Meeting Summary
Present: 5-Lavagnino, 4-Nelson, 3-Hartmann · Absent: Williams
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
CEO Report
- The County is seeking public feedback on the draft 2022 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan update through March 15.
- A micro-business COVID-19 relief grant program offering up to $2,500 opens for applications on March 7.
Passed 4–1 · against: Hartmann
Clerk’s Announcements
- Administrative Item 16 regarding Sheriff/Coroner’s Office grant funding was continued to the March 8 meeting.
- Board meetings are broadcast live in Spanish via Cox Cable and Comcast using Secondary Audio Programming.
- Face coverings are no longer required indoors, though the Public Health Department encourages masking and social distancing.
Cannabis Licensing (Chapter 50 Amendment)
- The Board considered an amendment to separate cannabis processing from cultivation and remove processing acreage from the existing cap.
- Public comment raised concerns about unlimited processing operations, odor, traffic, and the lack of specific regulations for processing-only facilities.
- Board members discussed the balance between supporting existing businesses and protecting residents from impacts, noting the change simplifies tax verification.
- The motion to approve the staff recommendation passed 4 to 1.
Main Jail Renovation (Architectural Design PSA)
- The item involved awarding a Professional Services Agreement for architectural design programming for the Santa Barbara Main Jail renovation.
- One supervisor requested a separate vote, describing the renovation as a "money pit," while another moved to approve the item.
- The motion to approve the item passed 4 to 1.
Passed 3–1 · against: Williams
Barron Ranch Restrictive Covenant
- The item concerned the recordation of a restrictive covenant on a 31-acre portion of the Barron Ranch to protect habitat.
- Public comment included requests for more time to review the document and arguments to align the item with the Countywide Recreation Master Plan.
- The Chair proposed delaying the item to allow time for the development of policies regarding trail maintenance that protect both habitat and trails.
- The motion to continue the item to the March 15 meeting passed.
Resolution Recognizing Santa Barbara County as 2021 Wine Region of the Year
- The Board considered a resolution recognizing the county as the 2021 Wine Region of the Year, as named by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
- Presentations highlighted the region’s terroir, sustainability efforts, and community contributions, including healthcare initiatives for vineyard workers.
- Board members congratulated the industry on the recognition and highlighted the economic and cultural benefits of the wine industry.
- The resolution was adopted.
Santa Barbara Clean Energy Service Offerings
- Staff presented information on enrolling 10 County municipal electric accounts into the Santa Barbara Clean Energy (SBCE) program starting in March.
- The default "100% Green" option provides 100% carbon-free energy, with an estimated annual cost increase of approximately $41,000 covered by current budget projections.
- Board members discussed cost allocation, alignment with the County’s Energy and Climate Action Plan, and the time-of-use rate structure.
- The motion to adopt Option 1A passed.
Behavioral Wellness Community Assessment Update
- Staff presented findings from a behavioral health community assessment survey that received over 5,000 responses.
- Key findings indicated that 61% of participants reported worse mental health due to the pandemic, with notable differences between English and Spanish-speaking participants.
- The department proposed an RFP for social connection opportunities and training for community "gatekeepers" in mental health first aid.
- The motion to receive and file the presentation passed unanimously.
KPMG Operational Performance Review of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department
- KPMG commended the department for technology investments and data-driven deployment strategies while recommending improvements in performance management and financial tracking.
- The Fire Chief presented an implementation plan, including finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sheriff’s Office for aviation cost-sharing.
- The Fire Chief explained the financial structure of out-of-county mutual aid, noting a net positive or neutral financial position after covering administrative costs.
- The motion to receive, file, and approve items A through C passed unanimously.
Galileo Pisa LLC Apartments Project
- Staff presented a project for a three-story, 27-unit apartment building at 5317 Cayo Real, including a comprehensive plan map amendment and rezone.
- Public comment included support for local workforce housing and opposition based on density, traffic safety, and design concerns.
- Board members supported the project, citing the housing crisis, job-housing imbalance, and the thoroughness of the applicant’s review process.
- The motion to approve the staff recommendation passed unanimously.
Triguero Appeal of GNK Farms Cannabis Processing Building
- Staff presented the appeal of the Planning Commission’s approval of a 25,418 sq. ft. cannabis processing building, recommending denial of the appeal.
- The appellant argued the project is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan and that the county lacks resources to enforce odor controls.
- The applicant presented the project as a sealed, negative-pressure building designed to eliminate odor emissions and reduce vehicle trips to off-site facilities.
- The motion to deny the appeal and de novo approve the project passed unanimously.
Closed Session
- No closed session items were reported in the provided summary.
Full summary
Meeting Start and Roll Call
- The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors convened for its March 1, 2022 meeting. The Clerk called the roll, noting that Supervisor Williams was absent but expected to arrive.
Approval of Minutes
- The Board considered the minutes from the February 15, 2022 meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made and seconded. The motion passed.
CEO Report
- The Chief Executive Officer provided two announcements: 1. Hazard Mitigation Plan: The County is seeking public feedback on the draft 2022 County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan update. The public comment period runs from March 1 to March 15, 2022, with a virtual workshop scheduled for March 9. 2. Micro-Business Grants: The County, in partnership with the California Office of Small Business Advocate and the Santa Barbara Foundation, announced a micro-business COVID-19 relief grant program. Applications open March 7 on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, offering up to $2,500 to eligible micro-businesses.
Passed 4–1 · against: Hartmann
Clerk’s Announcements
- The Clerk announced the following:
- Agenda Change: Administrative Item 16 (Sheriff/Coroner’s Office grant funding for firearm law enforcement) was continued to the March 8 meeting at the request of the department.
- Spanish Broadcast: Board meetings are broadcast live in Spanish via Cox Cable (South County) and Comcast (North County) using Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).
- Public Participation: Guidelines for in-person and virtual public comment were reviewed. Face coverings are no longer required indoors for attendees, though the Public Health Department encourages masking and social distancing. Virtual commenters must register in advance via Zoom.
Administrative Item 4: Cannabis Licensing (Chapter 50 Amendment)
- Discussion: The item concerned an amendment to Chapter 50 of the County Code to separate cannabis processing from cultivation and remove processing acreage from the existing cap.
- Public Comment: Six members of the public spoke. Comments expressed concern that removing processing from the cap would allow unlimited processing operations, potentially undermining the intent of the acreage cap. Speakers cited issues with odor, traffic, and the lack of specific regulations for processing-only facilities. Others expressed frustration regarding the sunset dates for existing legal non-compliant operations, specifically referencing "Lily’s Green Garden," and requested that the Board ensure their project is included in the October 31 sunset date extension list.
- Board Discussion: Board members discussed the balance between supporting existing businesses and protecting residents from odor and traffic impacts. Some members noted that the change simplifies tax verification and reduces transport of cannabis across the county. Others expressed concern about the lack of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process for processing facilities and the difficulty of controlling odor.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation. The motion was seconded. The motion passed 4 to 1.
Administrative Item 8: Main Jail Renovation (Architectural Design PSA)
- Discussion: The item involved awarding a Professional Services Agreement for architectural design programming for the Santa Barbara Main Jail renovation project.
- Board Discussion: One supervisor requested a separate vote, describing the jail renovation as a "money pit." Another supervisor moved to approve the item.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The motion passed 4 to 1.
Administrative Item 15: Barron Ranch Restrictive Covenant
- Discussion: The item concerned the recordation of a restrictive covenant on a 31-acre portion of the Barron Ranch to protect habitat.
- Public Comment: Three members of the public spoke. One requested more time to review the 87-page document in the context of the larger Barron Ranch master planning process. Another, representing the Santa Barbara County Trails Council, argued that habitat protection and recreation are linked and requested the item be rescheduled to align with the Countywide Recreation Master Plan. A third speaker, representing Public Works, stated that the covenant was a commitment made to federal and state regulators in 2008 and that delaying approval would not impact ongoing recreation discussions.
- Board Discussion: The Chair proposed delaying the item to allow time for the development of policies regarding trail maintenance that protect both habitat and trails. Other supervisors supported a short delay to allow for review and coordination between departments and nonprofits.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to continue the item to the March 15 meeting. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
Continuance of Administrative Item 16
- A motion was made to continue Administrative Item 16 to the March 8 meeting. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
Administrative Item 25: Resolution Recognizing Santa Barbara County as 2021 Wine Region of the Year
- Discussion: The Board considered a resolution sponsored by Chair Hartman and Supervisor Hart recognizing Santa Barbara County as the 2021 Wine Region of the Year, as named by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
- Presentations: A video was shown featuring local winemakers discussing the region’s terroir and diversity. Representatives from the Santa Barbara Vintners Association and Foundation spoke about the industry’s history, sustainability efforts, and community contributions, including healthcare initiatives for vineyard workers.
- Board Comments: Board members congratulated the industry on the recognition and highlighted the economic and cultural benefits of the wine industry to the county.
- Motion and Vote: The resolution was adopted.
General Public Comment
- Two members of the public provided comments on general matters: 1. One speaker discussed the conflict in Ukraine, advocating for the provision of weapons to Ukrainian defenders and criticizing the Russian government. A Board member responded by pointing to legal humanitarian aid organizations. 2. Another speaker expressed concern over the characterization of the Russian people in the previous comment and discussed the causes of the conflict. The speaker also addressed COVID-19 policies, calling for the reversal of the county employee vaccine mandate, the end of the local state of emergency, and the removal of mask mandates for vaccinated individuals.
Departmental Item 1: Santa Barbara Clean Energy Service Offerings
- Discussion: Staff presented information regarding the service offerings for 10 County municipal electric accounts located within the City of Santa Barbara, which are served by Santa Barbara Clean Energy (SBCE), the City’s Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) program.
- Details: SBCE is enrolling commercial and local government customers into its service starting in March. The default option is "100% Green," which provides 100% carbon-free energy. An alternative option, "Green Start," provides 50% carbon-free energy at a lower cost. Staff recommended that the Board take no action, thereby keeping the County accounts in the default 100% Green option. This choice supports local climate goals and energy resilience programs, with an estimated annual cost increase of approximately $41,000, which General Services indicated is covered by current budget projections for utility cost increases.
- Board Discussion: Supervisors inquired about cost allocation, noting that costs are spread across departments using the accounts, with roughly 80% allocated to the General Fund. They also asked about alignment with the County’s Energy and Climate Action Plan (ECAP). Staff clarified that while the accounts are in the City of Santa Barbara, the choice supports the County’s goals of setting an example for renewable energy use.
- Rate Structure and Goals: A board member inquired about the time-of-use rate structure of the SBCE program compared to 3CE and SCE. SBCE staff confirmed that SBCE follows the Edison time-of-use rate structure, with peak pricing occurring between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Staff noted that SBCE offers an increased net surplus compensation rate for customers with solar installations, paying double what Edison pays for excess production.
- Implementation Concerns: A board member expressed support for "Option A" (higher rates) to fund local generation and storage goals but raised concerns regarding the city’s historical pace of implementation and the carbon intensity of the energy mix due to the desalination facility restart. The member cited a letter from the City Manager stating a goal to build at least 5 megawatts of local generation and storage capacity in the next decade. The member characterized this as a weak goal given available space and battery costs, urging staff to pursue more ambitious and faster implementation through bonding or funding.
- Staff Response: SBCE staff acknowledged the concerns, stating that the city already has 25% of the 5-megawatt goal in design, which is expected to be completed sooner than the decade-long timeline. Staff emphasized that local generation is critical for meeting the 2030 100% renewable electricity goal and ensuring grid reliability and resilience.
- Public Comment: A representative from the Sierra Club Los Padres chapter supported the 100% green default and carbon-free electricity, noting that over 30 California municipalities have adopted similar defaults. The speaker cited benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, local job creation, and improved resilience.
- Board Comments: One board member encouraged employers and residents to utilize electric vehicle incentives offered by 3CE and SBCE, noting that federal and state incentives exceed $5,000. Another board member stated that while they are mindful of fiduciary responsibilities regarding taxpayer dollars, they support the measure because the funds are reinvested locally for grid resiliency and storage rather than sent out of the community.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to adopt Option 1A. The motion was seconded. The motion passed.
Departmental Item No. 2 – Behavioral Wellness Community Assessment Update
- Presentation: The Director of Behavioral Wellness and the Chief Strategy and Community Engagement Officer presented an update on the behavioral health community assessment conducted using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The survey, developed with assistance from UCSB and Cottage Hospital, received over 5,000 responses (4,731 online, 435 paper).
- Key Findings:
- 61% of participants reported their mental health was worse due to the pandemic.
- There were notable differences between English and Spanish-speaking participants: 65% of English speakers reported worse mental health, while 67% of Spanish speakers reported no impact and only 25% reported worse mental health.
- Help-seeking behavior data showed that 60% of Spanish-speaking participants handled problems on their own, compared to 40% of English speakers. Over 45% of Spanish speakers did not know where to turn for help, compared to 20% of English speakers.
- Stigma was a significant barrier, with nearly 40% of Spanish-speaking participants reporting embarrassment in seeking help.
- Focus groups identified key needs: social connection opportunities, accessibility to resources, education/stigma reduction, and a variety of accessible services.
- Recommendations and Next Steps: The department proposed an RFP (issued in February, proposals due March 7) for social connection opportunities and training for community "gatekeepers" (trusted messengers) in mental health first aid. Services are expected to begin in June. The department also mentioned a partnership with the California Mental Health Services Authority to provide free Headspace app access.
- Board Comments: Board members discussed the importance of culturally sensitive outreach, the "no wrong door" philosophy, and the role of trusted community messengers (e.g., churches, schools) in reducing stigma and connecting individuals to resources. Questions were raised regarding data analysis for specific demographics (adolescent girls, seniors) and the impact of social connection on mental health and homelessness prevention.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to receive and file the presentation (Items A through C). The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Departmental Item No. 3 – KPMG Operational Performance Review of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department
- Context: CEO Miyasato introduced the item, noting it is part of the Renew 22 initiative. KPMG was selected in 2019 to review departmental operations. This review focuses on the Fire Department, which has 247 FTEs and a budget of nearly $90 million.
- KPMG Presentation:
- Commendations: KPMG commended the department for investments in technology (mobile data computers, iPads), data-driven deployment strategies (e.g., four-person staffing in rural areas), and strong internal communication/morale.
- Recommendations:
- 1. Demand-Driven Deployment: Expand data-driven staffing methods by leveraging geographical and temporal trends in call-for-service data to optimize resource allocation. 2. Performance Management: Strengthen and expand performance measures to enable continuous improvement and real-time insights into operations. 3. Financial Management: Enhance tracking of workload and costs by service area (Tax Rate Areas) and mutual aid reimbursements to better understand cost recovery. KPMG noted that mutual aid consumes approximately 51% of the department's workload but is not fully reimbursed, a common issue in the state. 4. Other Recommendations: Streamline inspection processes, improve workforce development/recruitment, and develop a technology plan.
- Mutual Aid Clarification: KPMG explained that full cost recovery for mutual aid is not standard; reimbursement typically covers firefighter time plus a multiplier for overtime, but not all infrastructure or readiness costs.
- Fire Chief Presentation: Chief Hartwig presented the department’s implementation plan.
- The department agreed with most KPMG recommendations.
- Cost Tracking: The department acknowledged the need to track costs by Tax Rate Area (TRA) more consistently, noting they have done so on an as-needed basis for some cities.
- Air Support Unit: The department is finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Sheriff’s Office to improve cost-sharing transparency for the aviation support unit.
- Capital Planning: A capital plan for buildings and facilities is expected to be completed by the end of the current fiscal year (July 2023).
- Inventory Management: The department identified its current inventory system as archaic and paper-driven, with plans to implement a better system in the next fiscal year.
- Data Collection: The department committed to improving data collection quality and is evaluating new products to assist with this.
- IT Plan: A new IT manager is developing a technology plan to address KPMG’s concerns.
- Discussion on Mutual Aid Finances: The Fire Chief explained the financial structure of out-of-county mutual aid. He noted that while the department incurs approximately $7.5 million in overtime costs to backfill stations when resources are deployed out of county, they budget for approximately $9 million in reimbursement revenue from state-declared incidents. This results in a net positive or neutral financial position after covering administrative costs, as the department is reimbursed for overtime and administrative fees but not for baseline staffing or equipment costs that would be incurred regardless of the deployment.
- Board Comments: Supervisors commented on the importance of data-driven staffing, the balance between emergency readiness and other county needs (such as infrastructure and salaries), and the potential for future efficiencies through unified dispatch and EMS contract changes. Several supervisors noted the consistency of technology and data tracking issues across various departments.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to receive, file, and approve items A through C. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 4: Galileo Pisa LLC Apartments Project (Case Nos. 19 GPA 319 RZN 2 and 19 DBP 39)
- Staff Presentation: Staff Planner Sean Stewart presented the project for a three-story, 27-unit apartment building at 5317 Cayo Real. The project includes a comprehensive plan map amendment and rezone to align a small parcel with the adjacent larger parcel, both zoned for residential use (DR 20). Staff noted the project includes 60 parking spaces, 54 bicycle spaces, and 40% common open space. A mitigated negative declaration found no significant unavoidable impacts. Staff recommended approval, noting that a requested crosswalk at the driveway did not meet warrants for installation.
- Applicant Presentation: Trudy Carey, the applicant, presented the project details, emphasizing the thorough review process, including five traffic analysis reports and multiple Board of Architectural Review (BAR) meetings. She highlighted the project’s design features, such as south-facing units with mountain views, solar panels, and extensive landscaping (74 trees). She addressed neighborhood concerns regarding traffic and design, noting that the project generates less traffic than the adjacent commercial site and that design choices (such as building placement) were made in response to BAR and neighbor feedback.
- Public Comment:
- Pete Giordano: Supported the project, citing the critical need for local housing to prevent employees from commuting long distances.
- Paul Bradford: Opposed the project, arguing that the density and traffic safety issues were not fully vetted by the Planning Commission, which incorrectly assumed the BAR had addressed them. He requested the board consider the community plan’s intent regarding density and access.
- Janie Campbell: Opposed the project, aligning with Bradford’s concerns about density, height, design, and traffic safety, and stating that mitigation requests had been ignored.
- Scott Schell: Represented the traffic engineering team and was available to answer questions regarding traffic data.
- Board Discussion:
- Supervisor Hart: Acknowledged the housing crisis and the need for local workforce housing. He addressed the density concern, noting the project is below the maximum allowed density and that the design process (BAR) had thoroughly reviewed compatibility issues. He supported the project.
- Supervisor Williams: Agreed with Supervisor Hart, emphasizing the societal need for rental housing near jobs and the environmental benefits of reducing commute distances. He supported the project.
- Chair Hartman: Noted the project conforms to rules and policies and supported it.
- Public Works Representative: Explained the design of the turn pocket, stating it was sized based on peak hour trip generation (approx. 15 trips) and safety standards. He noted that while tree removal in the median is likely required for safety, Public Works encourages planting new trees.
- Supervisor Nelson: Supported the project, citing the job-housing imbalance and the thoroughness of the applicant’s review process.
- Supervisor Lavagnino: Supported the project but expressed concern about the length of the approval process (approx. 3 years) and the need to streamline housing approvals.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 5: Triguero Appeal of GNK Farms Cannabis Processing Building (Case Nos. 21 APL 32, 19 CUP 62, 20 AMD 3, 19 CDP 157)
- Staff Presentation: Ben Singer presented the appeal of the Planning Commission’s approval of a 25,418 sq. ft. cannabis processing building. The site is a 14.66-acre parcel with existing greenhouses. The project includes a new processing building, detention basin, 10 water tanks, and two emergency generators, adding 50 full-time employees.
- Appeal Issues: Staff addressed seven appeal issues raised by the appellant, including concerns about density, comprehensive plan consistency, air quality/odor, compliance with existing operations, zoning ordinance validity, agricultural conflicts, and consistency with the Carpinteria Agricultural Overlay.
- Staff Findings: Staff found the project consistent with the comprehensive plan, zoning ordinances, and agricultural overlay standards. They stated that odor abatement plans are adequate, the site is compliant with existing regulations, and cannabis cultivation is a permitted use in the AG-1 zone. Staff recommended denying the appeal and approving the project.
- Ex Parte Disclosures: Supervisors disclosed communications with various parties, including site visits and phone calls with the appellant, applicant, and neighbors.
- Record Inclusion: A motion was made to include two late-submitted documents (an applicant presentation and a public comment letter) into the record. The motion passed.
- Staff Clarifications: Staff confirmed the area in question is currently vacant, having previously been used for shade structures and hoop houses, but not for cannabis cultivation. Staff noted that while odor complaints are received, they have not been able to verify that this specific site is the sole source of odors due to the proximity of other operations. Staff stated that no zoning violations related to odor have been recorded for this property. Staff also indicated that efforts are underway to hire an independent contractor for odor monitoring, with a request for proposals expected to be released soon.
- Appellant Presentation (Anna Carrillo): The appellant argued the project is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the Coastal Land Use Plan. Key points included:
- The site has a history of odor complaints, with records cited showing high complaint volumes for the applicant’s properties.
- The county lacks the technology and resources to effectively enforce odor controls or pinpoint odor sources in the dense "Nidebra Rectangle" area.
- The project would add industrial-type use to a rural residential area, impacting scenic views, air quality, and biological resources near Arroyo Parada Creek.
- The appellant contended that the Planning Commission improperly narrowed the scope of review by ignoring cumulative impacts and the density of cannabis operations in the area.
- The appellant requested the Board to approve the appeal and deny the project, citing the inability to make required Conditional Use Permit (CUP) findings regarding compatibility and environmental mitigation.
- Applicant Presentation (Graham Farrar and Jay Higgins): The applicant presented the project as a sealed, negative-pressure building designed to eliminate odor emissions. Key points included:
- The building utilizes an airlock design, integrated molecular carbon filters, and an HVAC system to maintain negative pressure, ensuring air flows inward when doors are opened.
- The project uses 25,000 square feet of an existing 42,000-square-foot entitlement originally approved for a sixth greenhouse, representing a de-intensification of potential development.
- The facility allows for on-site harvesting and processing, reducing vehicle trips to off-site facilities (e.g., Lompoc) and keeping tax revenue within the county.
- The applicant stated that the project does not increase cultivation intensity and that the owner has voluntarily enrolled the existing cultivation site in the Carp Growers Coalition MOU for enhanced odor abatement standards.
- The applicant noted the building is solar-ready and includes backup generators.
- Board Questions and Responses:
- Supervisor Williams: Asked if on-site processing would reduce the time flowering plants spend in greenhouses. The applicant clarified that it allows harvesting to occur inside the sealed building, limiting odor exposure.
- Supervisor Lavagnino: Asked if the facility would be available to third-party cultivators. The applicant stated the intent is to use it only for their two Carpinteria farms.
- Chair Hartman: Inquired about odor identification technology and energy requirements. The applicant explained that the sealed design allows for specific vent measurements and that the HVAC system is comparable to office building standards. The applicant confirmed the building is solar-ready but does not currently include solar panels.
- Staff Clarification: Staff noted that the project description allows for up to 50% of product to come from off-site, which the applicant clarified is primarily intended for their other farm.
- Supervisor Nelson: Asked for a walkthrough of the process. The applicant described a system where plants are moved from greenhouses to dry rooms within the building, where they are trimmed and dried without being exposed to the outside air. The applicant also discussed ongoing testing of "inventive scrubbers" for the cultivation greenhouses.
- Chair Hartman: Asked about the county's ability to identify odor sources. Staff reiterated that they currently cannot pinpoint sources due to proximity of other operations but are working to hire a consultant for better monitoring.
- Public Comment:
- 1. Jason Rodriguez: Supported the project, citing improvements in odor control, reduced traffic, and local economic benefits. 2. Anna Carrillo: Opposed the project, citing the high number of odor complaints, the county's inability to identify odor sources, and the visual impact of the warehouse. 3. Liz Rogan: Supported the project, highlighting health and economic benefits, reduced carbon footprint, and the facility's odor abatement technology. 4. Peter DeGray: Supported the project, representing Carp Growers, and emphasized the facility's role in eliminating odors during processing and supporting local jobs. 5. Joe Armendariz: Supported the project, arguing it captures tax revenue, creates jobs, and reduces emissions compared to off-site processing.
- Rebuttal:
- Appellant (Anna Carrillo): Reiterated that the county cannot effectively enforce odor controls and that the project would compound existing nuisances. Argued that approving the project would undermine the purpose of the CUP process and that required findings regarding environmental mitigation and compatibility cannot be made.
- Applicant (Graham Farrar): Reiterated that the project is a purpose-built, odor-controlled facility that de-intensifies the use of the site compared to the original entitlement and keeps processing within the county.
- Board Discussion:
- Supervisor Williams: Expressed support, noting that the project builds the type of sealed facility with carbon scrubbers that critics had previously requested. Stated that the project represents progress in odor control and collaboration.
- Supervisor Hartman: Expressed support, acknowledging the facility as a significant achievement in reducing processing odors. Noted the importance of the revenue generated and the collaborative efforts to improve technology.
- Supervisor Lavagnino: Expressed support, stating that the project meets the high bar set by community concerns for enclosed processing facilities. Noted that the project generates revenue and improves odor control.
- Supervisor Nelson: Expressed support, citing a personal visit to the site where odor was not overpowering. Stated that the project offers innovative solutions for harvesting and processing and that the applicant has gone above and beyond in permitting efforts.
- Chair Hartman: Expressed support for the state-of-the-art facility as a solution to odor issues, while acknowledging the county's current limitations in enforcing odor regulations and the legitimate concerns of sensitive residents.
- Enforcement Context: A board member stated that the ability to issue Notices of Violation (NOVs) is necessary and noted that colleagues acknowledge varying sensitivities to marijuana. The speaker argued that characterizations suggesting the county has taken no action are incorrect, citing an active sheriff’s enforcement team, litigation against a nearby facility, visits to bad actors, and the banning of outdoor cultivation at an adjacent facility. The speaker emphasized that the county, BND sheriffs, and the board have been actively engaged with the issue, though differentiating between bad actors and compliant parties remains difficult.
- Motion and Vote: A motion was made to deny the appeal and de novo approve the project. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
- Clarification: The Clerk requested confirmation that the vote approved staff recommendations A through D. The moving member clarified that this included:
- A: Denying the appeal.
- B: Making required findings for approval.
- C: Determining the previously certified program at a PIR.
- D: Granting de novo approval to the project.
Adjournment
- The meeting was adjourned until Tuesday, March 8th, in Santa Maria.