Pickleball Court Opens, Final HWY 101 Construction & Other Updates

The Montecito Association Board of Directors met in March to discuss a wide range of community issues, including public safety, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives. The meeting highlighted regional construction plans, wildfire preparedness efforts, ongoing work to strengthen community engagement, and the recognition of Fire Chief Neels as he prepares to retire at the end of March.

President’s Report

President Bill Macfadyen reported on a recent site visit to Lotusland, where construction is underway on a major water conservation project that includes excavation for a one-million-gallon underground water storage tank. The project is expected to be completed by mid-July.

Special Recognition

The board recognized Fire Chief Neels, who will retire at the end of March after serving as Montecito Fire Chief since 2023. Board members and community partners praised his leadership and dedication to the Montecito community. In appreciation of his service, the Association presented Chief Neels with a watercolor print of the historic Montecito firehouse weathervane.

Executive Director Report

Executive Director Houghton Hyatt reported that the Association continues to see strong momentum in its membership drive. Check to see if your membership is current! 

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Community Updates

Montecito Water District: Nick Turner from the Montecito Water District reported encouraging progress on water supply and infrastructure projects. Recent rainfall has reduced water demand, while several construction projects continue.

Seismic upgrades at Terminal Reservoir are underway through the end of the year, and a pipeline replacement project on San Leandro Lane is nearing completion. A new pipeline project will soon begin along Las Tunas Road.

Montecito Fire Protection District: Chief Neels provided an update on fire road repairs and trail access challenges in the front country following recent storms.

Damage on the fire road near Hot Springs has been repaired, restoring 2.2 miles of access from the Hot Springs Trailhead to San Ysidro Creek. However, challenges remain at creek crossings where debris flows created drop-offs as deep as 25-30 feet.

The department is coordinating with the County, Southern California Edison, and the U.S. Forest Service to restore emergency access and support ongoing trail restoration efforts.

Montecito Union School: Superintendent Anthony Ranii shared several updates from the campus, highlighting recent student activities. Sixth graders recently departed for Wolf Camp, while kindergarten students are preparing community helper presentations with participation from parents and local community members. Second graders have been studying water erosion on campus and proposing solutions as “citizen scientists.”

County Supervisor’s Office Update: Aida Thau from the First District Supervisor’s Office shared that the new pickleball court at Upper Manning Park is now open and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be scheduled soon with County Parks and the Montecito Association. California Highway Patrol has increased enforcement along San Ysidro Road to San Leandro Lane in response to community concerns about speeding. Recent patrols resulted in several citations, and continued enforcement is expected to help deter speeding in the area.

Highway 101 Construction: Final Segment Begins

Representatives from the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments presented plans for the final phase of the Highway 101 Santa Barbara North Segment Project, which will begin construction in spring 2026.

Improvements include new carpool lanes, a complete rebuild of the Cabrillo Boulevard interchange, two new freeway bridges, updated freeway ramps, and improved traffic circulation.

Landscaping with drought-tolerant plantings will also be incorporated where space allows. Major milestones include bridge construction through summer 2027, ramp construction through summer 2028, and final landscaping expected in 2029.

Committee Reports

The board voted unanimously to rename the Land Use Committee to the Community and Government Relations Committee, reflecting its evolving role in coordinating with government agencies and engaging the community on key policy issues.

The Safety Committee reported that it does not recommend moving forward with license plate reader systems at this time due to cost, legal concerns, and limited usefulness for solving local crimes.

Outreach efforts will focus on expanding membership and building relationships with community leaders through upcoming events, including a spring wine and cheese gathering and additional donor engagement opportunities throughout the year.

Planning is also underway for the Montecito Village Fourth of July Parade. If you would like to help with the preparations, please contact us!

The Hands Across Montecito initiative reported new signage is being installed at Butterfly Beach prohibiting sleeping or camping from sunset to 6 am, allowing the Sheriff’s Office to enforce the ordinance if necessary. City Net and Earthcomb will present a comprehensive update on local outreach efforts at the next meeting.  

The Montecito Association has been bringing residents together since 1949 to protect the character, quality of life, and natural beauty that make Montecito unique. Not a member? Visit www.montecitoassociation.org to join. Questions? Email: [email protected]