The city of Santa Barbara is now engaged in its annual budget process, and invites community members to attend one of six upcoming Community Town Halls to learn more about the city’s finances and the status of city services.
The town halls will take place at various locations across the city; Spanish interpretation will be provided.
The city and its elected leaders are committed to supporting essential local services; this includes public safety, streets, affordable housing, parks, libraries, and other services and infrastructure maintained by the General Fund.
As with many California cities, the increasing cost of maintaining these services continues to exceed projected revenues, and despite ongoing efforts to balance the budget, Santa Barbara is projected to face a structural budget deficit in the coming years.
This deficit is anticipated to grow to 5%-7% of the General Fund within the next three years which, if not addressed, will present challenges for the city’s long-term fiscal health and ability to maintain many core services.
“The city’s leadership is currently exploring ways to meet these and other challenges, including the potential for new revenue sources,” said Sarah J. Knecht, interim city administrator. “We have set up a webpage at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/EssentialSB with more information about city services, the budget outlook, and a community survey for you to share your priorities.”
Local residents are encouraged to attend a Community Town Hall and take an online survey.
Town Hall Schedule:
• Monday, April 29, 6:30-7:30 pm, Valle Verde Retirement Community, 900 Calle De Los Amigos
• Thurrsday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Peabody Charter School, 3018 Calle Noguera
• Saturday, May 4, 10-11 a.m., Franklin Neighborhood Center, 1136 E Montecito St.
• Monday, May 6, 6-7 p.m., Monroe Elementary School, 431 Flora Vista Drive
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Harding Elementary School, 1625 Robbins St.
• Friday. May 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Carrillo Recreation Center, 100 E. Carrillo St.
The online community survey is available in both English and Spanish to accommodate those who cannot attend the town halls. Visit SantaBarbaraCA.gov/EssentialSB to access the survey and for information more about city services, budget projections.