Meeting Summary
Present: 5-Lavagnino, 3-Hartmann, Katz, 4-Nelson, 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
Montecito Flood Control Master Plan Phase 1
- Staff presented a long-term study and work plan focused on data collection, outreach, and modeling for the First District.
- The board discussed the distinction between this planning phase and acute mitigation projects in the South Santa Maria Valley.
- Supervisor Nelson noted ongoing efforts to develop standard operating procedures for North County flood control and short-term improvements.
- The item was pulled from the consent calendar to allow for this informational presentation.
Resolution of Commendation for Coleman Lucas
- The board honored Coleman Lucas for his service to the Santa Maria Cemetery District and the community.
- The resolution recognized his roles as a board member and co-chair, as well as his military service and community leadership.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution of Commendation for Bill Wolfe
- The board recognized Custody Lieutenant Bill Wolfe for his 27 years of service to the Sheriff’s Office.
- The resolution highlighted his roles in various jail facilities and his receipt of the Sheriff’s Meritorious Service Medal.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Resolution of Commendation for Chelsea Lindsey
- The board honored Chelsea Lindsey as the County Executive Office Employee of the Month for February 2023.
- The resolution detailed her career history, role as agenda coordinator, and contributions to the Clerk of the Board’s office.
- The resolution was passed and adopted.
Difficult to Fill Position Employee Referral Program Policy
- HR staff proposed a referral bonus program to address declining applicant numbers and high turnover in difficult-to-fill positions.
- The board discussed the financial impact of staffing shortages, including overtime costs for the Sheriff’s Department.
- The board adopted the policy with amendments to increase the referral bonus from $1,200 to $3,000.
- The initial pilot period was shortened to six months, after which the board will receive a report.
Zero Emission Vehicle Policy Adoption and Electric Vehicle Program Update
- General Services staff presented the new ZEV policy prioritizing zero-emission replacements for end-of-life gasoline vehicles.
- The board reviewed current fleet orders, charger installation progress, and increased charger utilization rates.
- Discussions covered operational constraints, long-term financial sustainability, and potential partnerships with the private sector.
- The board approved the report on the electric vehicle fleet and the associated policy.
Housing Element Update (Draft Goals, Policies, and Programs)
- Staff presented the methodology for the Regional Housing Needs Allocation, noting the current allocation is eight times larger than the previous cycle.
- The board reviewed site inventories across North and South County, including discussions on agricultural land preservation and job-housing balance.
- The board debated various programs, including inclusionary housing, density bonuses, and the extension of affordability covenants to 90 years.
- The board adopted the draft housing element with amendments, including a biennial production report and a study for new dedicated revenue sources.
Public Health Update (COVID-19)
- The Public Health Department provided an informational update on the status of COVID-19 testing and treatment.
- Testing and treatment are no longer available at the Santa Maria Fair Park and direct relief sites.
- Antigen testing remains available at specific health care centers through June 30.
- The FDA no longer requires a positive test prior to treatment with Paxlovid or Lagevrio for mild to moderate symptoms.
Full summary
Public Comment: Housing Element Update
- Public comment was received regarding the draft housing element update. Speakers addressed the preservation of existing affordable housing stock, including mobile home parks, and advocated for "development without displacement." Multiple speakers called for dedicated revenue sources for affordable and workforce housing, suggesting mechanisms such as bonds, vacancy taxes, mansion taxes, transfer taxes, and short-term rental taxes. Educators, union representatives, and essential workers highlighted the impact of housing costs on the ability to recruit and retain staff, citing specific rent figures and shortages affecting teachers, nurses, and first responders. Commenters supported specific programs within the draft element, including housing for farm and hospitality workers, use-by-right approvals, local preference policies, and workforce housing studies. Some speakers urged the inclusion of county properties in housing development cycles and the creation of 100% affordable projects through subsidies. A representative from the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara noted approximately 9,000 people on combined waiting lists, while a representative from People Self Help Housing reported over 13,000 households on their waitlist. Additional comments included requests for permanent local funding for affordable housing, the inclusion of more county-owned sites for 100% affordable housing projects, and concerns regarding the methodology for determining Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers, specifically the reliance on agricultural lands adjacent to Goleta. Speakers also discussed the need to address the job-housing imbalance in North County, the impact of second homes and student housing on local affordability, and the importance of preserving prime productive agricultural farmland.
Administrative Item 7: Montecito Flood Control Master Plan Phase 1
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the item, a request from the Public Works Department Board of Directors Flood Control and Water Conservation District to consider recommendations regarding the Montecito Flood Control Master Plan Phase 1, located in the First District. A board member inquired about the status of flood control efforts in the South Santa Maria Valley, noting recent flooding and ongoing development. Staff indicated that while Montecito is the current focus, the board is considering a more comprehensive regional look at the South Santa Maria Valley. Staff clarified that the current item is a long-term study and work plan, distinct from acute mitigation projects that may be anticipated in the near term. Staff described the first phase of the project as data collection, outreach, and modeling to help scope projects like the Buena Vista Debris Basin and San Ysidro Creek, which will help define priorities, feasibility, and succession planning. Supervisor Nelson noted that staff is developing standard operating procedures for North County flood control and looking at short-term improvements like desilting basins and modifying spillways. The item was pulled from the consent calendar to allow for this informational presentation. A motion was made to approve the consent calendar. The motion passed unanimously.
Administrative Item 12: Resolution of Commendation for Coleman Lucas
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the resolution sponsored by Supervisor Nelson, honoring Coleman Lucas for his service to the Santa Maria Cemetery District and community. The resolution was read into the record, detailing Lucas’s service as a board member and co-chair of the Santa Maria Cemetery District, his military service, and his community leadership roles. The resolution was passed and adopted.
Administrative Item 13: Resolution of Commendation for Bill Wolfe
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the resolution sponsored by Supervisor Lavinino, honoring Custody Lieutenant Bill Wolfe upon his retirement from the Sheriff’s Office. The resolution was read into the record, detailing Wolfe’s 27 years of service, his roles in various jail facilities, and his receipt of the Sheriff’s Meritorious Service Medal. The board recognized Lieutenant Bill Wolfe for his service, particularly his role in the planning and transition of the Northern Branch Jail. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, which was presented to him during the meeting. The resolution was passed and adopted.
Administrative Item 14: Resolution of Commendation for Chelsea Lindsey
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the resolution sponsored by Supervisor Williams, honoring Chelsea Lindsey as the County Executive Office Employee of the Month for February 2023. The resolution was read into the record, detailing Lindsey’s career history with the county, her role as agenda coordinator, and her contributions to the Clerk of the Board’s office. The Chair and other board members expressed gratitude to the Clerk’s office and staff for their assistance in organizing board business and facilitating the institution's operations. The resolution was passed and adopted.
Departmental Item 1: Difficult to Fill Position Employee Referral Program Policy
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the item from the Human Resources Department, a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the difficult-to-fill position employee referral program policy. HR staff requested approval for a difficult-to-fill employee referral program policy, initially piloted for custody deputies. They cited declining applicant numbers (115 in 2018 vs. 78 in 2022) and high turnover. They presented statistics showing referrals increase retention by 40% and reduce turnover. The proposed bonus was $1,200, based on a median of $1,000 for surveyed counties and $3,000 for the industry median. The program would be funded by the departmental budget and monitored by HR. A board member discussed the current referral bonus of $1,200, noting that the Sheriff’s Department anticipates $13 million in overtime costs for the fiscal year. The board member argued that the current bonus is insufficient to address staffing crises in departments such as the Sheriff’s Office, Public Health, and Child Welfare. Public comment was received, including a challenge from a constituent to elected officials to participate in a friendly competition to recruit academy candidates. Board members discussed the importance of staffing levels for contract cities and the broader impact of law enforcement recruitment. A motion was made to adopt staff’s recommendations with alterations: increasing the referral bonus from $1,200 to $3,000 and shortening the initial pilot period to six months, after which the board would receive a report. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 2: Zero Emission Vehicle Policy Adoption and Electric Vehicle Program Update
- The Clerk of the Board introduced the item from the General Services Department, a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) policy adoption and electric vehicle program update. A representative from the Community Environmental Council supported the adoption of the policies, highlighting the county’s leadership in EV readiness and the importance of expanding workforce charging access. General Services staff presented the new ZEV policy, which prioritizes the purchase of zero-emission replacement vehicles for end-of-life gasoline vehicles. Key points included exemptions for departments if no viable ZEV is available, if operational needs are not met, or if charging infrastructure is unavailable; emergency response vehicles are currently exempt. The county currently has 61 Chevy Bolts and 30 Nissan Leafs on order, with reservations placed for Ford F-150 Lightnings and Chevy Silverados. The county has 127 chargers installed at 13 locations, with plans to install 122 additional chargers at existing sites and 44 at seven new sites. Charger utilization increased from 20% in April 2022 to 47% in December 2022. The county charges users based on electricity costs with a $6/hour fee after four hours to encourage turnover. Funding is being utilized from rebates from CalEVIP, 3CE, and other grants, along with a $400,000 board allocation.
- Board members discussed operational constraints, noting that emergency response capabilities and high entry costs for electric vehicles are significant factors. Concerns were raised regarding the long-term financial sustainability of the program, with suggestions to build a business model that allows for partnership with the private sector to eventually redeploy county funds to other areas like parks and infrastructure. Questions were asked regarding the number of employees currently driving EVs and the utilization of charging stations. Supervisor Lavagnino inquired about the installation costs of Level 2 chargers, the cost to charge vehicles from low to full battery, and the operational costs for public-facing charging stations. Staff provided estimates, noting that charging costs are comparable to or cheaper than gasoline equivalents. Supervisor Hartman asked about the lifespan of EVs, the resale value compared to gasoline vehicles, and the impact of battery degradation on resale markets. Questions were raised regarding the retraining of general service employees for EV repairs and the feedback received from employees regarding vehicle performance. Supervisor Katz praised the General Services Department’s implementation of the EV policy and the reduction in ongoing expenses. Discussion included the urgency of expanding charging stations at high-utilization sites to support employee adoption. Board members discussed solutions for range anxiety, including the use of faster-charging models and potential partnerships with other jurisdictions for vehicle sharing or charging access. A suggestion was made to explore the feasibility of a second hydrogen fueling station to increase market leverage and support heavy-duty fuel cell options. The board discussed the policy of exemptions for EVs, with some members suggesting stricter vigilance or removal of certain exemptions to encourage broader adoption, while others noted the benefits of the current policy. Supervisor Hartman asked about subsidies for charging stations and the exploration of hydrogen fuel. She noted the Sheriff’s use of e-bikes and encouraged the Sheriff’s Office to consider Electric Vehicles for patrol cars due to high mileage and acceleration needs. A motion was made to approve and receive the report on the electric vehicle fleet. The motion was seconded and passed.
Housing Element Update (Draft Goals, Policies, and Programs)
- County staff presented the methodology for determining the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers, noting that the current allocation is eight times larger than the previous cycle due to state requirements for jurisdictions that have not met prior targets. Staff explained that the state requires allocations to be consistent with sustainable communities plans, focusing on jobs-housing balance. The land inventory analysis prioritized undeveloped sites that are viable for development within the next eight years. Staff identified sites across North and South County. In North County, sites were spread across Mission Hills, Vandenberg Village, and Kuyama, with the bulk located in the community plan area due to job centers. In South County, sites were selected near services and transit corridors, primarily within the urban-rural boundary. The Goleta Valley community plan area contains significant available land. Sites in Carpinteria are on the edge of the urban-rural boundary and require Coastal Commission approval. Staff noted that they are working with landowners to identify additional viable sites, including employer housing projects. Staff emphasized that more sites have been identified than are strictly required to meet the RHNA and the 15% buffer, providing the Board with options to select specific sites.
- Staff discussed a program to implement expansion projects and create incentives for mixed-use development in commercial zones, such as the Upper Village, to encourage long-term redevelopment and housing provision. Staff clarified that the requirement to replace rental units applies when a site with units rented in the last five years is redeveloped; it is not focused on mobile home parks. Staff provided data on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) applications: 93 in 2020, 166 in 2021, 158 in 2022, and 37 in 2023 (projected to reach ~300). Staff noted that ADUs in South County are generally not in the lower-income category, whereas some in North County are. Staff acknowledged the use of prefab/crane-in units and stated they could evaluate governmental constraints related to this method. Staff noted that if the Board wishes to pursue county-built housing, a separate program or fit under an existing program would be needed. Staff mentioned a previous, abandoned study by the school district regarding district-owned sites. Staff discussed detention basins and their role in groundwater recharge, stating they could look at encouraging stormwater reuse.
- Staff summarized requested additions to the Housing Element, including studying long-term funding sources for affordable housing, creating incentives for rental housing, reducing governmental constraints for commercial development in North County to improve jobs-housing balance, adding language to Goal 1 regarding the livability of neighborhoods and communities, integrating transit/mobility considerations into density discussions, and addressing agricultural zoning sites in urban cores by identifying them but noting a preference against rezoning them.
- The board reviewed various programs within the housing element, including inclusionary housing, density bonuses, and water/sewer services. Questions were raised regarding the interaction between the new fee program and the inclusionary housing option, clarifying that both options may remain available. Discussion focused on whether density bonuses would apply to rezone areas or existing housing inventory, with concerns raised about potential high-density development and the need to toggle options for non-rezone properties. Concerns were raised about the lack of mention regarding the City of Santa Maria’s water supply for unincorporated North County and the potential for stormwater reuse. Questions were asked about how development impact fees would be adjusted if projects opted out of certain fee structures. Multiple speakers emphasized the need to address the job-housing imbalance in North County. It was noted that high barriers to commercial and manufacturing development in the county contribute to long commutes and housing demand in South County. Suggestions included creating incentives for commercial development, streamlining the development process, and establishing a biennial review of rezone opportunities to lower barriers for developers. There was significant debate regarding the reduction of DIFs as an incentive. Some members opposed reducing DIFs without subvention, arguing that these fees fund necessary infrastructure. Others suggested that incentives should focus on reducing planning or building/safety fees to lower entry barriers for developers, rather than reducing DIFs at the end of the process. Discussion included increasing the ADU goal from 150 to 300 units, encouraging prefab designs, and considering fee waivers to incentivize ADU construction. Questions were raised about whether junior ADUs count toward low-income housing goals. Speakers advocated for local preference points in housing development to benefit county residents, as well as preference points for veterans and seniors. A public comment from a vineyard owner suggested allowing a reasonable number of rental units on Ag-2 land to provide income stability for farmers and housing for workers. Another public comment argued that agricultural land should be a last resort for housing development, prioritizing urban infill and commercial sites first. Discussion included the potential use of county-owned sites (e.g., Juvenile Hall, downtown administrative buildings) for workforce and affordable housing. Staff indicated that a consultant is engaged to evaluate the Juvenile Hall site. Concerns were raised about the complexity and length of the county’s development approval process, with suggestions to create a "one-stop shop" for development approvals to streamline projects.
- Staff presented the draft housing element, outlining six goals and 15 policies, along with 23 programs. The presentation covered the 30-day public review process, the timeline for state review (HCD), and upcoming adoption hearings. Program 1 (Adequate Sites) explained the requirement to meet the RHNA allocation plus a 15% buffer to prevent "no net loss" of sites for lower-income housing. The board discussed the importance of monitoring unit production and maintaining adequate sites for very low and low-income households. Program 2 (Use by Right) clarified that sites rezoned for very low and low-income housing with 20% affordable units become "by right" projects, exempt from CEQA review. Program 3 (Replacement Housing) discussed the requirement to replace existing rental units on non-vacant sites. Program 4 (Inclusionary Housing) discussed extending the affordability covenant period from 45 years to 90 years (renewing as units sell) to lock in affordability closer to perpetuity. Program 5 (Tools and Incentives) discussed incentives for JADUs, accessory dwelling units, and conversions. Program 6 (Farm and Hospitality Workers) discussed streamlining permitting for housing for these specific worker groups. Program 10 (ADUs) discussed financial incentives and pre-approved plans to facilitate ADU development, with a goal of permitting 800 units in the next cycle. Program 11 (SB9 Implementation) discussed the study of requiring a minimum of one unit in SB9 projects to be restricted to moderate or upper-moderate incomes. Program 12 (County Land Disposal) discussed prioritizing buyers who intend to build affordable housing when selling county land. Program 13 (Density Bonus) discussed developing a county density bonus program competitive with the state program to incentivize moderate-rate housing. Program 14 (Water and Sewer) discussed working with special districts to expand water and sewer capacity, including groundwater recharge and desalination options. Program 16 (Reduction of Constraints) discussed code amendments to streamline housing development and reduce governmental constraints. Program 18 (Preservation of At-Risk Housing) discussed monitoring conversions and pursuing funding to extend affordability covenants on at-risk units. Program 19 (Short-Term Rentals) discussed the balance between moderately priced lodging and local workforce housing in the coastal zone. Program 21 (Local Preference) discussed the feasibility of a local preference program for subsidized or inclusionary housing units to prioritize local employees. Program 22 (Recreational Amenities) discussed the need for recreational facilities in new housing developments and the integration with the Rec Master Plan. Program 23 (Workforce Housing Study) discussed the separate study directed by the board to identify needs and potential housing properties for workforce housing.
- The Chair closed public comment after 20+ speakers, allowing 2 minutes per speaker. Comments focused on the importance of local workforce housing, the impact of second homes, and the need for more affordable rental options. Supervisor Nelson asked about the City of Santa Barbara’s allocation and the effectiveness of preference systems for rental housing. Supervisor Hartman raised concerns about the loss of middle-class housing in Montecito and the need to preserve existing housing stock. Supervisor Katz suggested adding a preference for rental housing through an AUD (Average Unit Density) program or similar incentive. The board discussed the revision of the affordability covenant period to 90 years. The board discussed the addition of a biennial report on housing production and target achievement. The board discussed the inclusion of a study for new dedicated revenues, including a second-home vacancy tax. The board discussed the elimination or reduction of impact fees for special projects as a tool for affordable housing. The board discussed the preference for employee housing on three specific county sites (Juvenile Hall, Hollister, and another site). The board discussed the importance of jobs-housing balance in North County.
- Supervisor Hartman inquired about tools to support employee referrals and suggested creating testimonial materials. She asked for a re-presentation of median referral bonus data in relation to other counties. She expressed caution about setting initial bonus amounts too high to allow for future expansion to other roles and budget implications. She praised HR’s work. Supervisor Hartman asked about subsidies for charging stations and the exploration of hydrogen fuel. She noted the Sheriff’s use of e-bikes and encouraged the Sheriff’s Office to consider Electric Vehicles for patrol cars due to high mileage and acceleration needs. Supervisor Hartman commented on Goal 1, suggesting it should include promoting neighborhood livability, transit, trees, and landscaping. She raised concerns about the high percentage of short-term rentals/second homes (18-23% in some neighborhoods) and the impact of UCSB student housing on local affordability, particularly in Goleta. She requested that these issues be highlighted to the state. Supervisor Hartman asked where mobile home parks and senior housing fit within the Housing Element, noting the county ordinance protecting residents but expressing concern about its strength. She asked about the role of transit and traffic management in density planning, specifically regarding isolated areas like Glen Annie. Supervisor Hartman reported on legislative efforts to exchange county housing allocations with cities or extend deadlines, stating that legal research indicated these options are not currently available. She flagged budget implications for ongoing monitoring and potential state penalties for non-compliance. Supervisor Nelson suggested that the county might take on the burden of upzoning to facilitate development. Supervisor Hartman asked about the placement of mobile home park protections within the "no net loss" or replacement programs. Supervisor Hartman asked about the ability to prefer local farmworker housing over H-2A visa holders, stating a strong preference for local families. Supervisor Hartman raised concerns about the concentration of Housing Choice Vouchers in North County cities and the need to balance the system across the county to avoid concentrating low-income residents in lower-income communities. Supervisor Hartman suggested looking at prefab housing (e.g., park houses) in addition to ADUs. Supervisor Hartman discussed groundwater recharge, noting that the Laguna San area has little recharge and that development should be considered in light of county-wide recharge area maps. Supervisor Hartman emphasized that housing is a top concern for seniors regarding affordability and ADA accessibility, asking if ADUs can be required to be ADA compliant. She requested that senior housing be elevated to a goal rather than just a program. Supervisor Hartman agreed with Supervisor Nelson on the need to increase good-paying jobs in North County and suggested investigating tools to promote this. Supervisor Hartman reiterated the need to integrate transit/mobility into density discussions and to include "promoting livability of neighborhoods and communities" in Goal 1. Supervisor Capps asked about the criteria and values that will guide the Board’s selection of rezone sites, emphasizing the importance of preserving prime productive agricultural farmland.
- Public comment included statements from Pam Flint-Tambo (League of Women Voters of Santa Barbara), who criticized the methodology in Appendix E, arguing that assumptions regarding low-income and moderate-income units from rezone sites are unrealistic given state bonus density laws. She recommended revising percentages downward and focusing on county-owned sites for 100% affordable housing. She also called for a permanent funding stream for the Housing Authority and nonprofit developers. An unidentified speaker (County Counsel/Legal) outlined the consequences of failing to adopt a compliant Housing Element, including state enforcement by the Attorney General, potential litigation, mandated approval of permits/maps, and escalating monthly penalties if non-compliance persists beyond 12 months after a court order. An unidentified speaker (Staff) clarified that Program 12 relates to implementing a government code section for county employee housing, distinct from other housing initiatives. Yvonne Torres (Assistant HR Director) & Maria Elena Deguevara (HR Director) requested approval for a difficult-to-fill employee referral program policy. An unidentified speaker (Education Workforce) urged the Board to prioritize affordable workforce housing for educators. Joyce Adrianson (Santa Barbara Teachers Association President) stated that even top-paid teachers cannot afford to live in Santa Barbara, leading to commutes and turnover. James Karaoke (Goleta City Council Member) criticized the draft strategy for relying heavily on agricultural lands adjacent to Goleta, arguing Goleta should not provide over 100% of its share and urging a more balanced approach. Brian Fernandes (Firefighter/Paramedic) highlighted the critical need for workforce housing for first responders. Nadia Abushanab (SBCAN) requested the addition of a program for a dedicated affordable housing funding stream and requested that Policy 1.1 include protection of prime agriculture. Craig Minus (Coastal Housing Coalition) encouraged the county to pursue rezones concurrently with Housing Element adoption to expedite land availability. Richards (Goleta City Council Member) criticized the proposal for over 4,200 units on ag/open space parcels adjacent to Goleta, arguing this is not responsible planning and urging the county to preserve open spaces and urban agriculture. A member of the public, identifying as a co-founder of the Santa Barbara Tenants Union and representing the Santa Barbara County Action Network, addressed the board. The speaker stated support for the inclusion of specific provisions in the housing element, including a funding and financing mechanism for the creation of affordable housing, a requirement that any units developed on prime agricultural land be affordable to local residents, and enhanced tenant protections to prevent displacement. The speaker emphasized the need for affordable housing construction without displacement and noted that the displacement of tenants from existing units leads to increased rents.
- A motion was made to adopt the draft housing element with the following amendments: 1. Extend the affordability covenant period to 90 years. 2. Add a biennial report on housing production and target achievement. 3. Include a study for new dedicated revenues, including a second-home vacancy tax. 4. Add a preference for rental housing through an AUD program or similar incentive. 5. Add a preference for employee housing on three specific county sites. 6. Add language articulating the importance of jobs-housing balance in North County. The motion was seconded and passed.
Public Health Update (COVID-19)
- The Public Health Department provided an update on COVID-19 testing and treatment. Testing and treatment are no longer available at the Santa Maria Fair Park and direct relief sites. Antigen testing remains available at Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and Santa Maria health care centers through June 30. The FDA no longer requires a positive test prior to treatment with Paxlovid or Lagevrio for patients with mild to moderate symptoms. No motion was required; this was an informational update.
Approval of Minutes
- The board reviewed the minutes from the previous meeting. A motion was made to approve the minutes. The motion was seconded and passed.