Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Resolution Honoring Local Contractors
- The board adopted a resolution honoring local contractors for emergency response services following the Thomas Fire and debris flow.
- Recognized firms included Granite Construction, Lash Construction, and R.W. Scott Construction among others.
- Public Works and Supervisor Williams provided comments supporting the recognition.
Resolution Proclaiming Tsunami Preparedness Week
- The board adopted a resolution designating March 25–29, 2019, as Tsunami Preparedness Week.
- The resolution outlined warning signs and directed the public to the interactive tsunami inundation map.
- The County Emergency Manager spoke on the importance of awareness and the availability of the new map.
Resolution Honoring Corinne Basso
- The board adopted a resolution honoring Corinne Basso for her retirement after over 23 years with the Probation Department.
- The resolution detailed her career progression in juvenile and adult divisions.
- Deputy Chief Sheehan spoke on behalf of the department, and Basso accepted the commendation.
Resolution Honoring Lieutenant Colonel Dean Davidge
- The board adopted a resolution honoring Lt. Col. Dean Davidge as the March 2019 Veteran of the Month.
- The resolution recognized his Vietnam War service, Distinguished Flying Cross, and community volunteerism.
- A Veterans Services Advisory Committee representative introduced Davidge, who accepted the award.
Resolution Honoring Robert Cohen
- The board adopted a resolution honoring Robert Cohen for his retirement after over 32 years with the Clerk of the Board office.
- The resolution highlighted his management of the County Assessment Appeals Program and role as board clerk.
- A colleague described his role as an informal county historian, and Cohen accepted the commendation.
Resolution Honoring Russ Barker
- The board adopted a resolution honoring Russ Barker for his retirement after over 31 years with the County Executive Office.
- The resolution noted his work in the Elections Division and digitization of legislative records.
- A colleague spoke regarding his contributions, and Barker accepted the commendation.
Resolution Honoring Diane Black
- The board adopted a resolution honoring Diane Black for her retirement after over 35 years with the Planning and Development Department.
- The resolution detailed her career progression to Director and work on the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Code.
- A department representative and several supervisors offered remarks acknowledging her service.
Resolution 834 (Opposition to Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling)
- A public commenter criticized the Planning and Development department for incomplete scoping responses regarding pipeline safety.
- The Chair expressed a personal view against the resolution, citing the inconsistency of ending production while using petroleum.
- Supervisors Williams and Hartman moved to approve the staff recommendation, citing climate change urgency and historical county positions.
- The resolution passed with a 3-1 vote.
Extra Help Services and Retirement Waiver for Chief Deputy Clerk
- Staff recommended certifying the appointment of retiring Chief Deputy Clerk Mike Allen as an extra help employee.
- The authorization allows for up to 960 hours of annual service effective March 25, 2019.
- The board approved the staff recommendation unanimously.
Commission for Women’s 2019 Women’s History Month Service Awards
- The Commission for Women presented service awards to eight recipients for community contributions.
- Honorees included Life Chronicles, Allison Hardy, and the Community Wellness Team for disaster response support.
- Other honorees included Tekla Sanford for sustainable agriculture and CASA for foster care advocacy.
- The board approved the item unanimously.
Termination of Proclamation of Local Emergency Caused by Drought
- Staff recommended terminating the drought emergency proclamation but adopting a resolution of concern regarding water supply shortages.
- The Clerk noted that while technical drought definitions may no longer apply, sedimentation and storage limitations persist.
- A public commenter disputed the attribution of drought to climate change, citing alleged data manipulation.
- Supervisors emphasized the need for continued conservation and discussed groundwater recharge efforts.
- The board adopted recommendations A, B, and C, along with a direction to report on groundwater data.
Public Works (Annexation and Zone Benefit)
- Public Works presented a hearing to annex APN 097371010 to the Santa Barbara North County Lighting District.
- The action establishes a zone benefit to generate revenue for streetlights in the Vandenberg Village area.
- The Clerk reported that affected property owners unanimously approved the action via ballot.
- The board adopted staff recommendations A through D unanimously.
General Services (Electric Vehicle Update)
- Staff presented a concept-level report on transitioning 124 gasoline sedans to electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Public commenters debated cost efficiency, environmental impact, and the 100,000-mile replacement policy.
- The Chair advocated for extending the life of existing vehicles and exploring regional bidding for better pricing.
- Supervisors discussed the need for a mix of short- and long-range vehicles based on departmental travel needs.
- The board voted to direct that all new sedan purchases be electric vehicles for one year, with a report back on progress.
2019 Proposed Capital Projects and Financing Strategies
- Staff presented a list of Priority 1 and 2 capital projects totaling approximately $71 million.
- Projects include jail renovations, radio tower enhancements, and a new Probation Department headquarters.
- The Chair questioned the necessity of the Emergency Operations Center expansion and suggested prioritizing operational needs.
- Staff indicated that financing strategies would be developed using one-time funds to minimize debt costs.
- The board requested further information and direction on financing strategies for budget workshops.
Capital Improvement Plan / Project List Approval
- A board member requested that staff ensure buildings are constructed with sustainability in mind from the outset.
- Staff outlined next steps for financing, including utilizing one-time funds and managing tax-exempt financing timing.
- The board approved the project list unanimously to move forward with financing strategies.
Closed Session
- The board entered closed session to consider existing litigation involving Service Employees International Union Local 620.
- The session included a conference with legal counsel regarding anticipated civil litigation.
- The board also conferred with labor negotiators concerning Service Employees International Union Local 620.
- The Clerk reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
- The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors called the meeting to order. A roll call was taken, noting that Supervisor Adam was absent. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Minutes
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. The motion passed unanimously.
Administrative Agenda Items A1–A11
- A motion was made and seconded to approve items A1 through A11. The motion passed with no opposition.
- Item A1: Resolution Honoring Local Contractors
- Sponsored by Supervisor Williams, this item adopted a resolution honoring local contractors for their emergency response services following the Thomas Fire and the January 9, 2019, debris flow. The resolution recognized Granite Construction Company, Lash Construction Inc., Bob's Backhoe & Trucking, R.W. Scott Construction Company Inc., Shaw Contracting Inc., Cal Portland Construction, Tierra Contracting Inc., and RLF Trucking & Grading Corp. Public comments were provided by a representative from Public Works and Supervisor Williams. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A2: Resolution Proclaiming Tsunami Preparedness Week
- Sponsored by Supervisor Williams, this item adopted a resolution proclaiming the week of March 25–29, 2019, as Tsunami Preparedness Week. The resolution outlined tsunami warning signs, notification levels, and directed the public to the interactive tsunami inundation map at readysbc.org. J.D. Saucedo, Emergency Manager for the County Office of Emergency Management, spoke regarding the importance of awareness and the availability of the new inundation map. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A3: Resolution Honoring Corinne Basso
- Sponsored by Supervisor Hart, this item adopted a resolution honoring Corinne Basso upon her retirement from the Probation Department after over 23 years of service. The resolution detailed her career progression and work in juvenile and adult divisions. Deputy Chief Sheehan spoke on behalf of the department, and Officer Basso accepted the commendation. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A4: Resolution Honoring Lieutenant Colonel Dean Davidge
- Sponsored by Supervisor Hartman, this item adopted a resolution honoring Lieutenant Colonel Dean Davidge as the March 2019 Veteran of the Month. The resolution recognized his service in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, including his receipt of the Distinguished Flying Cross, and his subsequent community volunteerism in the San Ynez Valley. Alvin Salge, a representative to the Veterans Services Advisory Committee, introduced Davidge, who then accepted the award. Supervisor Hartman acknowledged Chair Lavinino for initiating the program. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A5: Resolution Honoring Robert Cohen
- Sponsored by the Board of Supervisors, this item adopted a resolution honoring Robert Cohen upon his retirement from the Clerk of the Board office after over 32 years of service. The resolution highlighted his role in managing the County Assessment Appeals Program and his tenure as a board clerk. A colleague from the Clerk’s office spoke about his role as an informal county historian, and Cohen accepted the commendation. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A6: Resolution Honoring Russ Barker
- Sponsored by the Board of Supervisors, this item adopted a resolution honoring Russ Barker upon his retirement from the County Executive Office after over 31 years of service. The resolution noted his work in the Elections Division, his role in digitizing 150 years of legislative records, and his service driving the Clean Air Express. A colleague from the Clerk’s office spoke regarding his contributions, and Barker accepted the commendation. The resolution was adopted.
- Item A7: Resolution Honoring Diane Black
- Sponsored by the Board of Supervisors, this item adopted a resolution honoring Diane Black upon her retirement from the Planning and Development Department after over 35 years of service. The resolution detailed her career progression from intern to Director, her work on the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Code, and her role as Planning Commission Secretary. A representative from the Planning and Development Department spoke, followed by Black. Supervisors Hartman, Williams, and Hart offered remarks acknowledging her service. The resolution was adopted.
Additional Retirements Acknowledged
- The Chair acknowledged the upcoming retirements of Daniel Reed (Public Health, 29 years), Sheriff Deputy Christopher Dallenback (21 years), Sergeant Mark Allen Williams (Sheriff’s Office, 21 years), and Senior Deputy Probation Officer April Irving (Probation Department, 20 years).
Public Comment on Administrative Agenda
- The Clerk noted three requests for public comment on items A7, A29, and A34.
- Item A7 (Diane Black Retirement): Lee Moldaver, speaking on behalf of the Citizens Planning Association, commented on the breadth of issues handled by the Planning and Development Department under Black’s tenure, including land use, housing, and energy, and thanked her and other retiring staff for their service.
- Item A29 (Medical Grievance Oversight Coordinator Reports): Suzanne Worden presented the fourth quarter and annual 2018 reports. She discussed the creation of the Jail Health Grievance Coordinator position, the work of Mark Mahurin and jail staff in addressing inmate healthcare grievances, and the ongoing challenges regarding mental health treatment for inmates in isolation. She expressed intent to work with jail leadership to improve care for mentally ill inmates.
- Item A34 (HR 279 Carbajal, California Clean Coast Act of 2019): Andy Caldwell, representing Santa Maria, spoke against the proposed advocacy support position. He argued that adopting the item would prejudice the board’s impartiality in future land use decisions regarding offshore oil and gas production. He stated that the board should make a clear policy choice regarding onshore, offshore, or imported oil rather than placing the item on the administrative calendar.
Resolution 834 (Opposition to Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling)
- Discussion: A public commenter submitted a document regarding the scope of the Plains All-American Pipeline, arguing that offshore oil and gas development must be considered simultaneously in the Environmental Impact Report. The commenter criticized the Planning and Development department for not answering scoping questions completely and truthfully, specifically regarding the safety of connecting the Venicle Pipeline to Line 901 and the lack of automatic shutoff valves. The Chair noted the item had been considered previously in 2017 and 2018. The Chair expressed a personal view that ending production while continuing to use petroleum products is inconsistent, stating they would vote against the resolution. Supervisor Williams moved to approve the staff recommendation, acknowledging the economic shift required but supporting the position against increased federal offshore drilling. Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion, citing the county’s history of opposing new offshore drilling and the urgency of climate change reports. Supervisor Hart agreed, noting the long-standing position of the city and county.
- Motion: Supervisor Williams moved to approve the staff recommendation.
- Second: Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion.
- Vote Outcome: Passed (3-1).
Balance of Administrative Agenda
- Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to approve the balance of the administrative agenda.
- Second: Seconded (unspecified in transcript, implied by procedure).
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Public Comment (General)
- Commenter 1 (Ed Kolaski): Spoke regarding a five-year dispute with a planning official (Alex Pujo) over a home remodel, alleging the official ruled the second story was solely over the garage in violation of guidelines, which the commenter disputed. The commenter criticized the process, alleging lack of transparency and referencing a previous supervisor.
- Commenter 2 (Tom Becker): Discussed the U.S. EPA and Federal Highway Administration’s efforts to change vehicle mileage standards and eliminate California’s emission waiver. The commenter referenced a California Air Resources Board program for zero-emission shuttle buses and disputed the statistic that 10% of California vehicles are zero-emission, stating it is less than 1% and that hybrids do not count.
Departmental Agenda Item 1: Extra Help Services and Retirement Waiver for Chief Deputy Clerk
- Discussion: The Clerk of the Board reported that Chief Deputy Clerk Mike Allen is retiring on March 22. Staff recommended certifying the appointment as necessary to fill a critical need and authorizing the County Executive Officer to appoint Allen as an extra help employee effective March 25, 2019, for up to 960 hours of annual service. An addendum was noted amending the effective date.
- Motion: Supervisor Williams moved to approve the staff recommendation.
- Second: Seconded (unspecified in transcript, implied by procedure).
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Agenda Item 2: Commission for Women’s 2019 Women’s History Month Service Awards
- Discussion: The Commission for Women presented service awards to the following recipients:
- Life Chronicles (Kate Carter): Recognized for creating life legacy videos for individuals facing serious illness or end-of-life situations.
- Allison Hardy (Janine’s Restaurant and Bakery): Recognized for community support during the 2018 debris flow, including providing free food and serving as a safe space.
- Community Wellness Team (led by Suzanne Grimacy): Recognized for crisis counseling and resilience support following the Thomas Fire and debris flow, involving over 13 agencies.
- San Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program: Recognized for providing equine-assisted activities to individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.
- Tekla Sanford: Recognized for 40 years of work in sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming, and soil health.
- CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and Crystal Sullen: Recognized for recruiting and training volunteers to advocate for children in the foster care system.
- Líderes Campesinas Central Coast: Recognized for developing leadership among female farm workers and advocating for their rights.
- Myra Ramos (Harvest Community Center): Recognized for community service, including food distribution, educational workshops, and youth programs in Santa Maria.
- Motion: Supervisor Hart moved to approve the item.
- Second: Seconded (unspecified in transcript, implied by procedure).
- Vote Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Agenda Item 3: Termination of Proclamation of Local Emergency Caused by Drought
- Discussion: Staff recommended terminating the proclamation of a local emergency caused by drought conditions but adopting a resolution of concern regarding a prolonged water supply shortage. The Clerk of the Board noted that while the technical definition of drought may no longer apply, water supply shortages remain due to sedimentation, water quality issues, and storage limitations.
- Public Comment (Tom Becker): Argued against attributing the drought to man-made climate change, citing alleged data manipulation by the IPCC and demanding scientific credentials for such claims.
- Supervisor Williams: Stated that regardless of the cause, major water supply problems persist due to fire sedimentation and water quality issues. Emphasized the need for continued conservation, particularly regarding turf grass usage.
- Supervisor Hartman: Commended staff for addressing the risk of public misunderstanding. Asked for an update on groundwater recharge efforts.
- Staff (Mr. Farrum): Reported on the adoption of the stormwater resources plan, discussions with the Carpinteria Valley Water District regarding reconnecting concrete channels to groundwater, and the history of the Orchid Regional Recharge Project. Emphasized that conservation is most effective when water resources are available.
- Supervisor Hart: Agreed with colleagues, noting the high level of individual conservation efforts and the diverse water portfolio developed by agencies.
- Status: The transcript ends before a motion, second, or vote is recorded for this item.
Agenda Item: Drought Proclamation Resolution (Items A, B, and C)
- The Chair discussed the impact of the extended drought on public habits, noting that residents have reduced water usage, such as lawn watering, and that maintaining the proclamation could undermine future emergency declarations. A staff member explained that groundwater levels in the Santa Maria Basin are monitored through county well networks, the Santa Maria Basin adjudication, the California State Groundwater Monitoring (CASGEM) program, and Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) agencies. The Chair requested that the county begin reporting available groundwater data as an administrative agenda item to demonstrate continued tracking. A motion was made and seconded to adopt recommendations A, B, and C, along with the direction to report on groundwater. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: D4 – Public Works (Annexation and Zone Benefit)
- Public Works presented a hearing to consider annexing APN 097371010 (Oak Hills Estate, Track Map 14810) to the Santa Barbara North County Lighting District and establishing a zone benefit. The presentation noted that this action would generate revenue for streetlights in the Vandenberg Village area. The Clerk confirmed there were no requests for public testimony. The Clerk reported that the ballot from affected property owners indicated a unanimous approval. A motion was made and seconded to adopt staff recommendations A through D (receive testimony, count the vote, adopt the resolution, and find the action exempt from CEQA). The motion passed unanimously.
Closed Session
- The Board entered closed session to consider three matters: existing litigation involving Service Employees International Union Local 620; a conference with legal counsel regarding anticipated civil litigation; and a conference with labor negotiators concerning Service Employees International Union Local 620. Upon returning to open session, the Clerk reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.
Agenda Item: Item 5 – General Services (Electric Vehicle Update)
- General Services presented a concept-level report on options and costs for transitioning the county fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, responding to a 2018 board request. The report focused on 124 gasoline-powered sedans expected to reach the 100,000-mile replacement threshold within five years. Staff outlined four strategies: continuing current practices (5–10% alternative fuel), all-electric, all-hybrid, and a mixed approach. The analysis included estimated costs for vehicles, charging infrastructure, and fuel savings, noting that EVs offer greater greenhouse gas reductions than hybrids but at a higher incremental cost.
- Public comment was received from five individuals:
- One speaker argued that replacing vehicles at 100,000 miles is inefficient, suggested that funds would be better spent on other infrastructure or employee transit options, and questioned the global impact of the county’s emissions reduction efforts.
- One speaker from the Community Environmental Council argued that the staff report overstated EV costs and understated savings, citing federal tax credits, state rebates, and lower maintenance costs. They recommended procuring more EVs and utilizing shared charging infrastructure.
- One speaker from the Climate Reality Project urged the county to deploy EVs to reduce local air pollution and health impacts, noting that the staff analysis used outdated cost data and failed to account for amortization and available grants.
- One speaker from the Sierra Club emphasized that total cost of ownership for EVs is lower due to fuel and maintenance savings, and argued that charging costs were overstated in the staff report.
- One speaker, a mechanic, criticized the 100,000-mile replacement policy, raised concerns about electrical grid safety and the connection between EVs and fossil fuel infrastructure, and noted the omission of E85 vehicle options in the analysis.
- Board members discussed the staff report, with several noting that the cost estimates were conservative and that charging infrastructure costs could be reduced through shared use and grants. One Supervisor suggested a one-year pilot program for full conversion of sedans to EVs, with a mix of short- and long-range models, and requested staff to explore purchasing used or post-lease EVs. Another Supervisor agreed with the one-year approach to gather more data on maintenance and costs. A third Supervisor asked about tracking daily mileage to determine the appropriate mix of short- and long-range vehicles. The Chair asked about electricity costs for charging, and staff responded that the cost is approximately $3 per charge.
Agenda Item: Electric Vehicle Fleet Transition (Continued)
- The board continued its discussion regarding the potential electrification of 55 vehicles in the county fleet. Staff clarified that fuel savings calculations included the cost of vehicle charging. The Chair questioned the anticipated lifespan of current vehicles, noting that some are 6–9 years old and approaching 100,000 miles. The Chair expressed a preference for extending the life of existing vehicles to 150,000 miles before replacement, citing environmental and financial considerations, and asked about the long-term durability and disposal of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
- Staff and technical representatives explained that the target for EV disposal is prior to battery replacement due to high replacement costs. They noted that current EVs in the fleet have approximately 15,000 miles each and are still operational. Discussion touched on the environmental impact of battery recycling and cobalt sourcing. The Chair asked whether state or federal funding sources could provide additional incentives for using EVs; staff indicated that no additional benefits accrue beyond the initial capital funding, and departments must absorb any higher costs from their own funds.
- The Chair emphasized the need for strategic procurement, suggesting a regional bidding approach similar to Alameda County to secure better pricing and local dealer participation. Staff confirmed that strategic sourcing would be used for any large-scale purchase. The Chair expressed concern about moving from four EVs to 55 without adequate infrastructure, advocating for a gradual transition.
- Supervisor Williams clarified that Social Services vehicles often require long-distance travel for child pickups and home visits, necessitating a mix of EVs and hybrids or long-range EVs. Staff estimated that Social Services uses approximately 138 pooled vehicles county-wide, with two assigned vehicles and significant pool usage. Supervisor Hartman noted that while short-term costs are higher, long-term savings are expected, and technology is advancing rapidly. He suggested checking with other agencies for cost certainty.
- Supervisor Hartman asked about the feasibility of installing charging infrastructure for 55 vehicles. Staff indicated that while the $14,000 per vehicle estimate for charging is a broad assumption, competitive bidding and shared charging technologies could reduce costs. Supervisor Williams expressed uncertainty about whether infrastructure could be in place within one year if 55 vehicles were purchased immediately.
- The Chair requested a list of the 55 vehicles slated for replacement, including their mileage, to inform the decision. Staff agreed to provide this data. Supervisor Williams proposed a motion to make all new sedan purchases electric for one year, allowing staff to extend the life of the existing fleet if possible, and to report back on fuel savings and infrastructure progress after one year. Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion.
- Staff clarified that the motion aligns with their recommendation to replace gas vehicles with electric models over the next five years, but they advised against limiting the initiative to one year due to the long-term nature of infrastructure investments. They noted that departments would need to absorb costs from their own funds, with some passing through to state/federal sources. Staff indicated that budget workshops would address departmental cost impacts and infrastructure planning.
Motion and Vote
- A motion was made to direct that all new purchases of sedans in the light-duty fleet be electric vehicles for one year, with staff to report back on progress, fuel savings, and infrastructure status after that period. The motion was seconded.
- The board voted on the motion. The motion passed.
Agenda Item: 2019 Proposed Capital Projects and Financing Strategies
- Staff presented the 2019 proposed capital project list, derived from the Capital Improvement Program. The list includes Priority 1 ("must-do") and Priority 2 ("should-do") projects. Excluding the Public Safety Radio Replacement project (to be addressed separately), the total cost of the other projects is approximately $71 million.
- Projects presented included: 1. Main Jail Renovations: A two-phase project for ADA modifications, seismic upgrades, medical/mental health modifications, and deferred maintenance. Completion is expected in about five years. Some inmates will be moved to the Northern Branch Jail for swing space during construction. 2. Public Safety Radio Tower Enhancement: Phase three of radio improvements, including a new tower at Figueroa Mountain, replacement of the Santa Ynez Peak tower, and modifications at Mount Abel to improve coverage. 3. Cali Real Water System Replacement: Replacement of 80-year-old piping and valve systems at the lower Cali Real campus. 4. Santa Barbara Historic Courthouse Roof Replacement: Removal and replacement of deteriorated roof tiles and underlayment, and rehabilitation of gutters and downspouts. 5. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Installation of solar energy systems, solar thermal hot water, lithium battery storage, and small wind generation at the Betteravia campus, along with HVAC and lighting upgrades. 6. Kachuma Lake Park Infrastructure Upgrades: Renovation of 120 RV camping sites, replacement of water/sewer lines, electrical upgrades, and new landscaping. 7. Santa Barbara Probation Department Headquarters: Construction of a new 35,000-square-foot headquarters on the County Garden Street parking lot property, consolidating Probation Administration, Adult Services, PRRC, and Juvenile Services. The current headquarters on Carrillo Street would be demolished, with the land retained for future use. 8. Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Expansion: Expansion of the existing EOC structure to include sleeping quarters, a call center, multipurpose conference rooms, and additional parking, based on lessons learned from the Thomas Fire and 1-9 debris flow.
- Staff requested direction on which projects to move forward with to develop financing strategies. The Chair asked about the county’s debt capacity. Staff noted that approximately $1.4–$1.5 million in ongoing revenue has been set aside for debt service, and they are evaluating one-time revenues and additional capacity. Staff indicated that the Public Safety Radio Replacement project cannot be funded via issuance in 2019.
- The Chair expressed concern about the EOC expansion, viewing it as a "want" rather than a "need," and suggested prioritizing projects with daily operational impacts, such as air conditioning for staff. The Chair also asked about the role of the Courthouse Legacy Foundation in roof repairs; staff clarified that the Foundation focuses on art and conservation, not structural repairs. The Chair suggested considering the sale of unused county properties, including the current Probation Department headquarters, to offset costs.
- Supervisor Williams asked for a breakdown of the EOC expansion costs to determine if parts could be prioritized. Staff indicated the cost is based on square footage and generic construction rates. Supervisor Hartman asked about the EOC’s design intent and problem-solving capabilities during emergencies. Staff explained that the EOC was designed to expand, and the proposed changes address specific needs identified during recent disasters, such as inadequate call center space and the need for sleeping quarters for long-commuting staff. Staff noted that the facility is used daily for community meetings and agency coordination, not just during emergencies.
- Supervisor Hart expressed appreciation for the explanation and noted that while all projects seem important, final decisions will depend on affordability and debt service capacity. He requested information on projects just below the current list to understand trade-offs.
Motion and Vote
- No motion was made or voted on in this section of the transcript. The board requested further information and direction on financing strategies, with staff to return with details during budget workshops.
Agenda Item: Capital Improvement Plan / Project List Approval
- Discussion: A board member expressed support for the recommended projects, requesting that staff ensure buildings are constructed with sustainability in mind from the outset to avoid future retrofit costs. Staff confirmed the existence of a previously adopted zero net energy policy. Another board member seconded the motion, endorsing the list after acknowledging the deliberation involved in its creation.
- Staff Presentation: Staff outlined the next steps, stating that a financing strategy would be brought back to the board for incorporation into hearings. The strategy would aim to utilize one-time funds to minimize debt financing costs. Staff noted that financing timing would depend on project useful life and construction windows, specifically referencing the IRS safe harbor rule for tax-exempt financing which requires spending proceeds within a three-year construction window. Staff indicated that this might involve delaying financing or using reimbursement resolutions to manage timing.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made and seconded to move the project list forward. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment
- The chair declared the meeting finished and adjourned until April 2 in Santa Barbara.