MSD Begins First Rate Study in 10 Years
The Montecito Sanitary District has approved its first comprehensive sewer rate study in a decade, initiating a formal public process to consider potential rate adjustments. The Board of Directors voted on April 8 to move forward with the proposal, with a public hearing scheduled for June 10, 2026, as required under Proposition 218.
The study, conducted by an independent consultant, reflects rising operational costs, aging infrastructure, and increasingly strict regulatory requirements. Much of the MSD’s system dates to the 1960s, with key components nearing the end of their lifespan. To address these challenges, the MSD plans to invest more than $60 million over the next five years in upgrades, including major improvements to its wastewater treatment plant and system-wide repairs.
District officials emphasize that the proposed adjustments are intended to ensure long-term reliability and protect public health, while inviting community input throughout the review process.
Employer Forum Highlights Expanded Surfliner Service
Business leaders and HR professionals are invited to the “Train to Work Employer Forum” on April 22 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Goleta, spotlighting the expanded Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service launching in May. Hosted by SBCAG and the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, the event will explore how rail can support employee recruitment, retention, and commuter flexibility.
Attendees will hear from regional transportation providers, including LOSSAN, MTD, and BCycle, and learn how to integrate train travel into commuter benefits programs. Interactive discussions will cover schedules, first- and last-mile connections, and practical tools for daily use. Participants will also receive complimentary ride passes to try the service firsthand.
411: https://tinyurl.com/Surfliner-Employer-Forum
Celebrate Earth Day with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ Environmental Department will host its annual free Chumash Earth Day event from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 18, at Kitiyepumu’ Park, located on the Santa Ynez Reservation at 100 Via Juana. The theme is “Life Grows Where Water Flows.” This zero-waste event will feature family-fun activities for all ages, including educational booths, face painting, arts and crafts, raffles and giveaways, local food trucks and a special appearance from Smokey Bear. Over 30 local businesses and organizations will be in attendance. Representatives from the tribe’s Culture Department and Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic will also be in attendance. The Solvang Rotary Club will join the celebration with dwarf goats in tow, while the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service returns with its popular inflatable soil health tunnel; an interactive walk‑through exhibit that brings the hidden world beneath our feet to life and highlights the importance of healthy soils. Registration will take place at the event, with the first 200 people receiving a “swag bag,” which will include a t-shirt, reusable cup and custom-designed stickers.
411: https://syceo.org/earthday
Little Dom’s Events
-April 29, 6 pm: Winemaker Dinner with Peter Stolpman of Stolpman Wines
-May 2-3 from 12-4 pm Little Dom’s Seafood is hosting its fifth annual crawfish boil
411: www.ldseafood.com
Art From Scrap Expands Store Hours
New store hours are Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 6 pm and Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm.
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