Meeting Summary
Present: 4-Nelson, 5-Lavagnino, 3-Hartmann, 2-Capps
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
Racial Equity Grant Program Contract
- The Board approved a contract with the Fund for Santa Barbara to administer racial equity grants.
- Concerns regarding political activities were addressed with assurances that funds would be restricted to education.
- Public comment expressed support for the organization's accessibility and urged increased funding.
Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant
- A cooperative agreement was approved to fund a digital evidence management system for body-worn camera footage.
- The grant covers software costs for the first two years to address needs created by new prosecution technologies.
- Board members acknowledged the necessity of the innovation and associated interim costs.
EMS Ambulance Transportation Implementation Plan
- The Board approved an implementation plan, funding, and salary resolution amendment for Emergency Medical Services.
- No public comment was received regarding the proposed changes to ambulance transportation services.
- The motion passed with one member voting opposed to the recommendation.
Honors and Resolutions
- Several individuals and organizations were honored for employee contributions, veteran service, life-saving actions, and construction achievements.
- Proclamations were adopted for Nurse Practitioner Week and Take a Hike Day in Santa Barbara County.
- All resolutions were adopted without recorded debate or opposition.
Resolution Supporting Israel and Combating Hate
- The Board approved a resolution supporting Israel's security while condemning anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.
- Speakers highlighted peaceful coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in the county.
- Board members emphasized recognizing common humanity and taking a stand against discrimination.
2023 Winter Storms Disaster Recovery Cash Flow Needs
- The Board appropriated $24.5 million to maintain cash flow for disaster recovery projects pending federal reimbursements.
- Funds are designated primarily for Public Works transportation and Community Services parks projects.
- Discussion focused on prioritizing emergency access versus permanent reconstruction timelines.
Psychiatric Health Facility Annual Report
- Staff presented an annual report detailing a decline in hospitalizations but an increase in conservatorship length of stay.
- New initiatives include efforts to reduce readmission rates and implement an electronic health record system.
- Public comment advocated for increased bed capacity amidst legislative changes and staff stress concerns.
Management Classification and Compensation Plan Update
- The Board approved a Phase Two update distinguishing between executive broadband structures and management job families.
- Key components include wage compaction of 5% to 10% and market benchmarks for compensation.
- Human Resources Director Marielena DeGuevara addressed the board regarding her upcoming departure.
Alternative Sentencing Program Data Expansions
- Staff reported a 94% success rate for 851 individuals served by electronic monitoring and work alternatives programs.
- Discussion highlighted significant cost savings compared to daily jail incarceration expenses.
- Primary reasons for application denials included lack of residence or cell phone access.
Isla Vista Bluff Safety Plan
- The Board unanimously approved an eight-point safety plan including physical barriers, lighting, and signage improvements.
- Building code amendments were adopted to increase mandatory fence heights to a uniform minimum of six feet near bluff edges.
- Public comment largely supported the plan, with one speaker raising concerns about obstructed views.
Land Use Ordinance Amendments
- Staff presented recommendations to align ADU regulations with state legislation and eliminate the Shopping Center zone district.
- Proposed changes include increasing height allowances for ADUs and clarifying front setback encroachments.
- The amendments were recommended as exempt from environmental review under CEQA.
ADU Conversion Standards and Zoning Amendments
- The Board approved items applying size limits to non-exempt ADU conversions to address concerns about large structures.
- Staff clarified that reclassifying shopping center properties creates availability for mixed-use housing projects.
- No public comment was received during the discussion of these specific zoning amendments.
Closed Session
- The board discussed existing litigation involving American Medical Response West and Joyce Dudley.
- One item of anticipated litigation was also addressed during the closed session.
- Upon reconvening, the board reported that no reportable action was taken.
Full summary
Meeting Call to Order and Administrative Procedures
- The November 7, 2023, meeting of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors was called to order by Vice Chair Steve Lavagnino. Following a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, a motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes from the October 17, 2023, meeting; the motion passed unanimously. The County Executive Officer announced expanded operating hours for Animal Services shelters in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, and Lompoc. The Clerk noted a continuance request for Administrative Item A9 (Ocean Meadows Residential Development affordable housing agreement) to the November 28 meeting and outlined public comment procedures.
- Regarding agenda management, items A21, A57, and A58 were pulled from the administrative agenda for separate consideration. Public requests to speak were noted for items A11 and A57. A motion was made and seconded to move the balance of the administrative agenda, excluding items A9, A11, A21, A57, and A58; the motion passed.
Administrative Item A11: Racial Equity Grant Program Contract
- The item concerned a contract with the Fund for Santa Barbara for a racial equity grant program. Public comment was received from Liam Gallo, who expressed support for the organization's accessibility and urged increased funding. Supervisor Nelson addressed initial concerns regarding the organization's political activities, stating he had been assured funds would be restricted from such activities and noting that grants have primarily supported education. A motion was made by Supervisor Capps and seconded to approve the item; the motion passed.
Administrative Item A21: Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant
- The item concerned a cooperative agreement with the Bureau of Justice Assistance for Smart Prosecution and innovative prosecution solutions. Acting District Attorney Stabenow explained that body-worn cameras have created a need for a new digital evidence management system, which the grant would cover for software costs for the first two years. Supervisor Nelson acknowledged the necessity of the innovation and associated interim costs. A motion was made and seconded to approve the item; the motion passed.
Administrative Item A58: EMS Ambulance Transportation Implementation Plan
- The item concerned an Emergency Medical Services ambulance transportation implementation plan, funding, and salary resolution amendment. Upon Chair Williams' arrival, the Clerk read the item into the record. No public comment was received. A motion was made by Chair Williams and seconded by Supervisor Hartmann to approve the item; the motion passed with one member voting opposed.
Resolutions and Honors
- The Board adopted several resolutions without recorded debate or opposition:
- Item A51: Honored Lilla M. Smith of the Human Resources Department as the November 2023 Employee of the Month for contributions to the Learning Management system, emergency operations during COVID-19, and training facilitation.
- Item A55: Honored Willie Galvan for his service as a U.S. Army veteran and advocacy for youth and veterans, including work in housing, business development, and establishing American GI Forum chapters.
- Item A52: Recognized Juan Romero, Jason White, Jackson James, and others for their life-saving response to an electrocution incident at Hollister Ranch on September 6, 2023. Supervisor Hartmann questioned the recipients regarding the coordination of the rescue.
- Item A53: Proclaimed November 12–18, 2023, as Nurse Practitioner Week in Santa Barbara County.
- Item A54: Proclaimed November 18, 2023, as Take a Hike Day in Santa Barbara County. Otis Califf accepted the resolution and discussed trail development needs.
- Item A56: Commended R.W. Scott Construction Co. and Vince Lopez Jr. & Sons General Engineering for restoring the Santa Maria River following winter storms ahead of schedule and under budget. Public Works Director Scott McGaulpin detailed the collaborative effort, and Supervisor Nelson commended the project leadership.
Administrative Item A57: Resolution Supporting Israel and Combating Hate
- The item concerned a resolution supporting Israel's right to security and peace, condemning anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, and highlighting peaceful coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in Santa Barbara County. Rabbi Steve Cohen spoke via Zoom expressing gratitude for the resolution's language, and Suzanne Levy spoke in person thanking the board for taking a stand against hate. Board members commented on recognizing common humanity and supporting peace while condemning discrimination. A motion was made and seconded to approve the item; the motion passed.
General Public Comment
- Three requests for general public comment were announced. The session heard from Patty Perez Hogan via Zoom and Ted Perez in person. Additionally, three members of the public addressed the Board regarding the conservatorship of Armando Perez, alleging false abuse allegations, isolation, and concerns regarding living conditions and legal representation. Staff clarified that the Board of Supervisors lacks authority to arbitrate conservatorship matters as they fall under court jurisdiction, though Public Defender's Office representatives were present to follow up on comments regarding legal counsel.
Departmental Item No. 1: 2023 Winter Storms Disaster Recovery Cash Flow Needs
- The County Executive Office requested the appropriation of $24.5 million for disaster recovery cash flow needs resulting from the 2023 winter storms. Funding sources included an existing disaster set-aside, prior year unallocated surplus, and the Rhodes Fund balance. Funds were designated primarily for Public Works transportation projects and Community Services parks projects. Staff noted that while FEMA and Cal OES reimbursements are anticipated to cover a large portion of costs, processing would take years, necessitating the use of current funds to maintain cash flow. Discussion focused on project timelines, prioritization of emergency access versus permanent reconstruction, and financial implications of future disasters. A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation and seconded. The item required a four-fifths vote; the motion passed.
Departmental Item No. 2: Santa Barbara County Psychiatric Health Facility (PUF) Annual Report
- The Behavioral Wellness Department presented the annual report for the PUF covering fiscal years 2021-22 and 2022-23. The report detailed governance, a decline in inpatient hospitalizations attributed to alternative care options, and an increase in average length of stay for conservatorship patients linked to legislative changes and bed shortages. Audit results indicated no findings related to the environment of care or patient care. New initiatives included efforts to reduce readmission rates and implement an electronic health record system. Staff provided an update noting that over half of individuals admitted under a 5150 hold stabilize within 24 hours and discussed a federal waiver request to allow billing for additional beds. Public comment was received from Lynn Gibbs advocating for increased bed capacity. Board members discussed administrative days, staff stress, and Quality Assurance Performance Improvement measures. A motion was made by Supervisor Lavagnino and seconded by Supervisor Hartmann to receive the staff recommendation; the motion passed.
Departmental Item No. 3: Management Classification and Compensation Plan Project Update
- The Human Resources Department presented an update on a three-phased project to revise the management classification and compensation system, currently in Phase Two. The proposal distinguishes between an executive group on a broadband structure and a management group organized by job families with step-based pay. Key components include wage compaction of 5% to 10%, market benchmarks, and allowances for executive succession and CPA certification. Board members commended the staff's work. A motion was made by Supervisor Lavagnino and seconded by Supervisor Hartmann to approve the staff recommendation; the motion passed. Following the vote, Human Resources Director Marielena DeGuevara addressed the board regarding her upcoming departure.
Departmental Item No. 4: Alternative Sentencing Program Data Expansions and Enhancements
- The Probation Department and Sheriff's Coroner's Office presented an update on the Alternative Sentencing program, including Electronic Monitoring and the Sheriff's Work Alternatives Program. Data from July 2022 to October 2023 showed 851 individuals served with a 94% success rate. Staff noted that lack of residence or cell phone were primary reasons for application denials. Discussion covered cost comparisons, noting average daily jail incarceration costs of approximately $322 versus under $30 per day for alternative sentencing. A motion was made by Supervisor Hartmann and seconded by Supervisor Capps to approve the staff recommendation (Items A through C); the motion passed.
Closed Session
- The board recessed to closed session to discuss existing litigation (American Medical Response West v. County of Santa Barbara and Joyce Dudley v. County of Santa Barbara) and one item of anticipated litigation. Upon reconvening, the board reported that no reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Agenda Item: Isla Vista Bluff Safety Plan
- Staff presented an eight-point safety plan for the Isla Vista bluffs area, developed in collaboration with community stakeholders and families of victims. The plan focused on physical barriers, lighting, signage, horticulture, education, public restrooms, a memorial, and substance use considerations. Key proposals included amending building codes to increase mandatory fence and railing heights from 3.5 or 4 feet to a uniform minimum of six feet within five feet of the bluff edge, waiving permitting fees for qualifying installations, and engaging lighting design consultants. Discussion addressed the application of height requirements to existing private property fences and the feasibility of "hostile horticulture" versus traditional fencing. Public comment was received from 16 speakers; the majority expressed strong support for the plan, while one speaker raised concerns regarding obstructed views. Supervisor Capps moved to approve recommended actions A through I of the plan, seconded by Supervisor Hartmann. The Board voted unanimously in favor; the item passed.
Agenda Item: Ordinance Amendments (ADUs, Shopping Center Zone, and Minor Corrections)
- Staff presented recommendations to amend the County Land Use and Development Code, Montecito Land Use and Development Code, and Coastal Zoning Ordinance. Objectives included bringing Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations into compliance with state legislation (Assembly Bill 221 and Senate Bill 897), eliminating the Shopping Center (SC) zone district by rezoning properties to Retail Commercial (C2), and implementing minor clarifying amendments. Proposed ADU changes included increasing height allowances, clarifying front setback encroachments, permitting combinations of conversion and detached ADUs, and allowing a 20% floor area allowance for architectural features. Staff recommended the amendments be determined exempt from environmental review under CEQA. Discussion addressed the applicability of ADU conversion rules within agricultural zones and concerns about lot splits.
Agenda Item: ADU Conversion Standards and Zoning Amendments (Items A through E)
- Staff presented an overview of state law regarding ADUs, distinguishing between "state-exempt" and "non-exempt" units. Staff proposed applying size limits to the conversion of non-exempt ADUs to address concerns regarding large accessory structures being converted. Supervisor Capps inquired about the impact on housing elements and mixed-use development; staff clarified that reclassifying shopping center properties creates availability for mixed-use projects counting toward future housing numbers. No public comment was received. A motion was made by Joan Hartmann to approve Items A through E, seconded by another member. The Board voted in favor of the motion; it passed.
- The meeting was adjourned with a scheduled reconvening on November 28 in Santa Maria.