Board of Supervisors

Meeting Summary

Present: Williams, 3-Hartmann, 5-Lavagnino, 4-Nelson

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

Vintage Ranch Irrevocable Offer to Dedicate Real Property

The applicant clarified that the item was likely pulled from the consent agenda in error.
The board approved the offer of dedication for open space within the track development.

Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Friday Night Live Month

Supervisor Williams supported the resolution to promote healthy alternatives for youth regarding substance use.
The board unanimously approved the proclamation.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Resolution Proclaiming Week of the Young Child

Speakers highlighted the work of childcare providers during the pandemic and the 50th anniversary of the week.
The board approved the resolution emphasizing the need for affordable and accessible childcare.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Resolution Proclaiming April 10, 2021, as Dolores Huerta Day

Speakers and supervisors discussed Dolores Huerta’s contributions to civil rights, labor, and social justice.
The board unanimously approved the resolution honoring her legacy.

Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as National Poetry Month

A student read a poem and Supervisor Williams read an excerpt from T.S. Eliot.
The board approved the resolution following the cultural presentation.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Resolution Acknowledging the Extraordinary Life of Father John Stephen Hedges

Speakers detailed Father Hedges’ ministry, compassion, and 20-year service as a chaplain to the Sheriff’s Office.
The board unanimously approved the resolution acknowledging his community impact.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month

A representative from STESA outlined the "Create to Prevent" campaign and upcoming events.
The board approved the resolution emphasizing support for survivors and challenging stigma.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Donate Life Month

Speakers discussed the importance of organ donation and the ease of registering with OneLegacy.
The board approved the resolution encouraging public awareness of the donor registry.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Live Oak Equestrian Trail Pilot Project

Public commenters raised safety concerns regarding multi-use access and requested the pilot be halted.
The board clarified that the pilot would exclude dogs and bicycles, noting the item is not yet agendized for a formal decision.

COVID-19 Update

Staff reported the county remained in the Red Tier with a 2.7% testing positivity rate.
The board accepted the report and discussed strategies to improve vaccination access and address regional disparities.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Public Works Fee Ordinance

Staff proposed shifting to deposit-based fees to achieve full cost recovery for the County Surveyor’s Office.
The board adopted a two-year pilot program instead of the proposed five-year term to allow for post-pandemic adjustments.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) FY 2021–2026

Staff presented $74.9 million in projects for FY 2021–2022 and highlighted approximately $514 million in unfunded needs.
The board granted preliminary approval, directed the addition of the Orchid Library project, and requested cost-savings analyses.

Census 2020 Complete Count Wrap Up

Staff reported a final self-response rate of 71.8%, a 3.3% increase over the 2010 rate.
The board received the file and discussed the estimation of non-response rates and federal funding implications.

No decision 0–0

Resolution Declaring Racism a Public Health Crisis

Supporters cited the tangible health effects of systemic racism, while critics urged the board to move beyond rhetoric to concrete action.
The board passed the resolution, with one supervisor abstaining due to concerns about the terminology used.

Passed 2–0 · abstained: Nelson

Closed Session

The board considered existing and anticipated litigation, as well as real property and labor negotiations.
Staff reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.

Full summary

Meeting Opening and Roll Call

The April 6, 2021, meeting of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors was called to order by Chair Nelson. The Clerk called the roll, and all five supervisors (Williams, Hart, Hartman, Lavinino, and Nelson) were present. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Approval of Minutes

Item: Approval of the minutes from the March 16, 2021, meeting.
Discussion: No discussion was recorded.
Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to approve; Chair Nelson seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Announcements and Agenda Changes

Agenda Change: The Clerk announced that Administrative Item 28 (Resolution declaring racism a public health crisis) was requested to be trailed to after Departmental Item 4, with an estimated time of 2:00 PM.
Public Participation: The Clerk provided instructions for public comment via Zoom, noting that meetings are broadcast in Spanish via secondary audio programming.
Items Pulled: The following administrative items were pulled from the consent agenda for individual consideration: Items 18, 28, 39, 40, 44, 45, 46, and 47.
Motion: A motion was made to approve the balance of the administrative agenda excluding the eight pulled items.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Administrative Item 18: Vintage Ranch Irrevocable Offer to Dedicate Real Property

Sponsor: Planning and Development.
Discussion: Jacob Grossman of Coles Community Builders, the applicant, clarified that the item was likely pulled in error as it was intended for consent approval. He stated the offer of dedication for open space within the track development was agreed upon.
Motion: A motion was made to approve Item 18.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Administrative Item 39: Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Friday Night Live Month

Sponsor: Supervisor Williams.
Discussion: Public commenters did not appear. Supervisor Williams spoke in support, citing the importance of healthy alternatives for youth regarding alcohol and drug use, and referencing opiate overdose deaths.
Motion: Supervisor Williams moved to approve; Supervisor Hartman seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Administrative Item 40: Resolution Proclaiming Week of the Young Child

Sponsor: Supervisors Williams and Hart.
Discussion: Tondra Pitchford spoke on behalf of the Santa Barbara County Education Office and First Five, thanking the board and highlighting the work of childcare providers during the pandemic. Supervisor Hart noted this was the 50th anniversary of the Week of the Young Child and emphasized the need for affordable and accessible childcare for economic recovery.
Motion: A motion was made to approve; Chair Nelson seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Administrative Item 41: Resolution Proclaiming April 10, 2021, as Dolores Huerta Day

Sponsor: Supervisors Hart and Nelson.
Discussion: Supervisor Hartman spoke on Dolores Huerta’s contributions to civil rights, labor, and social justice. Lisa Valencia-Sharrett spoke on behalf of the Housing for the Harvest program, connecting Huerta’s legacy to current farm worker support. Supervisor Hart, Chair Nelson, Supervisor Williams, and Supervisor Lavinino all spoke in support of the resolution, noting Huerta’s ongoing activism and impact.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Administrative Item 44: Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as National Poetry Month

Sponsor: Supervisor Williams.
Discussion: The Clerk read the resolution into the record. Alex Espinoza-Kulik of Corazon del Pueblo introduced Sierra Mayoral, a student from Carpinteria High School, who read a poem. Supervisor Williams then read an excerpt from a T.S. Eliot poem. Supervisor Hartman noted an art display by Corazon del Pueblo.
Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to approve; Supervisor Williams seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Administrative Item 45: Resolution Acknowledging the Extraordinary Life of Father John Stephen Hedges

Sponsor: Supervisors Williams and Hartman.
Discussion: The Clerk read the resolution. Melissa Hedges, Father John’s wife, thanked the board and spoke about his ministry and compassion. Sheriff Bill Brown spoke about Father John’s 20-year service as a chaplain to the Sheriff’s Office and his support during disasters. Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Hart spoke in support, acknowledging his impact on the community and the homeless population.
Motion: A motion was made to approve; Chair Nelson seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Administrative Item 46: Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sponsor: Supervisors Williams and Hart.
Discussion: The Clerk read the resolution. Bianca Roscoe of Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA) outlined the organization’s "Create to Prevent" campaign and upcoming events. Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Hart spoke in support, emphasizing the need to support survivors and challenge stigma.
Motion: A motion was made to approve; Chair Nelson seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

Administrative Item 47: Resolution Proclaiming April 2021 as Donate Life Month

Sponsor: Supervisor Hart.
Discussion: The Clerk read the resolution. Blanca Cohen of OneLegacy and Lisa Marciano, a kidney transplant recipient and OneLegacy ambassador, spoke about the importance of organ donation and the ease of registering. Supervisor Hart spoke in support, encouraging public awareness of the donor registry.
Motion: A motion was made to approve; Chair Nelson seconded.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Passed 4–0 · unanimous

General Public Comment: Live Oak Equestrian Trail Pilot Project

Topic: Multiple speakers addressed the proposed pilot project to open the Live Oak Equestrian Trail area at Cachuma Lake to multi-use (hikers, mountain bikers, etc.).
Speakers: Jessica Schlei, Kathleen Rosenthal, Pat Fish, Lori Weiss, Cici Wellman, Dawn Perrine, Elizabeth Camara, Courtney Dunn, Carla Renard, and Suzanne Duca spoke.
Key Points Raised:
Speakers argued the area is designated as equestrian-only in the Kachuma Recreational Master Plan.
Concerns were raised regarding safety hazards for horses (spooking by dogs/bikes), lack of studies on compatibility, and insufficient enforcement/staffing.
Speakers requested the board halt the pilot project, delay opening until studies are complete, and maintain the area as equestrian-only.
One speaker noted that the trailhead gate is four feet wide and unrestricted, posing safety and liability issues.
Some speakers cited personal experiences with dog attacks and the importance of the trail for training young horses and timid riders.
Board Response: Supervisor Hartman clarified that the pilot program would not allow dogs and that bicycles were not part of the current discussion. She stated that allowing hikers is appropriate and that equestrians and hikers can coexist with proper courtesy. Supervisor Williams expressed support for the pilot but emphasized the need for adequate enforcement to address concerns about bicycles and dogs. The County Attorney’s office confirmed that the Parks Department has the discretion to initiate the pilot program based on the 2012 management agreement and a recent CEQA notice of exemption. The board noted that the item is not yet agendized for a formal decision at this time.

Departmental Item 1: COVID-19 Update

Presentation: The County Executive Office presented an update on COVID-19 data, vaccination efforts, and blueprint metrics.
Metrics: The adjusted case rate was anticipated to be 6.8, and the testing positivity rate was 2.7%. The county remained in the Red Tier, having not met the criteria for the Orange Tier.
Vaccination: The county had reached 4 million vaccinations statewide, widening tier thresholds. Eligibility was expanded to individuals 16 and older for Pfizer vaccines at community clinics and Lompoc Valley Medical Center.
Operations: The county reported high utilization of HRSA clinics, with the majority of appointments at the Alan Hancock site in North County being filled by North County residents. Public Health stated it would continue to serve as the "backbone" for vaccination in North County due to gaps in the local healthcare network.
Access: Strategies to improve access included overbooking to account for no-shows, expanding mobile "strike teams" to reach vulnerable populations, and utilizing the 2-1-1 hotline for those with difficulty accessing online booking systems.
Discussion: Supervisors discussed the disparity in vaccination rates between North and South County, with Supervisor Nelson noting a significant gap in fully vaccinated individuals. Supervisor Williams raised ethical concerns regarding residents traveling to other counties for vaccines, emphasizing the need for community responsibility. Supervisor Hartman and Supervisor Lavinino discussed the logistical challenges of filling appointments and the importance of clear communication regarding the benefits of vaccination.
Motion: Supervisor Williams moved to accept the report and recommendations regarding the COVID-19 update. Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion.
Vote: Passed unanimously.

Departmental Item 2: Public Works Fee Ordinance

Presentation: Public Works presented a proposed fee ordinance for the County Surveyor’s Office. The department proposed updating fees, which had not been comprehensively reviewed since 2010, to achieve full cost recovery.
Fee Structure: Shifting from fixed fees to deposit-based fees, which would allow for cost adjustments based on the time required to complete work.
Cost Recovery: The fee study indicated a 78% level of cost recovery, with the remaining costs historically subsidized by the County General Fund. Staff later noted that current fees are based on 2018–2019 data and that cost recovery is currently below 37%.
Pilot Program: The department initially proposed a five-year pilot program to discontinue General Fund subsidies for records of survey filed in incorporated areas (cities), requiring those jurisdictions to cover the full cost. Subsidies would continue for the unincorporated area.
Timeline: The item was presented for first reading, with second reading scheduled for April 20, and fees taking effect on July 1 if adopted.
Discussion:
Supervisor Hartman asked for clarification regarding surveys for special districts, and the department clarified that the fees applied to boundary and right-of-way surveys, not LAFCO annexation surveys.
Supervisor Nelson inquired about the public benefit of these surveys for private landowners.
Staff indicated that transitioning to electronic submissions and deposit-based fees could streamline processes and potentially reduce costs over time.
Chair Nelson expressed concern that the proposed fees might be among the highest in California and suggested a shorter pilot period to allow for post-pandemic adjustments and discussions with incorporated cities. Staff confirmed flexibility regarding the pilot duration and noted that the current ordinance has a sunset provision in 2026.
Motion: A conceptual motion was made to establish a two-year pilot program instead of the proposed five-year term, with direction to staff to adjust the ordinance language accordingly. The motion was seconded.
Vote: Passed. The item was trailed for further processing later in the day.
Final Action: Later in the meeting, the Board considered the updated language reflecting the two-year pilot project. A board member noted that the only changes in Exhibit A, paragraph 5, were the dates changed from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2023. A motion was made to adopt the updated language as proposed. The motion was seconded.
Vote: Passed.

Closed Session

The Board recessed to closed session to consider five matters: existing litigation involving Sobani Group and Alamos Farms; anticipated litigation; a conference with real property negotiators regarding parcels in the San Marcos Preserve; and a conference with labor negotiators for all bargaining units. Upon reconvening, staff reported that there were no reportable actions from the closed session.

Departmental Item 3: Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) FY 2021–2026

Presentation: Staff from General Services, Public Works, and CSD Parks presented the five-year CIP, which includes $74.9 million in projects for FY 2021–2022. The presentation covered recent accomplishments, including renewable energy projects, road improvements, bridge replacements, and park renovations. Staff outlined the CIP categories: Category 1 (General Fund projects), Category 2 (department-funded projects), Category 3 (projects in development), and unfunded needs. Staff highlighted approximately $514 million in unfunded projects across the three departments.
Discussion:
Supervisor Williams requested that staff provide cost-savings analyses for energy-related projects to assist with budget deliberations.
Supervisor Lavinino inquired about the strategy for identifying shovel-ready projects for potential federal community project funding requested by Congressman Carbajal’s office, with a deadline of April 16. Staff confirmed that a list of viable projects had been developed in coordination with the legislative platform and that the Board could review priorities during upcoming budget workshops.
Chair Nelson requested the addition of the Orchid Library project to the CIP’s long-range program and noted the need to distinguish between routine and deferred maintenance funding.
Supervisor Hartman thanked staff for the comprehensive presentation.
Motion: A motion was made to receive and file the five-year CIP, grant preliminary nonbinding conceptual approval of the projects, include the Orchid Library in the long-range program, and direct staff to provide cost-savings analyses and a list of potential federal funding projects. The motion was seconded.
Vote: Passed.

Departmental Item 4: Census 2020 Complete Count Wrap Up

Presentation: Staff from the Department of Child Support Services and the Santa Barbara Foundation presented the 2020 Census Wrap Up Report. Joni Maiden detailed the efforts of the Complete Count Committee, which included over 100 partners, to increase census participation. Methods included car and bike caravans, partnerships with local agencies (such as UCSB, the City of Santa Maria, and the County Ag Commissioner’s Office), and distribution of materials at markets, food pantries, and via utility bills. The presentation noted that the state provided over $494,000 and the Santa Barbara Foundation provided over $366,000, totaling $860,421 in funding. The final self-response rate was 71.8%, a 3.3% increase over the 2010 rate. A video featuring committee partners was played, highlighting the challenges posed by the pandemic and the rapid shift to digital outreach.
Public Comment: Lauren Bianchi-Clemon, Government Affairs and Public Information Manager for the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SB CAG), provided public comment expressing appreciation for the collaboration and leadership of the County and the Santa Barbara Foundation. She noted that SB CAG is designated as the affiliate census center to support public access to census data and announced a follow-up wrap-up report presentation for city partners scheduled for May 12.
Discussion:
Supervisor Hartman asked how the non-response rate is estimated and incorporated into federal funding decisions. Joni Maiden explained that census responses are used to produce demographic statistics combined with other data for policymakers, noting that some data, such as from Vandenberg Air Force Base, is still being processed.
Supervisor Nelson asked if the reported rate included post-response canvassing; Maiden indicated it likely did not include most canvassing that occurred after data collection stopped.
Motion: A motion was made to receive the file. The motion was seconded.
Vote: Passed.

Administrative Item 28: Resolution Declaring Racism a Public Health Crisis

Sponsor: Supervisors Williams and Hartman.
Discussion:
Supervisor Hartman spoke in support, citing the tangible health effects of systemic racism and the need to acknowledge historical inequities to advance racial equity.
Supervisor Williams spoke in support, noting that racism is a social determinant of health and a barrier to health equity, particularly affecting underserved populations.
Dr. Dobernoso, representing the Department of Social Services, Department of Behavioral Wellness, and Public Health, spoke in support, stating that racism results in unfair lack of access to housing, education, and employment, and elevated risk for justice involvement.
Fourteen members of the public provided comment. Speakers generally supported the resolution, citing personal experiences with racism, the impact of systemic racism on mental and physical health, and the disproportionate effects of the pandemic on communities of color. Several speakers urged the Board to move beyond rhetoric to concrete action, accountability, and resource allocation. One speaker from Showing Up for Racial Justice Santa Barbara supported the resolution but criticized its vague language and lack of specific action steps or accountability mechanisms. Another speaker urged the Board to examine the public safety budget through an anti-racist lens. Other speakers shared personal stories of discrimination and emphasized the need for equity in healthcare, education, and employment.
Supervisor Hartman responded to public comments, acknowledging the criticism regarding the perception of inaction. She highlighted ongoing work in the criminal justice system to reduce jail populations and address racial disparities, noting that a special budget workshop is planned. She also mentioned the county’s efforts in arts, sustainability, and funding for BIPOC communities.
Supervisor Williams discussed the long-term nature of addressing systemic inequities and the need for diligence in making incremental changes.
Supervisor Hartman added that while race is a social construct, its sociological impacts are significant, citing examples of systemic barriers in housing and education.
Chair Nelson expressed his struggle with the term "systemic racism," stating that while he supports addressing racial inequalities and disparate outcomes, he believes labeling local institutions as racist may shut down conversation. He stated that he could not support the resolution as written but also could not oppose it, indicating his intention to abstain.
Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Hartman engaged in a brief discussion regarding the definition of racism and the persistence of institutional inertia.
The Clerk of the Board expressed support for the views of Supervisors Hartman and Williams, emphasizing the importance of confronting systematic racist policies in the United States. The Clerk cited historical examples, such as the intentional closure of public pools to avoid integration and the denial of VA loans to African American World War II veterans, as evidence of intentional government policy that resulted in generational disparities. The Clerk also noted the need to highlight ongoing work and progress to meet public expectations.
Chair Nelson stated that he does not deny the existence of inequities or racism in the country but expressed a personal struggle with the premise that all structures are inherently racist. He indicated a desire to proceed cautiously in this conversation and welcomed further dialogue with colleagues and the public.
Motion: The Clerk of the Board moved to approve the resolution.
Vote: Passed.

Passed 2–0 · abstained: Nelson

Board of Supervisors — 2021-04-06