Proposed Planning Changes, Preparedness and Community Connections
Proposed changes to Santa Barbara County’s zoning ordinances drew a full house and extensive discussion at the Montecito Association’s October Board meeting, where residents and board members considered how permitting reforms could affect the community’s future.
The meeting also brought updates on emergency preparedness, local schools, water and wastewater services, and preparations for the Association’s annual Beautification Day.
Proposed Zoning Changes
Alex Tuttle, Long Range Planning Division Manager for Santa Barbara County Planning and Development, presented the county’s proposed Phase 3 zoning ordinance amendments. The proposals seek to streamline permitting for certain residential and commercial projects, expand exemptions from architectural review, and simplify approvals for qualifying development.
Board members and residents raised concerns about the potential loss of Montecito Board of Architectural Review oversight, reduced neighborhood notification and appeal opportunities, and the cumulative effects of projects approved under expanded exemptions. Questions also focused on the pace of the process and whether residents had sufficient time to understand and respond to the proposals.
The discussion reflected a shared interest in making permitting more efficient while maintaining protections for Montecito’s semi-rural character. The board approved an advocacy letter to the Montecito Planning Commission outlining its concerns and recommendations. Among the approaches discussed was incorporating objective project-size controls into the ordinance to provide safeguards for development exempted from architectural review.
The discussion continued October 19th at the Montecito Planning Commission Special Hearing, where commissioners met for five hours. Commissioners completed their recommendations for the Board of Supervisors, which will consider the proposed amendments.
The Commission’s recommendations will be posted on the Montecito Association website under “Advocacy,” where residents can follow the issue and find additional information.
Emergency Preparedness and Large Animal Rescue
Montecito Fire Chief Brian Fallon reported on firefighter and firefighter/paramedic recruitment, plans for a joint training academy, and a spring community open house. The district is also initiating an assessment of emergency response resources, coverage, and community risk, with opportunities for community involvement.
The department announced that it has ordered free emergency go-bags for residents and has a webpage where households can express interest. Delivery will be available for residents unable to pick up a bag.
Ronda Hathaway, with the Equine Assistance & Evacuation Team, provided an encouraging update on large animal rescue operations at Earl Warren Showgrounds. Following community advocacy and discussions with showgrounds leadership, a rental issue has been resolved, and rescue equipment is staged and operational.
Hathaway also reported that the showgrounds board rescinded an earlier master plan vote following a legal challenge involving environmental review and permitting concerns. Future planning remains underway, with leadership committing to greater involvement from the equestrian and first responder communities.
Water, Wastewater and School Updates
Nick Turner, with the Montecito Water District, shared information about a new rain gauge at district headquarters, with rainfall tracking available through the district’s website. The district also discussed its proposed sale of a portion of its State Water Project interests, citing potential cost savings and inviting community input.
John Weigold, with the Montecito Sanitary District, outlined winter preparedness measures, including updated emergency procedures, additional pumping equipment and backup arrangements for its lift stations. Approximately 50 sensors are planned for installation in November and December to help identify where stormwater enters the sewer system.
Local schools reported on classroom improvements and campus resilience. Montecito Union School highlighted participation in a state-funded tree planting program, pilot science and math curricula, and expanded special education staffing and coordination.
Cold Spring School shared recognition for its digital citizenship and AI literacy instruction, along with a county mentorship award for kindergarten teacher Becky Gonzalez. The school identified a need for generator support, noting the expense and disruption associated with power outages.
Beautification Day
Looking ahead, Beautification Day will be held Saturday, November 7, from 9 am to 1 pm at the Upper Village (across from the post office). There will be a friendly district competition and a pizza party prize for the winners, adding to the fun. It is a delightful day where the community comes together to care for their neighborhoods, trails, and beaches.
Residents are encouraged to participate, support the event through sponsorships, and help care for the community we share. More information on the event is on our website below.
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