Santa Barbara · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Barbara public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Affordable Housing at West Carrillo Street
The city was poised to lend nearly $2 million to People's Self-Help Housing to buy land for permanent affordable apartments, locked in with a 55-year affordability covenant.
Potential purchase of 190 El Cielito Road
The city is negotiating to buy a property at 190 El Cielito Road, with the Fire Chief involved in the talks — hinting at a possible fire-related use. Terms remain confidential.
Workforce Housing Project
Santa Barbara County is trying to fix its employee housing crunch with a $47 million plan. They're turning an old probation building into up to 104 apartments, hoping to have them ready by 2029.
housing development near Old Mission
Developers wanted to build a massive housing project near the historic Old Mission, but a judge just shut down their lawsuit. Don't pack your bags yet though, neighbors are still raising concerns about traffic and fire safety, so this battle is far from over.
Legal Challenge to Development
Developers are suing the state and city over an 8-story building planned near the historic Mission. A judge's decision could set a precedent for how future developments get approved in Santa Barbara.
Waterfront Development and Climate Policy
Get ready for some big changes along Santa Barbara's waterfront! The City Council is approving new development projects and backing a 'Climate Superfund' plan to fight climate change impacts.
Development Lawsuit
A developer is suing the city and state over a controversial eight-story project near the Mission. This legal battle could mean even more delays and headaches for the already contentious development.
Housing Reform
Santa Barbara is overhauling its housing rules, potentially changing where and how people can live. This could mean big shifts for residents and the city's landscape.
Downtown Development
Get ready, Santa Barbara! The city council is gearing up to shake things up at Paseo Nuevo. This could mean a whole new look and feel for our downtown area.
New Development
A huge, eight-story building is about to be built right behind the historic Santa Barbara Mission. This project is causing a lot of controversy, and people are wondering what the next steps are.
Housing Development Dispute
Big drama over a new housing project in Goleta! The California AG is getting involved, saying the city isn't playing ball on the Shelby development. This could mean major changes for how housing gets built in the area.
Hotel Development
Santa Barbara just approved a new luxury hotel, and it's causing a stir! Residents are raising concerns about the potential impact this development could have on their city.
Housing Development
Get ready, Santa Barbara! Almost 5,000 new homes are in the pipeline, and they're moving through approvals at lightning speed. This massive influx could totally reshape our city and the housing market.
Housing Affordability
Dreaming of homeownership in Santa Barbara? Forget about it. The city is ranked the 4th worst market in the entire country for first-time homebuyers, making it incredibly tough to get your foot in the door.