Meeting Summary
Present: Williams, 3-Hartmann, 4-Nelson · Absent: 5-Lavagnino
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
Announcements
- The County Executive Officer announced the availability of Emergency Rent Assistance for qualified tenants dating back to March 2020.
- The Citizens Independent Redistricting Commission has less than three months to finalize new boundary maps based on the 2020 Census.
- Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) began service in the Southern California Edison territory with enrollment open through early December.
- The Multifamily Home Energy Savings Program launched with a public webinar scheduled for October 12.
Public Health Presentation: Annual Flu Campaign
- The Public Health Director presented the annual flu campaign, highlighting free vaccines and appointment scheduling via myturn.ca.gov.
- Medical staff addressed questions regarding the types of flu vaccines available to the public.
- Board members and staff received flu shots during the meeting.
Item A-15, A-16, and A-17: Employee Contracts
- The board considered successor memoranda of understanding for the Engineers and Technicians Association (ETA).
- Supervisor Nelson expressed support for inflation adjustments but raised concerns regarding budgetary impact and potential tax increases.
- Supervisor Nelson stated they would abstain from the vote, and the motion to approve the items passed.
Item A-22: Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange
- The Sheriff’s Office presented a $25,000 grant for the "Save 21" program to address surrendered and abandoned vessels.
- Supervisor Williams thanked Lieutenant Arnoldi and Heal the Ocean for their coordination in removing nuisance vessels.
- The board approved the item unanimously.
Item A-27: Resolution Affirming Reproductive Freedom
- Supervisors Hart and Hartman sponsored a resolution affirming the right of reproductive freedom for county residents.
- Supervisor Nelson stated they could not support the resolution and would not sign it.
- Supporters cited the threat to Roe v. Wade and the disproportionate impact on low-income and minority communities.
- Guests from Planned Parenthood accepted the resolution, which passed with a 3-1 vote.
Passed 2–1 · against: Nelson
Item A-28: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Resolution
- Supervisor Hartman sponsored a resolution proclaiming October 2021 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- The resolution highlighted the importance of early detection and the work of the Every Woman Counts program.
- Guests from the Promotores Network accepted the resolution and spoke on the importance of breast cancer screening.
- The item was approved as part of the earlier administrative agenda motion.
Item A-29: National Fire Prevention Week Resolution
- Supervisor Nelson sponsored a resolution proclaiming the week of October 3–9, 2021, as National Fire Prevention Week.
- Fire Chief Mark Hartwig accepted the resolution and emphasized the life-saving importance of functional smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- The Clerk asked a question regarding the number of alarms needed in a typical home, which was answered by Chief Hartwig.
- The item was approved as part of the earlier administrative agenda motion.
Departmental Item 1: Public Health Department Update
- The department reported 34 new cases, a 62% decrease from the two-week average, with 356 active cases and one new death.
- Hospital capacity stood at 38% of beds and 31.2% of ICU capacity remaining as of October 4.
- The department explained the "Swiss Cheese Model" of layered prevention strategies and the impact of misinformation on public adherence.
- The board discussed the motivations behind public health measures and staff addressed Public Records Act compliance regarding FDA data access.
Health Officer Order for Indoor Masking
- The Health Officer Order for indoor masking was renewed and is in effect until November 5, 2021.
- The order will be lifted when the case rate is less than 6 per 100,000 for two consecutive weeks.
- Masks remain required in schools, healthcare settings, and congregate living centers per state orders regardless of the local order status.
- Reissuance triggers include a surge in case rates, concerning circulating variants, or dipping hospital capacity.
Agenda Item: Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Update
- United Way has spent the $13.2 million in ERA1 funds, serving 1,413 applicants with an average payout of $8,262.
- ERA2 applications are currently being accepted online, with $16 million received so far for county residents.
- Eligibility requires a rent obligation, income at or below 80% Area Median Income, and self-attestation of economic impact.
- Since SB 91, programs pay 100% of rent arrears, and ERA2 includes relocation assistance such as security deposits.
Agenda Item: Legal Aid Foundation Update on Eviction Moratorium
- The state eviction moratorium ended on September 30, 2021, returning normal pre-pandemic eviction laws to effect.
- A transition period from October 2021 to March 2022 applies modified court procedures for evictions based on non-payment from March 2020 through March 2022.
- The notice to pay rent or quit period has changed from 15 days to 3 days.
- The City of Santa Barbara has additional local protections, including required relocation assistance and mandatory mediation before lawsuits.
Departmental Item 2: Sheriff’s Office Fee Resolution
- The Sheriff’s Office proposed increasing 11 existing fees and establishing two new fees for identification cards and cannabis site security plan review.
- The presentation stated that the proposed fees allow for full cost recovery, with most existing fees unchanged since 1989.
- Staff confirmed the cannabis fee is a one-time permit fee and the ID card fee covers printing and processing costs.
- The board adopted recommended actions A and B in the staff report unanimously.
Departmental Item 3: Library Ad Hoc Committee Update and Annual Agreement
- Staff presented an update on the Library Ad Hoc Committee’s work to create a sustainable and equitable regional library system.
- Revisions to the annual agreement include a 25% cap on administration fees and clarified roles between the county and partner cities.
- Staff recommended engaging elected leaders from each city to build upon the committee’s work and assess facility needs.
- The board approved staff’s recommended actions, including receiving the update and approving the one-year countywide library system agreement.
Departmental Item 4: Child Care Relief and Recovery (ARPA)
- Representatives presented a proposal requesting the County to contribute $2 million in ARPA funds and cities to contribute $500,000 for child care relief.
- Data indicated a 54% increase in operating costs for childcare centers and a 75% increase for family childcare programs during the pandemic.
- The proposal aims to prevent closures and support parents’ ability to return to work, particularly for the "missing middle" workforce.
- Supervisor Williams expressed concern about accountability, while Supervisor Hart supported the proposal as necessary for workforce stability.
Agenda Item: Workforce Housing Needs Study
- Staff presented a primer on workforce housing needs, defining it as housing for workers who do not qualify for low-income subsidies but cannot afford market-rate housing.
- Barriers to increasing housing inventory include high land costs, lack of community support for density, and lengthy approval processes.
- Staff recommended approving a Request for Proposals for a consultant to conduct an in-depth study on workforce housing needs and barriers.
- Supervisor Williams suggested including a survey of the County’s own workforce and exploring employer-sponsored housing models.
Agenda Item 6: COVID-19 Health and Human Services Recovery and Resiliency Strategies
- The Board considered a hearing regarding recommendations for COVID-19 health and human services recovery and resiliency strategies.
- Due to the length of the item and the absence of one board member, the Board decided to continue the item to a future meeting.
- The County Executive Office requested that the item be continued to allow for a full board discussion at the next meeting.
- A motion was made to continue Item 6 to the October 12, 2021 meeting, which passed unanimously.
Closed Session
- The Board entered closed session to confer with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation and with labor negotiators for all bargaining units.
- Upon reconvening, the County Counsel reported that the Board took no reportable action during the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
- The October 5, 2021, meeting of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors was called to order. Roll call was taken, noting the absence of Supervisor Lavinino. The board pledged allegiance to the flag.
Approval of Minutes
- The board considered the approval of the minutes from the September 21, 2021, meeting. A motion was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Announcements
- The Clerk of the Board provided announcements regarding live Spanish interpretation, broadcast availability via Cox and Comcast cable, and methods for public participation (in-person at Santa Maria and Santa Barbara hearing rooms, or virtual via Zoom). The Clerk reminded the public of the county health officer order requiring indoor mask usage for individuals over two years of age, regardless of vaccination status.
- The County Executive Officer provided four announcements: 1. Emergency Rent Assistance: The program is available for qualified tenant households dating back to March 2020, administered through United Way of Santa Barbara County. 2. Redistricting: The Citizens Independent Redistricting Commission has less than three months to complete new boundary maps based on the 2020 U.S. Census. The next public meeting was scheduled for the following day at 6 p.m. 3. Central Coast Community Energy (3CE): 3CE begins service in the Southern California Edison territory in South Santa Barbara County, with enrollment open through early December. 4. 3CREN Program: The Multifamily Home Energy Savings Program launched, with a public webinar scheduled for October 12.
Public Health Presentation: Annual Flu Campaign
- The Public Health Director and Dr. Ann Sorg presented the annual flu campaign, highlighting the availability of free flu vaccines, walk-in and scheduled appointments via myturn.ca.gov, and upcoming community clinics. Board members and staff received flu shots during the meeting. Supervisor Hartman asked a question regarding the types of flu vaccines available, which was addressed by medical staff.
Administrative Agenda Approval
- The board considered the approval of the administrative agenda. Supervisor Nelson moved to pull items A-15, A-16, A-17, and A-27 for separate votes. No items were pulled by the public. A motion was made and seconded to approve the administrative agenda with the exception of items A-15, A-16, A-17, and A-27. The motion passed unanimously.
Item A-15, A-16, and A-17: Employee Contracts
- These items from Human Resources involved recommendations regarding successor memoranda of understanding for the Engineers and Technicians Association (ETA). Supervisor Nelson provided comments supporting adjustments for inflation and job evolution while expressing concern about budgetary impact and potential for higher taxes or service cuts. Supervisor Nelson stated they would abstain from the vote. A motion was made and seconded to approve the items. A roll call vote was taken. The motion passed.
Item A-22: Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange
- This item from the Sheriff’s Office involved a $25,000 grant for the "Save 21" program to address surrendered and abandoned vessels. Supervisor Williams thanked Lieutenant Arnoldi and Heal the Ocean for their coordination in removing nuisance vessels. A motion was made and seconded to approve the item. The motion passed unanimously.
Item A-27: Resolution Affirming Reproductive Freedom
- This item, sponsored by Supervisors Hart and Hartman, proposed adopting a resolution affirming the right of reproductive freedom for residents of Santa Barbara County. Supervisor Nelson stated they could not support the resolution and would not sign it. A motion was made and seconded to approve the resolution. A roll call vote was taken. The motion passed 3-1.
- Following the vote, the resolution was read into the record. Supervisors Hartman and Hart provided statements supporting the resolution, citing the threat to Roe v. Wade and the disproportionate impact on low-income and minority communities. Supervisor Williams spoke in support of the resolution, emphasizing economic empowerment and sex education as means to reduce abortion rates. Guests from Planned Parenthood of California Central Coast, Dr. Jenna Tosh and Luz Reyes Martin, accepted the resolution and spoke on the importance of protecting reproductive rights.
Passed 2–1 · against: Nelson
Item A-28: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Resolution
- This item, sponsored by Supervisor Hartman, proposed adopting a resolution proclaiming October 2021 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The resolution was read into the record, highlighting the importance of early detection and the work of the Every Woman Counts program. Supervisor Hartman spoke in support of the resolution. Guests Josefa Rios, June English, and Dr. Vando Reynoso accepted the resolution and spoke on the importance of breast cancer screening and the work of the Promotores Network. The item was approved as part of the earlier administrative agenda motion.
Item A-29: National Fire Prevention Week Resolution
- This item, sponsored by Supervisor Nelson, proposed adopting a resolution proclaiming the week of October 3–9, 2021, as National Fire Prevention Week. The resolution was read into the record, emphasizing the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Fire Chief Mark Hartwig accepted the resolution and spoke on the life-saving importance of functional alarms. The Clerk asked a question regarding the number of alarms needed in a typical home, which was answered by Chief Hartwig. The item was approved as part of the earlier administrative agenda motion.
General Public Comment
- Four members of the public provided comments: 1. Caroline Abate: Questioned the necessity of mask mandates for healthy individuals speaking during public comment, citing concerns about self-infection and lack of data on transmission rates in that context. 2. Katie Mickey: Celebrated the veto of SB 556 but expressed concern about AB 537, a broadband bill that imposes a 60-day shot clock for application approvals. She urged the board to amend the county code to include defined grounds for denial, such as proof of coverage gaps and safety concerns. 3. Dr. Amy Smith: Expressed concern about the promotion of flu shots without discussion of risks, and criticized the county’s vaccine mandate for workers, citing privacy and religious freedom concerns. She referenced the Declaration of Independence and Martin Luther King Jr. 4. Maria Kastner: Questioned how the county protects voter privacy in mail-in elections, specifically regarding the matching of signatures on envelopes to ballots, citing the California Constitution and the Voter Bill of Rights.
Departmental Item 1: Public Health Department Update (COVID-19 Data, Masking Order, and Flu Season)
- The Public Health Department presented an update on COVID-19 data for Santa Barbara County. Key statistics reported included:
- 34 new cases, representing a 62% decrease from the two-week average.
- 356 active cases and a total of 42,590 cumulative cases.
- One new death reported (resident of Santa Maria, age 30–49).
- 44 individuals hospitalized, with 17 in the ICU. ICU admissions increased by approximately 42% in the last two weeks.
- Testing positivity rate of 3.3% as of September 30.
- Hospital capacity: 38% of beds and 31.2% of ICU capacity remaining as of October 4.
- Vaccination data: 68.9% of eligible residents are fully vaccinated. The presentation highlighted increases in vaccination rates in specific zip codes (Guadalupe, New Quiama, Santa Maria, Santa Maria-Sisquauk, and Gary) and noted that 294 vaccines were administered at mobile clinics in the previous week.
- Outbreaks: 36 active outbreaks (5 in businesses, 19 in schools, 12 in congregate living facilities).
- Cases among ages 0–18: 5,893 cases reported between March 14, 2020, and September 23, 2021. The presentation noted that the summer 2021 peak was higher than the summer 2020 peak for this age group. The majority of cases in this demographic were Hispanic/Latino, reflecting the county’s demographics. Top case locations were Santa Maria (2,012), Santa Barbara (1,034), and Lompoc (792).
- The department explained the "Swiss Cheese Model" of layered prevention strategies (vaccination, masking, distancing, ventilation, hand hygiene) and the impact of misinformation on public adherence.
Health Officer Order for Indoor Masking
- The department presented the renewal of the Santa Barbara County Health Officer Order for indoor masking.
- Context: The order was originally issued on August 6, 2021, due to high transmission levels and the circulation of the Delta variant.
- Current Status: The county remains in the "high transmissibility" status according to CDC standards (more than 7 cases per 100,000 residents).
- Decision: The Health Officer Order for indoor masking was renewed and is in effect until November 5, 2021.
- Lifting Criteria: The order will be lifted when the case rate is less than 6 per 100,000 for two consecutive weeks. The threshold of 6 per 100,000 was described as a middle ground between the CDC’s cutoff of 7 and a previous blueprint of 4.
- Exceptions: Masks remain required in schools, healthcare settings, and congregate living centers per state orders and Cal/OSHA guidelines, regardless of the local order status.
- Reissuance Triggers: A surge in case rates over two weeks, concerning circulating variants, or dipping hospital capacity.
Flu Season
- The department announced the start of the flu season, encouraging residents to get vaccinated via walk-in clinics or appointments through myturn.ca.gov.
Board Questions and Comments
- Supervisor Williams: Noted that leading indicators are improving but emphasized the board’s preference for less invasive solutions. Expressed caution regarding the mask mandate given the impact on jobs and businesses.
- Chair Nelson: Asked for clarification on the order of prevention strategies in the graphic (confirmed no specific order) and the source of the "6 per 100,000" threshold (confirmed as a middle ground). Requested a comparative analysis of 0–18 year old cases versus the general population, including hospitalizations and deaths, for a future meeting. The department agreed to provide this data, noting that previous hospitalization data was excluded due to discrepancies between hospital and state reporting.
- Supervisor Hart: Praised the communication team’s graphics and the layered prevention approach. Encouraged the public to use the publichealthsbcc.org website for vetted information.
- Supervisor Williams: Asked for information on additional protections for City of Santa Barbara residents due to its charter city status.
Agenda Item: Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Update
- Mr. Champion (Legal Aid/United Way representative) provided an update on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funded by state and U.S. Treasury.
- Funding:
- ERA1: County received $13 million; State received $14 million.
- ERA2: An additional $28 million is allocated for county residents. United Way is administering ERA2 funds ($16 million received so far) and will expand to include state ERA2 funds.
- ERA1 Status: United Way has spent the $13.2 million in ERA1 funds. The state closed its ERA1 application portal due to projected fund exhaustion but is still processing applications.
- ERA2 Status: Applications are currently being accepted online.
- Eligibility: Rent obligation (lease/landlord letter), income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI), and self-attestation of economic impact due to COVID-19 with risk of homelessness.
- ERA1 Outcomes: 1,413 applicants served; average payout of $8,262; 92% of households below 50% AMI; 73% were family units.
- State Program Status: Approximately 2,000 applications; $4.19 million spent of $14 million.
- Assistance Type: Since SB 91, programs pay 100% of rent arrears (current and three months prospective). ERA2 also includes relocation assistance (security deposit, first and last month’s rent).
- Contact Information: Call centers are staffed by United Way and State HCD for status checks.
Board Questions and Comments
- Chair Nelson: Asked if both tenant and landlord action is required. Clarified that the program typically reimburses the landlord directly, but tenants can apply on behalf of their landlord.
- Supervisor Hart: Thanked United Way for their partnership and role as a trusted messenger.
- Chair Nelson: Asked if income is the primary reason for rejection. Mr. Champion confirmed income (80% or 50% AMI) is a key factor, along with self-attestation of hardship. He noted that income verification may be required, not just self-attestation.
Agenda Item: Legal Aid Foundation Update on Eviction Moratorium
- Jennifer Smith, Executive Director of the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County, provided an update on the end of the statewide eviction moratorium.
- Legal Context: Eviction is a court process requiring a court order. The standard process involves a Notice to Pay Rent or Quit, followed by a lawsuit, settlement/trial, and enforcement by the sheriff.
- Previous Protections (Ended Sept 30, 2021):
- Rent owed March–August 2020: Tenants who submitted a declaration of COVID-19 distress could not be evicted for non-payment (though subject to debt collection).
- Rent owed September 2020–September 2021: Tenants who submitted a declaration and paid 25% of the owed rent could not be evicted for the remaining balance.
- Current Status (Post-Sept 30, 2021):
- The state eviction moratorium has ended.
- Normal pre-pandemic eviction laws are largely back in effect.
- Transition Period (Oct 2021–March 2022): A modified court procedure applies to evictions based on non-payment of rent from March 2020 through March 2022 for tenancies established before October 1, 2021. Landlords must demonstrate they sought rental assistance before filing a lawsuit.
- Notice Period: The notice to pay rent or quit has changed from 15 days to 3 days.
- City of Santa Barbara Protections: Supervisor Williams asked about local protections. Ms. Smith noted that the City of Santa Barbara has additional rules, including required relocation assistance, mandatory mediation/reconciliation before lawsuits, and specific leasing agreement rules.
Board Questions and Comments
- Supervisor Hart: Thanked Ms. Smith for clarifying the interplay between the eviction moratorium end, the transition period, and rental assistance programs.
- Chair Nelson: Asked if a tenant who paid 25% of arrears can be required to pay remaining arrears before current rent. Ms. Smith stated that if the 25% is paid, the tenant is protected from eviction for that period, and typically, if they can pay current rent, they are protected.
- Chair Nelson: Encouraged tenants and landlords to communicate and use dispute resolution.
- Supervisor Williams: Asked for clarification on City of Santa Barbara’s additional protections for staff awareness.
Agenda Item: Public Comment
- Nine individuals registered to speak. The following comments were recorded:
- 1. Monique Verdon: Expressed opposition to vaccine mandates and mask requirements, citing bodily autonomy and constitutional rights. Referenced past involvement in SB 277 and concerns about pharmaceutical industry influence on media and health policy. 2. Danny Blunk: Requested scientific evidence for mask efficacy in restaurants versus at tables. Requested disclosure of vaccine ingredients. Read a statement expressing opposition to mandates and citing potential adverse effects. 3. Dr. Amy Smith: Criticized the department’s data analysis, arguing that single-factor data sets (e.g., masking vs. case rates) do not account for multiple variables (e.g., Delta variant, partial vaccination status). Questioned the scientific basis for mandates and the classification of partially vaccinated individuals. Suggested additional prevention layers such as vitamin D, ivermectin, and diet. 4. Justin Shores: Echoed concerns about data credibility and the exclusion of natural immunity from prevention models. Criticized the department for relying on a single source of information and alleged that mandates disproportionately affect minority communities. 5. Maria Kastner: Referenced California Public Records Act requests for "messy data" that had not been provided. Cited clinicaltrials.gov and FDA documentation regarding the Comirnaty vaccine, noting missing ingredients and the unavailability of the licensed version in the county. Referenced the Jacobson v. Massachusetts court decision and its limitations. 6. Zoe Guess: Expressed opposition to government overreach and vaccine mandates, citing Article 9 of the California Constitution regarding in-person learning without vaccine coercion. Called for an end to mandates. 7. CeCe Parsons: Expressed personal opposition to the vaccine based on observed side effects in friends and family. Cited concerns about civil liberties and the Patriot Act. Stated a personal refusal to be vaccinated.
Board Response to Public Comment
- Supervisor Hartman: Provided historical context on vaccination, citing General George Washington’s 1776 letter ordering smallpox inoculation for the U.S. Army due to the high mortality rate from disease compared to combat.
Departmental Item 1: Public Health Department Update (Continued)
- The Board discussed the motivations behind public health measures, citing statistics regarding infection and mortality rates in the county. Staff addressed Public Records Act (PRA) compliance, noting that while the department responds within statutory deadlines, it often lacks access to FDA clinical trial data or HIPAA-protected information requested by the public.
- Staff provided an update on natural immunity, stating that scientific data is inconsistent regarding the duration and potency of immunity after infection, particularly among those over 65. Staff clarified that while vaccinated individuals can still contract and transmit the virus, transmission is generally shorter in duration compared to unvaccinated individuals. Staff noted that over 80% of transmissions occur between unvaccinated individuals and that over 98% of hospital deaths involve unvaccinated patients. Staff emphasized that mandates and combined protective measures (masking, distancing, vaccination) are effective, citing examples from other jurisdictions.
- A motion was made to receive and file the departmental item. The motion passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 2: Sheriff’s Office Fee Resolution
- The Sheriff’s Office presented a resolution to increase 11 existing fees and establish two new fees (identification cards and cannabis site security plan review). The presentation stated that the proposed fees allow for full cost recovery, with most existing fees unchanged since 1989. Questions were raised regarding the adequacy of the cannabis fee to cover staffing costs and the nature of the identification card fee. Staff confirmed the cannabis fee is a one-time permit fee and the ID card fee covers printing and processing costs for various county entities.
- A motion was made to adopt recommended actions A and B in the staff report. The motion passed unanimously.
Closed Session
- The Board entered closed session to confer with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation and with labor negotiators for all bargaining units. Upon reconvening, the County Counsel reported that the Board took no reportable action during the closed session.
Departmental Item 3: Library Ad Hoc Committee Update and Annual Agreement
- Staff presented an update on the Library Ad Hoc Committee’s work to create a sustainable and equitable regional library system. The presentation covered the committee’s phases, including establishing guiding principles, benchmarking service levels against other counties, and exploring funding options. Staff outlined revisions to the annual agreement, including a 25% cap on administration fees and clarified roles between the county and partner cities. Staff recommended engaging elected leaders from each city to build upon the committee’s work, increase funding, and assess facility needs. Board members discussed the unique funding model of the county, noting that while the county has increased funding, per capita contributions remain low compared to state averages, particularly in unincorporated areas like Ojai.
- A motion was made to approve staff’s recommended actions A through D, which included receiving the update, directing staff to invite city elected officials to future meetings, approving the one-year countywide library system agreement, and determining the actions are not subject to CEQA. The motion passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 4: Child Care Relief and Recovery (ARPA)
- Representatives from First 5 Santa Barbara County and the Santa Barbara Foundation presented on the impact of the pandemic on the child care sector. They described the Emergency Child Care Initiative (ECCI), a partnership providing funding for safe childcare for essential employees. The Santa Barbara Foundation outlined its role as a potential fiscal agent for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, detailing its existing infrastructure for grant distribution and its commitment to supporting the child care workforce and advocating for increased subsidies. The presentation highlighted the economic importance of the child care sector to the county’s workforce and gender equity.
- The project manager for the Emergency Child Care Initiative presented a proposal requesting the County of Santa Barbara to contribute $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and cities to collectively contribute $500,000 for immediate relief and recovery of the local child care sector. The presentation highlighted that the sector has faced significant financial strain, with private, non-subsidized programs receiving less federal and state support than subsidized programs. Data presented indicated a 54% increase in operating costs for childcare centers and a 75% increase for family childcare programs during the pandemic. The proposal aimed to prevent closures, support parents’ ability to return to work, and stabilize the local economy.
- Board members asked questions regarding the decision-making process for fund allocation, the relationship between this proposal and state expansions of subsidized care, and accountability measures. Staff explained that a consortium of partners, including First 5 Santa Barbara County, the Santa Barbara Foundation, and the Child Care Planning Council, would oversee implementation through a consensus-based process. Staff clarified that the primary goal is to prevent existing programs from closing due to capacity restrictions imposed by pandemic guidelines, rather than to create new slots. They noted that private programs have not received the same level of financial support as subsidized programs, with one example showing a subsidized center receiving $74,000 in support versus $6,500 for a non-subsidized center of similar size.
- Supervisor Williams expressed concern about accountability and the lack of a discernible product (such as new slots) to measure the impact of the funds. Supervisor Hart supported the proposal, framing it as necessary to support the "missing middle" of the workforce who cannot afford market-rate care but do not qualify for subsidies. Supervisor Nelson stated she was not fully supportive of the relief portion without clearer accountability and preferred to see more investment in recovery and strengthening existing providers. Supervisor Hartman asked for clarification on the source of the financial distress, and staff explained that state licensing restrictions on group sizes and masking requirements have reduced revenue capacity.
Public Comment
- Three members of the public spoke in support of the funding request:
- Tondra Pitchford (Child Care Planning Council) emphasized the critical need for early childhood education spaces, noting a pre-pandemic shortage of infant and toddler care and the unsustainable nature of current pandemic-era operations.
- Jackie Banta (Children’s Resource and Referral) highlighted the financial hardship faced by providers and the broader economic impact of child care instability, including job losses among women.
- Jennifer Bergquist (Advocate) shared personal experiences and supported the investment in child care infrastructure, noting the vulnerability of private programs and the importance of supporting family child care providers.
- Supervisor Hart moved to receive and file the report. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Departmental Item No. 5 – Workforce Housing Needs Study
- Staff from Community Services presented a primer on workforce housing needs in Santa Barbara County, following a previous Board directive to explore potential uses of ARPA funds for this sector. The presentation defined workforce housing as housing for workers who do not qualify for low-income subsidies but cannot afford market-rate housing, often referred to as the "missing middle." Staff noted that an income of over $90,000 is required to afford a median-priced two-bedroom rental or home in the county.
- The presentation outlined existing subsidies for lower-income households (e.g., Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, Section 8) and limited programs for higher-income households (e.g., down payment assistance, employer-sponsored housing). Barriers to increasing housing inventory included high land costs, lack of community support for density, lengthy approval processes, and insufficient funding. Staff recommended that the Board approve the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a consultant to conduct an in-depth study on workforce housing needs, barriers, and opportunities, which would also support the 2024–2032 Housing Element update.
- Supervisor Williams praised the staff report and suggested that the consultant’s scope of work include surveying the County’s own workforce to better understand their housing needs and potential interest in employer-sponsored housing models. Staff agreed that surveying the County workforce would be valuable and noted that successful employer-sponsored models (such as those at Westmont College and Cottage Hospital) often involved the employer providing land or significant subsidies. Supervisor Williams proposed a model where the County could act as a secondary lender or provide down payment assistance to employees, similar to programs used by some cities for executives, to expand eligibility for housing on County campuses.
Public Comment
- One member of the public spoke on this item:
- Linda Honigman (Chair, Housing Committee of the League of Women Voters Santa Barbara) supported the intensive study and suggested expanding the definition of workforce housing to include workers in critical infrastructure roles (e.g., police, teachers) who may fall below the current 120–200% Area Median Income (AMI) threshold. She encouraged the inclusion of equity objectives, particularly regarding racial disparities in homeownership, and supported the exploration of creative housing programs such as limited equity co-ops and the use of County-owned land.
Agenda Item: Housing Affordability and Workforce Housing Study (Continued)
- Board members and staff discussed the challenges of housing affordability, noting that high real estate costs in Santa Barbara County make it difficult for workforce members to purchase homes or rent at market rates. Comments highlighted the disparity between current housing prices and household incomes, referencing specific data points regarding median household income and property values in areas such as the South Coast and Goleta.
- Supervisor Williams discussed the impact of high housing costs on social equity, racial equity, and climate change, noting that vehicle emissions account for a significant portion of the county’s carbon footprint. The supervisor cited the East Beach Collective project as an example of successful affordable housing development and suggested exploring spot zoning requests and ongoing subsidies to create housing for essential workers.
- Supervisor Hartman acknowledged the difficulty of the challenge but emphasized the availability of tools, such as county-owned land, and the importance of finding consistent funding sources to deliver affordable housing projects.
- Dr. Pedro Paz raised questions regarding the impact of state bills (SB 8, 9, and 10) on zoning and density, and the need to guide these changes effectively. He noted that housing costs limit the county’s ability to attract new talent and support businesses and non-profits.
- Staff observed that housing prices in Southern California have risen significantly, with some listings exceeding $1.2 million for 1,500 square feet, and noted the competition from investors.
- Supervisor Williams moved Recommendations A, B, C, and D. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 6: COVID-19 Health and Human Services Recovery and Resiliency Strategies
- The Board considered a hearing regarding recommendations for COVID-19 health and human services recovery and resiliency strategies. Due to the length of the item and the absence of one board member, the Board decided to continue the item to a future meeting.
- Public comment was provided by a resident who expressed concerns regarding public health messaging and survival rates, citing a Benjamin Franklin quote about liberty and security. Supervisor Williams responded to a statistical point raised during the comment, clarifying the calculation of case-to-death ratios based on county data.
- The County Executive Office requested that the item be continued to allow for a full board discussion at the next meeting.
- A motion was made to continue Item 6 to the October 12, 2021 meeting. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment
- The Board adjourned to the Tuesday, October 12, 2021 meeting in Santa Maria.