson, and Becca Chenelle (Office of Senator Dianne Feinstein). Board members Snedden, Lavagnino, Hartman, and Williams provided personal comments regarding Supervisor Wolfe’s service. Supervisor Wolfe delivered a closing statement thanking colleagues, staff, constituents, and family.
Agenda Adjustments
- Announcement: Staff noted an addendum to the agenda posted on Friday, adding a closed session item (Schlags v. County of Santa Barbara workers' comp claim), minor language changes to Items A19–A21, new Items A74 and A75, and an amendment to Item D4.
- Motion: To reconsider Item A28 and trail it to be heard after Items D5 and D6.
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Hartman.
- Decision: Passed.
Item A23: Fire Department – Waiver of Competitive Bid for Used Fire Helicopter
- Discussion: Fire Chief Dyer presented a proposal to purchase a used UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter (converted to a Firehawk) to replace aging Huey aircraft. The presentation highlighted the Black Hawk’s twin-engine capability, higher water capacity (1,000 gallons vs. 300–360 gallons), speed, and suitability for night and adverse weather operations. The estimated cost was $4.9 million, including modifications and training. Supervisors discussed the modernization of the fleet and the use of fire district funds.
- Motion: To approve the waiver of competitive bid for the purchase of the used fire helicopter.
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Wolf.
- Decision: Passed.
Item 68: Planning and Development – Appeal Hearing Scheduling
- Discussion: The item concerned an appeal regarding the North Fork Ranch Frost Ponds project. Supervisor Snedden recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest regarding adjacent property ownership. Supervisor Lavagnino noted a scheduling conflict for the originally proposed January 15 hearing and proposed rescheduling to February 5, which was agreed upon by the parties involved.
- Motion: To set the hearing for February 5.
- Second: Seconded by Staff.
- Decision: Passed.
Public Comment
- Public comment was opened for the meeting. Speakers addressed the board regarding various topics, including:
- Appreciation for Supervisor Wolfe’s service and advocacy for employees.
- Suggestions to utilize state and federal military resources for wildfire response to save taxpayer money.
- Requests for stricter controls on the number of cannabis plants per parcel to reduce local impacts and tax burdens in Isla Vista.
- Concerns regarding the application of the 8% tax to 501(c)(3) organizations versus other entities in Isla Vista, with mention of potential legal challenges to HUD and the Justice Department.
- Questions regarding renewable energy resilience, specifically the potential for microgrids, and concerns about the county’s progress on Energy and Climate Action Plan (ECAP) goals.
- Further appreciation for Supervisor Wolfe’s preparedness and service, specifically regarding environmental and land use issues.
- Ed Kolaski spoke regarding a five-year dispute with the county regarding a home remodel, alleging violations of civil rights and procedural errors by the Board of Architectural Review and the Supervisor.
- Johnson J. Mr. spoke on behalf of individuals regarding safety concerns at a warming center, citing issues with drug use and lack of monitoring. Staff indicated they would contact the speaker.
- Jeff Jacobson spoke on behalf of over 300 neighbors opposing a proposed 15,648-square-foot cannabis greenhouse in a residential area in Solvang, arguing it conflicts with the county’s cannabis ordinance intent to protect neighborhood character.
- Joni Costa spoke in support of opposing the cannabis proposal, citing negative impacts on neighboring properties in Carpinteria, including security measures, traffic, and odor.
- Bob McLeod was introduced as the next speaker, but the transcript ends before his comment is recorded.
Agenda Item 1: Community Services – Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
- Discussion: Staff presented a hearing to consider a substantial amendment to the 2018 action plan and the execution of TBRA agreements with the City of Santa Maria and the County Housing Authority. The proposal involves approving $250,000 in HOME funds for the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara and $100,000 for the City of Santa Maria. The funds are intended to provide security and utility deposit assistance to low-income households. The City of Santa Maria plans to serve approximately 40 households, while the County Housing Authority plans to serve approximately 156 households.
- Questions/Clarifications: A board member noted a discrepancy in the budget exhibit, where $225,000 was allocated to security deposits but no specific allocation was listed for utility deposits, despite the program covering both. Staff confirmed the agreement allows for both uses and agreed to correct the budget documentation to reflect the total $225,000 covering both security and utility deposits.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve the item with the suggested changes to the formal budget.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 2: Community Services – Energy and Climate Action Plan (ECAP) 2017 Progress Report
- Discussion: Staff presented the 2017 implementation progress report for the ECAP, adopted in 2015. Key points included:
- Methodology: The report uses the ICLEI protocol for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory. Emissions are estimated based on activity level data (fuel use, energy use, waste) rather than direct atmospheric monitoring.
- Emissions Trends: GHG emissions from the unincorporated county increased by 14% between 2007 and 2016, contrary to the goal of a 15% reduction by 2020.
- Primary Drivers: Transportation (56% of emissions) is the largest contributor, driven by increased vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and off-road construction equipment. Building energy use accounts for 29%. Agriculture, solid waste, and water/wastewater account for the remaining 15%.
- Sector Specifics:
- Transportation: Rail ridership is up, and infill development is increasing. However, VMT is rising due to housing/job imbalances. The county fleet currently requires 5% alternative fuel vehicles, whereas the state requires 50% zero-emission light-duty vehicles by 2025.
- Building Energy: The county is exceeding renewable energy goals (rooftop solar and Quiama Solar Project). Opportunities exist for further solar development in the Quiama Valley and for transitioning buildings to all-electric systems.
- Agriculture/Waste: Water-efficient irrigation is being adopted. Solid waste diversion is improving. The Tahoe Resource Recovery Project, once operational, is projected to contribute over 60% of the required 2020 emissions reductions.
- State Targets: The state has adopted new targets for 2030, 2045, and 2050. Staff recommends aligning with the 2030 target (31% below 2007 levels) as it is codified in statute, unlike the executive orders for 2045 and 2050.
- Recommendations:
- 1. Update the ECAP to include a 2030 GHG reduction target. 2. Incorporate climate adaptation/resilience measures (e.g., battery storage, cool pavements, soil health) alongside reduction measures. 3. Adopt a regional, multi-jurisdictional approach to climate action. 4. Change the reporting cycle from annual to every three to five years to align with state compliance cycles and resource constraints.
- Questions/Clarifications:
- Board members inquired about the reliability of the data, noting that agriculture emissions appeared to have increased significantly despite economic incentives to reduce input costs. Staff explained the data is self-reported by the agricultural community and based on fertilizer use.
- Questions were raised regarding marine vessel emissions, which are not included in the ECAP but are a significant source of pollution. Staff noted these are historically addressed by the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and could be considered in a future ECAP update.
- A board member asked about the feasibility of more frequent reporting on specific program measures (ERMs) rather than just the overall GHG inventory. Staff confirmed this is feasible.
- A board member requested expansion on the regional collaboration efforts. Staff reported on a recent community meeting with over 60 attendees from various jurisdictions and interest from neighboring cities in collaborating on climate strategies.
- Public Comment:
- A representative from the City of Goleta expressed support for the staff recommendations, particularly the regional approach and the 2030 target. They noted Goleta’s own fossil-free energy goal for 2030 and their collaboration with the county on community choice energy and strategic energy planning.
- Speakers from the Santa Barbara Sierra Club, Community Environmental Council, and World Business Academy discussed the urgency of the climate crisis, citing recent wildfires and IPCC reports. Recommendations included setting a 100% renewable energy goal by 2030, electrifying buildings and transportation, and tracking emissions from oil and gas production. The Community Environmental Council urged the county to adopt a 50% greenhouse gas reduction target by 2030 (exceeding the staff-recommended 40%) and to implement carbon farming practices such as compost application and soil health improvements. A speaker from the World Business Academy submitted a draft resolution for a climate emergency declaration.
- Board Discussion:
- Supervisor Williams supported a 50% reduction target and emphasized the need for the county to lead by example, particularly in the transportation sector. Supervisor Williams proposed a policy requiring all light-duty vehicle purchases to be electric, citing cost savings and environmental benefits.
- Supervisor Snedden expressed concerns about the economic impact and technological readiness, stating he would not support the measure.
- Supervisor Wolf suggested combining the electric fleet initiative with solar installations and asked about employee commuting incentives, such as subsidized bus passes or flex time. Staff responded that the county currently offers vacation days for commuters but does not subsidize transit costs, though they are exploring flexible work schedules.
- Supervisor Hartmann supported the 50% target and the electrification of the fleet, emphasizing the need for concrete measures and regular progress reports.
- Supervisor Lavagnino expressed frustration with the fragmented nature of climate control, noting that the county cannot control marine vessels or highway traffic, but agreed to review the costs and payback periods for an electric fleet.
- Motion: Supervisor Hartmann moved to adopt staff’s recommendation with an amendment to increase the greenhouse gas reduction target to 50% below 1990 levels by 2030. The motion included a requirement for staff to report back in six to nine months on countywide actions regarding renewable generation, building efficiency, vehicle fleet electrification, and employee commuting incentives.
- Second: Seconded by Supervisor Wolf.
- Vote: The motion passed with a vote of 4-1.
Agenda Item: 2019 Legislative Platform (Final Adoption)
- Discussion: Dennis Buzanich from the County Executive Office presented the final adoption of the 2019 legislative platform. Don Gilchrist from Walters & Associates provided a federal report, noting that approximately 75% of the federal government was funded, with remaining disputes over border wall funding. He highlighted successful appropriations for housing, homeless assistance, and economic development, and discussed ongoing efforts to push for federal infrastructure funding. Cliff Berg from Governmental Advocates provided a state report, detailing successes in securing property tax backfill ($2.62 million for 2017-18 and $5.6 million for 2018-19) and debris removal cost-share funding (approximately $3.2 million) following wildfires and mudslides. He noted the influence of state legislators in addressing wildfire impacts and the prevention of changes to inverse condemnation laws.
- Clarifications: Supervisor Wolf asked for a correction to the platform regarding the number of library zones. Supervisor Snedden stated he would not support the platform due to longstanding opposition to the process.
- Motion: Supervisor Hartmann moved to receive and file the report and adopt the 2019 legislative platform.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed with a vote of 4-1.
Agenda Item: Shared Mobility Devices and Road Right-of-Way Fees
- Discussion: Public Works presented a hearing to consider fees for shared mobility devices (scooters, bikes, car-sharing) and the use of road right-of-ways for business purposes, including outdoor dining. The presentation outlined the background, state law framework, enforcement options, stakeholder roles, proposed permit conditions, and proposed fees. The county had adopted an ordinance in November 2018, which was set to take effect the following Thursday. The goal was to establish a permit program to regulate these devices, requiring companies to apply for encroachment permits and adhere to specific conditions.
- Questions/Clarifications:
- Supervisor Wolf questioned why companies had operated without permits previously and why enforcement had not been stricter. Public Works explained that they were in the process of developing a formalized framework to ensure legal compliance and equitable application of conditions.
- Deputy Snedden detailed the state law provisions allowing scooters on roads and bike paths, while prohibiting them from blocking pedestrian pathways. He noted that local agencies have jurisdiction to modify rules on Class 1 bike paths.
- The presentation highlighted the responsibilities of scooter companies, Public Works, law enforcement, and community members in ensuring a safe and orderly program. Proposed conditions included requiring local management and accountability for equipment placement and safety.
- Supervisor Wolf asked how Public Works will verify that companies are following safety and placement conditions, to which Deputy Snedden responded that these are included in the proposed permit conditions derived from models such as San Francisco’s.
- Staff Presentation on Permit Program:
- Staff presented the framework for the encroachment permit program, outlining three categories of conditions: balancing mobility (fleet size limits, deployment location limits), safety (state law compliance, insurance, education), and enforcement (impounding, moving violations, permit suspension/revocation). Staff explained that the fee structure includes per-vehicle and per-square-foot fees to administer the program. Staff noted that while the county has been in discussions with neighboring cities and UCSB, the current ordinance allows for a three-tiered structure (conditions, fee resolutions, ordinances) that can be adjusted later, including potential regional coordination through SBCAG in the spring.
- Board Discussion:
- Supervisors discussed the deployment zones, specifically Zone 2A (Eastern Goleta Valley) and Zone 2 (Isla Vista).
- Supervisor Wolk expressed concern about scooters being deployed in residential areas, advocating for restrictions to commercial zones only and suggesting a limit of 50 scooters in Zone 2A instead of the proposed 100.
- Supervisor Hartman raised concerns regarding safety injuries and nuisance, supporting the regulatory approach over a ban.
- Legal counsel explained that the county’s authority to set conditions and limits rests with the Road Commissioner, and that the board’s role is to provide input and direction to the Road Commissioner rather than directly setting the numbers in the ordinance to avoid legal challenges.
- Public Comment: Rodney Gould, a resident of Isla Vista, described safety hazards, sidewalk blockages, and nuisance issues, requesting severe curtailment of the program, limits to designated corrals, and immediate impounding of improperly placed scooters.
- Motion 1: Supervisor Wolk moved to proceed with staff’s recommendation, with the specific direction to the Road Commissioner to decrease the scooter limit in Zone 2A from 100 to 50 and to restrict deployment and parking to commercial zones only.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion failed.
- Motion 2: Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt staff’s recommendation, with the addition of a requirement for staff to provide an informational report to the board within two months regarding permit applications and conditions.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed 4-1.
Agenda Item: Coastal Resiliency Project – Local Coastal Program Amendment
- Discussion: Staff presented revisions to the Local Coastal Program (LCP) and the Coastal Zoning Ordinance to address sea level rise and coastal hazards. Key revisions included:
- 1. Using the "high" sea level rise scenario for hazard analysis instead of the "medium" scenario. 2. Requiring staff to report on sea level rise projections and monitoring results every five years instead of every ten. 3. Clarifying that the most restrictive standard applies when there are conflicts between coastal policies and community plans. 4. Requiring coordination with Caltrans on State Route 217 and Highway 101, and with Union Pacific Railroad, to protect public access and minimize impacts. 5. Requiring permits for onshore oil and gas development to conform to Public Resources Code 30260 findings. 6. Adding a site visit report process for properties within coastal hazard zones north of Highway 101.
- Public Comment: Charles Newman of the Community Environmental Council supported the staff recommendation as a balance between environmental policy and planning implementation.
- Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt staff’s recommendation.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Agricultural Employee Dwelling (AED) Ordinance Amendments
- Discussion: Staff presented amendments to the County Land Use and Development Code regarding AEDs in AG-1 and AG-2 zones. Revisions included:
- 1. Requiring a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for AEDs housing 20 or more employees in AG-1 zones and 25 or more in AG-2 zones. 2. Removing the Minor CUP level in AG-2 zones; inland AG-2 zones now require a Zoning Clearance for 1–9 employees and a Limited Use Permit (LUP) for 10–24 employees. 3. Requiring a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) for 1–24 employees in coastal AG-1 zones. 4. Requiring full-time on-site employment for AEDs permitted via Zoning Clearance, LUP, or CDP, and majority full-time on-site employment for Minor CUPs in I-1 zones. 5. Allowing work to occur on any farm/ranch operated by the same owner/employer. 6. Removing references to efficiency units due to changes in the California Residential Code.
- Public Comment:
- Claire Weinman of the Grower Shipper Association supported the ordinance.
- Eric Torbett and Kathy Allen requested the addition of a permit path for "eco-village" developments where non-agricultural workers or residents could live on the property, suggesting a CUP pathway.
- Staff clarified that current ordinances do not provide an alternative option for projects that do not meet specific permit paths, and that non-owners/non-employees would generally need to live with an employee or owner.
- Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt staff’s recommendation, noting that the "eco-village" concept could be explored in the future but that the current ordinance should be finalized.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed.
Related Trailed Item (A28)
- Motion: A motion was made and seconded.
- Vote: The motion passed.
Public Comment / Remarks
- Discussion: A member delivered remarks commemorating the late Richard Dick Atkinson, noting his 25-year tenure at Los Prietos Boys Camp, his service in the US Army Reserves, his final position at Santa Maria Juvenile Hall, and his involvement with the Santa Ynez Valley Opportunity Shop. The member also reported receiving communication from the Chancellor of UC Santa Barbara regarding a $70 million gift from philanthropist Charlie Munger. This gift is intended to cover the cost of acquiring Las Farras Ranch, with the stated intent to maintain agricultural use and collaborate with the community on its future role.
- Motion/Decision: No motions were made, seconded, or decided during this segment.
- Vote Outcome: N/A
Adjournment
- Discussion: The Chair announced the adjournment of the meeting and directed attendees to a subsequent event honoring Supervisor Wolf at 5:00 PM.
- Motion/Decision: The meeting was adjourned.
- Vote Outcome: N/A