City Council - September 22, 2026 Complete

The City Council of Santa Barbara held a meeting on September 22, 2026, with significant focus on procurement and budget-related matters, particularly concerning housing and infrastructure projects. The council authorized a $1 million loan agreement with the Housing Authority for the Parma Court affordable housing development and approved multiple resolutions to apply for state revolving fund loans for the Vic Trace Reservoir replacement phases 1 through 3. Additionally, the council amended the fiscal year 2027 budget to appropriate funds for the Taxiways EA3 and A5 pavement reconstruction project and approved an $8,675 expenditure for a program management software service agreement with Rock Rabbit Inc. for the Santa Barbara Clean Energy program. A major portion of the meeting was dedicated to introducing and deliberating a comprehensive residential rent stabilization ordinance, including the establishment of a rental registry program, with a proposed $500,000 allocation from the Measure I Flexible Housing and Homelessness Fund for startup costs. The ordinance discussions involved detailed policy considerations, exemptions for affordable housing and Section 8 units, board composition, fee structures, and enforcement mechanisms. The council took votes on motions related to ordinance amendments, exemptions, and budget appropriations, with some motions passing and others failing, reflecting differing views on tenant protections and landlord regulations. The meeting also included updates on winter storm preparedness and public comments on various community issues.