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 […]
Montecito’s semi-rural character did not happen by accident. It reflects decades of thoughtful planning, architectural review, and community participation. As Santa Barbara County considers changes to its permitting process, residents have an opportunity to speak up for the protections that have helped shape the community we call home. Following the October 7 hearing, the Montecito […]
With winter approaching and a strong El Niño developing, Montecito residents packed Montecito Union School on September 14th for a community-wide conversation about creek conditions, flood protection, and storm preparedness. The meeting, organized in coordination with First District Supervisor Roy Lee, the Montecito Association, and local agencies, grew out of concerns raised by residents about […]
Wildfire prevention, winter storm preparedness, and public safety led the discussion at the Montecito Association’s September Board meeting, alongside updates on local schools, community projects, and MA initiatives. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department reviewed several incidents reported during August, including vehicle theft, burglary, DUI arrests, and continuing mailbox theft. Residents were encouraged to install […]
With winter approaching and forecasters now under an El Niño advisory for the season ahead, the Montecito Association, with First District Supervisor Roy Lee, is bringing residents, public agencies and elected officials together for a community-wide discussion about the condition of Montecito’s creeks, flood-control infrastructure and preparations for the months ahead. The Montecito Creek & […]
Every week, the Montecito Association gathers information from local agencies, elected officials, community partners, and residents to help our members understand what is happening throughout Montecito. From public safety and emergency preparedness to traffic, land use, and neighborhood concerns, our goal is to keep the community informed, connected, and engaged. We look forward to sharing […]
The Montecito Association and Montecito Community Foundation invite residents and visitors to join the community for the 30th Annual Montecito Village 4th of July Celebration on Saturday, July 4, a hometown tradition that has brought neighbors together since 1996. Known as the home of the “World’s Shortest Parade,” the Village 4th is a uniquely Montecito […]
The Montecito Association Board met on June 9th and received updates on a wide range of community issues, projects, and upcoming events. Traffic Safety Concerns on Olive Mill Road: Residents raised concerns about speeding and recent accidents near the intersection of Olive Mill Road, Olive Mill Lane, and San Benito Way. The County is currently […]
At its recent monthly meeting, the Montecito Association welcomed community members and partners for a wide-ranging discussion focused on wildfire preparedness, public safety, advocacy efforts, and upcoming community events. A major focus of the meeting was wildfire mitigation and emergency preparedness. Representatives from the Montecito Fire Protection District and the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe […]
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 […]
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 […]
The Montecito Association Board of Directors convened February 10th, for its monthly meeting, following its annual board retreat in January, with discussions focusing on public safety and strengthening community engagement. During public comment, there was a presentation from two high school students, Jack Hyatt and Sebastian Fabio, who are leading a seven-week fundraising campaign for […]
The Montecito Association held its Annual Meeting and January Board Meeting on January 13, 2026, welcoming community members, announcing election results, and hearing updates from key agencies and partners on issues impacting Montecito. The meeting opened with the 2025 Montecito Association Annual Meeting, during which prior minutes were approved and board actions ratified. The president […]
As 2025 comes to a close, the Montecito Association reflects on a year marked by active advocacy, community collaboration, and meaningful progress on issues that directly affect quality of life in Montecito. With strong support from its members, volunteers, and community partners, the Association continued to serve as an independent and consistent voice for the […]
The Montecito Association Board met in December to receive updates on major regional infrastructure projects, public safety initiatives, school programs, and ongoing community outreach efforts, while also taking formal action on key policy matters affecting the community. The agenda was focused on the upcoming Highway 101 Santa Barbara North segment. Representatives from the Santa Barbara […]
The Montecito Association Board convened for its November meeting with a full agenda that ranged from storm preparedness and school updates to major community planning efforts and a celebration of the 40th Annual Beautification Day. With winter weather on the horizon and several long-term projects underway, local officials and agency partners offered timely insights and […]
The Montecito Association’s October Board Meeting brought together local leaders, agency partners, and community members for a comprehensive update on public safety, infrastructure, and upcoming events. From record-high state test scores to rainfall updates and Beautification Day plans, the meeting reflected the Association’s ongoing commitment to preserving Montecito’s character and supporting its residents. Montecito Fire […]
The September Board Meeting of the Montecito Association provided important updates on community priorities, featuring reports from law enforcement, local schools, the water district, Caltrans, and the fire department. The Sheriff’s Department began with an update on public safety, noting recent red flag days and continued enforcement of parking restrictions at Hot Springs Trail, where […]
As concerns about home security and neighborhood safety continue to rise, the Montecito Association invites residents to attend a Community Safety Town Hall – an informative and proactive event designed to empower residents with practical tools to help protect what matters most. The event will feature a panel of security professionals offering guidance on crime […]
We are excited to announce the return of our traditional 4th of July celebration, co-sponsored by the Montecito Community Foundation and Rosewood Miramar, featuring the “Biggest Little Parade” down San Ysidro Road and ending in a grand picnic in the park! Your 4th of July Committee – spearheaded by board member, Mindy Denson – has […]
Undoubtedly the most heartwarming event of the year is decorating the Hathaway Memorial Tree in Upper Manning Park. Last Friday, many elves, young and not so young, adorned the tree with lots of ornaments and tinsel! The presence of all the school kids, Dana Newquist arriving in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the firefighters ascending the […]
We had more than 100 volunteers come out to beautify Montecito. The Rosewood Miramar hosted a beautiful breakfast with coffee, teas, pastries, and breakfast burritos and had about 20 to 30 team members join us! Everyone got their safety vests, trash grabbers and trash bags and went out for a few hours to pick up […]