Santa Barbara · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Barbara public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Eminent Domain Dispute
A Santa Barbara salon owner is in a legal fight with City Hall over an eminent-domain attempt, meaning the city is trying to take the property. It’s a messy standoff that shows how redevelopment plans can collide with local businesses.
Mayoral and City Council Election Coverage
Santa Barbara’s mayoral race between Kristen Sneddon and Eric Friedman is getting loud, with newspaper endorsements stirring drama. The District 4 council race has already drawn over $225,000, so if you vote here, this is the contest to watch.
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.
Gibraltar Dam Spillway Repairs
The city sought state grant money to help pay for concrete spillway repairs at Gibraltar Dam, a key piece of local water infrastructure and dam safety.
Just Cause Eviction Protections
A new ordinance would require landlords to have a legally recognized reason to evict residential tenants, a major shift in renter protections.
Short-Term Rental Regulations
New citywide rules for short-term rentals and homeshares were up for final adoption, affecting both inland and coastal zones. The rules could reshape how residents rent out their homes and how many units stay in the long-term housing market.
Airport Infrastructure and Noise Management
Two airport items were on the consent calendar: new noise management software and a design contract for taxiway rehabilitation and runway redesignation.
city council candidate forum and Measure C sales tax
Santa Maria council candidates debated Measure C, a half-cent sales tax that would pay for roads, parks, and the library—but could mean layoffs if voters reject it Nov. 3. Supporters say it funds basics; skeptics argue the city has a spending problem, not a revenue problem.
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.
city acquisition of La Casa de la Raza community center
The city is negotiating to buy a property tied to the La Casa de la Raza bankruptcy estate. Price and terms were discussed privately; any deal would need Bankruptcy Court approval before closing.
Labor negotiations with city employee unions
The city is negotiating union contracts covering both supervisory and hourly city employees. The outcomes affect pay, benefits, and working conditions for city staff — and, ultimately, the city's budget.