Meeting Summary
Present: Katz, 5-Lavagnino, 1-Lee, 4-Nelson · Absent: 3-Hartmann
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
CEO Report
- The CEO reported that the fourth annual back-to-school health fairs served over 3,500 community members with immunizations and supplies.
- A Vendor Connection Event is scheduled for October 14 to provide local businesses with information on county purchasing.
- A virtual El Niño Preparedness Meeting is set for October 1 to discuss weather outlooks and safety tips.
Resolution Honoring SBCAG’s 60th Anniversary
- The Board adopted a resolution commemorating 60 years of regional partnership through the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments.
- SBCAG representatives highlighted the agency's role in securing state and federal funding for projects like the Highway 101 expansion.
- The resolution was read into the record and adopted by the Board.
Resolution Commending the Carpinteria Avocado Festival
- The Board adopted a resolution commending the Carpinteria Avocado Festival on its 40th anniversary.
- Festival representatives thanked the Board and highlighted the event’s positive impact on the community.
- The resolution was read into the record and adopted by the Board.
Resolution Commending the Santa Barbara Foresters
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring the Santa Barbara Foresters for winning the 2026 National Baseball Congress World Series Championship.
- The head coach discussed the team’s achievements and their community programs, including Hugs for Cubs and Eric’s House.
- The resolution was read into the record and adopted by the Board.
Resolution Commending Greg Carty
- The Board adopted a resolution recognizing Greg Carty for a lifetime of community service in Carpinteria.
- Mr. Carty thanked the Board and his family for their support during his tenure in various community organizations.
- The resolution was read into the record and adopted by the Board.
Resolution Honoring Maria D. Lee
- The Board adopted a resolution honoring Maria D. Lee upon her retirement from the County Health Department after over 39 years of service.
- Colleagues spoke about her dedication and significant impact on patients in the HIV and infectious disease clinics.
- The resolution was read into the record and adopted by the Board.
Federal Hunt Amendment
- The Board considered a recommendation to adopt an opposed position on the Federal Hunt Amendment to the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.
- Public speakers cited concerns regarding federal eminent domain, state sovereignty, and environmental protections related to pipeline operations.
- Board members debated the balance between local control over land use and the impact of federal legislation on pipeline safety standards.
- The motion to accept the staff recommendation passed with one member recused.
2026–2027 Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund Grant Cycle
- The Board commenced the 2026–2027 Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund grant cycle, an item requiring a four-fifths vote.
- The item was considered separately due to a member recusal.
- The motion to proceed with the grant cycle passed unanimously with one recusal.
Los Olivos Community Services District No-Interest Loan
- The Board considered a request from the Los Olivos CSD for a $750,000 no-interest loan to advance a wastewater project to 90% design.
- The Chair raised concerns about the timing of the loan relative to an upcoming CSD board election and the need for voter input.
- Staff clarified that the county is not the lead agency for CEQA purposes and that the loan does not commit the district to the project.
- The motion to authorize the loan passed unanimously.
Ordinance to Regulate Possession of Catalytic Converters
- Staff presented a proposed ordinance to make it unlawful for non-licensed individuals to possess unattached catalytic converters without proof of ownership.
- The ordinance aims to close a gap in state law that currently prevents prosecution of possession without a specific victim.
- The Board agreed to share information about the ordinance with city managers to encourage broader regional adoption.
- The motion to adopt the staff recommendation passed unanimously.
Firearm Retail Sales Interim Urgency Ordinance Extension
- The Board considered extending the interim urgency ordinance regarding firearm retail sales by 10 months and 15 days.
- Staff reported on ongoing efforts to update the GIS database and define firearm retailers as a distinct land use in the zoning code.
- The motion to adopt the staff recommendation passed with one dissenting vote.
Passed 4–1 · against: Nelson
Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) Strategic Plan
- An RCRC representative presented an overview of the organization’s advocacy efforts and entrepreneurial entities, including the Golden State Finance Authority.
- Key topics included public employee recruitment, predator management, and wildfire liability reform.
- The Board received and filed the item unanimously.
Resilient Cuyama Valley Initiative Transformative Climate Communities Grant Application
- The Board authorized an application for a $27.5 million Implementation Grant to support projects in three disadvantaged Cuyama Valley communities.
- Proposed projects include affordable housing, energy retrofits, facility improvements, and a food hub, with a five-year implementation period.
- Staff clarified that the Displacement Avoidance Plan is specific to this grant and distinct from broader worker displacement studies.
- The motion to approve the staff recommendations passed unanimously with one member absent.
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) Consistency Amendments
- The Board considered amendments to county codes to align with new ALUCPs adopted by the Santa Barbara County Airport Land Use Commission.
- The changes replace older approach zones with six new safety zones and update use compatibility standards and density limits.
- Staff clarified that existing non-conforming uses do not need to change unless they are torn down and rebuilt.
- The motion to approve the staff recommendations passed unanimously with one member absent.
Land Use Element Window Date
- The Board considered a combined land use element amendment required by state law limiting mandatory amendments to four per year.
- The action bundles the Utility Scale Solar Land Use Element Amendment and the ALUCP Consistency Land Use Element Amendment.
- A Supervisor expressed concern about the "window date" process forcing votes on bundled items and suggested discussing the state law with the delegation.
- The motion to approve the staff recommendation passed with one abstention and one member absent.
Beekeeping Ordinance Changes
- The Board authorized work on ordinance changes to permit beekeeping in unincorporated areas by creating a practical pathway for responsible beekeeping.
- Staff proposed that the Agricultural Commission lead the review and return to the board within six months with proposed amendments.
- The Chair expressed support for allowing beekeeping in residentially zoned properties appropriate for the county’s rural-suburban areas.
- The motion to adopt the staff recommendation passed with four affirmative votes.
Closed Session
- The Board entered closed session to discuss the appointment of a public employee for the Director of Social Services.
- The County Counsel reported that no reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Overview
- The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors held its regular meeting on September 22, 2026. The Clerk called the roll, noting that Supervisor Hartman arrived shortly after the start. An addendum posted on September 18, 2026, added a closed session item regarding existing litigation involving G&K Produce LLC and K&G Flowers LLC v. County of Santa Barbara. The Board recessed into closed session to consider anticipated litigation, existing litigation, and the appointment of a public employee (Director of Social Services). Upon reconvening, the County Counsel reported that no reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Approval of Minutes
- Item: Approval of the minutes from the September 15, 2026, meeting.
- Action: Supervisor Hartman moved for approval; Supervisor Capps seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
CEO Report
- CEO Jana Peterson reported on three items: 1. County Health Fairs: The fourth annual back-to-school health fairs were held in Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Santa Barbara, serving over 3,500 community members with immunizations, sports physicals, and supplies. 2. Vendor Connection Event: Scheduled for October 14, 2026, at the Casa Nueva building, offering local businesses information on county purchasing. 3. El Niño Preparedness Meeting: A virtual community meeting scheduled for October 1, 2026, to discuss weather outlooks and safety tips.
Administrative Agenda
- Item: Approval of the balance of the administrative agenda.
- Action: Items A8, A17, and A23 were noted as pulled from the main agenda for separate consideration or public comment. Supervisor Capps moved to approve the remaining administrative items; Supervisor Lavinino seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Passed 3–1 · against: Nelson
Resolutions and Commendations
- Administrative Item 1: Resolution Honoring SBCAG’s 60th Anniversary
- Discussion: The Board adopted a resolution commemorating 60 years of regional partnership through the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG). SBCAG representatives spoke about the agency’s history, its role in securing state and federal funding (including the Highway 101 project), and ongoing projects such as the State Route 135 study and the San Ynez Valley Trail. Supervisor Lavinino commented on the success of Measure A and the importance of regional collaboration.
- Outcome: The resolution was read into the record and adopted.
- Administrative Item 2: Resolution Commending the Carpinteria Avocado Festival
- Discussion: The Board adopted a resolution commending the Carpinteria Avocado Festival on its 40th anniversary. Festival representatives thanked the Board and highlighted the event’s community impact. Supervisor Lee invited the public to attend the upcoming festival.
- Outcome: The resolution was read into the record and adopted.
- Administrative Item 3: Resolution Commending the Santa Barbara Foresters
- Discussion: The Board adopted a resolution honoring the Santa Barbara Foresters for winning the 2026 National Baseball Congress World Series Championship. Head Coach Bill Pintard spoke about the team’s achievements, their community programs (Hugs for Cubs, Eric’s House), and the history of the tournament. Supervisor Lee commented on the team’s success.
- Outcome: The resolution was read into the record and adopted.
- Administrative Item 4: Resolution Commending Greg Carty
- Discussion: The Board adopted a resolution recognizing Greg Carty for a lifetime of community service in Carpinteria, including his roles in construction, city council, and various community organizations. Mr. Carty thanked the Board and his family. Supervisor Lee expressed gratitude for Mr. Carty’s mentorship.
- Outcome: The resolution was read into the record and adopted.
- Administrative Item 5: Resolution Honoring Maria D. Lee
- Discussion: The Board adopted a resolution honoring Maria D. Lee upon her retirement from the County Health Department after over 39 years of service. Ms. Lee and a nursing supervisor spoke about her dedication and impact on patients, particularly in the HIV and infectious disease clinics.
- Outcome: The resolution was read into the record and adopted.
Administrative Item 8: Federal Hunt Amendment
- Item: Consideration of recommendations regarding adopting an opposed position on the Federal Hunt Amendment to the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.
- Discussion: The item was pulled for separate consideration. Supervisor Hartman stated she would recuse herself due to the pipeline running near her residence. Eleven public comments were received. Speakers from the Environmental Defense Center, Congressman Salud Carbajal, Maureen Ellenberger, 805 Action, Oceana, Surfrider Foundation, Santa Barbara County Action Network, Dr. Lee Heller, the Sierra Club, and resident Izzy Sisteck spoke in favor of adopting an opposed position. They cited concerns regarding federal eminent domain, state sovereignty, environmental protections, and the precedent set for local control.
- Board Discussion: The board discussed the impact of federal legislation on local oversight of pipeline operations. Several members expressed support for retaining local authority to ensure pipelines meet safety and environmental standards, citing recent testing results indicating potential damage and ongoing oil flow. One member opposed the staff recommendation, arguing that local control is compromised by current circumstances and that the state and other entities are not operating in good faith regarding the pipeline. Another member supported the staff recommendation based on the principle of local control over land use, noting that federal interventions can shift with administrative changes.
- Action: A motion was made to accept the staff recommendation. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed 3-1, with one member recused.
Administrative Item 17: 2026–2027 Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund Grant Cycle
- Item: Commencement of the 2026–2027 Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund grant cycle.
- Discussion: The item, from the Planning and Development Department, required a four-fifths vote. It was considered separately due to a member recusal.
- Action: A motion was made to proceed with the item. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously, with one recusal.
Administrative Item 23: Los Olivos Community Services District No-Interest Loan
- Item: Request from the Los Olivos Community Services District (CSD) for a $750,000 no-interest loan to advance a wastewater project to 90% design.
- Discussion: The item, from the Public Works Department and Water Agency, required a four-fifths vote. The Chair raised concerns about the timing of the loan relative to an upcoming CSD board election, suggesting a delay or reduced design percentage to allow for voter input. The CSD President stated that the 90% design is necessary to provide accurate costs for a Proposition 218 vote and that delays would increase costs. Public commenters raised concerns regarding the environmental impact, the necessity of evaluating decentralized alternatives, CEQA compliance, and the potential for the project to lock the community into a single solution before the election. A board member supported the loan, emphasizing the CSD’s extensive review of alternatives, the urgency of the water board’s requirements, and the risk of the county assuming liability if the project fails. Staff clarified that the county is not the lead agency for CEQA purposes and that providing the loan does not commit the district to the project.
- Action: A motion was made to authorize the loan. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
General Public Comment
- Ten members of the public spoke on various issues:
- One speaker discussed federal intervention in local governance, citing historical examples and consent decrees.
- One speaker thanked the board for listening to concerns regarding bee and pollinator protection and the review of a related ordinance.
- One speaker requested accountability regarding law enforcement response to stalking and harassment, citing multiple police reports and physical assaults.
- Three speakers from Kingdom Causes (KCI) and related student groups discussed the issue of child sexual exploitation (CSEC) in Santa Barbara County, advocating for better data, collaboration, and support for youth resilience initiatives.
- Three speakers representing the 805 EPIC (Election Protection and Integrity Coalition) announced the launch of a nonpartisan coalition to protect voting rights and ensure election integrity in the upcoming November election.
- One speaker provided feedback on the Santa Barbara County Vintners’ marketing efforts and board conduct, citing specific examples of perceived inaccuracies and litigation exposure.
Departmental Item 1: Ordinance to Regulate Possession of Catalytic Converters
- Item: Proposed ordinance in Chapter 23 of the County Code to regulate the possession of catalytic converters in unincorporated areas.
- Discussion: Staff presented background on catalytic converter theft, noting that current state law (AB 641) only regulates possession of nine or more converters. The proposed ordinance would make it unlawful for non-licensed individuals to possess a catalytic converter not attached to a vehicle without proof of ownership. Staff noted that the ordinance was inspired by public comment and similar ordinances in other counties. Penalties would include fines and potential jail time, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses. A board member noted that the ordinance would apply only to unincorporated areas and expressed hope that cities would adopt similar measures.
- Public Comment: One speaker presented the rationale for adopting the ordinance, citing a gap in state law that prevents law enforcement from prosecuting possession of stolen converters without a specific victim. The commenter noted that several other counties have adopted similar ordinances and requested the Board’s support to close this loophole.
- Board Comments: Supervisors expressed support for the measure, acknowledging the effort required to develop the policy and the regional strategy involved. Supervisor Hartman asked the County Executive to share information about the ordinance with city managers at regional meetings to encourage broader adoption. The County Executive agreed to share the information.
- Action: Supervisor Lavagnino moved to adopt the staff recommendation. Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 2: Firearm Retail Sales Interim Urgency Ordinance Extension
- Item: Request to extend the interim urgency ordinance regarding firearm retail sales by 10 months and 15 days, expiring on August 6, 2027.
- Discussion: Staff reported that they are currently updating the GIS database to map existing firearm retailers and sensitive receptors, evaluating a 1,000-foot buffer, and defining firearm retailers as a distinct land use in the zoning code. Staff clarified that the current ordinance applies only to new operations or relocations, not existing uses.
- Board Comments: Supervisors thanked the Planning and Development Department for their work. Supervisor Capps noted that the City of Goleta had also passed a similar interim measure. Supervisor Hartman expressed appreciation for the complexity of developing an enforceable program.
- Action: Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt the staff recommendation. Supervisor Capps seconded the motion.
- Outcome: Passed 4 to 1.
Passed 4–1 · against: Nelson
Closed Session
- Action: The Board entered closed session to discuss the public employee appointment for the Director of Social Services.
- Outcome: Upon returning to open session, the County Counsel reported that the Board took no reportable action during the closed session.
Departmental Item 3: Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) Strategic Plan
- Item: Overview of RCRC’s advocacy and entrepreneurial efforts.
- Discussion: A representative from RCRC presented an overview of the organization’s work. Key topics included advocacy on public employee recruitment/retention, predator management, Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) reporting, state mandate reimbursement, jail medical services costs, indigent health planning, wildfire liability reform, and artificial intelligence regulations. Updates were provided on entrepreneurial entities: the Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA), which offers zero-interest down payment assistance to county employees; the Golden State Connect Authority, which secures broadband funding; Golden State Natural Resources, which manages wildfire resilience projects; and the Rural Advancement Institute, which conducts research, including a study on fire and EMS capacity in rural counties led by UC Santa Barbara.
- Board Comments: Chair Nelson thanked RCRC for their representation and noted that Santa Barbara County is a high user of the GSFA down payment assistance program. Supervisors asked questions regarding the GSFA program, RCRC’s engagement with the CPUC, and the details of the fire/EMS capacity study.
- Action: Supervisor Capps moved to receive and file the item. Supervisor Hartman seconded the motion.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Departmental Item 4: Resilient Cuyama Valley Initiative Transformative Climate Communities Grant Application
- Item: Authorization to apply for a $27.5 million Implementation Grant from the Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) program.
- Discussion: Staff presented the Resilient Cuyama Valley Initiative, focusing on three disadvantaged communities in the Cuyama Valley (New Cuyama, Cuyama, and Venticopa). The proposed projects include the development of Perkins Place apartments (affordable housing), expansion of the Cuyama Home Energy Retrofit Program (CHERP) to at least 100 homes, facility improvements for community centers and the water district (including solar/battery backup), safe routes to school improvements, and a Cuyama Food Hub. Partners include the Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County, Community Environmental Council, Quail Springs, Blue Sky Center, and the Center for Employment Training. The application is due September 30, with a potential award announcement in summer 2027 and a five-year implementation period.
- Questions and Responses:
- A Supervisor inquired about the Housing Authority’s contribution amount and whether local youth would be included in workforce programs. Staff confirmed the contribution amount would be verified and stated that the program targets both youth and adults. The Housing Authority has committed over $17 million to the project, with the requested grant funding intended to complete the funding stack. The workforce development component involves a partnership with the Center for Employment Training to recruit up to 50 students for trades programs (green building, HVAC, medical assistance), with training locations in Santa Maria, Cuyama, and virtually.
- A Supervisor asked about county agency partnerships and whether in-kind contributions or leverage funding would count toward scoring criteria. Staff explained that while leverage funding is a minimum requirement rather than a scoring point, the county is involved through various departments (Long Range Planning, Emergency Management, Fire Department, Public Works). Staff noted that scoring points are maximized through project design, transformative elements, and specific designations (e.g., disadvantaged rural community).
- A Supervisor asked about the Displacement Avoidance Plan, specifically regarding its relationship to the board’s recent oil and gas ban and potential worker displacement. Staff clarified that the Displacement Avoidance Plan is specific to ensuring this grant does not cause displacement, whereas addressing worker displacement from other policy decisions is a separate study. Staff listed five program areas for the plan: establishing a community land trust, tenant rights education, employer housing outreach, business technical assistance, and a Water Access Preservation Program to help small well owners avoid costly adjudication.
- A Supervisor asked about the Community Land Trust model. Staff explained that the county is exploring this broadly, not just for this grant, and has hosted webinars with partners like the Santa Barbara Foundation. A staff member described the trust as a separate nonprofit entity focused on long-term land preservation for affordable housing.
- Public Comment: One commenter thanked the sustainability team for their outreach and community engagement in the Cuyama Valley.
- Action: A motion was made to approve Staff Recommendation A, B, C, and D. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously with one member absent.
Departmental Item 5: Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) Consistency Amendments
- Item: Amendments to the County Land Use and Development Code, Coastal Zoning Ordinance, and Comprehensive Plan to align with new ALUCPs adopted by the Santa Barbara County Airport Land Use Commission (SBCAG) in 2023.
- Discussion: The amendments replace older "approach and clear zones" with six new "safety zones" (Zone 1 being the most restrictive, Zone 6 the least). The changes include updated use compatibility standards, density and height limits, noise standards, and requirements for avigation easements and overflight notifications. The amendments apply to areas around Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Vandenberg Space Force Base airports. The Orkut Community Plan amendment includes the repeal of the Orkut no-build corridor, which staff stated is no longer required for safety.
- Questions and Responses:
- A Supervisor asked if the overlay impacts the City of Santa Barbara. Staff clarified that the county ordinance does not directly affect the city, but the city is required to update its own ordinances to be consistent with the ALUCPs.
- A Supervisor asked about existing housing that may violate new standards. Staff explained that existing uses are considered legal non-conforming; they do not need to change unless they are torn down and rebuilt. Modifications and remodels are generally allowed as long as they do not exacerbate the non-conformity.
- A Supervisor asked about the coordination between the county and airport operations. Staff explained that the ALUCPs focus on land use compatibility and safety, not airport operations, and that SBCAG staff conducted the initial public outreach and plan development.
- A Supervisor asked about the Lompoc Airport. Staff confirmed that while the airport is within city limits, some safety zones extend into unincorporated county areas, which are included in the rezone maps.
- A Supervisor asked about the process for the board to waive conditions in the future. Staff stated that interpreting the ALUCP is within the board’s discretion and does not require a comprehensive plan amendment.
- A Supervisor asked about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in restricted zones. Staff clarified that ADUs are generally allowed by right in Safety Zone 2, but new residential construction is prohibited in Zone 2 outside of existing single-family homes.
- Public Comment: No public comment was received.
- Action: A motion was made to approve Staff Recommendation A, B, C, D, and E. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously with one member absent.
Departmental Item 6: Land Use Element Window Date
- Item: Combined land use element amendments due to a state law limiting mandatory element amendments to four per year.
- Discussion: Staff explained that two separate land use element amendments are being combined into a single "window date" action: (1) the Utility Scale Solar Land Use Element Amendment (Case 26 GPA 5), which was conceptually approved in September, and (2) the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Consistency Land Use Element Amendment (Case 26 GPA 1), which was continued from the previous item.
- Questions and Responses:
- A Supervisor expressed confusion and concern about the "window date" process, noting that it forces the board to vote on bundled items where they may have previously voted differently on individual components. Staff explained that this is a state requirement to limit the frequency of amendments and that the county is bundling projects to stay within the limit. Staff noted that future window dates are planned for November and December.
- The Supervisor suggested discussing the state law with the state delegation to increase flexibility.
- Public Comment: One commenter spoke against the utility-scale solar framework, citing concerns about the science of human impact on climate, the cost burden on homeowners for electrification upgrades, and the financial stability of constituents.
- Action: A motion was made to approve the Staff Recommendation. The motion was seconded.
- Outcome: Passed with three affirmative votes, one abstention, and one member absent.
Departmental Item 7: Beekeeping Ordinance Changes
- Item: Authorization to work on ordinance changes to permit beekeeping in unincorporated Santa Barbara County.
- Discussion: Staff presented a request to authorize work on ordinance changes. The current rules require setbacks of 300 feet from property lines and 600 feet from other residences, which staff noted effectively rules out beekeeping in most residential and small agricultural parcels. The proposal seeks to create a practical pathway for responsible beekeeping with standards that address neighborhood compatibility, public safety, and the protection of native pollinators. Staff proposed that the Agricultural Commission lead the review, coordinating with Fire, Planning, and other departments, and return to the board within six months with proposed amendments.
- Public Comment: No requests to speak from the public were received for this item. The Chair noted that Fred Razo had previously addressed the board during public comment regarding this topic.
- Board Discussion: The Chair referenced past staff interactions with beekeeper associations approximately ten years prior, noting that concerns at that time included regulation, registries, and potential theft. The Chair expressed support for the initiative, stating that allowing beekeeping in residentially zoned properties is appropriate for the county’s rural-suburban areas.
- Action: Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt the staff recommendation. Supervisor Lee seconded the motion.
- Outcome: Passed 4-0.
Adjournment
- The Chair declared the meeting concluded and adjourned the board until the next regularly scheduled meeting on October 6th in Santa Barbara.