Board of Supervisors — 2022-04-05

CEO Report

• The CEO announced an APA Award of Excellence for the county’s climate change vulnerability assessment.
• Staff recognition awards were presented within the Probation Department.
• The FireHawk helicopter completed high-landing gear modifications and is ready for missions in early May.

Agenda Changes and Administrative Updates

• An addendum revised Administrative Item 9 to strike Recommendation B, leaving only the compliance function approval.
• The hearing date for the Vanderbos Appeal (Item 34) was changed to May 17, 2022.
• Administrative Items 7, 12, 32, and 49 were pulled from the agenda for separate discussion.

Security Improvements for Administration Buildings

• Discussion centered on the balance between protecting staff and maintaining open public access.
• The Board approved the staff recommendation to implement security improvements.
• The motion passed 4 to 1.

Opposition to State’s Alternative Health Care Service Plan

• CENCAL Health explained that the Kaiser Permanente proposal would create a two-tiered system for Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
• The Board opposed the plan, noting it could divert resources from the Medi-Cal population.
• The item was included in the approval of the balance of the administrative agenda.

Approval of Balance of Administrative Agenda

• The Board approved the remaining administrative items, including the revised Item 9 and the date change for Item 34.
• The motion passed unanimously.

Resolution of Commendation for Michael Youngdahl

• The Board adopted a resolution commending Senior Deputy County Counsel Michael Youngdahl upon his retirement.
• County Counsel and the honoree shared remarks regarding his over 30 years of service and litigation work.

Resolution of Commendation for Brian Olmstead

• The Board adopted a resolution commending Lieutenant Brian Olmstead upon his retirement from the Sheriff’s Office.
• Representatives from the Sheriff’s and Fire Departments highlighted his leadership and service over 32 years.

Resolution Proclaiming April 2022 as DMV and Donate A Life Month

• The Board adopted the resolution to promote organ and tissue donation awareness.
• Recipients and OneLegacy representatives shared stories regarding the impact of donation.

Resolution Proclaiming April 2022 as Child Abuse Prevention Month

• The Board adopted the resolution to support the work of the Child Abuse Prevention Council.
• The Executive Director of the North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center spoke on community involvement.

Resolution Proclaiming National Public Health Week

• The Board adopted the resolution for April 4–10, 2022.
• The Clerk read the resolution into the record with public health partners present.

Public Health Heroes and Champions Recognition

• The Board recognized five staff members as Public Health Heroes and five community partners as Public Health Champions.
• Plaques were presented to attendees, with others to be mailed to those joining virtually.

Employee of the Month Resolution

• The Board adopted a resolution honoring Angela Stoke of the Public Defender’s Office.
• The Chief Financial Administrative Officer detailed Stoke’s technical contributions to the department’s case management system.

Clerk-Recorder-Assessor-Elections Extra Help Services

• The Board approved a retirement waiver for Sue Morrison to assist with closing the roll and complex appeals.
• The item passed unanimously.

Treasurer-Tax Collector Transient Occupancy Tax Audit Appeal

• The applicant argued for a penalty waiver due to cognitive deficits and lack of clear communication.
• Staff confirmed the Tax Collector lacks authority to waive penalties, though the Board has discretion.
• The Board upheld the determination and denied the appeal unanimously.

Appeal of Hacienda Amador Homestay

• Staff recommended denial based on nuisance response plan non-compliance and inconsistency with the Community Plan.
• The applicant argued the property meets setback requirements and is compatible with the neighborhood.
• The Board conducted a conceptual vote to grant the appeal, which passed 4-1.
• The item was trailed to allow staff time to prepare findings and CEQA documentation for approval.

2015 Energy and Climate Action Plan Final Report

• Staff reported that 41 of 53 emission reduction measures were initiated or completed by 2020.
• The 2030 Climate Action Plan will use focus areas and aim for carbon neutrality by 2045.
• Staff recommended early actions including restricting natural gas infrastructure and developing a zero-emission vehicle plan.

Climate Action Plan Update and Natural Gas Infrastructure

• The Board directed staff to develop an ordinance restricting natural gas infrastructure in new construction.
• Staff were directed to assess updating the zero-net-energy resolution to a zero-carbon standard for county buildings.
• The Board agreed to develop a zero-emission vehicle plan and expand the electric vehicle mandate to light-duty vehicles by January 2023.

Natural Gas Infrastructure Ordinance Wording

• The Board clarified that the intent is to restrict rather than completely ban natural gas infrastructure.
• The motion to proceed with the staff recommendations and directions passed 4-1.

Findings and Recommended Actions

• The Board reviewed new findings provided by the Director regarding the pending appeal.
• The Board adopted recommended actions A through D.
• The motion passed 3-1 with one abstention or absence.

Closed Session

• The Board considered existing litigation and labor negotiations with the Fire employee organization.
• The County Counsel reported that no reportable action was taken during the session.

Roll Call and Pledge

• The Clerk called the roll, confirming the presence of all five Supervisors. The Board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of March 15, 2022

• A motion was made and seconded to accept the minutes. The motion passed unanimously.

CEO Report

• Greg Fanning, CEO, provided announcements regarding:
• An Award of Excellence from the Central Coast section of the American Planning Association for the county’s climate change vulnerability assessment.
• Staff recognition awards in the Probation Department, including a Bulldog Award for the Adult Division, a Start Award for the Facility Supervisor and Manager, and a Chief’s Award for Probation Manager Liz Crean.
• A cannabis facility tour hosted by the Ag Department for a delegation from the Louisiana Farm Bureau.
• Completion of high-landing gear modifications and belly tank installation on the FireHawk helicopter (copter 964), which is ready to respond to missions in early May.

Announcements and Agenda Changes

• The Clerk of the Board announced:
• Addendum to Agenda: An addendum posted on April 1, 2022, revised Administrative Item 9 (County Executive Office) by striking Recommendation B. The item now only includes Recommendation A (approve the establishment of a compliance and accountability function) and CEQA.
• Date Change: A memorandum received on April 4, 2022, requested that the hearing for Administrative Item 34 (Vanderbos Appeal, Case No. 22 APL 5) be set for May 17, 2022, instead of May 3, 2022.
• Public Participation: Reminders were given regarding Spanish interpretation via SAP, updated public participation methods (in-person and virtual via Zoom), and the removal of mandatory indoor face coverings, though masking is still encouraged by Public Health.

Pulling Administrative Items

• Supervisor Nelson requested to pull Item A12.
• Chair Hartmann requested to pull Item A32.
• Public requests were received to pull Administrative Items 7 and 49.
• Item A7 (State of Emergency): Maria Kessner spoke via Zoom, arguing that the state of emergency should be lifted and criticizing specific state bills related to COVID-19 mandates.
• Item A12 (Security Improvements): Discussed below.
• Item A32 (CENCAL/Kaiser): Discussed below.
• Item A49 (Public Health Week): Discussed below.

Administrative Item 12: Security Improvements for Administration Buildings

• Discussion: Supervisor Nelson expressed philosophical opposition to the level of security, stating it may chill public interaction and that the risk does not justify the cost, preferring funds be allocated elsewhere. Supervisor Lavinino supported the measure, citing the need to protect staff and referencing incidents in other counties. Supervisor Williams supported the measure, noting the vulnerability of the building and the changing social climate. Chair Hartmann supported the measure, citing the need to avoid regret and protect staff.
• Motion: A motion was made and seconded to approve the staff recommendation.
• Vote: The motion passed 4 to 1.

Administrative Item 32: Opposition to State’s Alternative Health Care Service Plan (AH CSP)

• Discussion: Chair Hartmann introduced the item, noting that Kaiser Permanente is seeking a "no-bid" contract that would alter CENCAL Health. Marina Owen, CEO of CENCAL Health, explained that the proposal would create a two-tiered system for Medi-Cal beneficiaries, exempting Kaiser from open enrollment and potentially diverting resources to commercial populations. She noted that seven other counties and CSAC are also opposing the measure. Supervisor Williams supported the opposition, acknowledging Kaiser’s role in cost containment but agreeing that the proposal could harm the Medi-Cal population left behind.
• Decision: The Chair stated that a separate vote was not necessary and included this item in the approval of the balance of the administrative agenda.

Approval of Balance of Administrative Agenda

• Decision: The Chair moved to approve the balance of the administrative agenda, including the changes to Item A9 and the date change for Item A34.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.

Administrative Item 45: Resolution of Commendation for Michael Youngdahl

• Action: The Board adopted a resolution commending Senior Deputy County Counsel Michael Youngdahl upon his retirement after over 30 years of service.
• Remarks: Rachel Van Molen, County Counsel, thanked Youngdahl for his litigation work and mentoring. Youngdahl thanked the Board and colleagues, reflecting on his career and family.

Administrative Item 46: Resolution of Commendation for Brian Olmstead

• Action: The Board adopted a resolution commending Lieutenant Brian Olmstead upon his retirement from the Sheriff’s Office after over 32 years of service.
• Remarks: Sheriff Bill Brown spoke on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office, highlighting Olmstead’s varied assignments and leadership in the Air Support Unit. Fire Chief Mark Hartwig spoke on behalf of the Fire Department, praising Olmstead’s compassion and calmness in joint operations. Olmstead thanked his colleagues, family, and the Board. Supervisor Lavinino shared an anecdote about Olmstead’s undercover work. Supervisor Williams and Supervisor Nelson also offered thanks.

Administrative Item 47: Resolution Proclaiming April 2022 as DMV and Donate A Life Month

• Action: The Board adopted a resolution proclaiming April 2022 as DMV and Donate A Life Month.
• Remarks: Supervisor Hart encouraged residents to register as donors. Scott Burns, a kidney recipient, shared his story. Ethan Locker, a tissue recipient and UC Santa Barbara student, spoke about the impact of donation. Blanca Cohen, Director of Quality Systems for OneLegacy, thanked the Board.

Administrative Item 48: Resolution Proclaiming April 2022 as Child Abuse Prevention Month

• Action: The Board adopted a resolution proclaiming April 2022 as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
• Remarks: Chair Hartmann referenced a recent pinwheel planting ceremony in Lompoc. Anne McCarty, Executive Director of North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center, spoke about the work of the Child Abuse Prevention Council and the importance of community involvement in preventing child abuse.

Administrative Item 49: Resolution Proclaiming National Public Health Week

• Action: The Board adopted a resolution proclaiming April 4–10, 2022, as National Public Health Week.
• Remarks: The Clerk read the resolution into the record. Dr. Del Reynoso and other public health partners were present.

Public Health Heroes and Champions Recognition

• Dr. Del Reynoso presented the 2022 Public Health Heroes and Public Health Champions awards to recognize staff and community partners for their contributions to public health, disease prevention, and health equity. The Public Health Heroes recognized were Adrienne Starr, Chandler Menel, Jackie Ruiz, Jeffrey Brown, and Tanishka Castaneda. The Public Health Champions recognized were Ben Romo (United Way of Santa Barbara County), the Carpinteria Children’s Project, the Family Services Agency of Santa Barbara County, LaWanda Lyons-Pruitt, and CAUSE (represented by Zulema Aleman).
• Representatives from the recognized organizations and individuals provided brief remarks acknowledging the partnership and the challenges faced during the pandemic. Plaques were presented to those in attendance, and it was noted that plaques would be mailed to those joining via Zoom. No motion or vote was recorded for this item; it was treated as an informational presentation and recognition.

Administrative Item 50: Employee of the Month Resolution

• The Clerk of the Board read into the record a resolution sponsored by Supervisor Hartman to honor Angela Stoke of the Public Defender’s Office as the April 2022 Employee of the Month. The resolution detailed Stoke’s educational background, her 22+ years of experience in databases and content management systems, and her role in rebuilding the department’s case management system.
• Deepak Bhadwani, Chief Financial Administrative Officer of the Public Defender’s Office, introduced Stoke and described her technical contributions and impact on the department’s IT systems. Angela Stoke spoke briefly, thanking the board and her colleagues. The resolution was adopted.

Departmental Item 1: Clerk-Recorder-Assessor-Elections Extra Help Services and Retirement Waiver

• Mr. Holland presented a request for an extra help services and retirement waiver for Sue Morrison, who recently retired from the Clerk-Recorder-Assessor-Elections Department. Morrison is requested to return to assist with closing the roll and handling complex appeals.
• A board member commented on the general practice of retirement waivers, noting the importance of departments planning for succession to avoid such arrangements, but expressed support for this specific request given Morrison’s essential role.
• A motion was made and seconded to approve the item. The item passed unanimously.

Departmental Item 2: Treasurer-Tax Collector Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Audit Appeal

• Staff presented an appeal by Timothy Galt regarding the final determination of a TOT audit for his short-term rental in Summerland. The audit covered the period from December 2017 to November 2020. The determination found that Galt failed to collect and remit TOT during the period when he self-managed the property, resulting in a total amount due of $25,623.17, including tax, interest, and penalties. Staff recommended the Board uphold the determination and deny the appeal.
• Timothy Galt presented his case, stating he was unaware of the TOT requirement due to cognitive deficits resulting from a 2013 cerebral hemorrhage and a lack of clear communication from the county. He noted that he had paid property taxes diligently for 33 years and had immediately begun collecting and remitting TOT once notified. He requested consideration of his disability and the lack of accessible information.
• Board members questioned staff regarding the interest rate (0.5% per month), the calculation method (12% of the renter’s payment), the platform used (VRBO, which does not remit TOT for Santa Barbara County), and the lack of authority for the Tax Collector to waive penalties or interest. Staff confirmed that the Tax Collector does not have the authority to waive penalties in this matter, though the Board may have discretion if a public benefit finding is made. Galt reiterated his request for waiver of penalties and interest, citing the communication gap and his financial situation.
• The transcript ends with the Chair asking if staff had any responses to Galt’s comments. No motion or vote was recorded in this section of the transcript.

Agenda Item: Tax Penalty Reduction (Continuation from Part 2)

• Discussion: Board members discussed the request for a reduction in tax penalties. One member argued that lack of knowledge of a tax obligation does not absolve the taxpayer from payment, noting that first-time homeowners often receive unexpected bills but are still required to pay. Another member expressed empathy for the applicant’s health and financial circumstances but stated that the board’s task is to make determinations based on facts and law, warning against a "slippery slope" of selectively forgiving taxes for constituents. A third member noted that while the board has discretion over penalties, the applicant had not signaled an intent to pay by making partial payments, despite generating revenue from the property.
• Motion: A motion was made to support the staff recommendation regarding the penalty.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.

Agenda Item: Closed Session

• Action: The board recessed to closed session.
• Topics: The board considered one case of existing litigation (Martha Gee v. Enterprise Auto Home Insurance and County of Santa Barbara) and labor negotiations with the Santa Barbara County Fire employee organization.
• Outcome: Upon reconvening, County Council reported that the board took no reportable action during the closed session.

Agenda Item 3: Planning and Development Department – Appeal of Hacienda Amador Homestay (Case Nos. 21-APL33 and 21-HOM5)

• Ex Parte Communications: Board members reported various communications, including phone calls, Zoom meetings, and site visits with the applicant, the applicant’s consultant, and neighbors (specifically the Jackson family). Several members noted conversations regarding the de novo review process, the applicant’s standing, and concerns about the project’s operation.
• Late Documents:
• Motion: A motion was made to place several late-submitted documents (letters and public comments received after the deadline) into the record.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.
• Additional Late Document: During public comment, a new document was submitted. A motion was made to enter two one-page documents into the record but to exclude a longer document, allowing the applicant time to review and respond.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.
• Staff Presentation: Staff presented the appeal of the Planning Commission’s denial of a homestay permit for a 4.98-acre parcel in the Santa Ynez Valley. The proposed project involves two bedrooms of an existing single-family dwelling for short-term rental. Staff noted the Planning Commission denied the project based on two issues: (1) the applicant did not comply with the nuisance response plan (specifically regarding phone availability), and (2) the project was inconsistent with the Santa Ynez Valley Community Plan and rural character due to noise and proximity to neighbors. Staff recommended denying the appeal.
• Applicant Presentation: The applicant’s representative argued that the Planning Commission’s findings were based on incorrect assumptions. They contended that the property meets setback requirements, that noise levels from typical homestay activities are low, and that the project is compatible with the neighborhood, citing other approved homestays in the area. They requested approval of the appeal.
• Board Questions and Discussion:
• Violations: Board members inquired about the history of violations. Staff confirmed a history of unpermitted activities, including craft fairs and homestay operations without a permit. One violation case remains open for accounting purposes, though the violation has been abated. Staff clarified that non-profit events where proceeds go directly to a charity are generally not considered commercial violations, though one specific event was cited by enforcement as having commercial elements.
• Homestay vs. Guest Ranch: A board member asked about the distinction between a homestay and a guest ranch, noting concerns about the scale of activities. Staff explained that a homestay requires an owner-occupant and limits the number of guests, whereas a guest ranch is a discretionary permit with different standards. Staff noted that a homestay permit can be revoked if violations continue.
• Renewal and Revocation: Board members asked about the threshold for non-renewal or revocation. Staff stated that permits are annually renewable and can be revoked if ongoing violations occur. Staff noted that the county has not previously revoked a homestay permit but that the code provides a process for director action to revoke permits, which is appealable.
• Property Ownership: The board inquired about the applicant’s profession and ownership structure. The applicant’s representative stated the applicant is a property manager, not a land use professional, and that the property is held in an LLC for liability protection, not for commercial intent. They clarified that the applicant was not operating a spa but had listed a spa service provider on the Airbnb listing.
• Public Comment:
• William Jackson (Neighbor): Opposed the project, citing proximity, noise levels (citing decibel readings), and the commercial nature of the LLC ownership. He argued the location is incompatible with the neighborhood.
• Ingrid Jackson (Neighbor): Opposed the project, citing illegal short-term rentals, noise, traffic, and the applicant’s history of violations. She argued the applicant is a real estate professional who knows the rules and that the project is a commercial enterprise disguised as a homestay.
• Greg Fanning (Neighbor): Opposed the project, citing concerns about traffic, noise, and the impact on local ranching and animal welfare.
• Richard Crutchfield: Opposed the project, arguing that commercial enterprises should not be located in residential neighborhoods and that the applicant should follow statutes applicable to their property.
• Miguel Avila: (Comment began but transcript ends before completion).

Agenda Item: Appeal of Planning Commission Decision Regarding Homestay Permit (Hacienda Amador)

Public Comment

• Miguel Avila spoke in support of the applicant, Jacqueline Abood. He stated he has known her for over 12 years and attended events at her property, including those benefiting nonprofits such as Friends of One in Kenya. He asserted that no commercial activity or excessive noise occurred during these events and described the applicant as a community asset.
• Charles C. Jackson spoke in opposition to the permit. He cited a previous letter requesting denial based on eight items, including a prior unanimous denial by the Planning Commission. He argued the property is marketed as a "guest ranch" or "farmstay" with amenities such as a gift shop, petting zoo, and spa, which exceeds the scope of a homestay. He noted the proximity of the properties (within 70 feet), the history of violations reported by neighbors, and the presence of Airstream trailers on the property. He requested denial of the permit.
• Frances Romero (attorney for the applicant) responded to comments regarding the Airstreams, stating they were vintage units intended for renovation and sale, not for guest use. She clarified that the property is owner-occupied and that the applicant monitors guest activity. She disputed claims of excessive noise, noting that a provided decibel reading lacked GPS coordinates and occurred when the owners were out of the country. She argued that the applicant’s use of the shared easement for horse access is necessary and that the neighbor’s complaints stem from a damaged relationship rather than ordinance violations. She requested approval of the permit.

Staff Presentation and Clarifications

• Staff clarified the definitions of "guest ranch" versus "homestay" under the code, noting that a guest ranch is a larger commercial operation providing food and lodging, while a homestay is a residential structure rented for 30 days or less where the owner resides on-site.
• Staff confirmed that the ownership structure (LLC vs. individual) is not a factor in land use code compliance.
• Staff explained the egress and access: guests enter via a shared easement to a specific driveway for the homestay unit, while the owners use a separate gate for family gatherings near the barn.

Board Deliberation

• Supervisor Hartman expressed concern regarding the history of violations, the proximity of the homes on a steep incline, and the marketing of the property as a "farmstay" or party venue on social media and websites, which she felt was incompatible with a homestay permit. She stated she could not support the application.
• Supervisor Lavagnino acknowledged the noise concerns and history of violations but noted that many issues have been mitigated. He expressed a leaning toward approval, suggesting that if the permit is granted, compliance will be closely monitored, and the permit could be revoked if violations continue.
• Supervisor Williams emphasized the quasi-judicial nature of the appeal and the need to apply the code. He noted that while past violations are concerning, they do not permanently bar a permit. He highlighted the strict noise limits in the ordinance (65 decibels generally, 45 decibels during quiet hours) and expressed doubt that the applicant could consistently meet these standards given the nature of the property and guest activities.
• Supervisor Nelson stated that while past violations are troubling, they do not constitute a permanent bar to permitting. He expressed concern that the current marketing and activities (e.g., carriage rides, petting zoo) teeter on the edge of being an illegal "guest ranch" or "farmstay" on Ag-1 zoned land. He indicated he would support the permit only if it is strictly limited to a homestay and warned that any expansion into guest ranch activities would result in revocation.
• Supervisor Hart expressed general opposition to vacation rentals due to housing availability concerns but stated he would support the application, trusting that the regulatory system would address any ongoing issues.

Motion and Vote

• Motion: Supervisor Nelson moved to grant the appeal and approve the project.
• Second: The motion was seconded.
• Discussion on Procedure: Staff recommended trailing the item to allow for the preparation of correct findings and CEQA documentation, as the current setup was for denial. The Board agreed to trail the item to after Item 4 to allow staff time to prepare the necessary documents for a vote to approve.
• Conceptual Vote: The Board conducted a conceptual roll-call vote on the motion to grant the appeal and approve the project.
• Outcome: The conceptual motion passed (4-1). The item was trailed for final action.

Agenda Item 4: 2015 Energy and Climate Action Plan (ECAP) Final Report and Climate Action Program Updates

Staff Presentation

• George Chapshin and Ashley Watkins (Sustainability Division) introduced the presentation.
• Garrett Wong (Climate Program Manager) presented the final report on the 2015 ECAP. Key points included:
• 41 of 53 emission reduction measures were initiated or completed by 2020.
• 44% of the targeted 2020 emissions reduction goal (15% below 2007 baseline) was met.
• 2018 emissions were 11% above 2000 levels but 3% lower than 2016 levels.
• Transportation remains the largest source of emissions (50%), followed by building energy use (27%).
• The county joined Central Coast Community Energy (CCCE), increasing renewable energy usage to 31%.
• A gap of over 500,000 metric tons remains to meet the 2030 goal of 50% reduction below 2007 levels.
• 2030 Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update:
• Development launched in late 2020 with community engagement via workshops and the "Considerate" platform.
• The 2030 CAP will use focus areas (housing, mobility, energy, economy, land stewardship) rather than sectors.
• Staff recommended updating the carbon reduction goal to carbon neutrality by 2045 and changing the interim 2030 goal baseline from 2007 to 2018 (50% net reduction from 2018 levels).
• Recommended Early Actions:
• 1. Develop an ordinance to restrict natural gas infrastructure and increase energy efficiency/EV charging in new residential construction and major renovations. 2. Assess feasibility of updating the zero-net-energy resolution to "zero carbon" for county buildings (electrification of heating/equipment). 3. Develop a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) plan for county operations and community infrastructure.

Board Questions and Discussion

• Supervisor Williams asked about funding for ordinance development, noting a $15,000 grant available through CCCE. He questioned why the projected reduction from CCCE was not higher given the 100% renewable goal, and staff explained it is based on current procurement (31.5%). He discussed the county’s vehicle fleet, noting 131 non-electric vehicles purchased since the mandate, and suggested expanding the mandate to light-duty vehicles.
• Supervisor Nelson asked about community support for the early actions via the "Considerate" survey. Staff reported mixed results: natural gas restrictions in new construction had a negative 20% sentiment; county building electrification had mixed support; and ZEV transition had positive support (+20%). Supervisor Nelson asked if stakeholder outreach (chambers, construction industry) had occurred regarding the natural gas ordinance. Staff clarified that this is a request for direction to develop the ordinance, not final approval, and stakeholder outreach has not yet begun. Staff noted that cost-effectiveness studies generally show nominal cost impacts or savings for all-electric construction.
• Supervisor Nelson noted that gas energy is typically less expensive for homeowners than electricity.

Status

• The transcript ends during the discussion of the natural gas ordinance and cost comparisons. No motion or vote was recorded in this section of the transcript.

Agenda Item: Climate Action Plan Update and Natural Gas Infrastructure

Discussion

• Staff presented recommendations regarding the county’s climate action plan, focusing on three primary areas: restricting natural gas infrastructure in new construction, updating zero-net-energy resolutions for county buildings, and developing a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) plan.
• Supervisor Lavagnino expressed concern over the lack of significant progress in greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions relative to the resources invested, questioning the environmental benefits of electrification given the current grid mix. Staff responded that the grid is becoming cleaner, with a state goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045, and noted that the county is on track to exceed grid averages through renewable energy procurement. Supervisor Lavagnino requested clarification on how electricity is currently generated and expressed frustration with the pace of change.
• Supervisor Nelson advocated for a cautious approach, suggesting that the board should assess the potential to restrict natural gas infrastructure rather than immediately moving to a ban, allowing for further stakeholder engagement and data collection. Supervisor Williams supported the staff recommendations, emphasizing the need for aggressive action on transportation electrification and housing location to reduce emissions. He proposed expanding the county’s electric vehicle mandate to include light-duty vehicles by January 2023 and including public safety departments in the ZEV plan. Supervisor Hartmann supported the staff recommendations, highlighting the importance of the county leading by example in adopting electric technologies and integrating sustainability across all departments.

Public Comment

• Seven members of the public provided comments:
• Katie Davis (Sierra Club): Supported staff recommendations and ordinance options, citing health benefits of electric stoves and cost savings.
• Nadia Abu-Shanab (SBCAN): Supported all early action recommendations, citing the urgency of the IPCC report.
• Ben Schwartz (Clean Coalition): Supported the proposed ordinances and suggested removing restrictions on utility-scale solar and partnering with 3CE for energy programs.
• John Allman (Los Padres Chapter): Supported the plan but urged immediate action on building codes and electric vehicles, criticizing the pace of progress.
• Ben Oakley (Western States Petroleum Association): Recommended that staff include cost-effectiveness calculations for all policies and review previous regional evaluations.
• Irene Cook: Supported staff recommendations, urging bold leadership and citing research on the economic benefits of electrification.
• Michael Chiakos (Community Environmental Council): Supported the ZEV plan and natural gas restrictions, suggesting a 2035 carbon neutrality goal and 100% renewable electricity default.

Motion and Deliberation

• Supervisor Hartmann moved to adopt the staff recommendations, with an addition proposed by Supervisor Williams to extend the county’s electric vehicle purchase policy to include light-duty vehicles and to include a plan for public safety department adoption by 2023.
• Supervisor Nelson expressed hesitation regarding the immediate mandate for light-duty vehicles, citing a lack of vetted cost and impact data, and requested that the natural gas restriction be framed as "natural gas options" rather than a "ban" to facilitate broader stakeholder discussion. Supervisor Williams clarified that the intent was to direct staff to return with a revised policy for board adoption, allowing for further review. Staff confirmed that the ZEV plan development requires an enhancement request in the upcoming budget.

Decision

• The board agreed to direct staff to: 1. Develop an ordinance to restrict natural gas infrastructure and increase energy efficiency for new residential construction and major renovations. 2. Assess the feasibility of updating the zero-net-energy resolution to a zero-carbon standard for county buildings. 3. Develop a zero-emission vehicle plan, contingent on budget approval, to identify gaps and resources for ZEV adoption. 4. Return with a revised electric vehicle policy to expand the mandate to light-duty vehicles, effective January 2023, and to include public safety departments in the ZEV plan.
• The motion to proceed with these staff recommendations and directions was adopted.

Agenda Item: Natural Gas Infrastructure Ordinance Wording

• Discussion focused on the interpretation of the board letter regarding the development of an ordinance to restrict natural gas infrastructure. Concerns were raised that the term "banned" might be interpreted as a complete prohibition rather than a restriction. The discussion clarified that the intent was to implement restrictions or disincentives (such as requiring electric water heaters) rather than a total ban. A motion was made to proceed with the interpretation that the current wording is acceptable under the understanding that it implies restriction rather than a complete ban. The motion was seconded with the condition that it includes the January 2023 light-duty vehicle electrification mandate. The motion passed 4-1 with one abstention or absence.

Agenda Item D3: Findings and Recommended Actions

• The board reviewed new findings provided by Director Plowman, which had been made available online, in the room, and to the applicant, Francis Romero. After allowing time for the board to review the documents, a motion was made to adopt recommended actions A through D. The motion was seconded. A roll call vote was taken, and the motion passed 3-1 with one abstention or absence.

Adjournment

• The board adjourned to resume on Monday, April 11, in Santa Barbara for the first day of budget workshops, which are scheduled to continue on Tuesday, April 12, and conclude on Thursday, April 14.