Board of Supervisors - County of Santa Barbara - 09/15/26

The County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on September 15, 2026, which included extensive discussion and public comment on proposed ordinance amendments to prohibit new onshore oil and gas drilling. The Planning and Development Department presented phase one of a two-phase approach to amend zoning ordinances to ban new oil and gas wells, aligning with the county's 2030 climate action plan and state law AB 3233. The board heard from numerous stakeholders, including industry representatives, environmental advocates, mineral rights owners, and community members, reflecting a wide range of views on the economic, environmental, and health impacts of the prohibition. Key concerns included potential constitutional takings claims, economic effects on local workers and businesses, environmental and public health benefits, and the need for a just transition. The board voted 3-2 to approve the phase one ordinance amendments, with plans to conduct further studies and environmental review in phase two. The meeting also included administrative items such as resolutions recognizing community initiatives and a donation to the county animal services, but the primary procurement-related focus was the oil and gas ordinance discussion and related policy decisions affecting future local energy production and environmental regulation.