The Montecito Association Board of Directors met on June 9 and received updates on a wide range of community issues, projects and upcoming events.

Traffic Safety

A resident raised concerns about speeding and recent accidents near the intersection of Olive Mill Road, Olive Mill Lane and San Benito Way. Santa Barbara County is currently conducting a new traffic study.

Community Updates

Representatives from local agencies shared important updates:

  • The Montecito Fire Department reported significant wildfire mitigation efforts, including vegetation removal, defensible space surveys and a 72-acre grazing program. Residents are encouraged to attend a regional Community Wildfire Panel on June 15.
  • First District Supervisor Roy Lee’s office provided updates on county budget discussions, the Open Space Element survey, railroad siding proposals, beach oil seep activity and upcoming Highway 101 corridor cleanups.
  • Montecito Water District announced that water quality continues to meet or exceed all standards, major reservoir seismic retrofit projects are progressing, and a scheduled 5.75% rate increase will take effect July 1.
  • Montecito Union School celebrated the graduation of 52 sixth-graders and shared outstanding community survey results, reflecting exceptionally high levels of parent and community satisfaction.

Sheriff’s Substation

The new Santa Barbara County sheriff’s substation at the Rosewood Miramar Beach is scheduled to open on June 17, marking a major milestone in the association’s ongoing community safety efforts.

History Committee

The History Committee announced the opening of the new “I Love Montecito” exhibit at the Montecito Country Mart, featuring photographs and stories from Montecito’s past.

The exhibit will remain open through at least September and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Montecito History Office.

Village Fourth of July Celebration

Excitement is building for the 30th annual Village Fourth of July celebration, one of Montecito’s most beloved traditions!

This year’s milestone event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring the beloved community parade, live music, family-friendly activities, local food vendors and patriotic fun for all ages.

New additions this year include the celebration’s first-ever beer and wine garden, performances by musicians from the Music Academy of the West, and live entertainment throughout the day from Outta the Blue.

Guests can enjoy favorites such as Rori’s Ice Cream, delicious food trucks, community booths and the festive atmosphere that makes the Village Fourth a highlight of the summer.

Join your neighbors for a day of community spirit and unforgettable Montecito memories! 

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.

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.

Houghton Hyatt is executive director of the Montecito Association.