The Montecito Association Board of Directors met March 10 to discuss a wide range of
community issues, including public safety, infrastructure projects and community initiatives.
The meeting highlighted regional construction plans, wildfire preparedness efforts, ongoing work to strengthen community engagement, and the recognition of Fire Chief David Neels as he prepares to retire at the end of March.
President’s Report
Board president Bill Macfadyen reported on a recent site visit to Lotusland, where construction is underway on a major water conservation project that includes excavation for a 1-million-gallon underground water storage tank.
The project is expected to be completed by mid-July.
Special Recogition
The board recognized Neels, who will retire at the end of March after serving as chief of the
Montecito Fire Protection District since 2023.
Board members and community partners praised his leadership and dedication to the Montecito community.
In appreciation of his service, the association presented Neels with a watercolor Giclée print of the historic Old Montecito firehouse weathervane.
Executive Director’s Report
Executive director Houghton Hyatt reported that the association continues to see strong
momentum in its membership drive. Click here to see if your membership is current!
Montecito Water District
Montecito Water District general manager Nick Turner reported encouraging progress on water supply demand, while several construction projects continue.
Seismic upgrades at the terminal reservoir are underway through the end of the year, and a pipeline replacement project on San Leandro Lane is nearing completion. A new pipeline project will soon begin along Las Tunas Road.
Montecito Fire Protection District
Neels provided an update on fire road repairs and trail access challenges in the front
country following recent storms.
Damage on the fire road near Hot Springs has been repaired, restoring 2.2 miles of access from the Hot Springs Trailhead to San Ysidro Creek.
However, challenges remain at creek crossings where debris flows created drop-offs as deep as 25-30 feet.
The department is coordinating with Santa Barbara County, Southern California Edison and Los Padres National Forest to restore emergency access and support ongoing trail restoration efforts.
Montecito Union School
Superintendent Anthony Ranii shared several updates from the campus, highlighting recent student activities.
Sixth-graders recently departed for Wolf Camp, while kindergarten students are preparing community helper presentations with participation from parents and local community members. Second-graders have been studying water erosion on campus and proposing solutions as “citizen scientists.”
County Supervisor’s Office
Aida Thau from the county First District Supervisor Roy Lee’s office shared that the new pickleball court at Upper Manning Park is now open and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be scheduled soon with County Parks and the Montecito Association.
The California Highway Patrol has increased enforcement along San Ysidro Road between East Valley Road and San Leandro Lane in response to community concerns about speeding. Recent patrols resulted in several citations, and continued enforcement is expected to help deter speeding in the area.
Highway 101 Construction
Representatives from the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments presented plans for the final phase of the Highway 101 Santa Barbara North Segment Project, which will begin construction in the spring.
Improvements include new carpool lanes, a complete rebuild of the Cabrillo Boulevard
interchange, two new freeway bridges, updated freeway entrance and exit ramps, and improved traffic circulation.
Landscaping with drought-tolerant plantings will also be incorporated where space allows.
Major milestones include bridge construction through summer 2027, ramp construction through summer 2028, and final landscaping expected in 2029.
Committee Reports
The board voted unanimously to rename the Land Use Committee to the Community and
Government Relations Committee, reflecting its evolving role in coordinating with government agencies and engaging the community on key policy issues.
The Safety Committee reported that it does not recommend moving forward with license plate reader systems at this time due to cost, legal concerns and limited usefulness for solving local crimes.
Outreach Committe efforts will focus on expanding membership and building relationships with community leaders through upcoming events, including a spring wine and cheese gathering and additional donor engagement opportunities throughout the year.
Planning is also underway for the Montecito Village Fourth of July Parade. If you would like
to help with the preparations for the festivities, which this year celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, please contact us at info@montecitoassociation.org!
The Hands Across Montecito homeless outreach initiative reported new signage is being installed at Butterfly Beach prohibiting sleeping or camping from sunset to 6 a.m., allowing the Sheriff’s Department to enforce the ordinance if necessary.
City Net and Earthcomb will present a comprehensive update on local outreach efforts at the April MA meeting.
The Montecito Association has been bringing residents together since 1949 to protect the
character, quality of life and natural beauty that make Montecito unique.
Not a member? Click here to join or for more information, or email info@montecitoassociation.org.