Meeting Summary
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
Revision to New Hire and Promotional Incentives Policy
- The Board approved staff recommendations to revise the policy governing new hire and promotional incentives.
- Supervisor Capps requested additional data on vacancy rates and departmental utilization of these incentives.
Organized Retail Theft Vertical Prosecution Program Grant
- The Board accepted a state grant award to fund a vertical prosecution program targeting organized retail theft.
- Staff noted the grant size was appropriate given local theft trends differ from larger jurisdictions experiencing flash mob thefts.
Termination of Agreement with Lawrence J. Bynes MD Professional Corporation
- The Board approved the termination of a professional services agreement for fiscal years 2023 through 2024.
- One public comment was received in support of the physician, acknowledging his long service to the community.
Appointment to Commission for Women
- The Board appointed Joanne Meade Young to the Commission for Women for a term ending December 31, 2025.
- This appointment fills a vacancy representing the second district.
World Habitat Day Resolution
- The Board adopted a resolution proclaiming October 2, 2023, as World Habitat Day in Santa Barbara County.
- The resolution recognized the work of Habitat for Humanity regarding new home construction and repairs.
Great California Shakeout Resolution
- The Board adopted a resolution recognizing the Great California Shakeout on October 19, 2023, and approved county participation.
- The resolution outlined earthquake preparedness measures and encouraged residents to register for emergency alerts.
Women's Legacy in Leadership Conference Resolution
- The Board adopted a resolution supporting the first-ever Women's Legacy in Leadership Conference scheduled for November 4, 2023.
- The event aims to empower women and foster positive change through leadership development.
Arts and Humanities Month Resolution
- The Board proclaimed October 2023 as Arts and Humanities Month and recognized Joseph Woodard and Montecito Bank & Trust.
- The resolution honored the recipients for their commitment to the arts and acknowledged the County Arts Commission's history.
Heritage Rich Special Needs Family Apartments Tax-Exempt Obligations
- The Board approved the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for this special needs project.
- No public comments were received during the hearing on this item.
Heritage Ridge Senior Apartments Tax-Exempt Obligations
- The Board approved the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for this senior housing project.
- No public comments were received during the hearing on this item.
Garrity Garage Conversions Project Appeal
- The Board denied an appeal regarding the conversion of two garages into habitable space in Isla Vista.
- Staff determined the proposal failed to meet code requirements for independent vehicle access and parking standards.
- Supervisors noted that granting the appeal would require violating the ordinance prohibiting parking variances in the SRM zone.
Santa Barbara County Housing Element Policy Discussion
- The Board approved a 60% affordable unit assumption while exploring a tiered proposal pending state feedback.
- Staff warned that non-compliance with state targets could trigger the "Builder's Remedy" countywide within 180 days.
Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County TEFRA Hearing
- A public hearing was held regarding tax-exempt financing terms for a residential affordable housing project.
- No motion or vote was taken as the item was informational, and the County has no obligation for bond repayment.
Housing Element Update – North County Methodology
- The Board directed staff to consider a revised methodology with a 60% low-income allocation for rezones and pending projects.
- Staff was instructed to seek written confirmation from the State Department of Housing regarding a proposed tiered approach.
Closed Session
- The Board discussed existing litigation and labor negotiations with the Deputy Sheriff's Association.
- No reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Announcements and Public Comment Procedures
- The meeting opened with announcements regarding public participation methods, noting that verbal comments could be submitted via Zoom with advance registration. No requests for public comment were received at this time.
Administrative Item 18: Revision to New Hire and Promotional Incentives Policy
- This item from the Human Resources Department concerned recommendations to revise the new hire and promotional incentives policy. Supervisor Capps moved to approve the staff recommendation, requesting information on vacancy rates and departmental utilization of these incentives. The motion was seconded. The Board approved the item.
Administrative Item 14: Organized Retail Theft Vertical Prosecution Program (ORTVPP) Grant
- This item from the District Attorney's Office sought approval to accept a Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) award for an organized retail theft vertical prosecution program, requiring a four-fifths vote. Staff noted that while retail theft had increased, the county did not experience "flash mob" thefts common in larger jurisdictions, making the smaller grant appropriate. The Sheriff's Office had applied for a separate prevention grant but was not awarded it. Supervisor Lavagnino noted recent progress by the Santa Maria Police Department in establishing a property crimes unit. Supervisor Hartman moved to approve the item. The motion was seconded. The Board approved the acceptance of the grant award.
Administrative Item 22: Termination of Agreement with Lawrence J. Bynes MD Professional Corporation
- This item from the Public Health Department concerned the termination of a professional corporation agreement for fiscal years 2023 through 2024. One public comment was received in support of the doctor, acknowledging his length of service and community support. Supervisor Capps moved to approve the staff recommendation. The motion was seconded. The Board approved the termination of the agreement.
Administrative Item 29: Appointment to Commission for Women
- Sponsored by Supervisor Capps, this item sought approval for the appointment of Joanne Meade Young to the Commission for Women for a term ending December 31, 2025, in the second district. Supervisor Capps moved to approve the appointment. The motion was seconded. The Board approved the appointment.
Administrative Item 32: World Habitat Day Resolution
- Sponsored by Supervisor Williams, this item sought adoption of a resolution proclaiming October 2, 2023, as World Habitat Day in Santa Barbara County. The resolution recognized the work of Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County regarding new home construction and repairs. Representatives from Habitat for Humanity were present. Supervisor Williams moved to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. The Board adopted the resolution.
Administrative Item 33: Great California Shakeout Resolution
- Sponsored by Supervisors Williams and Hartman, this item sought adoption of a resolution recognizing the Great California Shakeout on October 19, 2023, and approving county participation. The resolution outlined earthquake preparedness measures, including "drop, cover, and hold on," and encouraged residents to register for emergency alerts. A representative from the Office of Emergency Management provided additional details on safety procedures. Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. The Board adopted the resolution.
Administrative Item 34: Women's Legacy in Leadership Conference Resolution
- Sponsored by Supervisors Katz and Hartman, this item sought adoption of a resolution recognizing the first-ever Women's Legacy in Leadership Conference scheduled for November 4, 2023. The resolution supported the event organized by current and former women elected leaders to empower women and foster positive change. A representative from the organizing committee provided details on registration and encouraged attendance. Supervisor Capps moved to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. The Board adopted the resolution.
Administrative Item 35: Arts and Humanities Month Resolution
- Sponsored by Supervisor Hartman, this item sought adoption of a resolution proclaiming October 2023 as Arts and Humanities Month and recognizing Joseph Woodard and Montecito Bank & Trust. The resolution acknowledged the County Arts Commission's history and honored the recipients for their commitment to the arts. Representatives from the Arts Commission and Mr. Woodard were present. Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. The Board adopted the resolution.
General Public Comment
- Three individuals requested to speak on general public comment: Joe Devonick, Chris Donati, and Joseph Morgan. Technical difficulties initially prevented the board from hearing Mr. Morgan; after troubleshooting, he was able to proceed.
- Chris Donati: Spoke regarding the Public Guardian's Office and SEIU 620 contract negotiations, urging the Board to ensure wages remain competitive with inflation to retain staff.
- David Garrity (appearing as Unidentified Speaker 14): Spoke in support of his appeal regarding the conversion of garages into habitable space in Isla Vista. He argued the issue was not about parking but about anti-growth and anti-housing sentiments, stating he would provide equivalent parking elsewhere. He noted that people currently live illegally in garages and that students do not require cars. He mentioned submitting legal documents and a petition from 45 residents supporting the conversion.
- Joe Morgan: Spoke regarding land development on the Gaviota Coast (Naples area), urging the Board to vote against luxury estate developments that do not create affordable housing. He also commented in support of SEIU 620 contract negotiations.
Departmental Item 1: Heritage Rich Special Needs Family Apartments Tax-Exempt Obligations
- This item from the Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator was a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for the benefit of Heritage Rich Special Needs Family Apartments. No public comments were received on this item. The Board approved the staff recommendation.
Departmental Item 2: Heritage Ridge Senior Apartments Tax-Exempt Obligations
- This item from the Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator was a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for the benefit of Heritage Ridge Senior Apartments. No public comments were received on this item. The Board approved the staff recommendation.
Departmental Item 3: Garrity Garage Conversions Project Appeal
- This item from the Planning and Development Department was a hearing to consider an appeal (Case No. 23 APL 32) of the County Planning Commission's denial of the Garrity garage conversions project (Case No. 22 CDP 9) in the second district. The applicant sought to convert two single-car garages into dining room additions for an existing duplex at 6794 Trigo and 6793 Posado Road in Isla Vista.
- Discussion: The appellant argued that the denial was based on anti-growth sentiments rather than parking issues, asserting he would provide equivalent parking and that the current situation involved illegal habitation of garages. Staff explained that the proposed configuration did not meet code requirements regarding independent vehicle access and setbacks. Because the property is currently non-conforming regarding parking, the code requires bringing the lot up to current standards (12 spaces) upon any enlargement or change of use. The proposed replacement parking spaces did not meet dimensional requirements for independent vehicle access. Staff noted that the SRM zoning district specifically prohibits variances for parking, and granting the appeal would require violating the ordinance. Supervisors discussed the broader context of parking in Isla Vista, noting the complexity of Coastal Commission regulations which previously blocked a Master Plan due to coastal access concerns. It was noted that a parking study is currently underway with the Isla Vista Community Services District (CSD) and UCSB.
- Motion: Supervisor Capps moved to deny the appeal in full support of better housing and safety in Isla Vista, acknowledging the need for a relook at the IV Master Plan. The motion was seconded.
- Decision: The Board voted to deny the appeal. The vote outcome was passed (appeal denied).
Departmental Item 4: Santa Barbara County Housing Element Policy Discussion
- This item from Supervisor Nelson was a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the Santa Barbara County housing element policy discussion.
- Discussion: Staff presented data on cost burdens across different housing market areas (HMAs), noting significant differences between San Ynez and Santa Maria. The discussion focused on assumptions regarding the percentage of affordable units provided by new developments. Supervisor Nelson proposed a tiered approach with higher percentages for lower-income units in specific areas, suggesting 65% for certain zones. Staff expressed concern that such assumptions might not be accepted by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), potentially delaying the adoption process or requiring additional data. Staff noted that HCD had previously indicated acceptance of a 60% assumption for the North County area but cautioned against tiered proposals without further state review. The Board discussed the risks of non-compliance, including the potential imposition of "Builder's Remedy" countywide if rezoning targets are not met within 180 days.
- Motion: Supervisor Hartman moved to proceed with a 60% assumption while exploring the 65% proposal, subject to a deadline for HCD response and further Planning Commission action. The motion was seconded.
- Decision: The Board approved the staff recommendation with the understanding that they would explore the tiered proposal further pending state feedback, acknowledging the workload implications and compliance risks.
Departmental Item 1 (Part 2): Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County TEFRA Hearing
- A public hearing was held regarding a Tax-Exempt Financing for Residential Affordable (TEFRA) project for the Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County. Staff presented information on the financing terms under Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code, which allows nonprofits to access municipal markets. It was reiterated that the County has no legal or moral obligation for the repayment of these bonds. No motion was made, and no vote was taken as this item was a public hearing for informational purposes.
Departmental Item 3 (Part 2): Housing Element Update – North County Methodology
- The Board discussed a proposal to revise the affordable housing allocation methodology for the North County region within the Housing Element Update. A Supervisor presented data from a market survey conducted with the Santa Maria Association of Realtors, arguing that the current uniform county-wide methodology was flawed for the North County due to lower market rents and different supply/demand dynamics. The proposal suggested a tiered approach based on density: 65% low-income for 20 units/acre, 70% for 25 units/acre, and 75% for 30 units/acre.
- Discussion: Discussion centered on the legal defensibility of the proposed methodology versus the state's requirements, the definition of "affordable" units (deed-restricted vs. market-rate units meeting income thresholds), and the application of these standards to pending projects and builder remedies. Concerns were raised about potential delays if the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) rejected the proposal. A compromise was discussed to adopt a 60% low-income allocation as a baseline, with provisions to adjust based on applicant data for pending projects, while directing staff to seek written confirmation from HCD regarding the tiered approach.
- Motion: A motion was made to direct staff to consider the revised North County methodology (specifically a 60% low-income allocation for rezones and pending projects, with adjustments based on applicant data) and to contact HCD regarding the tiered approach. The motion included a revision to the CEQA determination. The motion was seconded.
- Decision: The Board voted to approve the motion. The vote outcome was passed.
Minutes Approval
- Supervisor Capps moved to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. The motion was seconded. The Board approved the minutes.
Closed Session
- The Board met in closed session to discuss existing litigation (Torres v. County of Santa Barbara) and labor negotiations with the Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriff's Association. A report was provided stating that no reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Discussion on Retention Bonuses
- A discussion occurred regarding the usage of retention bonuses by various departments. It was noted that departments utilize these bonuses based on vacancy rates, the duration positions remain open, and retention needs. Recent usage has been primarily observed in Social Services, Behavioral Wellness, General Services, Custody (Deputy Sheriff laterals), and IT. Approximately 20% of departments are currently utilizing these bonuses. The speaker confirmed that specific data regarding departmental usage could be provided upon request. No formal agenda items, motions, or votes were recorded for this discussion.