O
Santa Barbara
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taxes budgetMedium priorityopen

Vacancy tax study

Santa Barbara

Summary

A 5-2 majority wants staff to analyze taxing empty homes and storefronts to push owners to rent or use them — residential and commercial both. Earliest ballot: November 2028.

At a glance

Total mentions
1
Last 30 days
0

Last discussed Jun 23, 2026.

Impact analysis

💰Financial impact

May not generate net revenue once administration costs are counted.

✅Who benefits

Residents frustrated by vacant storefronts and empty second homes.

⚠️Who could be affected

Vacant-property owners who could face new taxes if it reaches the ballot.

Mentions & discussions (1)

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