Meeting Summary
Present: 1-Lee, 3-Hartmann, 4-Nelson, 2-Capps · Absent: 5-Lavagnino
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
National Peace Officers Week Resolution
- A resolution was adopted to proclaim May 11–17, 2025, as National Peace Officers Week in Santa Barbara County.
- Undersheriff Craig Bonner addressed the board on behalf of the Sheriff's Office personnel.
Opposition to Federal Food Safety Net Cuts Resolution
- The Board adopted a resolution opposing federal cuts to CalFresh, SNAP, and school nutrition programs.
- Discussion included concerns about using resolutions for legislative advocacy versus formal agenda items.
- Eric Talkin of the Food Bank of Santa Barbara County spoke regarding the impact of potential cuts.
Wildfire Community Preparedness Month Resolution
- A resolution was adopted to proclaim May 2025 as Wildfire Community Preparedness Month.
- Fire Department representatives discussed defensible space deadlines and fire prevention measures.
- Staff explained the importance of "Zone Zero" non-combustible materials adjacent to structures.
Honoring Ray Williams Resolution
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring Ray Williams for representing the U.S. in the 2025 World Butcher's Challenge.
- Mr. Williams and his family addressed the board during the presentation.
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Audit Appeal Hearing
- A hearing was set for June 3, 2025, regarding Ida Abelhar's appeal of a TOT audit determination.
- Supervisors requested staff return with ordinance updates on payment plans for delinquent taxpayers.
- Staff indicated that formal changes to tax flexibility would likely require County Code amendments.
PRO Housing Designation Program Continuation
- The hearing for the PRO Housing Designation Program was continued to the May 20, 2025 meeting.
Laguna County Sanitation District Rates and Fees
- Staff proposed a 3.5% rate increase for sewer services citing operational costs and CPI alignment.
- Public commenter Barbara Bello presented a petition protesting the increase due to financial hardship.
- The Board adopted staff recommendations A through E regarding service charges and fees.
Mission Canyon Sewer District Rates
- Staff recommended maintaining the current annual sewer service rate of $316.82 for County Service Area 12.
- No public comment was received on this item.
- The Board adopted the staff recommendation to maintain current rates.
Street Lighting District Benefit Assessments
- Staff recommended maintaining current assessment rates and not imposing new assessments for the North County Lighting District.
- Supervisor Nelson requested staff return next year with options for capital improvements or service enhancements.
- The Board accepted staff recommendations with direction to present future options at the annual review.
Environmental Health Services Fees
- Staff proposed updating 91 fees to achieve full cost recovery, generating an additional $775,000 in revenue.
- Proposed increases include standardized application fees of $145 and hourly rates of $214.
- The Board adopted resolutions amending fees and continued the public hearing to June 3, 2025.
Passed 3–1 · against: Nelson
Consolidated Plan and Funding Recommendations
- Staff presented the 2025–2029 Five-Year Consolidated Plan identifying seven high-priority needs including affordable housing.
- Funding requests exceeded available funds by approximately double, prompting discussion on allocation strategies.
- The Board approved funding awards and adopted a resolution to submit the plans to HUD.
Animal Services Program Status Update
- Staff reported dog intake returned to pre-pandemic levels while cat intake reached a decade-high with a 90% live release rate.
- Challenges identified include staffing constraints, aging infrastructure, and fees covering only 13% of the budget.
- The Board approved items A and B on the staff report following public comment on underfunding concerns.
Oil and Gas Emissions Options Report
- Staff presented options regarding emissions from onshore oil and gas operations, noting their exclusion from current climate goals.
- Public comment was received from 23 speakers with divided opinions on a phase-out ordinance versus economic impacts.
- The Board received the staff report and public comment for informational purposes without taking action.
Passed 3–1 · against: Nelson
Oil and Gas Phase-Out Ordinance Direction
- Supervisor Hartman moved to direct staff to develop a framework by October 2025 to prohibit new drilling and phase out existing operations.
- The motion was amended to require a project description and estimated budget for upcoming budget hearings.
- Staff estimated the development of this framework would take 18 months to two years.
Closed Session
- The Board discussed existing litigation involving the Central Coast Water Authority versus the Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.
- No reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Call to Order and Roll Call
- The meeting was called to order by Chair Capps. The Clerk conducted a roll call, noting the presence of Supervisors Lee, Hartman, and Nelson, and the absence of Supervisor Lavinino. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Approval of Minutes
- A motion was made to approve the minutes from the previous meeting. The motion was seconded. Upon a voice vote, the motion passed.
CEO's Report
- The CEO provided three announcements: a countywide test of the Ready SBC Alert system scheduled for May 15, 2025; the Regional Fire Communications Center beginning to accept 911 emergency calls for fire and medical services with a full transition expected in coming weeks; and recognition of National Hospital Week, highlighting staff at the Behavioral Wellness Psychiatric Health Facility.
Administrative Agenda Announcements
- The Clerk announced several agenda changes: an addendum adding Administrative Item 26 (Second Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 10 to establish the Isla Vista Rental Housing Inspections Pilot Program); a request to amend Administrative Item 4 (Honoring Susan Warnstrom) to an honorary resolution due to the honoree's absence; and a request to continue Departmental Item 1 (PRO Housing Designation Program) to May 20. Instructions for public comment via Zoom were provided.
Administrative Items Approval
- Supervisor Nelson requested brief discussion on Administrative Items 82 and 825 prior to voting but did not request a separate vote. A motion was made to approve all administrative items except Item 25, which was pulled for discussion. The motion was seconded. Upon a voice vote, the motion passed.
Passed 3–1 · against: Nelson
Resolution: National Peace Officers Week (Administrative Item 1)
- A resolution sponsored by Chair Capps was presented to proclaim May 11–17, 2025, as National Peace Officers Week in Santa Barbara County and to thank Sheriff's Office personnel. Undersheriff Craig Bonner addressed the board on behalf of the Sheriff's Office. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution: Opposition to Federal Cuts to Food Safety Net Programs (Administrative Item 2)
- A resolution sponsored by Chair Capps and Supervisor Hartman was presented to oppose federal cuts to food safety net programs (CalFresh/SNAP, USDA commodities, school nutrition) and urge Congress to reject such proposals. Eric Talkin, CEO of the Food Bank of Santa Barbara County, spoke in support regarding the impact of potential cuts. Discussion included concerns from Supervisor Nelson regarding the process of using resolutions for legislative advocacy versus formal agenda items, and comments from Supervisor Hartman on local budget implications. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution: Wildfire Community Preparedness Month (Administrative Item 3)
- A resolution sponsored by Supervisor Hartman was presented to proclaim May 2025 as Wildfire Community Preparedness Month. Fire Department representatives addressed the board regarding defensible space deadlines and fire prevention. Discussion included an inquiry from Supervisor Hartman regarding "Zone Zero" fire safety measures, with staff explaining the importance of non-combustible materials adjacent to structures. The resolution was adopted.
Resolution: Honoring Ray Williams (Administrative Item 5)
- A resolution sponsored by Supervisor Nelson was presented to honor Ray Williams for representing the United States in the 2025 World Butcher's Challenge in Paris. Mr. Williams and his family addressed the board. The resolution was adopted.
Administrative Item 25: Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Audit Appeal Hearing
- This item set a hearing for June 3, 2025, regarding Ida Abelhar's appeal of a TOT audit determination. Discussion included requests from Supervisor Lee for staff to bring back ordinance updates regarding payment plans for delinquent taxpayers, concerns from Supervisor Hartman about creating inconsistencies in tax flexibility, and suggestions from Supervisor Nelson to explore guidelines within existing legal frameworks. Staff indicated that formal changes would likely require County Code amendments. Supervisor Nelson moved to set the hearing for June 3, 2025, and requested staff return with a future item discussing payment options and legal flexibility. The motion was seconded by Supervisor Lee. The motion passed.
Departmental Item 1: PRO Housing Designation Program
- The Community Services Department requested to continue this hearing to the May 20 meeting. Supervisor Nelson moved to continue the item to May 20, 2025. The motion was seconded by Chair Capps. The motion passed.
Departmental Item 2: Laguna County Sanitation District Rates and Fees
- The Public Works Department presented a hearing regarding the first reading of an ordinance and resolutions for sewer service charges, connection charges, and trunk line fees for the Laguna County Sanitation District. Staff proposed a 3.5% rate increase citing operational costs and alignment with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Discussion included questions from Supervisor Nelson regarding the use of CPI versus the Construction Cost Index and clarification on billing for ADUs and new developments. Public commenter Barbara Bello presented a petition protesting the increase due to financial hardship concerns. Supervisor Nelson moved to adopt staff recommendations A through E. The motion was seconded by Chair Capps. The motion passed.
Departmental Item 3: Mission Canyon Sewer District Rates
- The Public Works Department presented a hearing regarding sewer service and connection charges for County Service Area 12 (Mission Canyon). Staff recommended maintaining the current rate of $316.82 per year. No public comment was received. Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt staff recommendations. The motion was seconded by Supervisor Lee. The motion passed.
Departmental Item 4: Benefit Assessments for Street Lighting Districts
- The Public Works Department presented a hearing regarding benefit assessments for County Service Areas 3 and 31, and the North County Lighting District. Staff recommended maintaining current assessment rates and not imposing new assessments for the North County Lighting District at this time. Supervisor Nelson noted the lack of recent rate increases for the North County Lighting District and requested staff return next year with options for capital improvements or service enhancements. Chair Capps commented on the fund's value for park improvements. Supervisor Nelson moved to accept staff recommendations with direction for staff to present options regarding the North County Lighting District at the next annual review. The motion was seconded by Chair Capps. The motion passed.
Departmental Item 5: Environmental Health Services Fees
- The County Health Department presented a hearing regarding a fee study for environmental health services (excluding food inspections). Staff proposed updating 91 fees to achieve full cost recovery, standardizing application fees to $145 and hourly rates to $214. Proposed increases were noted for septic systems, water wells, and hazardous materials permits. Discussion included clarification from Supervisor Hartman that food inspection fees were excluded, with staff confirming those would be presented separately in July. Staff reported the proposed increases would generate an additional $775,000 in revenue to address a projected deficit caused by delays and rising operational costs. Discussion focused on the rationale for fee increases, inflation impacts, and the philosophy of funding regulatory services versus general fund support. A motion was made to adopt staff recommendations, including approving resolutions amending fees, introducing four ordinances for first reading, determining items are not subject to CEQA review, and continuing the public hearing to June 3, 2025. The motion was seconded. Following a roll call vote, the motion passed.
Agenda Item: Consolidated Plan, Action Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice, and Funding Recommendations
- Staff from the Community Services Department presented the 2025-2029 Five-Year Consolidated Plan required by HUD, including an Action Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. The plan identified seven high-priority needs, including increasing affordable housing supply and preventing homelessness. Staff presented funding recommendations for CDBG, HOME, PLHA, and County General Fund Human Services dollars, noting that requests exceeded available funds by approximately double. Discussion addressed potential federal funding cuts, allocation between incorporated cities and unincorporated areas, and the focus on homeownership versus rental assistance. Public comment was received from representatives of New Beginnings Safe Parking Program, Communify, and the Human Services Commission expressing support for specific initiatives. A motion was made to accept staff recommendations A through J, including receiving the report, approving funding awards, adopting a resolution to submit plans to HUD, and determining actions are not subject to CEQA. The motion was seconded. Upon a voice vote, the motion passed.
Agenda Item: Animal Services Program Status Update
- Staff from the County Health Department presented a status update on Animal Services, covering operational changes, intake levels, adoption rates, and volunteer engagement. Staff reported that dog intake returned to pre-pandemic levels while cat intake reached a decade-high, with a live release rate above 90%. Challenges identified included staffing constraints, aging infrastructure, and a revenue gap where fees cover only 13% of the budget. Discussion focused on cultural shifts within the department, volunteer roles, community cat management strategies, and handling animals owned by individuals in jail. Public comment was received from residents, volunteers, and organizations praising staff leadership while raising concerns regarding chronic underfunding, understaffing, low wages, and specific enforcement issues in Lompoc. Supervisor Hartman moved to approve items A and B on the staff report. The motion was seconded by Supervisor Lee. The motion passed.
Closed Session: Existing Litigation
- The Board entered a closed session to discuss existing litigation involving the Central Coast Water Authority versus the Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. No reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Agenda Item: Options to Address Emissions from Oil and Gas Operations
- Staff from Community Services, Planning and Development, and external consultants presented options regarding emissions from onshore oil and gas operations. Staff noted that while the 2030 Climate Action Plan aims to reduce carbon emissions by 50%, oil and gas emissions are currently excluded. Staff recommended developing an ordinance to prohibit new drilling under AB 3233 and continuing to exclude oil and gas emissions from reduction goals in the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for informational purposes only. Discussion included questions regarding economic impacts, with figures cited ranging from $1 million in direct revenue to potential GDP reductions if production ceased. Supervisor Nelson expressed concern that the staff had not engaged with the industry and characterized a prohibition as a "nuclear option." Public comment was received from 23 speakers; those in favor urged adoption of a phase-out ordinance citing health and climate risks, while those opposed emphasized economic importance and suggested collaborative approaches for well capping. No motion was made, seconded, or voted upon during this portion of the meeting. The Board received the staff report and public comment for informational purposes.
Passed 3–1 · against: Nelson
Agenda Item: Oil and Gas Phase-Out Ordinance and Staff Direction
- The Board received further public comment and expert testimony regarding an oil and gas phase-out ordinance. Environmental groups urged the Board to direct staff to develop an ordinance prohibiting new drilling and phasing out existing operations, citing public health risks and climate goals. Professor Pasha Madavi of UCSB presented a report analyzing the impacts of a phase-out, estimating minimal fiscal impact and suggesting job losses could be mitigated through decommissioning and geothermal transitions. Conversely, industry representatives argued against a phase-out, citing potential unconstitutionality of AB 3233 based on recent litigation, economic risks, and the lack of industry participation in planning. Discussion included Supervisor Nelson's concerns regarding decommissioning costs and global emissions shifts, and Supervisor Hartman's emphasis on the moral imperative to act on climate change. Staff estimated that developing a phase-out framework would take 18 months to two years and require re-prioritizing departmental work plans or utilizing sustainability funds.
- Supervisor Hartman moved to direct staff to develop a framework by October 2025 outlining a strategy to prohibit new oil and gas operations and phase out existing operations, including requests for cost and timing estimates for the required EIR and amortization study. The motion was seconded by Supervisor Lee. Discussion continued regarding project timelines, budget classification, and community engagement, with proposals to include input from both environmental and industry stakeholders. A motion was made to amend the previous proposal to require a framework by October, with the addition of a project description and estimated budget to be presented in time for budget hearings. The motion was seconded. Following a roll call vote, the motion passed.