HARBOR COMMISSION - SEPTEMBER 17, 2026

The City of Santa Barbara Harbor Commission held a meeting on September 17, 2026, which included a detailed presentation from representatives of the Ventura Port District. The Ventura Port District discussed its operations, governance, commercial fishing industry, capital projects, and dredging activities, highlighting a $1.1 million dredging effort in 2023 funded partly by FEMA grants. They also described a significant $15.75 million grant for commercial fish offloading infrastructure improvements and ongoing efforts to secure federal funding for harbor dredging. The Harbor Commission reviewed the fiscal year 2026 budget, noting a $5.1 million reserve above policy requirements to address capital projects such as sea level rise response and marina replacements estimated between $15 to $25 million. The Commission also discussed upcoming lease renewals, an economic development RFP with a $50,000 waterfront allocation, and the implementation of a vessel insurance program. Additionally, preparations for the upcoming El Nino winter season and a new career exploration program in maritime fields were presented. The meeting concluded with plans for a special meeting to address lease items and ongoing strategic planning aligned with the citywide goals.