Planning Commission - County of Santa Barbara - 07/01/26

The Santa Barbara County Planning Commission convened on July 1, 2026, to discuss several land use and planning matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a tract map converting 50 multifamily rental units into condominiums, with 20% designated as affordable housing, ensuring affordability covenants for future sales. The commission also reviewed and recommended amendments to the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plans (ALUCP) and coastal land use plans, updating safety zones and prohibiting new onshore oil and gas wells in alignment with state legislation. The commission voted unanimously to approve the tract map and the ALUCP amendments, and by a 3-1 vote to recommend coastal land use amendments related to oil and gas prohibitions. Additionally, the commission canceled the July 29th meeting due to a light agenda and scheduling conflicts, consolidating future hearings. Public comments raised concerns about traffic, tree removal, and community notification regarding the condominium conversion project. Staff clarified that the project under consideration was the conversion to condominiums, not new construction, which had been previously approved. The meeting also addressed procedural matters related to notification of zoning changes and the integration of new safety zones around airports.