At its recent monthly meeting, the Montecito Association Board of Directors welcomed community members and partners for a wide-ranging discussion focused on wildfire preparedness, public safety, advocacy efforts and upcoming community events.
A major focus of the meeting was wildfire mitigation and emergency preparedness.
Representatives from the Montecito Fire Protection District and the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council shared updates on defensible space programs, prescribed grazing, roadside fuel reduction, home hardening assistance and the evolving state Zone Zero regulations.
Montecito Fire highlighted its Neighborhood Chipping Program, defensible space surveys and fuel treatment work throughout the community, while the Fire Safe Council discussed its expanding countywide efforts and Firewise USA certification opportunities that may help residents receive insurance discounts.
The board also received updates from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office regarding recent public safety incidents in Montecito, including illegal camping, trespassing, and stalking incidents targeting celebrities. Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant as summer activity increases.
Additional community updates were provided by representatives from First District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Roy Lee’s office, including progress on a proposed gas-powered leaf blower ordinance and parking enforcement efforts near the Upper Village.
The association also reviewed several ongoing advocacy efforts, including concerns regarding trash and hazardous materials reportedly being buried along the Highway 101 construction corridor near the Union Pacific railroad tracks.
The board voted unanimously to send a formal letter to Caltrans and other agencies requesting investigation and proper cleanup procedures.
The meeting included updates on several community initiatives and events.
The association’s recent Leadership Reception brought together more than 100 community leaders, members, neighbors and guests for a memorable evening celebrating connection and community spirit.
Planned by the association’s Outreach Committee and graciously hosted by Laura and Bob Margevicius at their lovely home, the event featured wonderful conversation, networking and fellowship in a beautiful garden setting.
Guests were treated to a special performance from opera singer Matthew Peterson, a baritone with Opera Santa Barbara, while Patrick Braid of Montecito Gourmet poured his signature Montecito wines throughout the evening.
The event was attended by several local leaders and community partners, including state Senate President pro tem Monique Limón, First District Supervisor Roy Lee, and new Montecito Fire Protection District Fire Chief Brian Fallon.
Also in attendance were Rebecca Anderson (Lotusland), Shauna Quill and Mimi Do (Music Academy of the West) and Janet Garufis (Montecito Bank & Trust).
Board president Bill Macfadyen welcomed attendees with remarks highlighting the importance of community involvement, civic engagement and preserving Montecito’s unique semi-rural character.
The evening was a wonderful celebration of togetherness and a reminder of the strong sense of community that makes Montecito so special. If you missed this event, we hope you will join us at an upcoming association gathering.
The association is preparing for the 30th anniversary of the Village Fourth celebration, which also coincides with America’s 250th anniversary.
From community receptions and educational forums to the Village Fourth of July Celebration and neighborhood events, the Montecito Association continues to create opportunities for residents to connect, stay informed and become more engaged in the community we all love.
The association plans to increase its visibility throughout the Village Fourth festivities with additional outreach and community engagement opportunities. Click here for more information on this year’s celebration.
To stay informed and engaged on the issues impacting Montecito, community members are encouraged to attend the Montecito Association monthly board meetings, which are open to the public and held at 4 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the Montecito Community Hall, 1469 East Valley Road.
From wildfire preparedness and public safety to infrastructure projects, advocacy efforts and community events, the association continues to serve as a voice for the community.
Residents and local businesses are also encouraged to become members to support this important work, receive regular community updates and stay connected to the issues shaping Montecito’s future. Click here to join or for more information, or email info@montecitoassociation.org.
