April Board Meeting with Hands Across Montecito Update

The Montecito Association Board of Directors held its April meeting with a featured annual update on Hands Across Montecito (HAM), the community’s coordinated homeless outreach initiative, alongside regular reports from local agencies and updates on key Association priorities.

Representatives from CityNet and Earthcomb, core partners in the HAM program, presented a comprehensive look at the progress made over the past year and the continued evolution of this collaborative effort. CityNet leads professional outreach in the field, working directly with individuals experiencing homelessness to build trust and connect them with services, housing opportunities, and long-term support. Their consistent, relationship-based approach remains central to the program’s effectiveness.

Earthcomb shared updates on its work addressing environmental impacts, including debris removal and ongoing site monitoring in areas of concern. Their efforts are carefully coordinated with outreach teams to ensure that cleanup activities are conducted thoughtfully, balancing environmental stewardship with compassion and respect for those being served.

Together, these partners reflect the strength of the Hands Across Montecito model, pairing proactive outreach with practical, on-the-ground solutions. Board members noted that this coordinated approach continues to make a meaningful difference in the community. Residents who would like to support this ongoing effort are encouraged to contribute, with donations directly supporting outreach and response work in Montecito. 

In addition to the HAM update, the Board received regular reports from community partners. Montecito Fire’s new chief, Brian Fallon, outlined departmental priorities, including enhancing emergency response capabilities, improving communication infrastructure, and expanding neighborhood chipping programs aimed at reducing wildfire risk. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office also provided updates on recent activity and ongoing public safety efforts in the area. Additional updates included progress from the Montecito Sanitary District on its sewer rehabilitation project and rate study, as well as highlights from our local schools, which are in the midst of a vibrant spring season filled with events, programs, and student achievements.

Membership growth remains a positive trend for the Association, with approximately 34% of the annual goal achieved in the first quarter. Expanded outreach efforts and the introduction of new membership offerings, including a business membership program, are helping to broaden engagement and strengthen connections across the community.

Not yet a member? Now is a great time to join the Montecito Association and stay informed, engaged, and connected to the issues that matter most to our community. We’ve also introduced new Business Membership options, including a Business Directory on our website, offering local businesses increased visibility and a way to connect directly with Montecito residents.

Looking ahead, the Association announced its upcoming Upper Village Sip & Shop, scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, from 4 to 6 pm across both sides of Highway 192. The event will bring together local businesses offering refreshments, special promotions, and a welcoming atmosphere for residents to connect, explore, and support the Upper Village.

Sponsorship opportunities are now open for one of Montecito’s most cherished traditions, the Village 4th of July Celebration. This year marks a truly historic occasion: the 30th anniversary of the Village 4th alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary. With an expected record turnout and an expanded celebration, community support is more important than ever. Sponsoring the event is a unique opportunity for local businesses and families to be part of this milestone moment—celebrating community, tradition, and country, while helping ensure the continued success of this beloved event. Sponsorship details are now available online. 

The next Montecito Association board meeting is scheduled for May 12th. Find out more on our website: www.montecitoassociation.org