Board of Supervisors - County of Santa Barbara - 07/14/26

The County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on July 14, 2026, with significant focus on procurement and development projects. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a workforce housing development exclusive negotiating agreement for 117 East Korea Street, with the board unanimously approving the item. The board also considered a public hearing on the issuance of qualified 501(c)(3) bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority on behalf of Step Up Housing, a $45 million project aimed at affordable housing, which was approved with one abstention after robust discussion on its impact on local rents and market balance. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved adjustments to special tax rates for community facility districts supporting library and park services. A major agenda item was the comprehensive plan and land use code amendments to facilitate utility-scale solar projects, including tiered permitting structures and environmental impact considerations. The board discussed the inclusion of battery energy storage systems, with plans to return with further recommendations on standalone battery storage. Public comments reflected support and concerns regarding agricultural land use, energy storage safety, and renewable energy goals. The meeting also included updates on the county’s online permitting system enhancements aimed at improving efficiency and customer experience. Several motions related to procurement and policy were passed unanimously or with strong support, and the board directed staff to return with additional information on certain items, including battery storage regulations and solar project caps.