Meeting Summary
Present: 5-Lavagnino, 1-Lee, Kaps, 3-Hartmann, 4-Nelson
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
County Executive Officer Report
- The District Attorney's Office secured a $1.25 million settlement with Kroger and opened a new Sexual Assault Response Team clinic.
- The Health Department highlighted the continued operation of five county clinics providing urgent care and street medicine outreach.
- The County received the ZEV Readiness Award for deploying over 100 electric vehicles and installing 270 charging points.
Honorary Resolutions
- The Board adopted resolutions honoring the 50th anniversary of Friendship Adult Daycare Center and recognizing BIPOC Mental Health Month.
- Paul Lopez was commended for his 101 years of life, military service, and 44-year career at UCSB.
- Joseph Fletcher was honored as the July 2026 Employee of the Month for his service to veterans.
Sheriff's Office Overtime Analysis
- The Board approved staff recommendations regarding the Auditor-Controller's analysis of jail overtime from July 2025 to May 2026.
- The Sheriff's Office confirmed that new managerial controls are in place to monitor and reduce unnecessary overtime.
- A report on the top five departments for overtime usage is expected to be presented in September.
County Health Department Budget Revision
- The Board approved a budget revision allowing the restoration of 15 positions due to a state legislative change extending higher funding rates.
- Staff explained that the additional funding will increase productivity and reduce reliance on the fund balance.
- Discussion acknowledged the temporary nature of the funding and the potential need to recapture general fund contributions later.
North Branch Jail Expansion Project
- The Board approved the award agreement for Design-Build Services for the North Branch Jail Expansion Project.
- Staff confirmed design flexibility exists for the number of pods and that an Inmate Reception Center with 120 beds is planned for South County.
- A transition plan to decommission the old South County Jail is underway, with a report expected by the end of the year.
Flood Control Benefit Assessment Program
- The Board approved a 3.4% annual increase to flood control benefit assessment rates based on the Consumer Price Index.
- Staff presented the history of the voter-approved program and examples of projects funded by the assessments.
- The Board acted as the Board of Directors for the Flood Control and Water Conservation District to enact the rate increase.
Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) Impact Report
- The Board received the 2025 annual impact report detailing 1,000 households served and $5.5 million in distributed incentives.
- Discussion addressed strategies for reaching seniors, renters, and residents of publicly owned utilities in Lompoc.
- Staff clarified that the public purpose charge is a percentage of utility consumption paid by ratepayers.
Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) Updates
- The Board received the 2025 annual impact report noting a 25% reduction in generation rates and progress toward 77% renewable energy by 2029.
- Staff highlighted new initiatives including "Electrify Your Ride" and heat pump programs, with Santa Barbara County as a top user of fleet electrification funds.
- A legislative update covered state bills AB 1761 and SB 1138, federal engagement on data center costs, and virtual power plant initiatives starting in October.
Sandoval Dwell ADU Appeal
- The Board denied an appeal regarding an Accessory Dwelling Unit application deemed incomplete due to missing fire and flood control information.
- Staff clarified that the statutory 60-day approval timeline begins only after an application is deemed complete.
- The Board found that the application did not meet health and safety requirements necessary for approval.
No decision 0–0
15 Miramar Club LLC TOT Audit Appeal
- The Board denied an appeal requesting a waiver of penalties and a payment plan for a $192,250.74 Transient Occupancy Tax audit.
- Staff noted that county code does not authorize payment plans and that tax obligations were clearly stated on the operator's platforms.
- The Board determined the full amount is due immediately due to a lack of documentation regarding the owner's illness.
Dare to Dream Farms TOT Fee Relief
- The Board continued the item to the August 25 meeting to explore options including grant funding or a public health service contract.
- Arguments distinguished the farm from standard vacation rentals by citing its role in food security and workforce development.
- Staff clarified that penalties and interest would continue to accrue unless the appeal process stayed them.
Rose Comprehensive Plan Amendment
- The Board approved amending the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Map to change a 2.3-acre parcel from Agriculture 1 to Single-Family Residential.
- Staff recommended approval citing consistency with the surrounding neighborhood and the property's non-conforming status.
- The Board adopted the final Mitigated Negative Declaration and the land use designation amendment.
Immigration Enforcement Facilities Land Use Regulations
- The Board received a report stating that privately owned immigration detention facilities are prohibited under current zoning codes.
- Staff was directed to monitor for potential proposals and immediately alert the Board if an inquiry arises.
- The Board noted that an emergency moratorium ordinance could be considered if a proposal were to emerge.
Closed Session
- The Board conferred with labor negotiators representing the Deputy Sheriff's Association, Probation Peace Officers Association, and Sheriff Managers Association.
- No reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Call to Order and Roll Call
- The regular meeting of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors was called to order on July 7, 2026. The roll was called, confirming the presence of all supervisors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Minutes
- The Board considered the minutes from the June 23, 2026, regular meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
County Executive Officer Report
- The County Executive Officer presented a report detailing recent accomplishments:
- District Attorney's Office: Announced a $1.25 million settlement with Kroger regarding false advertising, the opening of a new Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) Clinic in partnership with Cottage Health, and recognition of Senior Deputy District Attorney Kathy Martin and Investigator Robert Parmelee by Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
- Health Department: Presented a video highlighting five county health clinics (Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Franklin, and Carpinteria), noting their continued operation and services including urgent care, preventive care, medication-assisted treatment, and street medicine outreach.
- Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Readiness Award: The County received the ZEV Readiness Award from the California New Motor Vehicle Board for deploying over 100 electric vehicles and installing 270 charging points.
Clerk's Announcements
- The Clerk provided instructions regarding public participation, noting that verbal comments could be submitted via Zoom with advance registration, while alternative viewing options were available.
Administrative Agenda
- The Board considered the administrative agenda. Items 8, 20, and 27 were pulled for separate discussion. A motion was made to approve the administrative agenda with the exception of items 8, 20, and 27. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Honorary Resolutions
- Friendship Adult Daycare Center: A resolution sponsored by Supervisors Lee and Capps was adopted to honor the center's 50th anniversary (1976–2026), recognizing its person-centered programs for older adults with dementia and its financial assistance model.
- BIPOC Mental Health Month: A resolution sponsored by Supervisors Lee and Nelson was adopted to recognize July 2026 as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Month, acknowledging disparities in mental health treatment access and community resilience.
- Paul Lopez Commendation: A resolution sponsored by Supervisors Lee and Capps was adopted to commend Paul Lopez for his 101 years of life, military service in World War II and the Korean War, and his 44-year career at UCSB.
- Joseph Fletcher Employee of the Month: A resolution sponsored by Supervisor Nelson was adopted to honor Joseph Fletcher of the Treasurer-Tax Collector's Veteran Services as the July 2026 Employee of the Month for his service to veterans and adherence to county values.
Administrative Item 8: Sheriff's Office Overtime Analysis
- This item concerned the Auditor-Controller's recommendations regarding the Sheriff's Office overtime analysis for July 2025 through May 2026. Discussion focused on transparency regarding jail overtime issues raised by the Grand Jury. The Sheriff's Office stated that managerial controls have been implemented to monitor and reduce unnecessary overtime while maintaining safety. The Auditor-Controller confirmed that Human Resources is working with unions on Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and that a report on the top five departments for overtime usage is expected in September. A motion was made to approve the staff recommendations, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Administrative Item 20: County Health Department Budget Revision
- This item concerned the County Health Department's Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget revision and staffing allocation requests, requiring a four-fifths vote. Discussion acknowledged a state legislative change delaying a shift in payment systems, providing an additional year of funding at a higher rate. The Health Department Director explained that the revision allows for the restoration of 15 positions (including nurses, AOPs, and MAs) to increase productivity and reduce reliance on the fund balance. The Board discussed the temporary nature of the funding and the potential need to recapture general fund contributions in the future. A motion was made to approve the staff recommendations, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Administrative Item 27: North Branch Jail Expansion Project
- This item concerned the award agreement for Design-Build Services for the North Branch Jail Expansion Project (Project No. 23040), requiring a four-fifths vote. The item was pulled to allow public comment on design plans. Staff presented the status, noting a single design-build entity had been selected and a public engagement session is planned for late August.
- Discussion: Supervisors inquired about space for public defenders and design flexibility regarding the number of pods. Staff confirmed flexibility exists in the layout and that an Inmate Reception Center (IRC) with approximately 120 beds would be built in South County, with potential for future scaling. Supervisor Hartman raised the need for a plan to decommission the old South County Jail; the County Executive Officer confirmed a transition plan is underway to consolidate services and close the main jail, with a report expected by the end of the calendar year.
- Public Comment: Speakers expressed support for the project but raised concerns regarding declining jail populations, potential excess capacity, and the need for the facility design to address mental health and substance use disorders. Recommendations included requesting the design team to project excess capacity, identify alternative uses, ensure flexibility to reduce long-term operating costs, and provide continued public engagement and milestone reporting.
- Governance: Board discussion focused on the governance structure for the design-build process. Staff responded that a tiered governance structure is being developed to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, including the Sheriff's Office, General Services, and community partners.
- A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 1: Flood Control Benefit Assessment Program (Fiscal Year 2026-2027)
- Staff from the Public Works Department and the Flood Control and Water Conservation District presented a proposal to enact an annual increase to flood control benefit assessment rates based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), proposing a 3.4% increase. The presentation outlined the history of the voter-approved program, the methodology for calculating rates, and examples of funded projects. The item requires a second reading and final adoption on a subsequent agenda. No public comment was received. Board discussion included a statement of support for the assessment as a direct investment in flood control projects. A motion was made to approve staff recommendations A through D and 1 through 4, acting as the Board of Directors for the Flood Control and Water Conservation District. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 2: Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) 2025 Impact Report
- Staff from the Community Services Department presented the 2025 annual impact report for 3C-REN. The report detailed the organization's structure, funding sources, and focus on serving "hard-to-reach" customers. Key achievements included reaching 1,000 households and businesses with energy upgrades, distributing $5.5 million in incentives, and hosting workforce development training events. Board discussion addressed the geographic distribution of services, specifically regarding Lompoc residents served by a publicly owned utility, and strategies for reaching seniors and renters. Staff clarified that the public purpose charge is a percentage of utility consumption paid by ratepayers. No public comment was received. A motion was made to receive the staff recommendation, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 3: Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) 2025 Annual Impact Report
- Staff from 3CE presented the 2025 annual impact report, outlining the agency's role as a community choice aggregator and drivers of rising energy costs. 3CE reported a 25% reduction in generation rates in January and progress toward a 100% renewable energy goal, with current contracts placing the agency on a path to approximately 77% renewable energy by 2029. New renewable projects and energy programs, including "Electrify Your Ride" and initiatives for heat pumps and induction ranges, were highlighted. The report noted Santa Barbara County is a top user of 3CE's fleet electrification funds. No board discussion, public comment, or vote occurred for this item within the provided segments.
Agenda Item 3: 3CE Legislative and Operational Update
- The Board received a presentation from 3CE representatives regarding state and federal legislative efforts, including AB 1761 and SB 1138, both of which had passed their houses of origin. Discussion covered federal engagement with FERC regarding data center costs, efforts to preserve clean energy tax credits, and anticipated state legislation regarding the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. Board members inquired about virtual power plant initiatives and the impact of data centers on ratepayers. The presenter explained that virtual power plant programs would begin in October, providing rebates to customers with batteries or electric vehicles. Discussion also ensued regarding permitting reform and the balance between expediting projects and retaining local control. No public comment was requested. A motion was made to adopt the staff recommendation to receive and file the presentation, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 4: Appeal of Incompleteness Determination – Sandoval Dwell Revocable Living Trust ADU
- The Board heard an appeal regarding the Director's determination that an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) application was incomplete due to missing information required by the Carpinteria-Summerlin Fire Protection District and County Flood Control. The appellant argued the application should be deemed approved by operation of law due to the county's failure to act within statutory deadlines. Public comment was provided by an attorney representing a neighboring property owner regarding a separate legal dispute involving a fence and address issues. Board members questioned staff and the appellant regarding statutory timelines and health and safety requirements. Staff clarified that the 60-day approval timeline begins only after an application is deemed complete. Following deliberation, a motion was made to accept the staff recommendation to deny the appeal and find the application incomplete. The motion was seconded and passed.
No decision 0–0
Departmental Item 5: 15 Miramar Club LLC Appeal of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) Audit Final Determination
- Staff presented an appeal from 15 Miramar Club LLC regarding a final audit determination totaling $192,250.74. The operator had failed to register or remit taxes despite receiving compliance letters. The appellant requested a waiver of penalties and interest due to the owner's terminal illness and death, as well as a payment plan. Staff noted that the county code does not provide for payment plans and that tax obligations were clearly stated on the operator's website and rental platforms. Board members questioned the lack of documentation regarding the illness and statutory limitations on waiving penalties. A motion was made to deny the appeal request and adopt the staff's proposed findings, determining the full amount is due immediately. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Closed Session
- The Board convened in closed session to confer with labor negotiators representing the Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriff's Association, the Probation Peace Officers Association, and the Sheriff Managers Association. No reportable action was taken.
Departmental Item 6: Jeremy and Megan Raff Appeal of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Final Audit Determination (Dare to Dream Farms)
- Staff presented an appeal from Jeremy and Megan Raff regarding a final audit determination for their property, Dare to Dream Farms, totaling $65,840.11. The operators requested a waiver or reduction of the assessment and a payment plan, arguing the assessment covered a period of regulatory uncertainty prior to the adoption of the Ag Enterprise Ordinance framework. They submitted letters of support highlighting the farm's role in food access, education, and community service. Staff stated that the county code does not authorize payment plans and that the tax obligation is clear. Board members discussed the unique nature of the farm, the regulatory gray area, and the financial impact of the assessment. No motion was made or voted upon regarding this item within the initial transcript segment.
Agenda Item: Dare to Dream Farms TOT Fee Relief
- The Board discussed a request regarding the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) fees owed by Dare to Dream Farms. Arguments were presented distinguishing the farm from standard vacation rentals, citing its status as a USDA SNAP online retailer, provision of food security infrastructure, and role in workforce development. Concerns were raised regarding the potential for setting a precedent that could encourage non-compliance. Staff clarified that there were no legal time constraints preventing a continuance, though penalties and interest would continue to accrue unless the appeal process stayed them. A motion was made to continue the item to the August 25 meeting to allow staff and the County Council to develop options, including potential grant funding or a structure where the farm pays the tax and receives a contract for public health services. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Rose Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Zoning Map Amendment
- The Board considered a request to amend the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Map for a 2.3-acre parcel in the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan area, changing the designation from Agriculture 1 to Single-Family Residential. Staff noted the property is currently an orchid nursery but is surrounded by single-family residences and is non-conforming to the minimum 10-acre requirement for the Agriculture 1 zone. Staff recommended approval, citing consistency with the surrounding neighborhood and the lack of significant environmental impacts. The applicant confirmed the history of the site and emphasized that the property is embedded in a residential neighborhood. No public comment was received. A motion was made to accept staff recommendations, including the adoption of the final Mitigated Negative Declaration and the amendment of the land use designation and zoning. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Land Use Regulations for Immigration Enforcement Facilities and Detention Centers
- The Board received a briefing from the Planning and Development Department regarding land use regulations for immigration enforcement facilities and detention centers. Staff reported that current land use development codes do not apply to federally owned or leased properties. For privately owned or leased properties, such facilities are not listed as allowable uses in the zoning codes, meaning they are prohibited. Staff recommended receiving and filing the report and directing the department to monitor for potential proposals. They noted that if a proposal were to arise, the Board could consider an emergency moratorium ordinance. Public comment was provided urging immediate action and requesting the adoption of a non-cooperation ordinance. A motion was made to receive and file the report, with specific direction to staff to monitor and immediately alert the Board and County Council if an inquiry or application to construct a private detention facility on unincorporated land is received. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Discussion on Immigration Enforcement and Community Engagement
- Public comments were provided regarding the impact of immigration enforcement in the county, citing data on arrests and the proximity of an ICE administrative office. Speakers also addressed low voter participation in recent Santa Maria elections and encouraged community members to vote in the upcoming November election. Following public comments, the Chair confirmed that a motion had been made and seconded regarding the immigration enforcement item. A roll call vote was conducted, and the motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment
- The meeting concluded with the announcement that the next regularly scheduled meeting would be held in Santa Maria on July 14. The meeting was adjourned.