MSD Approves Sewer Rate Increase and More News Bytes
The Montecito Sanitary District has unanimously approved its first sewer rate adjustment in seven years, adopting a phased five-year plan designed to address aging infrastructure and ensure long-term system reliability. The decision followed a public hearing on June 10 and was informed by the MSD’s first comprehensive sewer rate study in more than a decade.
District officials say the increase is necessary as much of the wastewater system dates to the 1960s, with key treatment plant components nearing or exceeding their expected service life. More than $60 million in capital improvements have been identified over the next five years, including upgrades to pipelines, manholes, lift stations, and treatment facilities.
For a typical single-family residence, rates will increase by approximately $14.25 per month beginning July 1, while condo and second-unit rates will rise by about $5.85 per month. The new charges will first appear on property tax bills issued this fall. MSD leaders said the phased approach balances infrastructure needs with affordability while helping reduce the risk of sewer spills and service disruptions.
SYR Speakeasy Earns Forbes Recognition
The Speakeasy at San Ysidro Ranch has been named one of the world’s best hotel bars by Forbes Travel Guide, earning a place on the 2026 Hotel Star Bars Awards list. The Montecito hideaway was one of just 37 bars worldwide – and only five in the United States – to receive the distinction.
The honor is awarded through anonymous visits by Forbes inspectors, who evaluate cocktail programs, service, atmosphere, and the overall guest experience. The recognition adds to a growing list of accolades for San Ysidro Ranch, further solidifying its reputation as one of California’s premier luxury destinations and a standout in the international hospitality scene.
Sarah House Fundraiser
An original theatrical production celebrating the mission of Sarah House will take the stage this summer as a special fundraiser for the beloved Santa Barbara hospice. Sarah House Stories, a staged reading directed by Peter Lackner, will be performed on June 28 at Trinity Church Parish Hall and July 3 at Unitarian Society Parish Hall.
The production features three stories written by Paloma Espino, Sarah House’s longtime house manager, drawing on two decades of experience caring for residents during the final chapter of their lives. The stories highlight the unique role Sarah House plays in providing a safe, supportive home for low-income and destitute individuals who might otherwise face the end of life alone.
The performances will include appearances by local actors, live fingerstyle guitar music by Bruce Goldish, and a reception with wine and light refreshments. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will directly support Sarah House operations, helping sustain its vital hospice services at a time when government funding and grant support continue to decline.
411: https://bit.ly/sarah-house-stories-1
Juneteenth Celebration
A special Juneteenth Screening & Live Performance will take place on Friday, June 19 from 5:15-7 pm at Elevate Gallery in La Cumbre Plaza, bringing together art, poetry, music, and history in honor of the national holiday. Presented by Toni Scott, Rod Rolle, and Elevate Gallery, the free public event will feature screenings highlighting acclaimed Santa Barbara Poet Laureate Sojourner Kincaid Rolle, including footage of her reading the poem “Free at Last.”
The evening will also include a live performance by the Santa Barbara Ring Shout Project, student readings, and a look at Toni Scott’s Bloodlines exhibition. Hosted by photojournalist Rod Rolle, the program celebrates Black history, culture, and creative expression while reflecting on the significance of Juneteenth as a commemoration of emancipation and freedom. Free admission and parking will be available for attendees.
411: [email protected]
Summer Adventure Lab at Crane
Skip the ordinary and enroll your child in an adventure that offers true growth and endless smiles. The lab combines the dedicated, passionate educators of Crane School with the sun-soaked fun of a classic Santa Barbara summer camp programs for ages 4 to 14. Small-group instruction includes the Design and Engineering Center, hitting the high notes up on stage, writing a creative story, or hiking the local trails.
Three sessions from 9 am to 3 pm: July 6-10, July 13-17, and July 20-24.
411: www.craneschool.org/about/summer-camp
Camp Cito Laguna Blanca Lower School
Join Camp Cito or Laguna Explorer on Laguna Blanca’s charming Montecito campus. Guided by Laguna faculty, educators, and counselors, every day is safe, supportive, and full of fun, including snacks and lunch.
411: www.lagunablanca.org/summeratlaguna
Nature Explorers and Summer STEAM
Preschool Nature Explorers is a hands-on nature series designed especially for children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers. Stephanie Soicher, Garden Explorers Program coordinator, will begin each session with a cozy story time, followed by interactive, nature-inspired activities that encourage connection with the natural world. Themes include: Nature Art & Patterns, Building & Engineering, Sensory Exploration, and Nature’s Rhythm.
The six-week Summer STEAM series is taught by Melissa Dodos, a credentialed elementary teacher and Explore Ecology’s Creative Reuse Program Coordinator. This highly interactive series encourages imagination while introducing science, art, and engineering in fun and accessible ways. Each class features a theme, including Animal Kingdoms, Let It Grow, Airborne Adventures, Groovy Gravity, Calming Collage, and Toys on the Move.
411: https://exploreecology.org
Second Thursdays at SYCMC
From 5-8 pm on the second Thursday of every month, the public is welcome to attend a free lecture and open house at the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center. Featured speakers will include the artists, authors, and artisans whose work can be found in the Museum Gift Shop, as well as subject matter experts covering a variety of topics explored throughout the museum’s exhibits and grounds. Guests are welcome to explore the museum’s Permanent and Temporary Exhibits free of charge, take a sunset stroll through the Cultural Park, and explore the Museum Gift Shop.
SBMA Kids Summer Art Camp
Join in the art camps at the SB Museum of Art, doing ceramics, printmaking, and textile work. There are camps all summer through August 7.
411: https://tinyurl.com/SBMA-summer-camp-26
SBMA Gallery Sketching
For adults of all ages, the SB Museum of Art has a Sketching in the Galleries workshop where you can sit and make sketches of the art on exhibit. Teaching artists are on hand to provide general guidance and all
materials included.
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