Updates on Committees, Leaf Blower Ban, and More

The Montecito Association Board of Directors convened February 10th, for its monthly meeting, following its annual board retreat in January, with discussions focusing on public safety and strengthening community engagement.

During public comment, there was a presentation from two high school students, Jack Hyatt and Sebastian Fabio, who are leading a seven-week fundraising campaign for Blood Cancer United, formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The longtime friends, who met as kindergartners at Montecito Union School, shared their ambitious goal of raising $200,000 to support blood cancer research. They told attendees that someone in the United States is diagnosed with a blood cancer every three minutes and spoke about their mentor’s personal battle with the disease. The pair invited community members to support their campaign through donations, sponsorships, and outreach. 

To learn more, go to:

https://tinyurl.com/HyattFabioSupport

Board President Bill Macfadyen reported that the MA is strengthening accountability by requiring committees to meet monthly and submit written reports, while continuing to rely on the Montecito Community Plan to guide priorities. He also noted the MA’s intent to participate in local celebrations connected to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Executive Director Houghton Hyatt reported strong membership engagement, with 125 renewals in January, including two new members, and highlighted continued coordination with Hands Across Montecito, the MA’s outreach initiative assisting individuals experiencing homelessness.

Committee leadership for the year was finalized, with Chris Albertson and Cliff Ghersen serving as co-chairs of the Land Use Committee, which is preparing a community survey. Other committee chairs include Mindy Denson (Events), Leslie Lundgren (History), Laura Bode (Outreach), Jacqueline Duran (Safety Response), and Dorene White (Hands Across Montecito). Initiatives underway include membership outreach, wildfire preparedness efforts, pedestrian safety improvements, and community programming.

Updates from local agencies underscored both safety priorities and community investment. Chief Neels of the Montecito Fire Protection District announced his retirement at the end of March after 33 years of service. He reported that vegetation management efforts, including the district’s chipping program, are expected to remove more than 300 tons of fire-prone material this season.

Lt. Rich Brittingham of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office reported recent incidents including vehicle thefts, trespassing, and vandalism, and encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Montecito Sanitary District General Manager John Weigold shared that the district recently acquired a new vacuum truck and is reviewing sewer rates for the first time since 2016, while also implementing a program to address fats, oils, and grease in commercial systems.

County Supervisor Roy Lee’s office, represented by Aida Thau, provided updates on a proposed gas-powered leaf blower ban, beach camping regulations, and a planned March 3 resolution recognizing Chief Neels for his service.

Amy Alzina, superintendent and principal of Cold Spring School, reported strong participation in school programs, with summer session classes filling within minutes of registration opening. She also announced an upcoming AI Summit, July 7-9, that will bring together educators and community partners. Alzina, who chairs California’s AI task force for TK-12 education, also noted recent safety upgrades at the school, including improvements to its communications systems.

The meeting reflected the Association’s ongoing role in addressing community priorities, fostering civic engagement, and supporting the safety and character of Montecito.

Want to take a more active role in shaping our community? Joining a committee is one of the best ways to make an impact. The Montecito Association welcomes members who are interested in contributing their time, ideas, and expertise to the issues that matter most – from public safety and wildfire preparedness to land use, trails, beautification, and neighborhood events.

Our committees are where the real work happens – and where neighbors connect, collaborate, and help protect the character and quality of life we all value in Montecito.

Whether you have an hour a month or want to dive deeper, there’s a place for you! Interested? Email us at [email protected] to learn more or attend an upcoming meeting.

Together, we keep Montecito strong.