City of Santa Barbara

The Council meeting involved several agenda items: approving an amendment to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund agreement for the Alisal Water Resource Center electrical project, authorizing grant agreements for the California Local Housing Trust Fund and a loan for permanent affordable housing, approving the 2026-27 Memorandum of Understanding with the Police Management Association, selecting a provider for a referral-based navigation center at 621 Chapala Street, adopting an investment policy for the city, and approving amendments to the zoning ordinance related to historic resources. Additionally, presentations were made regarding housing innovation and a children's book associated with Elings Park.

The Planning Commission conducted a hearing focusing on an appeal regarding a coastal development permit and a remediation project at 3139 Seacliff. Representatives from Environmental Health Services and the Air Pollution Control District provided information on the regulatory oversight for soil contamination cleanup, including excavation and off-site disposal. The appeal challenged the project's compliance with the Coastal Act and the validity of the categorical exemption under CEQA, specifically contesting the site's classification regarding appeal jurisdiction and the project cost threshold. The commission also discussed the status of the State Street Master Plan and the potential for a joint hearing.

The City Council convened for a special meeting to address two items related to conferences with the city attorney concerning existing litigation pursuant to government code.

The committee held a meeting where the chair was recognized for his 14.5 years of service, coinciding with his final term on the committee. A special commemorative gift was presented to him. A major agenda item involved a presentation by the city's energy and climate division regarding a grant opportunity for installing over 300 electric vehicle (EV) level two chargers within a 1.5-mile radius, primarily targeting downtown and waterfront parking assets. The proposal involves partnering with Enridge to leverage private equity for the installation and maintenance of these chargers at no cost to the city.

The meeting focused on the review and decision-making for several projects. The officer approved two coastal development permits for accessory dwelling units at 1126 Los Olas Avenue and 122 San Clemente. Additionally, the officer reviewed a proposed revision to a previously approved self-service car wash at 110-150 South Lumbra Road, involving a building expansion, queuing lane adjustment, and a requested front setback modification. The revision was discussed in terms of its alignment with performance standards, landscaping, drainage improvements, and site access.