Zone Zero, Earthcomb, and the October Board Meeting

The Montecito Association’s October Board Meeting brought together local leaders, agency partners, and community members for a comprehensive update on public safety, infrastructure, and upcoming events. From record-high state test scores to rainfall updates and Beautification Day plans, the meeting reflected the Association’s ongoing commitment to preserving Montecito’s character and supporting its residents.

Montecito Fire Chief David Neels reported rainfall totals ranging from three-quarters of an inch near Olive Mill Road to about three inches in Toro Canyon. He discussed the ongoing four-year fire code update cycle and shared news of the proposed “Zone Zero” regulations – new defensible space requirements designed to better protect homes in high-risk wildfire zones. These state-level changes are still in draft form, with final guidance expected from the State Board of Forestry in the coming months.

From the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, Lieutenant Rich Brittingham reported on community safety issues, including ongoing enforcement of illegal beach camping below the cemetery bluff. He announced that vehicle towing will soon begin at the Hot Springs Trailhead once proper signage is installed.

Montecito Union School Superintendent Anthony Ranii expressed appreciation for the Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office, whose presence continues to support student and staff safety. He proudly announced that Montecito Union and Cold Spring School achieved record-high state test scores, a reflection of the district’s excellence and community support. Ranii also confirmed that the lawsuit involving allegations from the 1970s has been settled with no admission of guilt or confidentiality clauses.

Montecito Sanitary District’s general manager, John Weigold, shared updates on critical infrastructure projects like the manhole lining project covering 96 manholes throughout Montecito. Planning has begun for a treatment plant renovation, expected to take about a year for design and engineering. He explained that roughly 300 parcels remain unconnected to the sewer system, mainly in hillside areas where hookups are technically challenging and costly.

From the County of Santa Barbara, Supervisor Roy Lee provided a detailed county update. Recent rains caused no major incidents, and several trail and pathway projects – including completion of the San Leandro Path, upcoming work on Santa Rosa Lane, and reopening of the San Ysidro Trail — are progressing well. Lee highlighted several county initiatives: the Red Flag Warning Closure Program, new cannabis regulations requiring odor-control scrubbers by March 2026, and countywide efforts to streamline permit processes.

Committee updates included Leslie Lundgren from the History Committee, who shared that historic photos and maps of Montecito are being printed for display in the Association’s meeting room. Jan Rockenbach from the Outreach Committee reported an outdoor movie night in the works, and Jacqueline Duran from the Safety Response Committee discussed community interest in funding license plate readers to enhance security.

Andrea Newquist gave the Hands Across Montecito report, sharing that outreach and cleanup efforts continue in partnership with Andrew Velikanje (Earthcomb). Earthcomb is celebrating a big milestone, having removed over 500,000 pounds of debris since starting his program.

Dorinne Lee Johnson stepped down as Land Use Committee Chair following her appointment to LAFCO. And Rhonda Hathaway, with Equine Evacuation, will present to the board at the November meeting, on Earl Warren Showgrounds’ plans that could impact emergency animal evacuations in Santa Barbara County. 

We invite all community members to join us at our monthly Montecito Association Board Meetings to stay informed and take part in these important conversations. The Board meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and agendas are posted on our website prior to the meetings. If you have anything you think should be brought to our attention or would like to join the association, please contact us! 

Join Us for the 40th Annual Beautification Day! — November 8th 

The Montecito Association invites the entire community to join us for Beautification Day on Saturday, November 8 at Montecito Union School. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the event, themed “Montecito’s Renaissance.” Start the morning with breakfast provided by the Rosewood Miramar, then team up with neighbors, schools, and local businesses to help make Montecito shine. Come celebrate four decades of community togetherness – and help keep Montecito beautiful! 

This annual event would not be possible without our fabulous sponsors! Montecito Community Foundation, Dr. Nancy D. O’Reilly & family, Village Properties, Becker Studios, Damir Pevec, Montecito Union School, Montecito Fire Department, Rosewood Miramar, Montecito Village Grocery, San Ysidro Ranch, Marborg, Noozhawk, The Bernstein Family, Coeta & Donald Barker Foundation, Michele B., Brooke Mallers, and more!  

Check out the website for more information about the event: www.montecitoassociation.org